Shine on North Carolina: Embracing Family Narratives Wed, 07 Oct 2026 00:00:05 -0400 https://seenoutloud.buzzsprout.com en-us © 2026 Shine on North Carolina: Embracing Family Narratives yes e54e6f97-67ba-55f1-8e3e-3054ab44a248 Institute for Family episodic true The Institute for Family, an organization of the Children's Home Society of North Carolina,  is on a mission to hear from North Carolina residents about life and community relationships across the state. Tune in as local residents embark a storytelling adventure. Here they share lessons, advice, stories and reflect about life in their community.

The Shine campaign is in partnership with StoryCorps Studios. Conversations here are snippets of a larger conversation, produced by the Institute, which can be heard on the StoryCorps website.

]]> Buzzsprout (https://www.buzzsprout.com) Institute for Family https://storage.buzzsprout.com/7bwnoprf4h1wrho5vd72xuegupz1?.jpg Shine on North Carolina: Embracing Family Narratives https://seenoutloud.buzzsprout.com What Do NC Families Need to Thrive? What Do NC Families Need to Thrive? Eriq and Kim are North Carolinians from two different counties with distinct life experiences, yet when they reflect on what families need to be well, their perspectives are remarkably similar.  Both speak to the importance of feeling secure, having opportunities to grow and thrive, and building a better future for the people they love. They agree that at the heart of every strong family is love, and that love often requires sacrifice.  Listen to these two perspectives on the powerful role that love, sacrifice, and belonging play in strengthening families and creating stability and support that help people thrive. 

]]> Eriq and Kim are North Carolinians from two different counties with distinct life experiences, yet when they reflect on what families need to be well, their perspectives are remarkably similar.  Both speak to the importance of feeling secure, having opportunities to grow and thrive, and building a better future for the people they love. They agree that at the heart of every strong family is love, and that love often requires sacrifice.  Listen to these two perspectives on the powerful role that love, sacrifice, and belonging play in strengthening families and creating stability and support that help people thrive. 

]]> Institute for Family Buzzsprout-19811931 Wed, 07 Oct 2026 00:00:00 -0400 301 full false Timeless Love, Forever Family Timeless Love, Forever Family Join Heather and Kim for a heartfelt and deeply candid conversation about Kim’s motherhood journey as she adopts her daughter from foster care. Kim reflects on the timeless love she felt from the moment they were connected in infancy, and the profound challenges of navigating transitions that kept them apart for two years. 

Together, Heather and Kim open up about the hopes, fears, and unwavering determination that guided Kim as she fought to bring home the missing piece of her family’s puzzle. Their conversation paints a vivid picture of joy, pain, resilience, and the moment their family’s portrait finally felt complete. 

They also share honest, practical insight for parents, caregivers, and community members, offering wisdom on what foster and adoptive families need to continue growing, loving, and thriving. 

]]> Join Heather and Kim for a heartfelt and deeply candid conversation about Kim’s motherhood journey as she adopts her daughter from foster care. Kim reflects on the timeless love she felt from the moment they were connected in infancy, and the profound challenges of navigating transitions that kept them apart for two years. 

Together, Heather and Kim open up about the hopes, fears, and unwavering determination that guided Kim as she fought to bring home the missing piece of her family’s puzzle. Their conversation paints a vivid picture of joy, pain, resilience, and the moment their family’s portrait finally felt complete. 

They also share honest, practical insight for parents, caregivers, and community members, offering wisdom on what foster and adoptive families need to continue growing, loving, and thriving. 

]]> Institute for Family Buzzsprout-19811812 Wed, 23 Sep 2026 00:00:00 -0400 1374 full false Wellness in North Carolina: A New Perspective Wellness in North Carolina: A New Perspective What do North Carolinians need to be well? From housing and childcare to mental health support and economic opportunities, there is a lot to consider. Hear directly from current college students as they share their perspectives on what helps North Carolinians not just get by but truly thrive. As future leaders and community stakeholders, they bring fresh insight into what well-being should look like for everyone in our state. Give it a listen today. 

]]> What do North Carolinians need to be well? From housing and childcare to mental health support and economic opportunities, there is a lot to consider. Hear directly from current college students as they share their perspectives on what helps North Carolinians not just get by but truly thrive. As future leaders and community stakeholders, they bring fresh insight into what well-being should look like for everyone in our state. Give it a listen today. 

]]> Institute for Family Buzzsprout-18862133 Wed, 09 Sep 2026 00:00:00 -0400 114 full false Cost, Benefit, Grow: The Real Trade-Offs of College Life Cost, Benefit, Grow: The Real Trade-Offs of College Life Every choice comes with trade-offs, but in college, those trade-offs can feel bigger, heavier, and far more complicated. In this Shine story, two North Carolina college students open up about the decisions they have had to make while learning, growing, and stepping into young adulthood. From balancing academics and work to prioritizing well-being and social life, they share candid stories about the costs, benefits, and unexpected lessons that come with each choice. You will also hear about the key resources and supports that helped them navigate college life and what they recommend for students facing similar crossroads. Join us for an honest look at the trade-offs of college life and the tools that help students thrive. 

