Saying Yes to Your God-sized Calling (feat. Cynthia Yanof)

29:03

Welcome to the Called to Love Podcast! In this episode, I am joined by Kimberly Dubose. Kimberly is a Family Centered Therapy Clinical Caseworker with Connected Families. She shares her expertise on managing challenging behaviors in children, particularly those who have experienced trauma. She emphasizes the importance of caregivers in modeling self-regulation and establishing healthy boundaries. Our discussion covers practical tools for emotional regulation, the significance of resilience in children, and the need for open communication about emotions. Kimberly also addresses the complexities of anger management and the role of community support in caregiving. Ultimately, she offers you encouragement and reminds you of the vital work you do and the importance of seeking help when needed. Here are a few takeaways: Healthy authority is essential for building trust and connection. Children can be very resilient when provided with consistent support. Practicing regulation techniques when calm is more effective. Caregivers should model self-regulation for their children. Emotional language helps children express their feelings better. Anger often masks deeper emotions like sadness. Providing options during anger can help de-escalate situations. Community support is vital for caregivers. Caregivers should give themselves grace and seek help. Here is the resource Kimberly referenced: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fTzXFPh6CPI You can email me your questions about adoption and foster care at somercolbert@gmail.com . I'd love to connect with you on Instagram or send you my monthly newsletter with free resources and first access to episodes and more!…

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Teaching Your Child They Are Chosen With Dorian Stewart 34:42

13 days ago34:42

34:42

Welcome to the Called to Love Podcast! In this episode, I am joined with the amazing author and adoptive mom, Dorian Stewart. Dorian has written the “Promise Pals” series, which was envisioned when she realized there weren’t many resources and books out there for adopted kids. Adopted kids are just as much chosen and wanted as biological children, especially since we are all adopted by our Heavenly Father. This is something Dorian and her husband wanted to strongly emphasize with their daughter. In our conversation, we discuss exactly how they enforced positive messaging for their child, how they prayed for their daughter’s biological family, and how to answer the hard questions their child asks. Here are a few takeaways: The journey of adoption can be seen as God's divine blueprint. Positive affirmations are crucial for building confidence in children. Infusing God's truth into daily life helps children understand their identity. Creating safe spaces for children to ask questions is essential. Adoption should be framed as a loving choice, not a rejection. You can learn more and connect with Dorian Stewart on social media and find her books! https://www.facebook.com/dorian.mcdonald.90/ https://www.instagram.com/de_stewarts/ https://www.amazon.com/stores/Dorian-Stewart/author/B08WM36MJP?ref=dbs_a_mng_rwt_scns_share%3Flanguage%3Des&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=0127f328-2b6f-40e9-8dfc-6321bf6506c9 You can email me your questions about adoption and foster care at somercolbert@gmail.com . I'd love to connect with you on Instagram or send you my monthly newsletter with free resources and first access to episodes and more!…

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Understanding Blocked Care with Lisa C. Qualls 44:32

20 days ago44:32

44:32

Welcome to the Called to Love Podcast! In this episode, I am joined with an incredible guest: Lisa C. Qualls. Lisa is the proud mother of both biological and adopted children, twelve in fact, and is an accomplished author, speaker, and Enneagram coach with TBRI training. Together, we focus on the concept of 'blocked care'—a self-protective mechanism that can hinder emotional connection between parents and children. Lisa shares her personal journey into adoption, the challenges faced, and the development of her ministry aimed at supporting adoptive and foster families. We discuss the neuroscience behind blocked care, signs to recognize it, and the importance of acknowledging these feelings to begin healing and reconnecting with children. Our conversation helps explain the concept of blocked care, its effects on parents, and practical strategies for overcoming it. We discuss the importance of understanding the nervous system, building supportive relationships, and finding hope through simple practices like breath prayer. We emphasize the need for self-care and the significance of recognizing beauty in everyday life as a means to combat feelings of overwhelm and despair. A great and practical technique is “YAHWEH” breathing, because sometimes we simply don’t have words when we are so depleted. Here are a few takeaways: Blocked care is a common experience among adoptive parents. Parents often feel shame for not feeling the love they expected. Acknowledging blocked care is the first step to healing. The Connected Child was a pivotal resource for many adoptive parents. Parenting children with trauma requires ongoing support and education. It's important to find community and resources to navigate the challenges of adoption. Caring for the nervous system is essential for recovery. Simple activities like walking can help regulate the nervous system. Sleep is crucial for managing stress and blocked care. Negativity bias can hinder our ability to see joy and beauty. You can learn more and connect with Lisa C. Qualls with these resources: https://www.lisacqualls.com/ https://www.instagram.com/lisacqualls/?hl=en You can email me your questions about adoption and foster care at somercolbert@gmail.com . I'd love to connect with you on Instagram or send you my monthly newsletter with free resources and first access to episodes and more!…

