https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/polly-talks-adoption-fostering--5645313enParentingCopyright Scottish Adoption & Fosteringhttps://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/3ae508013ca27f9bdbeaed6baa54eede.jpghttps://www.spreaker.com/podcast/polly-talks-adoption-fostering--5645313Fri, 05 Jun 2026 19:39:07 +0000Scottish Adoption & FosteringScottish Adoption & Fosteringdavid@scottishadoption.orgPolly to talks to people from across the Adoption and Fostering world.falsee01ffb90-9bbe-50a0-b76e-3dcff824dc3depisodichttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/polly-talks-fostering-with-louise-allen--71211580Polly Talks, Polly sits down with Louise Allen, a mum, foster carer, and care-experienced individual, to explore the foster care system from a truly unique perspective. Louise shares her personal journey openly and honestly, reflecting on her own experiences as a care-experienced child and the insights she’s gained as a foster carer. With warmth, honesty, and practical advice, she offers guidance for anyone considering fostering, while also highlighting the pioneering work she’s done advocating for the rights of foster families and care-experienced children. This episode is an inspiring and eye-opening conversation about care, compassion, and the power of making a difference.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71211580Fri, 05 Jun 2026 19:38:02 +0000Scottish Adoption & FosteringIn this heartfelt episode of Polly Talks, Polly sits down with Louise Allen, a mum, foster carer, and care-experienced individual, to explore the foster care system from a truly unique perspective. Louise shares her personal journey openly and...Polly Talks, Polly sits down with Louise Allen, a mum, foster carer, and care-experienced individual, to explore the foster care system from a truly unique perspective. Louise shares her personal journey openly and honestly, reflecting on her own experiences as a care-experienced child and the insights she’s gained as a foster carer. With warmth, honesty, and practical advice, she offers guidance for anyone considering fostering, while also highlighting the pioneering work she’s done advocating for the rights of foster families and care-experienced children. This episode is an inspiring and eye-opening conversation about care, compassion, and the power of making a difference.]]>3099falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/polly-talks-birth-parents-perspectives-with-mandy--68769953
She also speaks candidly about her own powerful experience as a birth parent who lost permanent care of a child, and how that deeply personal journey helped to shape the empathy and understanding she brought to her work. 

This conversation is a moving and honest exploration of the complex, lifelong paths that many birth parents navigate. We are extremely grateful to Mandy for sharing her story, and we hope it brings insight, comfort, and connection to those who listen.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68769953Thu, 22 Jan 2026 15:29:56 +0000Scottish Adoption & FosteringIn this episode of Polly Talks, Polly is joined by Mandy, who worked within the Scottish Adoption and Fostering team as part of the Bluebird Project—an initiative supporting families with children in adoption, permanent fostering, or kinship care....
She also speaks candidly about her own powerful experience as a birth parent who lost permanent care of a child, and how that deeply personal journey helped to shape the empathy and understanding she brought to her work. 

This conversation is a moving and honest exploration of the complex, lifelong paths that many birth parents navigate. We are extremely grateful to Mandy for sharing her story, and we hope it brings insight, comfort, and connection to those who listen.]]>3374adoptionpodcast,adoptionstories,adoptionsupport,bluebirdgroup,fosteringpodcast,fosteringsupport,pollytalks,scottishadoption,scottishadoptionandfostering,scottishfosteringfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/polly-talks-adoption-and-fostering-your-voice-your-story-with-chris-from-the-scottish-book-trust--68379254
This episode, Polly sits down with Chris Leslie from the Scottish Book Trust, the manager leading the inspiring Your Voice, Your Story programme. Together, they explore how storytelling can empower care-experienced young people and birth parents to share their journeys in their own words and in their own unique way.

Chris talks about his work with our young people’s groups and the Bluebird Project, a creative space for birth parents, helping them find confidence and connection through the power of story.

It’s a powerful, moving, and uplifting conversation about creativity, identity, and the healing strength of being heard.

Tune in for an episode full of insight, empathy, and inspiration.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68379254Sat, 01 Nov 2025 15:40:28 +0000Scottish Adoption & Fostering🎙 Polly Talks Adoption and Fostering — Episode: Your Voice, Your Story with Chris Leslie This episode, Polly sits down with Chris Leslie from the Scottish Book Trust, the manager leading the inspiring Your Voice, Your Story programme. Together, they...
This episode, Polly sits down with Chris Leslie from the Scottish Book Trust, the manager leading the inspiring Your Voice, Your Story programme. Together, they explore how storytelling can empower care-experienced young people and birth parents to share their journeys in their own words and in their own unique way.