]]> Every choice comes with trade-offs, but in college, those trade-offs can feel bigger, heavier, and far more complicated. In this Shine story, two North Carolina college students open up about the decisions they have had to make while learning, growing, and stepping into young adulthood. From balancing academics and work to prioritizing well-being and social life, they share candid stories about the costs, benefits, and unexpected lessons that come with each choice. You will also hear about the key resources and supports that helped them navigate college life and what they recommend for students facing similar crossroads. Join us for an honest look at the trade-offs of college life and the tools that help students thrive. 

]]> Institute for Family Buzzsprout-18862107 Wed, 26 Aug 2026 00:00:00 -0400 215 full false Steering the Ship: Real Talk from Working College Students Steering the Ship: Real Talk from Working College Students  College life brings new challenges, unexpected stressors, and a whole lot of learning outside of the classroom. In this Shine story, two college students share honest, true-to-life stories about what it is really like to steer the ship of adulthood while juggling work, academics, and everything in between. Through their experiences, you will hear how they navigate tough moments, find support, and stay grounded in a world that is constantly demanding more. Listen, connect, and explore how these two students chart their own path, and discover what helps them manage the world around them. 

]]>  College life brings new challenges, unexpected stressors, and a whole lot of learning outside of the classroom. In this Shine story, two college students share honest, true-to-life stories about what it is really like to steer the ship of adulthood while juggling work, academics, and everything in between. Through their experiences, you will hear how they navigate tough moments, find support, and stay grounded in a world that is constantly demanding more. Listen, connect, and explore how these two students chart their own path, and discover what helps them manage the world around them. 

]]> Institute for Family Buzzsprout-18862068 Wed, 12 Aug 2026 00:00:00 -0400 203 full false Overwhelming Balancing Act Overwhelming Balancing Act Transitioning to adulthood as a college student in North Carolina is can be an overwhelming balancing act. Listen to two North Carolina college students who share their experiences with trying to balance life as a college student amidst finances, health, and college life. Listen as they share their experiences with resources who have helped them manage the overwhelming balance of life. Shine on Sarah and Brynne, sharing a glimpse in the choices college students need to make to thrive and be well in North Carolina. 

]]> Transitioning to adulthood as a college student in North Carolina is can be an overwhelming balancing act. Listen to two North Carolina college students who share their experiences with trying to balance life as a college student amidst finances, health, and college life. Listen as they share their experiences with resources who have helped them manage the overwhelming balance of life. Shine on Sarah and Brynne, sharing a glimpse in the choices college students need to make to thrive and be well in North Carolina. 

]]> Institute for Family Buzzsprout-18862016 Wed, 29 Jul 2026 00:00:00 -0400 169 full false Accessing Healthcare in North Carolina Accessing Healthcare in North Carolina  What does accessing healthcare really look like for college students in North Carolina? Healthcare is essential to the well-being of individuals, families, and communities across our state; however, navigating the system can feel especially overwhelming when you are just beginning adulthood. Juggling classes, managing finances, and figuring out how to care for yourself. In this episode, we sit down with two North Carolina college students who open up about their journeys through the twists, turns, surprises, and setbacks of getting healthcare while in school. From finding the right resources to learning what questions to ask, Sarah and Brynne share honest stories that shed light on what works, what doesn't, and what they wish they had known sooner. Tune in as Sarah and Brynne shine a light on the real student experience of accessing healthcare in North Carolina and why it matters.  

]]>  What does accessing healthcare really look like for college students in North Carolina? Healthcare is essential to the well-being of individuals, families, and communities across our state; however, navigating the system can feel especially overwhelming when you are just beginning adulthood. Juggling classes, managing finances, and figuring out how to care for yourself. In this episode, we sit down with two North Carolina college students who open up about their journeys through the twists, turns, surprises, and setbacks of getting healthcare while in school. From finding the right resources to learning what questions to ask, Sarah and Brynne share honest stories that shed light on what works, what doesn't, and what they wish they had known sooner. Tune in as Sarah and Brynne shine a light on the real student experience of accessing healthcare in North Carolina and why it matters.  

]]> Institute for Family Buzzsprout-18861995 Wed, 15 Jul 2026 00:00:00 -0400 212 full false Straight from Campus: What Students Need to Thrive Straight from Campus: What Students Need to Thrive What do North Carolina college students really need to succeed and thrive? In this Shine Story, real students speak candidly about their lived experiences, the barriers they face, and the choices they navigate every day. From academic pressures to financial strain to the search for meaningful support, they offer honest insights into what college life looks like behind the scenes. While each North Carolina campus is unique, common themes emerge: what students need to sustain themselves, stay successful, and truly flourish. These students not only share their challenges, but also their ideas and suggestions for making college life more supportive and achievable. Tune in to hear North Carolina students have their say, and learn what it takes to help them thrive. 

]]> What do North Carolina college students really need to succeed and thrive? In this Shine Story, real students speak candidly about their lived experiences, the barriers they face, and the choices they navigate every day. From academic pressures to financial strain to the search for meaningful support, they offer honest insights into what college life looks like behind the scenes. While each North Carolina campus is unique, common themes emerge: what students need to sustain themselves, stay successful, and truly flourish. These students not only share their challenges, but also their ideas and suggestions for making college life more supportive and achievable. Tune in to hear North Carolina students have their say, and learn what it takes to help them thrive. 