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Advice From A Trauma Informed Sleep Expert Allison Ezell 56:36

27 days ago56:36

56:36

Welcome to the Called to Love Podcast! In this episode, I am joined by a very special guest! I first met Allison when she taught at an adoption support group last Fall, and I just knew she had to be on the podcast! Allison is a trauma informed sleep expert, something which did not exist when she was raising her adopted son who struggled at night. Needless to say, sleep is crucial for everyone’s health–physical, mental, and emotional! Yet sleep is not something we as parents fully understand and that is why this episode is so important. Together, Allison and I emphasize the importance of understanding the emotional and psychological aspects of sleep, shifting parental mindsets, and providing children with tools to help them feel safe and secure at bedtime. We discuss the complexities of parenting, particularly in the context of sleep issues faced by children. We explore the importance of consistency in parenting, the need for trial and error in finding effective strategies, and the significance of creating a safe and comforting sleep environment. We also address the impact of sleep deprivation on both children and parents, emphasizing the necessity of community support and self-care for caregivers. We highlight the emotional challenges faced by parents, particularly those in foster care and adoption, and offer practical advice for building confidence and reframing expectations in the parenting journey. I learned so much from Allison and I know you will too! So many eye-opening points which help me reframe my understanding of sleep and trauma, and how the two are connected. Here are a few key takeaways: -Sleep is a vulnerable act for children, especially those with trauma. -Understanding the emotional triggers around sleep is crucial. -Parents should shift their mindset from discipline to support during sleep struggles. -Adding tools to a child's sleep routine can help them feel more secure. -It's important to view sleep as an opportunity for bonding and connection. -Children need time to adjust to new environments and routines. -Parents should approach sleep challenges with compassion and understanding. -Building trust takes time and consistency in sleep routines . I am so glad you’ve decided to join us today! Below are ways to connect with Allison: https://www.dwellpediatricsleep.com/about-me https://www.instagram.com/dwellpediatricsleep/ You can email me your questions about adoption and foster care at somercolbert@gmail.com . I'd love to connect with you on Instagram or send you my monthly newsletter with free resources and first access to episodes and more!…

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Answering the Call for Older Teen Adoption with Della Lago 39:55

5 weeks ago39:55

39:55

Welcome to the Called to Love Podcast! In this episode, I am joined by Della Lago, an adoptive mom and advocate for how Christians everywhere can play a role in supporting teens in the foster care system. Della shares her personal journey of adopting a 17-year-old girl from a group home, discussing the challenges and triumphs of building trust and connection. Our conversation highlights the realities faced by teens aging out of foster care, the importance of community support, and the need for a safe space for these youth to dream and thrive. Della emphasizes that every child deserves a family and encourages listeners to step up and make a difference. She also shares the importance of understanding trauma, the need for community support, and the role of faith in the healing process. Together, we provide practical advice for families considering foster care and highlights the significance of being open to unexpected joys and connections that come with this journey. I am so glad you’ve decided to join us today! Below are resources from Della to learn more: https://nationalcasagal.org/ https://bethany.org/ https://enotahcasa.org/ You can email me your questions about adoption and foster care at somercolbert@gmail.com . I'd love to connect with you on Instagram or send you my monthly newsletter with free resources and first access to episodes and more!…