Chris talks about his work with our young people’s groups and the Bluebird Project, a creative space for birth parents, helping them find confidence and connection through the power of story.

It’s a powerful, moving, and uplifting conversation about creativity, identity, and the healing strength of being heard.

Tune in for an episode full of insight, empathy, and inspiration.]]>2208adoptionpodcast,adoptionstories,adoptionsupport,bluebirdgroup,fosteringpodcast,fosteringsupport,pollytalks,scottishadoption,scottishadoptionandfostering,scottishbooktrust,scottishfostering,yourvoiceyourstoryfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/polly-talks-foster-carer-relationships-with-adopter-darren--66221177
It’s a powerful conversation about bridging families, honouring the past, and the shared commitment to a child’s wellbeing.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66221177Fri, 23 May 2025 08:15:54 +0000Scottish Adoption & FosteringIn this heartfelt episode for Foster Care Fortnight, Polly speaks with Darren, an adoptive dad, about the meaningful relationship he's built with his son's former foster carer. Darren reflects on the trust, respect, and mutual support that have helped...
It’s a powerful conversation about bridging families, honouring the past, and the shared commitment to a child’s wellbeing.]]>913adoption,adoptionpodcast,fcf25,fostercare,fostercarefortnight,fostercarers,fostering,fosteringnetwork,fosteringpodcast,fosteringscotland,scottishadoptionandfostering,scottishfosteringfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/polly-talks-foster-carer-relationships-with-foster-carer-sarah--66149683
Sarah reflects on the transition from foster care to adoption and shares what it has meant to stay a part of the child’s life. It’s an honest, moving conversation about love, loss, and the lasting bonds that care can build.

If you are interested in becoming a Foster Carer, give us a call on 0131 553 5060 or visit scottishadoption.org/fostering]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66149683Mon, 19 May 2025 12:39:12 +0000Scottish Adoption & FosteringIn this companion episode for Foster Care Fortnight, Polly speaks with Sarah, the foster carer who cared for Louisa’s child before they were adopted. Together, they explore the emotional journey of fostering, the complexities of letting go, and the...
Sarah reflects on the transition from foster care to adoption and shares what it has meant to stay a part of the child’s life. It’s an honest, moving conversation about love, loss, and the lasting bonds that care can build.

If you are interested in becoming a Foster Carer, give us a call on 0131 553 5060 or visit scottishadoption.org/fostering]]>1557adoption,adoptionpodcast,fcf25,fostercarefortnight,fostercarers,fostering,fosteringnetwork,fosteringpodcast,fosteringrelationships,fosterparents,pollycowan,pollytalks,scottishadoption,scottishadoptionandfostering,scottishfosteringfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/polly-talks-foster-carer-relationships-with-adopter-louisa--66097662
Louisa shares her heartfelt experience of maintaining a bond with her child’s former foster carer, highlighting the vital role they continue to play in their child’s life. It's a conversation about connection, continuity, and the lifelong impact of care.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66097662Thu, 15 May 2025 08:58:12 +0000Scottish Adoption & FosteringIn this special episode for Foster Care Fortnight, Polly sits down with Louisa, an adoptive mum, to talk about the powerful and often overlooked relationship between adoptive families and foster carers. Louisa shares her heartfelt experience of...
Louisa shares her heartfelt experience of maintaining a bond with her child’s former foster carer, highlighting the vital role they continue to play in their child’s life. It's a conversation about connection, continuity, and the lifelong impact of care.]]>1170adoption,adoptionpodcast,fcf25,fostercarefortnight,fostercarers,fostering,fosteringnetwork,fosteringpodcast,fosteringrelationships,fosterparents,pollycowan,pollytalks,scottishadoption,scottishadoptionandfostering,scottishfosteringfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/polly-talks-foster-carer-relationships-with-adoptees-jamie-and-holly--66051469
In this powerful crossover episode, Polly is joined by Jamie and Holly from the We Talk Adoption and Fostering (WTAF) podcast. Together, they share heartfelt reflections on their experiences growing up in foster care, the challenges they faced, and the deep, lasting bonds they’ve formed with their foster carers. Honest, emotional, and full of insight, this special Foster Care Fortnight conversation highlights why relationships and understanding truly matter in the care system.

Tune in for a moving and meaningful episode that celebrates resilience and connection.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66051469Mon, 12 May 2025 08:40:29 +0000Scottish Adoption & FosteringSpecial Foster Care Fortnight Episode – Polly Talks Fostering and Adoption x WTAF  In this powerful crossover episode, Polly is joined by Jamie and Holly from the We Talk Adoption and Fostering (WTAF) podcast. Together, they share heartfelt...
In this powerful crossover episode, Polly is joined by Jamie and Holly from the We Talk Adoption and Fostering (WTAF) podcast. Together, they share heartfelt reflections on their experiences growing up in foster care, the challenges they faced, and the deep, lasting bonds they’ve formed with their foster carers. Honest, emotional, and full of insight, this special Foster Care Fortnight conversation highlights why relationships and understanding truly matter in the care system.