]]> Institute for Family Buzzsprout-18861537 Wed, 01 Jul 2026 00:00:00 -0400 212 full false The Kinship Voyage: Sailing from Brotherhood to Fatherhood The Kinship Voyage: Sailing from Brotherhood to Fatherhood Shine On, Eriq Partin. Step into this moving story of love and resilience as Eriq shares his deeply personal journey into fatherhood. What began as the bond of a brother grew into something even greater when he chose to adopt his siblings from foster care. With honesty and heart, Eriq reflects on the life-changing moment his role shifted—when he became both brother and father—and how that transformation reshaped not only his life, but the foundation of his family. It’s a powerful testament to courage, sacrifice, and the enduring strength of love.

]]> Shine On, Eriq Partin. Step into this moving story of love and resilience as Eriq shares his deeply personal journey into fatherhood. What began as the bond of a brother grew into something even greater when he chose to adopt his siblings from foster care. With honesty and heart, Eriq reflects on the life-changing moment his role shifted—when he became both brother and father—and how that transformation reshaped not only his life, but the foundation of his family. It’s a powerful testament to courage, sacrifice, and the enduring strength of love.

]]> Institute for Family Buzzsprout-19331488 Tue, 16 Jun 2026 10:00:00 -0400 2508 full false Parker White: What it Means to be a Family Parker White: What it Means to be a Family Family can mean many things: “love makes a family,” “chosen family,” or “family over everything.” Ultimately, family is defined by the individual, the group, or the community. Listen as Parker White, Family Advocate and Founder of BackPack Beginnings, shares what family means to her and how that definition shapes the way she and her team show up for families every day. They embody the African adage, “It takes a village to raise a child.” At BackPack Beginnings, Parker and her team understand that supporting families means looking beyond the child and uplifting the entire household. Their work reflects a deep belief that whole-family support leads to stronger, healthier communities in North Carolina.   

]]> Family can mean many things: “love makes a family,” “chosen family,” or “family over everything.” Ultimately, family is defined by the individual, the group, or the community. Listen as Parker White, Family Advocate and Founder of BackPack Beginnings, shares what family means to her and how that definition shapes the way she and her team show up for families every day. They embody the African adage, “It takes a village to raise a child.” At BackPack Beginnings, Parker and her team understand that supporting families means looking beyond the child and uplifting the entire household. Their work reflects a deep belief that whole-family support leads to stronger, healthier communities in North Carolina.   

]]> Institute for Family Buzzsprout-18861316 Wed, 03 Jun 2026 00:00:00 -0400 71 full false The Future is Bright for Families The Future is Bright for Families BackPack Beginnings is a community-based organization that serves as a vital gap-filler for families. Listen as founder Parker White shares her vision for the future, one where families not only have access to essential support, but also experience welcoming, choice-based services that truly meet their needs.

Parker highlights the “welcome surprises” that have helped sustain families, emphasizing the importance of dignity, respect, and choice in how support is delivered. She also reflects on the organization’s commitment to changing the stigma and narratives around why families seek help, and what meaningful help actually looks like.

In addition, Parker discusses her hopes for removing key barriers, such as transportation, that prevent families from accessing the resources they need. She envisions a future where trust and respect are central, and where families are empowered to make choices that support their well-being.

With Parker White and the BackPack Beginnings team leading the way, the future is bright for families.

]]> BackPack Beginnings is a community-based organization that serves as a vital gap-filler for families. Listen as founder Parker White shares her vision for the future, one where families not only have access to essential support, but also experience welcoming, choice-based services that truly meet their needs.

Parker highlights the “welcome surprises” that have helped sustain families, emphasizing the importance of dignity, respect, and choice in how support is delivered. She also reflects on the organization’s commitment to changing the stigma and narratives around why families seek help, and what meaningful help actually looks like.

In addition, Parker discusses her hopes for removing key barriers, such as transportation, that prevent families from accessing the resources they need. She envisions a future where trust and respect are central, and where families are empowered to make choices that support their well-being.

With Parker White and the BackPack Beginnings team leading the way, the future is bright for families.

]]> Institute for Family Buzzsprout-19184913 Wed, 20 May 2026 00:00:00 -0400 233 full false Everyone Needs Help Sometimes: Breaking the Stigma Everyone Needs Help Sometimes: Breaking the Stigma Everyone needs help sometimes. Listen as Parker White shares her own experiences and the real stories of families who seek support, dispelling common myths about who needs help and why. She reflects on the stigma surrounding food pantries and how BackPack Beginnings is reshaping that experience by prioritizing dignity, choice, and respect. Families deserve comfort, care, and the freedom to choose what they need, without shame or judgment.  Parker’s commitment to client choice and compassion is helping redefine how communities support one another. Keep shining, Parker and BackPack Beginnings.

]]> Everyone needs help sometimes. Listen as Parker White shares her own experiences and the real stories of families who seek support, dispelling common myths about who needs help and why. She reflects on the stigma surrounding food pantries and how BackPack Beginnings is reshaping that experience by prioritizing dignity, choice, and respect. Families deserve comfort, care, and the freedom to choose what they need, without shame or judgment.  Parker’s commitment to client choice and compassion is helping redefine how communities support one another. Keep shining, Parker and BackPack Beginnings.