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Lifting Our Eyes to God as Foster and Adoptive Parents 34:08

6 weeks ago34:08

34:08

Welcome to the Called to Love Podcast! In this episode, I am joined by Whitney Newby, author of the new book “ Lift Your Eyes: Daily Invitations to Behold Christ in Motherhood”, founder of Brighter Day Press, and a homeschooling mom of four. Whitney joins me to talk about the challenges and beauty of motherhood, particularly in the context of foster care and adoption. Whitney shares insights from her upcoming devotional based on Psalm 121, emphasizing God's attributes as a source of comfort and strength for mothers. Our conversation highlights the importance of relying on God for help and rest amidst the demands of parenting. Together, we explore the challenges of motherhood, emphasizing the importance of faith in God's provision, overcoming feelings of failure and comparison, and finding stillness amidst the chaos. We also offer practical ways to lift our eyes to Christ and incorporate biblical truths into daily rhythms, encouraging mothers to trust in God's promises and create an atmosphere of worship in their homes. Here are a few takeaways: -Psalm 121 is a comforting scripture for mothers. -God's attributes provide strength and reassurance in motherhood. -Jesus invites us to find rest in Him amidst our weariness. -God's grace is sufficient for us in our weaknesses. -We need to lean on God as our helper and provider. Leaning into faith in God's provision is essential for mothers. -Comparison can lead to feelings of isolation and guilt. -Living out our faith in front of our children is impactful. Connect with Whitney: Website New book Instagram You can email me your questions about adoption and foster care at somercolbert@gmail.com . I'd love to connect with you on Instagram or send you my monthly newsletter with free resources and first access to episodes and more!…

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Trusting God With What We Cannot Control: Waiting for Adoption 26:01

7 weeks ago26:01

26:01

Welcome to the Called to Love Podcast! In this episode, I discuss the challenges and realities of waiting for adoption. The most important thing is trusting God during this process and part of that is managing expectations and actively engaging in the waiting process through praise, seeking God, and serving others. Throughout today’s conversation, I want to encourage you with scripture and my own experience as someone who struggles to wait. Here are a few takeaways: -Waiting is a part of life and a valuable experience. -Impatience is a common struggle, not limited to modern society. -The average wait time for adoption can be lengthy and unpredictable. -Adoption often involves the reality of broken families. -We can control our expectations, how we wait, and what we do while we wait. You can email me your questions about adoption and foster care at somercolbert@gmail.com . I'd love to connect with you on Instagram or send you my monthly newsletter with free resources and first access to episodes and more!…

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Trusting God With What We Cannot Control: Our Kids Choices 22:01

8 weeks ago22:01

22:01

Welcome to the Called to Love Podcast! In this episode, I discuss what to do and how to respond to the choices our adopted or foster children make. This topic is one of the first inspirations for this podcast as many families have asked me what to do when a situation arises where your child is making problematic, concerning, even destructive and harmful choices. It is important to always remember that God is in control and we cannot control our children. Even in the most loving Christian homes, children will be led astray and make bad choices. The question in this episode is how do we respond to it in a loving and protective way. I encourage you to acknowledge your weakness, embrace your role as the parent, and understand that your child’s choices do not define you as a parent, nor do they define your child. Here’s a few key takeaways you’ll find in this episode: -Trusting God is essential when facing challenges in parenting. -Parents should not lose confidence in their role due to children's choices. -Love should be confident and not fearful. -It's okay to acknowledge weaknesses and seek support from God. -Perfection in parenting is unrealistic; mistakes will happen. -Children's identities are not defined by their parents' successes or failures. You can email me your questions about adoption and foster care at somercolbert@gmail.com . I'd love to connect with you on Instagram or send you my monthly newsletter with free resources and first access to episodes and more!…

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Trusting God With What We Cannot Control Sexual Abuse 20:54