Tune in for a moving and meaningful episode that celebrates resilience and connection.]]>1169adoption,adoptionpodcast,fcf25,fostercarefortnight,fostercarers,fostering,fosteringnetwork,fosteringpodcast,fosteringrelationships,fosterparents,pollycowan,pollytalks,scottishadoption,scottishadoptionandfostering,scottishfostering,wetalkadoptionfostering,wtaffalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/polly-talks-adoption-and-fostering-with-author-nell-carpenter--64688484

In this episode of Polly Talks Adoption and Fostering, Polly sits down with Nell Carpenter, author of Someday This Could Be Ordinary: Our Adoption Journey. Nell shares her raw and honest experience of adopting two children—an eight-year-old and a three-year-old—each with their own histories of trauma and resilience. She opens up about the emotional rollercoaster of forming a new family, the challenges of attachment, and the life-changing impact of adoption.

This is a must-listen for anyone considering adoption or simply wanting to understand its reality—the highs, the lows, and the moments of pure magic.📖

Grab a copy of Someday This Could Be Ordinary on Amazon: https://amzn.eu/d/8xLSOJk

Tune in for an inspiring, heartfelt conversation! 🎧💛]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/64688484Tue, 04 Mar 2025 09:30:29 +0000Scottish Adoption & FosteringPolly Talks Adoption and Fostering – Featuring Nell Carpenter In this episode of Polly Talks Adoption and Fostering, Polly sits down with Nell Carpenter, author of Someday This Could Be Ordinary: Our Adoption Journey. Nell shares her raw and honest...

In this episode of Polly Talks Adoption and Fostering, Polly sits down with Nell Carpenter, author of Someday This Could Be Ordinary: Our Adoption Journey. Nell shares her raw and honest experience of adopting two children—an eight-year-old and a three-year-old—each with their own histories of trauma and resilience. She opens up about the emotional rollercoaster of forming a new family, the challenges of attachment, and the life-changing impact of adoption.

This is a must-listen for anyone considering adoption or simply wanting to understand its reality—the highs, the lows, and the moments of pure magic.📖

Grab a copy of Someday This Could Be Ordinary on Amazon: https://amzn.eu/d/8xLSOJk

Tune in for an inspiring, heartfelt conversation! 🎧💛]]>2123adoptervoices,adoptingsiblings,adoptionpodcast,adoptionstories,buildingfamilies,changelivesin25,fosteringpodcast,lgbtadoption,lgbtfostering,lgbtqadoption,lgbtqadoptionfosteringweek,nellcarpenter,parentingthroughtrauma,pollytalks,rainbowfamilies,scottishadoptionandfosteringfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/polly-talks-adoption-and-fostering-eating-behaviours-with-dr-sarah-snuggs--63342607

We hope this episode provides some helpful insight into how we can create nurturing, trauma-informed spaces.

#PollyTalks #EatingBehaviours #CareExperiencedChildren #ChildDevelopment #TraumaInformedCare #Christmas #EatingDisorders #EmotionalWellbeing #FoodSecurity #Podcast #DrSarahSuggs #DrPollyCowan #HolidaySeason #SupportingChildren]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63342607Mon, 16 Dec 2024 18:56:33 +0000Scottish Adoption & FosteringIn this episode, Dr. Polly Cowan talks with Dr. Sarah Suggs from Reading University about eating behaviours in care experienced children. Dr. Suggs shares her expertise on how early trauma, disrupted attachments, and experiences in care can deeply...

We hope this episode provides some helpful insight into how we can create nurturing, trauma-informed spaces.

#PollyTalks #EatingBehaviours #CareExperiencedChildren #ChildDevelopment #TraumaInformedCare #Christmas #EatingDisorders #EmotionalWellbeing #FoodSecurity #Podcast #DrSarahSuggs #DrPollyCowan #HolidaySeason #SupportingChildren]]>1784careexperiencedchildren,childdevelopment,christmas,drpollycowan,drsarahsuggs,eatingbehaviours,eatingdisorders,emotionalwellbeing,foodsecurity,holidayseason,podcast,pollytalks,supportingchildren,traumainformedcarefalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/polly-talks-adoption-and-fostering-bluebird-flock-with-birth-parent-rachel--63270612
The Bluebird Project was founded with one clear mission: to create a safe, non-judgmental space where birth parents can connect, heal, and access support. Whether you’re in Edinburgh, the Lothians, or anywhere across Scotland, Bluebird is here to help. With services ranging from virtual and telephone counselling to peer support groups, the project offers essential resources for those who may feel isolated, judged, or alone following the heart-wrenching experience of having a child removed from their care.