]]> Institute for Family Buzzsprout-18861247 Wed, 06 May 2026 00:00:00 -0400 362 full false Service to the Families and Family Service Service to the Families and Family Service Listen as Parker White, Founder of BackPack Beginnings, reflects on how her deep compassion for the community has shaped her family life and influenced her children. She shares how she works to create balance at home, teaching her teenagers the value of helping others, while still encouraging them to explore their own passions. Parker describes how service not only uplifts the community but also enriches the lives of those who give. Parker also highlights how people can use the skills they are developing in school, such as those in a Spanish Immersion program, to support local families while strengthening their own interests and abilities. As Idowu Koyenikan reminds us, “A community that is engaged and working together can be a powerful force.” Parker’s story shows us that collaboration and innovation have no age limit. 

]]> Listen as Parker White, Founder of BackPack Beginnings, reflects on how her deep compassion for the community has shaped her family life and influenced her children. She shares how she works to create balance at home, teaching her teenagers the value of helping others, while still encouraging them to explore their own passions. Parker describes how service not only uplifts the community but also enriches the lives of those who give. Parker also highlights how people can use the skills they are developing in school, such as those in a Spanish Immersion program, to support local families while strengthening their own interests and abilities. As Idowu Koyenikan reminds us, “A community that is engaged and working together can be a powerful force.” Parker’s story shows us that collaboration and innovation have no age limit. 

]]> Institute for Family Buzzsprout-18861209 Wed, 22 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0400 168 full false From Questions to Connection: Reimagining how we Show Up for Families From Questions to Connection: Reimagining how we Show Up for Families Are we truly asking families, and those who support them, the right questions? Or are we operating from assumptions about what our communities need?  Listening first, then acting with the community rather than in silos, is essential to meaningful, sustainable change.  In this episode, Parker White, founder of BackPack Beginnings, shares how her organization strives to be a gap-filler in Guilford County, supporting families as they navigate the often-invisible barriers that impact their daily lives.  She highlights how innovation, compassion, and deep care have shaped the organization’s growth, allowing it to respond with resilience during unexpected challenges and continue meeting the evolving needs of families. 

]]> Are we truly asking families, and those who support them, the right questions? Or are we operating from assumptions about what our communities need?  Listening first, then acting with the community rather than in silos, is essential to meaningful, sustainable change.  In this episode, Parker White, founder of BackPack Beginnings, shares how her organization strives to be a gap-filler in Guilford County, supporting families as they navigate the often-invisible barriers that impact their daily lives.  She highlights how innovation, compassion, and deep care have shaped the organization’s growth, allowing it to respond with resilience during unexpected challenges and continue meeting the evolving needs of families. 

]]> Institute for Family Buzzsprout-18861171 Wed, 08 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0400 288 full false What is BackPack Beginnings? What is BackPack Beginnings? Parker White is a mother, wife, daughter, and advocate for justice. She is the founder of BackPack Beginnings, a Greensboro-based nonprofit that has been serving the community for 16 years. When it started in Parker’s dining room as a simple effort to provide weekend food to children and families in need has grown into a thriving organization offering comprehensive support. Listen as Parker shares how BackPack Beginnings continues to serve not only children but entire families through wraparound services designed to help them stabilize, grow, and thrive.

]]> Parker White is a mother, wife, daughter, and advocate for justice. She is the founder of BackPack Beginnings, a Greensboro-based nonprofit that has been serving the community for 16 years. When it started in Parker’s dining room as a simple effort to provide weekend food to children and families in need has grown into a thriving organization offering comprehensive support. Listen as Parker shares how BackPack Beginnings continues to serve not only children but entire families through wraparound services designed to help them stabilize, grow, and thrive.

]]> Institute for Family Buzzsprout-18838019 Wed, 25 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0400 105 full false Finding More of Our Family Finding More of Our Family  In this Shine On North Carolina interview, Candi shares the decades-long journey she and her father took to uncover his biological roots after he was adopted in 1948. After years of searching and documenting leads, DNA testing in 2016 helped reveal the identity of his biological father and connected them with relatives in North Carolina. The family welcomed them with open arms, helping piece together their shared history and creating new relationships. The experience reshaped Candi’s sense of belonging and led her family to relocate to North Carolina, where her father was able to connect with his biological family before his passing in 2024. 

]]>  In this Shine On North Carolina interview, Candi shares the decades-long journey she and her father took to uncover his biological roots after he was adopted in 1948. After years of searching and documenting leads, DNA testing in 2016 helped reveal the identity of his biological father and connected them with relatives in North Carolina. The family welcomed them with open arms, helping piece together their shared history and creating new relationships. The experience reshaped Candi’s sense of belonging and led her family to relocate to North Carolina, where her father was able to connect with his biological family before his passing in 2024. 

]]> Institute for Family Buzzsprout-18828999 Wed, 11 Mar 2026 11:00:00 -0400 1375 full false Michelle Burton Michelle Burton Listen to this powerful story of Durham County Commissioner Michelle Burton share her family legacy that influenced her to be the change she wanted to see in her community. Listen as she shares her remarkable journey through civic engagement, beginning as a school librarian in North Carolina, to deciding to see sustainable actions take place to support the children, families, and communities within Durham, North Carolina, as a county commissioner. Commissioner Burton's story is a tale of dedication, resilience, and grit to ensure she leaves her community better than she found it through servant leadership. 

