Resilient Voices & Beyond Michael D. Davis-Thomas Aka MDDTSpeaks

"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_ulsherDiscover Joan's DIY projects and advocacy work on Pinterest: @joanakitasLearn more about Joan, her memoir, and how you can support Child Advocates San Antonio at www.joanulsher.comTune 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.

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 💼

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 🎧

Episode 27 Title: "Everything can be taken from a person except for one thing; the freedom to choose one’s attitude in any given situation."

Episode Overview: Episode 27 of Resilient Voices & Beyond Podcast unravels the incredible saga of Nick Vasquez. His journey from a tumultuous childhood to a figure of change in mental health is an extraordinary display of human resilience and determination.Guest Spotlight: Nick Vasquez In this episode, we're honored to host Nick Vasquez. His life story is a powerful narrative of conquering insurmountable odds. Now an influential professional in mental health and the founder of Grey Hands Literary Magazine, Nick represents the power of transformation and perseverance.In This Episode:Nick Vasquez's raw and honest recount of his life's journey, highlighting the shift from mere survival to thriving against all odds.Exploring the healing power of literature and art in Nick's life.A detailed look at Nick's professional evolution, advocating for mental health and child welfare system reforms.Nick's aspirations for the future and his dedication to supporting foster youth.Guest's Professional Journey:Intensive Care Coordinator at WestCoast Children’s Clinic.Former roles in mental health rehabilitation and program management.Founder of Grey Hands Literary Magazine.Academic background in Developmental Psychology and Psychology.Connecting with Nick Vasquez:Email: njvasquez92@gmail.comFacebook Profiles: Nick Vasquez, Grey Hands Literary MagazineInstagram: @greyhandsliterarymagazineWebsite: Grey Hands Literary MagazineHashtags: #ResilientVoicesPodcast #Episode27 #NickVasquez #SurvivingToThriving #MentalHealthAwareness #FosterYouthSupport #Resilience #Transformation #GreyHandsLiterary #ChildWelfare #Psychology #CreativeHealing #PodcastLife #InspirationalStories #OvercomingAdversity #HealingJourney #StrengthThroughStruggle #EmpoweringVoices

🎙️ Episode 26: Be the Black Sheep but Not a Statistic ~Shinedown

In this captivating episode of Resilient Voices & Beyond, we delve into the extraordinary life journey of Aiden Russell Abruzzino, a resilient 24-year-old with a powerful story of triumph over adversity.

🌟 Topic of Discussion:

Explore Aiden's inspiring journey navigating life's adversities and not just surviving, but thriving. Discover how he emerged as a beacon of hope, dedicating himself to advocacy and empowering others.

🎤 Meet Our Guest:

Joining us is Aiden Russell Abruzzino, a multifaceted individual serving as a friend, uncle, mentor, and peer support advocate. Aiden's story is a testament to the strength found in resilience.

🔍 Guest's Professional Titles:
Foster Care AlumniSocial Justice AdvocateHuman Rights ActivistAcademy of Peer Support Student (CPS, CRPA)NYS Certified Peer Worker (prEP)Safe Zone and WRAP Facilitator CertifiedFounder of PlantingJoy: "Where we sow hope and harvest joy, one seed at a time."🌐 Ways to Connect with Aiden Abruzzino:

Explore Aiden's diverse initiatives and connect with him through his Linktree: Linktr.ee/aidenabruzzino

👂 Don't miss this empowering conversation that transcends challenges and celebrates the resilience that defines us all. #ResilientVoices #AdvocacyJourney #Inspiration #PlantingJoy #HumanRights #PeerSupport #LifeAdversities #Shinedown #PodcastEpisode

Welcome to a poignant episode of Resilient Voices & Beyond Podcast! 🎙️ In Season Three, Episode 25, we embark on an inspiring journey with Brandon Youngblood, exploring his life's challenges and triumphs in the episode titled "Until then… I just keep moving forward."

🚀 Join us as we delve into Brandon's incredible journey from a consistently chaotic childhood marked by domestic violence and substance use to becoming a Foster Care Specialist at MDHHS. At 29 years old, Brandon's story is one of resilience, expertise, and advocacy.

👨‍👩‍👦 Brandon's early life was tumultuous, navigating divorce, remarriage, and entry into foster care at the age of 14 with his brother. Separation from family was challenging, but Brandon found strength and guidance in the foster care system, aging out in a supportive home. His involvement in MYOI and the Seita Scholars program at Western Michigan University propelled him to achieve a Bachelor of Social Work.

🎓 After graduation, Brandon faced challenges but found his way into DHHS in Macomb, where he excelled in Child Protective Services for over two years before transitioning to foster care. In 2023, he began working on the teen-specific unit, showcasing his commitment to making a difference in the lives of young individuals.

💪 Brandon's journey exemplifies resilience, determination, and the impact of support systems. Connect with him on LinkedIn to stay updated on his advocacy and expertise.

🔗 Connect with Brandon Youngblood:

🔗 LinkedIn Profile

Don't miss Episode 25 as we celebrate Brandon's journey of moving forward in the face of adversity. Tune in, share your thoughts, and be part of the conversation! #ResilientVoicesPodcast #MovingForward #BrandonYoungblood #FosterCareAdvocate #SocialWorkJourney #PodcastInspiration