9 weeks ago20:54

20:54

Welcome to the Called to Love Podcast! In this episode, I discuss the complex and multifaceted issue of trusting God in the face of abusive situations within the foster care system. This episode topic was inspired by a listener’s question - this is a very real issue that so many foster parents face. That is why this episode is focused on some practical advice and how to lean into the Lord when we don’t understand the “why” behind these situations. I emphasize the importance of focusing on what can be controlled, such as prayer and education, while advocating for children's rights and safety. It is incredibly important that foster and adoptive parents provide a safe environment, create a safety plan, and be a voice for the children in their care. Empower these children beyond their trauma and trust in God's sovereignty over their circumstances. Here’s a few key takeaways you’ll find in this episode: -Focus on what you CAN control (Like prayer! Specific prayer!) -Teach your children proper body anatomy, safe touch, and boundaries with adults -KNOW your rights as foster and adoptive parents! If the children in your care do not have a history of sexual abuse, it is still super important to stay informed and create a safety plan to prevent it. I hope this episode has been empowering and informative. You can email me your questions about adoption and foster care at somercolbert@gmail.com . I'd love to connect with you on Instagram or send you my monthly newsletter with free resources and first access to episodes and more!…

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Trusting God With What We Cannot Control: Failed Adoption 22:26

10 weeks ago22:26

22:26

Welcome to the Called to Love Podcast! In this episode, I discuss what it means to trust God with what we cannot control when it comes to adoption and foster care. I am honest with you, sharing my personal journey through failed adoptions, especially my emotional struggles. I wrestled a lot but also learned about control, God's sovereignty, and the importance of relationship over results. Even when you succeed in adopting your child, it isn’t a fairytale “...and they lived happily ever after…” Part of my story is how I cared for a traumatized baby who screamed every single night because she was separated from her birth mama. Here’s a few key takeaways you’ll find in this episode: -Failed adoption is NOT cruelty or punishment from God! -Failed adoption does NOT mean that God isn’t in control! -Failed adoption does NOT mean you have missed your calling! -To walk through failed adoptions, can teach you a lot about the adoption system, yourself, and God. -This is about a relationship, not a result. Ask yourself this as you wrestle failed adoptions: *Am I closer to God because of this? *Have I grown in Biblical wisdom and knowledge because of this? *Do I have new insight and opportunities that I wouldn’t have if I hadn’t said “yes” to this calling? *Has my understanding of God’s ultimate fulfillment to His plan changed? I hope this has been an encouraging episode! You can email me your questions about adoption and foster care at somercolbert@gmail.com . I'd love to connect with you on Instagram or send you my monthly newsletter with free resources and first access to episodes and more!…

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Helping Heal Destructive Patterns With Tori Hope Petersen 43:10

11 weeks ago43:10

43:10

Welcome to the Called To Love Podcast. In this powerful episode, I am fortunate enough to welcome back advocate, speaker, author, and foster mom Tori Hope Petersen. Drawing from her journey through foster homes, aging out of the system at 18, and overcoming labels like "self-sabotager," Tori shares how destructive patterns rooted in past trauma can be recognized and broken. This conversation dives into the challenges of foster and adoptive parenting, offering encouragement to love and guide children in survival mode with grace and perseverance. Tori emphasizes the importance of living with integrity, proclaiming biblical truth over oneself and others, and trusting God’s timing for healing. We also explore why dysfunction often feels familiar, the power of rewriting personal narratives, and how to embrace healthy relationships with resilience and faith. Whether you’re a foster or adoptive parent or navigating personal challenges, this episode offers wisdom, practical tools, and faith-filled encouragement to break free from cycles that hold you back and embrace a life of hope and healing. To learn more about Tori, her work, and her resources click here . You can also purchase her book Fostered or preorder her upcoming book Breaking the Patterns That Break You . She is on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok with the handle @ToriHopePetersen . So glad you're here to join us! You can email me your questions about adoption and foster care at somercolbert@gmail.com. I'd love to connect with you on Instagram or send you my monthly newsletter with free resources and first access to episodes and more!…

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From Abortion to Adoption With Robin Gerblick 46:04