]]> Listen to this powerful story of Durham County Commissioner Michelle Burton share her family legacy that influenced her to be the change she wanted to see in her community. Listen as she shares her remarkable journey through civic engagement, beginning as a school librarian in North Carolina, to deciding to see sustainable actions take place to support the children, families, and communities within Durham, North Carolina, as a county commissioner. Commissioner Burton's story is a tale of dedication, resilience, and grit to ensure she leaves her community better than she found it through servant leadership. 

]]> Institute for Family Buzzsprout-17521871 Thu, 17 Jul 2025 13:00:00 -0400 2052 full false What Makes a Family? What Makes a Family? Love makes a family. Whether the family is genetically connected, the family was created by adoption, or the family chosen through connection in life. Love tends to be the glue that holds many families together, and each family’s glue may be different. In this second iteration of our Shine on NC story series, listen as three of our North Carolinian storytellers share what family means to them. Listen as they share the life lessons and journeys they have taken in the creation of their families. 

]]> Love makes a family. Whether the family is genetically connected, the family was created by adoption, or the family chosen through connection in life. Love tends to be the glue that holds many families together, and each family’s glue may be different. In this second iteration of our Shine on NC story series, listen as three of our North Carolinian storytellers share what family means to them. Listen as they share the life lessons and journeys they have taken in the creation of their families. 

]]> Institute for Family Buzzsprout-17370279 Fri, 20 Jun 2025 13:00:00 -0400 279 full false Tamiko Lockett: How to be Brave in Times of Fear Tamiko Lockett: How to be Brave in Times of Fear Shine on Tamiko! Listen as family advocate and educator, Tamiko Lockett, shares strategies to support individuals, families, and communities in navigating their communities in times of uncertainty. Tamiko shares some simple but easily applicable strategies anyone can integrate into their daily routine to regain a sense of peace, calm, and strength.

]]> Shine on Tamiko! Listen as family advocate and educator, Tamiko Lockett, shares strategies to support individuals, families, and communities in navigating their communities in times of uncertainty. Tamiko shares some simple but easily applicable strategies anyone can integrate into their daily routine to regain a sense of peace, calm, and strength.

]]> Institute for Family Buzzsprout-17071895 Fri, 02 May 2025 00:00:00 -0400 142 full false Tamiko Lockett: Ending Community Isolation through Reconnection Tamiko Lockett: Ending Community Isolation through Reconnection The Surgeon General of the United States recently diagnosed the country as having an “epidemic of loneliness, " as outlined in the article, Combating the Epidemic of Loneliness in the US: Creating More Connected Communities. Listen as educator and family advocate, Tamiko Lockett, shares her expertise and strategies for helping families combat loneliness by reconnecting with their community. One small moment each day can build community connections that can change families' lives.

]]> The Surgeon General of the United States recently diagnosed the country as having an “epidemic of loneliness, " as outlined in the article, Combating the Epidemic of Loneliness in the US: Creating More Connected Communities. Listen as educator and family advocate, Tamiko Lockett, shares her expertise and strategies for helping families combat loneliness by reconnecting with their community. One small moment each day can build community connections that can change families' lives.

]]> Institute for Family Buzzsprout-17071873 Wed, 30 Apr 2025 09:00:00 -0400 215 full false Tamiko Lockett: Everyone Needs a Listening Ear Tamiko Lockett: Everyone Needs a Listening Ear Listen to this heartwarming story shared by Tamiko Lockett, educator and family advocate, as she reflects with a lifelong friend about the importance of the simple act of kindness, such as lending a listening ear to a stranger in need. One small moment can change a person’s life. In this reflection, Tamiko shares the importance of sharing one’s gifts and talents with the world to make the world a better place.  

]]> Listen to this heartwarming story shared by Tamiko Lockett, educator and family advocate, as she reflects with a lifelong friend about the importance of the simple act of kindness, such as lending a listening ear to a stranger in need. One small moment can change a person’s life. In this reflection, Tamiko shares the importance of sharing one’s gifts and talents with the world to make the world a better place.  

]]> Institute for Family Buzzsprout-17071868 Wed, 30 Apr 2025 09:00:00 -0400 309 full false Hubert Williams Hubert Williams Hubert Williams (47) and Tori Brasher-Weathers (41) explore Hubert's journey of weaving the individual strands of life that make the beautiful tapestry that is his family. Hubert shares the milestones and lessons he learned from his father, Hubert Sr., from learning that he was adopted to creating his own family. Listen to this wonderful story of identity, acceptance, love, and family resilience in the midst of change. Listen as Hubert shares that each family is truly unique and that every person within a family has value. 

]]> Hubert Williams (47) and Tori Brasher-Weathers (41) explore Hubert's journey of weaving the individual strands of life that make the beautiful tapestry that is his family. Hubert shares the milestones and lessons he learned from his father, Hubert Sr., from learning that he was adopted to creating his own family. Listen to this wonderful story of identity, acceptance, love, and family resilience in the midst of change. Listen as Hubert shares that each family is truly unique and that every person within a family has value. 

]]> Institute for Family Buzzsprout-16940965 Tue, 08 Apr 2025 16:00:00 -0400 2181 full false Sharrieff Family - Favorite Family Memory Sharrieff Family - Favorite Family Memory Shine on, Sanaa Sharrieff! Join the journey in the family car as this North Carolinian mom extraordinaire shares one of her favorite memories with her four children. Listen closely and feel the love and warmth of her recollection. You'll be transported into the Sharrieff family vehicle, where you can participate in this wonderful moment filled with family love, care, and celebration.