Tune in as Polly, Rachel, and Sarah talk about the life-changing impact of the Bluebird Flock and the sense of community it provides.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63270612Wed, 11 Dec 2024 18:08:59 +0000Scottish Adoption & FosteringIn this moving episode of Polly Talks, Polly is joined by Rachel, a birth mother who has found crucial support through the Bluebird Flock groups, and Sarah, her dedicated support worker. Together, they share how the Bluebird Project has played a...
The Bluebird Project was founded with one clear mission: to create a safe, non-judgmental space where birth parents can connect, heal, and access support. Whether you’re in Edinburgh, the Lothians, or anywhere across Scotland, Bluebird is here to help. With services ranging from virtual and telephone counselling to peer support groups, the project offers essential resources for those who may feel isolated, judged, or alone following the heart-wrenching experience of having a child removed from their care.

Tune in as Polly, Rachel, and Sarah talk about the life-changing impact of the Bluebird Flock and the sense of community it provides.]]>1141adoption,adoptionpodcast,adoptionsupport,birthparentsupportfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/polly-talks-adoption-and-fostering-bluebird-with-vickie-and-naomi--63051249
In this powerful episode of Polly Talks..., Polly sits down with Vickie and Naomi from Scottish Adoption and Fostering to dive deep into the Bluebird Project—a vital support network for birth parents whose children are in foster, adoptive, or kinship care.

The Bluebird Project was created with one core mission: to provide a safe, non-judgmental space for birth parents to connect, heal, and find support. Whether you're in Edinburgh, the Lothians, or elsewhere in Scotland, Bluebird is here to help. From virtual and telephone counselling to peer support groups, this project offers vital resources for those who often feel isolated, judged, and alone after the heartbreaking decision of having a child removed from their care.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63051249Thu, 28 Nov 2024 20:46:19 +0000Scottish Adoption & FosteringPolly Talks to Naomi & Vickie from Scottish Adoption & Fostering: The Bluebird Project In this powerful episode of Polly Talks..., Polly sits down with Vickie and Naomi from Scottish Adoption and Fostering to dive deep into the Bluebird...
In this powerful episode of Polly Talks..., Polly sits down with Vickie and Naomi from Scottish Adoption and Fostering to dive deep into the Bluebird Project—a vital support network for birth parents whose children are in foster, adoptive, or kinship care.

The Bluebird Project was created with one core mission: to provide a safe, non-judgmental space for birth parents to connect, heal, and find support. Whether you're in Edinburgh, the Lothians, or elsewhere in Scotland, Bluebird is here to help. From virtual and telephone counselling to peer support groups, this project offers vital resources for those who often feel isolated, judged, and alone after the heartbreaking decision of having a child removed from their care.]]>1626adoptionpodcast,adoptionsupport,birthfamilysupport,bluebirdflock,bluebirdsupport,fosteringpodcastfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/polly-talks-adoption-and-fostering-thriving-adoptees-with-simon-benn--62985712
In this episode of Polly Talks..., Polly sits down with Simon Benn, founder of Thriving Adoptees, for a powerful conversation about the lived experience of adoption. Simon shares his personal journey as an adoptee, exploring the emotional challenges, the search for identity, and the resilience that comes with navigating life after adoption.

Simon’s work with Thriving Adoptees focuses on supporting adoptees in understanding and embracing their unique experiences, offering valuable insights into how to thrive beyond trauma and build a positive future. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone touched by adoption—whether you’re an adoptee, adoptive parent, or professional in the field.

Tune in to hear Simon’s perspective on overcoming adversity, the importance of community, and why telling adoption stories can make all the difference in healing and growth.

Listen now and gain a deeper understanding of the adoptee experience!]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62985712Sun, 24 Nov 2024 11:49:48 +0000Scottish Adoption & FosteringPolly Talks with Simon Benn from Thriving Adoptees! In this episode of Polly Talks..., Polly sits down with Simon Benn, founder of Thriving Adoptees, for a powerful conversation about the lived experience of adoption. Simon shares his personal...
In this episode of Polly Talks..., Polly sits down with Simon Benn, founder of Thriving Adoptees, for a powerful conversation about the lived experience of adoption. Simon shares his personal journey as an adoptee, exploring the emotional challenges, the search for identity, and the resilience that comes with navigating life after adoption.