12 weeks ago46:04

46:04

Welcome to the Called To Love Podcast. In this powerful and heartfelt episode, I get to dive into a topic of deep significance: the sanctity of life and the journey of redemption after abortion. I am joined by Robin Gerblick who is the founder of the Exodus Women’s Retreat, author of Giving Up Grace , and an adoptive mom. Robin candidly shares her journey from a point of crisis, navigating feelings of abandonment and loss, to finding profound healing through faith, grace, and forgiveness. We discuss the emotional, physical, and spiritual consequences of abortion, shedding light on the real struggles women face and the importance of creating a safe, grace-filled space for them to heal. Robin also shares practical insights for adoptive and foster parents seeking to minister to women in crisis and children from difficult backgrounds. This episode is a call to Christian parents to understand the complexities women face in times of crisis and explore how to extend grace-filled support. Whether you carry abortion as part of your story, or you're parenting children touched by these realities, Robin’s testimony is a beacon of hope and a reminder of the redemptive power of God’s love. You can learn more about Robin and her work here . Her book Giving Up Grace: A Spiritual Rebranding of the Soul can be found on a wide variety of sites such as Amazon , Barnes & Noble , or Redemptive Press . Other resources mentioned include the Exodus Women’s Retreat and Focus on the Family Post-Abortion Resources . So glad you're here to join us! You can email me your questions about adoption and foster care at somercolbert@gmail.com. I'd love to connect with you on Instagram or send you my monthly newsletter with free resources and first access to episodes and more!…

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The Truth About Abortion in 2025 and What Christians Can Do About It With Bradley Pierce 38:37

13 weeks ago38:37

38:37

Welcome to the Called to Love Podcast. In this powerful episode, I had the opportunity to sit down with Bradley Pierce, attorney and co-founder of Abolish Abortion Texas, to discuss the church’s role in addressing the issue of abortion. We explore the challenges faced by pro-life advocates, the importance of equal protection legislation, and how the body of Christ can truly step up to make a difference for the unborn. Bradley unpacks the resistance to equal protection laws, even within pro-life circles, and shares insights from his experience drafting and advocating for abolitionist legislation across the U.S. We highlight practical ways Christians can engage, from educating themselves and influencing legislation to supporting families and fostering meaningful conversations within their communities. This episode is a call to action for believers to live as "living sacrifices" and step boldly into their role as defenders of life. Whether it’s advocating for change in the legal system or offering tangible support to families, everyone has a part to play in this fight for life. Let’s move from simply saying we are pro-life to living it out with conviction, compassion, and purpose. You can watch the "Abortion-Free" docuseries here to learn more about the current state of abortion, biblical perspectives, and actionable steps for individuals and churches. Learn more about Bradley Pierce and his work at Abolish Abortion Texas or Foundation to Abolish Abortion . So glad you're here to join us! You can email me your questions about adoption and foster care at somercolbert@gmail.com. I'd love to connect with you on Instagram or send you my monthly newsletter with free resources and first access to episodes and more!…

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What Scripture and Science Say About Resilience with Dr. Nicole Wilke 35:54

14 weeks ago35:54

35:54

Welcome to the Called to Love Podcast. In this episode, I am joined by Dr. Nicole Wilke, author and director at the Christian Alliance for Orphans Center on Applied Research for Vulnerable Children and Families. Nicole helps to explore the powerful intersection of scripture and science in building resilience in children and families. Her passion for helping vulnerable children and connecting research with frontline practice shines through as she discusses her new book, Overcoming: What Scripture and Science Say About Resilience. We discuss practical ways for parents, caregivers, and communities to become agents of change and support children through adversity. Nicole's books are available for purchase from Amazon or the Christian Alliance for Orphans page . Here's where you can learn more about Nicole and the Christian Alliance for Orphans . She is also present on Linkedin and Instagram . So glad you're here to join us! You can email me your questions about adoption and foster care at somercolbert@gmail.com. I'd love to connect with you on Instagram or send you my monthly newsletter with free resources and first access to episodes and more!…

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2024 Highlight: Infertility & Adoption - Does One Lead to the Other? 54:49

15 weeks ago54:49