]]> Shine on, Sanaa Sharrieff! Join the journey in the family car as this North Carolinian mom extraordinaire shares one of her favorite memories with her four children. Listen closely and feel the love and warmth of her recollection. You'll be transported into the Sharrieff family vehicle, where you can participate in this wonderful moment filled with family love, care, and celebration.

]]> Institute for Family Buzzsprout-16932956 Mon, 07 Apr 2025 14:00:00 -0400 75 full false What Does Family Mean to Me? What Does Family Mean to Me? Family is everything, and everyone’s family is different. Families do not have to match. Families do not have to be connected by DNA. Family is what we make it. Family is a feeling. Take a moment and listen to what families mean to some of our storytellers throughout North Carolina. Listen as they reflect on their aspect of family and what it means to them. 

]]> Family is everything, and everyone’s family is different. Families do not have to match. Families do not have to be connected by DNA. Family is what we make it. Family is a feeling. Take a moment and listen to what families mean to some of our storytellers throughout North Carolina. Listen as they reflect on their aspect of family and what it means to them. 

]]> Institute for Family Buzzsprout-16877636 Fri, 28 Mar 2025 15:00:00 -0400 254 full false The Sa Family Part 2 - Family, Love, and Advocacy The Sa Family Part 2 - Family, Love, and Advocacy In this continuation of the Sa Family’s journey, you will hear intricate steps they took finding their forever ever home and then losing it all in a short period of time.

]]> In this continuation of the Sa Family’s journey, you will hear intricate steps they took finding their forever ever home and then losing it all in a short period of time.

]]> Buzzsprout-16662784 Tue, 25 Feb 2025 09:00:00 -0500 521 full false The Sa Family Part 1 - Finding Our Forever-Ever Home The Sa Family Part 1 - Finding Our Forever-Ever Home Listen to Audrie, Vini, and Vivianna Sa as they share their journey from leaving their first family home, filled with love and tended memories, to finding their forever home that perfectly fit the needs of their growing family. 

]]> Listen to Audrie, Vini, and Vivianna Sa as they share their journey from leaving their first family home, filled with love and tended memories, to finding their forever home that perfectly fit the needs of their growing family. 

]]> Institute for Family Buzzsprout-16662737 Thu, 20 Feb 2025 09:00:00 -0500 466 full false Ty Harris - Shine on North Carolina Ty Harris - Shine on North Carolina Ty Harris is a Community Navigator who supports pregnant individuals in the Guilford County area of North Carolina. In this inspiring story, Ty shares her experiences of helping families in Greensboro and High Point. She highlights the specific needs of families to ensure their well-being and promote positive family dynamics. Ty’s insights will not only challenge your perspective but will also motivate you to take action in your community to support pregnant individuals, children, and families. Shine on, Ty!

]]> Ty Harris is a Community Navigator who supports pregnant individuals in the Guilford County area of North Carolina. In this inspiring story, Ty shares her experiences of helping families in Greensboro and High Point. She highlights the specific needs of families to ensure their well-being and promote positive family dynamics. Ty’s insights will not only challenge your perspective but will also motivate you to take action in your community to support pregnant individuals, children, and families. Shine on, Ty!

]]> Institute for Family Buzzsprout-16562130 Tue, 04 Feb 2025 11:00:00 -0500 376 full false Titus Hopper - Shine on North Carolina Titus Hopper - Shine on North Carolina Meet Titus Hopper, a joyful husband, father, educator, entrepreneur, and inspiration—a true "hope dealer." As Hop the Black Santa, he shares his life journey centered around fatherhood and family. Titus tells his heartwarming story of hope, faith, adoption, and the joy he brings to his community and loved ones as Santa Claus.

The recording is produced by the Institute for Family, using interviews recorded by StoryCorps Studios.

See more about the Shine on North Carolina Campaign on the Institute for Family website.

]]> Meet Titus Hopper, a joyful husband, father, educator, entrepreneur, and inspiration—a true "hope dealer." As Hop the Black Santa, he shares his life journey centered around fatherhood and family. Titus tells his heartwarming story of hope, faith, adoption, and the joy he brings to his community and loved ones as Santa Claus.

The recording is produced by the Institute for Family, using interviews recorded by StoryCorps Studios.

See more about the Shine on North Carolina Campaign on the Institute for Family website.

]]> Institute for Family Buzzsprout-16311241 Mon, 23 Dec 2024 08:00:00 -0500 332 full false Natalie Conner, Mentamer Conner, and Oz Conner Clip - Shine on North Carolina Campaign Natalie Conner, Mentamer Conner, and Oz Conner Clip - Shine on North Carolina Campaign Natalie Conner, Mentamer Conner and Oz Conner reflect on the love that unites their family. Menti and Oz express to their mother, Natalie, how Menti's adoption has influenced their lives. This is a powerful story of their experiences as a transracial family, and how their deep love and strong family bond have guided them through their unique journey together. The recording is produced by the Institute for Family, using interviews recorded by StoryCorps Studios.

See more about the Shine on North Carolina Campaign on the Institute for Family website.