Simon’s work with Thriving Adoptees focuses on supporting adoptees in understanding and embracing their unique experiences, offering valuable insights into how to thrive beyond trauma and build a positive future. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone touched by adoption—whether you’re an adoptee, adoptive parent, or professional in the field.

Tune in to hear Simon’s perspective on overcoming adversity, the importance of community, and why telling adoption stories can make all the difference in healing and growth.

Listen now and gain a deeper understanding of the adoptee experience!]]>3888adoptionpodcast,pollycowan,pollytalks,scottishadoption,scottishadoptionandfostering,thrivingadopteesfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/polly-talks-adoption-and-fostering-christmas-with-amanda--52176000https://api.spreaker.com/episode/52176000Tue, 13 Dec 2022 17:05:06 +0000Scottish Adoption & FosteringThis episode Polly Talks... to Amanda about how to enjoy a stress free Christmas, how to manage expectations and hopefully stop those melt downs.1673adoption,adoptionatchristmas,adoptionsupport,christmas,pollycowan,pollytalks,scottishadoption,survivingchristmasfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/polly-talks-adoption-and-fostering-with-ros-powell-and-son-levi--51536333
You can purchase Roslind's book How I Met My Son on amazon here https://www.amazon.co.uk/How-Met-My-Son-Adoption/dp/1910536555]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/51536333Tue, 11 Oct 2022 12:32:50 +0000Scottish Adoption & FosteringPolly talks to is Rosalind Powell and her son Levi. Rosalind is author of the book How I Met My Son and is also Contributing Editor for HELLO! Magazine and has written for a wide selection of national newspapers and supplements including the Observer,...
You can purchase Roslind's book How I Met My Son on amazon here https://www.amazon.co.uk/How-Met-My-Son-Adoption/dp/1910536555]]>3307adoption,adoptionblog,adoptionbooks,adoptionpodcast,adoptionsupport,howimetmyson,rosalindpowell,rospowell,scottishadoptionfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/polly-talks-adoption-and-fostering-jette-occupational-therapist-at-scottish-adoption--50950748https://api.spreaker.com/episode/50950748Thu, 18 Aug 2022 15:39:10 +0000Scottish Adoption & FosteringPolly talks to Jette, an Occupational Therapist at Scottish Adoption.1376adoption,adoptionsupport,occupationaltherpaist,ot,scottishadoption,therapycentrefalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/polly-talks-adoption-and-fostering-introductions--42182159https://api.spreaker.com/episode/42182159Thu, 26 Nov 2020 17:50:15 +0000Scottish Adoption & FosteringIn this podcast Polly speaks to adopters and fostercarers about what happens during the introduction process.2286adoption,introductions,pollypodcast,pollytalks,scottishadoptionfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/polly-talks-adoption-and-fostering-single-adopters-the-emotions--29007365https://api.spreaker.com/episode/29007365Wed, 03 Jun 2020 12:55:12 +0000Scottish Adoption & FosteringPolly talks to Shonagh and Chelsea about the emotions of becoming a mother.2542adopter,adoption,adoptionscotland,adoptscotland,pollycowan,scottishadoption,singleadopter,singleadoptionfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/polly-talks-adoption-and-fostering-single-adopters-family-finding--29000979https://api.spreaker.com/episode/29000979Wed, 03 Jun 2020 11:25:35 +0000Scottish Adoption & FosteringPolly talks to Chelsea and Shonagh about the Family Finding Process.1247adopters,adoption,adoptionedinburgh,adoptionglasgow,adoptionscotland,lgbtadoption,pollycowan,scottishadoption,singleadopterfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/polly-talks-adoption-and-fostering-single-adopters-getting-approved--27762114https://api.spreaker.com/episode/27762114Tue, 19 May 2020 14:02:21 +0000Scottish Adoption & FosteringIn this episode Polly talks to Shonagh and Chelsea about the Homestudy process and getting to the Adoption Approval Panel.1395adoption,adoptionapprovalpanel,adoptionhomestudy,adoptionpanel,adoptionpreparationgroups,approvalpanel,homestudy,preparationgroupsfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/polly-talks-adoption-and-fostering-single-adopters-why-adoption-why-scottish-adoption--27666663https://api.spreaker.com/episode/27666663Mon, 18 May 2020 13:57:19 +0000Scottish Adoption & FosteringPolly, one of Scottish Adoption's Senior Practitioners in the Family Placement Team, talks to single adopters Shonagh and Chelsea about their journey to parenthood.1245adoption,adoptionexperts,adoptionmyths,pollycowan,scottishadoption,singleadoptersfalsefull