]]> Natalie Conner, Mentamer Conner and Oz Conner reflect on the love that unites their family. Menti and Oz express to their mother, Natalie, how Menti's adoption has influenced their lives. This is a powerful story of their experiences as a transracial family, and how their deep love and strong family bond have guided them through their unique journey together. The recording is produced by the Institute for Family, using interviews recorded by StoryCorps Studios.

See more about the Shine on North Carolina Campaign on the Institute for Family website.

]]> Institute for Family Buzzsprout-15501385 Tue, 30 Jul 2024 12:00:00 -0400 283 1 13 full false Clara Marts Clip - Shine on North Carolina Campaign Clara Marts Clip - Shine on North Carolina Campaign Clara Marts has focused her career on family preservation and well-being. She shares her thoughts on the important work of supporting families and doing everything it takes to help families stay together. This recording is produced by the Institute for Family, using interviews recorded by StoryCorps Studios.  Hear the full episode on the StoryCorps Studio archive website.

See more about the Shine on North Carolina Campaign on the Institute for Family website.

]]> Clara Marts has focused her career on family preservation and well-being. She shares her thoughts on the important work of supporting families and doing everything it takes to help families stay together. This recording is produced by the Institute for Family, using interviews recorded by StoryCorps Studios.  Hear the full episode on the StoryCorps Studio archive website.

See more about the Shine on North Carolina Campaign on the Institute for Family website.

]]> Institute for Family Buzzsprout-14829408 Mon, 29 Jul 2024 15:00:00 -0400 226 1 2 full false Luther Weathers Clip - Shine on North Carolina Campaign Luther Weathers Clip - Shine on North Carolina Campaign Luther Weathers shares with his wife, Tori Brasher-Weathers, the life lessons he learned from his father which have had an everlasting impact on his life trajectory. Listen to this open, honest, and loving story of how a dad’s love for his family has permeated the lives of his children and grandchildren for generations to come. This recording is produced by the Institute for Family, using interviews recorded by StoryCorps Studios. Listen to the full conversation here.

See more about the Shine on North Carolina Campaign on the Institute for Family website.

]]> Luther Weathers shares with his wife, Tori Brasher-Weathers, the life lessons he learned from his father which have had an everlasting impact on his life trajectory. Listen to this open, honest, and loving story of how a dad’s love for his family has permeated the lives of his children and grandchildren for generations to come. This recording is produced by the Institute for Family, using interviews recorded by StoryCorps Studios. Listen to the full conversation here.

See more about the Shine on North Carolina Campaign on the Institute for Family website.

]]> Institute for Family Buzzsprout-15418712 Mon, 29 Jul 2024 14:00:00 -0400 395 1 9 full false Lance Ollivierre Clip - Shine on North Carolina Campaign Lance Ollivierre Clip - Shine on North Carolina Campaign Lance Ollivierre and his former wife and friend, Claudia Perry, reflect on his experiences becoming a new father. Lance shares the excitement, joy, and differences between the birth of his son and the birth of his daughter. Listen to this heartwarming story of first-time parenting and the joy it brings to a family. This recording is produced by the Institute for Family, using interviews recorded by StoryCorps Studios. Listen to the full conversation on the StoryCorps website.

See more about the Shine on North Carolina Campaign on the Institute for Family website.

]]> Lance Ollivierre and his former wife and friend, Claudia Perry, reflect on his experiences becoming a new father. Lance shares the excitement, joy, and differences between the birth of his son and the birth of his daughter. Listen to this heartwarming story of first-time parenting and the joy it brings to a family. This recording is produced by the Institute for Family, using interviews recorded by StoryCorps Studios. Listen to the full conversation on the StoryCorps website.

See more about the Shine on North Carolina Campaign on the Institute for Family website.

]]> Institute for Family Buzzsprout-15418679 Mon, 29 Jul 2024 14:00:00 -0400 503 1 8 full false Jeffrey Davis Clip - Shine on North Carolina Campaign Jeffrey Davis Clip - Shine on North Carolina Campaign Pastor Jeffrey Davis and his daughter, Tori Brasher-Weathers, reflect on the lessons he learned growing up as an African American male in Greensboro, North Carolina in the 1970s a member of a large family. Pastor Davis reflects on the positive lessons he learned from his mother, father, and family advocate; while also sharing the challenges he faced in his upbringing which were overcome by his desire to show love, receive love, and give love. This recording is produced by the Institute for Family, using interviews recorded by StoryCorps Studios.

See more about the Shine on North Carolina Campaign on the Institute for Family website.

]]> Pastor Jeffrey Davis and his daughter, Tori Brasher-Weathers, reflect on the lessons he learned growing up as an African American male in Greensboro, North Carolina in the 1970s a member of a large family. Pastor Davis reflects on the positive lessons he learned from his mother, father, and family advocate; while also sharing the challenges he faced in his upbringing which were overcome by his desire to show love, receive love, and give love. This recording is produced by the Institute for Family, using interviews recorded by StoryCorps Studios.

See more about the Shine on North Carolina Campaign on the Institute for Family website.

]]> Institute for Family Buzzsprout-15418578 Mon, 29 Jul 2024 14:00:00 -0400 562 1 7 full false Tori Brasher-Weathers Clip - Shine on North Carolina Campaign Tori Brasher-Weathers Clip - Shine on North Carolina Campaign In this emotional narrative, Tori Brasher-Weathers recounts the whirlwind experience of becoming a foster parent. Despite challenges, including her daughter's health issues and the birth mother's substance use struggles, Tori’s family navigates family well-being with compassion and dedication, understanding the complexities of family, empathy, well-being, and sacrifice. Hear the full episode on the StoryCorps Studio archive website.

 See more about the Shine on North Carolina Campaign on the Institute for Family website.

]]> In this emotional narrative, Tori Brasher-Weathers recounts the whirlwind experience of becoming a foster parent. Despite challenges, including her daughter's health issues and the birth mother's substance use struggles, Tori’s family navigates family well-being with compassion and dedication, understanding the complexities of family, empathy, well-being, and sacrifice. Hear the full episode on the StoryCorps Studio archive website.

 See more about the Shine on North Carolina Campaign on the Institute for Family website.

]]> Institute for Family Buzzsprout-15116804 Mon, 29 Jul 2024 14:00:00 -0400 323 1 5 full false Kim Sioux Montgomery Clip - Shine on North Carolina Campaign Kim Sioux Montgomery Clip - Shine on North Carolina Campaign Kim Sioux Montgomery talks about fostering creativity in children, and how being raised by a creatively expressive mother influenced her parenting style. She highlights the journey of her children into ballroom dancing, challenging stereotypes and embracing their unique cultural heritage within the sport. Hear the full episode on the StoryCorps Studio archive website.

See more about the Shine on North Carolina Campaign on the Institute for Family website.

]]> Kim Sioux Montgomery talks about fostering creativity in children, and how being raised by a creatively expressive mother influenced her parenting style. She highlights the journey of her children into ballroom dancing, challenging stereotypes and embracing their unique cultural heritage within the sport. Hear the full episode on the StoryCorps Studio archive website.

See more about the Shine on North Carolina Campaign on the Institute for Family website.

]]> Institute for Family Buzzsprout-15116772 Mon, 29 Jul 2024 14:00:00 -0400 321 1 4 full false Claudia Perry and Lance Ollivierre Clip - Shine on North Carolina Campaign Claudia Perry and Lance Ollivierre Clip - Shine on North Carolina Campaign Claudia Perry and Lance Ollivierre share insight on their decision to uproot their family and move to a more resourced area of town in pursuit of better educational opportunities for their children. Despite initial reservations and challenges, the move proved pivotal in shaping their children's academic success and uncovered some harsh truths about their sprawling school district. Hear the full episode on the StoryCorps Studio archive website.

 See more about the Shine on North Carolina Campaign on the Institute for Family website.

]]> Claudia Perry and Lance Ollivierre share insight on their decision to uproot their family and move to a more resourced area of town in pursuit of better educational opportunities for their children. Despite initial reservations and challenges, the move proved pivotal in shaping their children's academic success and uncovered some harsh truths about their sprawling school district. Hear the full episode on the StoryCorps Studio archive website.

 See more about the Shine on North Carolina Campaign on the Institute for Family website.

]]> Institute for Family Buzzsprout-15116748 Mon, 29 Jul 2024 14:00:00 -0400 349 1 3 full false Brandon Sharp Clip - Shine on North Carolina Campaign Brandon Sharp Clip - Shine on North Carolina Campaign Brandon Sharp and his social worker Tim Rollins reflect on Brandon's experiences in foster care, discussing both the challenges and positive aspects of his journey. Despite hardships, Brandon finds support from his current foster family and organizations like Say So at the Children’s Home Society of North Carolina.

 See more about the Shine on North Carolina Campaign on the Institute for Family website.

]]> Brandon Sharp and his social worker Tim Rollins reflect on Brandon's experiences in foster care, discussing both the challenges and positive aspects of his journey. Despite hardships, Brandon finds support from his current foster family and organizations like Say So at the Children’s Home Society of North Carolina.

 See more about the Shine on North Carolina Campaign on the Institute for Family website.

]]> Institute for Family Buzzsprout-15116593 Mon, 29 Jul 2024 14:00:00 -0400 372 1 6 full false Dr. Titus Hopper Clip - Shine on North Carolina Campaign Dr. Titus Hopper Clip - Shine on North Carolina Campaign Dr. Titus Hopper talks with new friend Cole Johnston about Dr. Hopper's career and family life. Dr. Hopper also talks about giving back and being a Black Santa. Hear the full episode on the StoryCorps Studio archive website.

See more about the Shine on North Carolina Campaign on the Institute for Family website.

]]> Dr. Titus Hopper talks with new friend Cole Johnston about Dr. Hopper's career and family life. Dr. Hopper also talks about giving back and being a Black Santa. Hear the full episode on the StoryCorps Studio archive website.

See more about the Shine on North Carolina Campaign on the Institute for Family website.

]]> Institute for Family Buzzsprout-14829390 Mon, 29 Jul 2024 14:00:00 -0400 187 move 1 1 full false Dr. Sebrina Cook-Davis, Dr. Kim Lewter, and DraShonta Brinson Clip - Shine on North Carolina Campaign Dr. Sebrina Cook-Davis, Dr. Kim Lewter, and DraShonta Brinson Clip - Shine on North Carolina Campaign Dr. Sebrina Cooke-Davis speaks with her friends, mother and daughter Dr. Kim Lewter and DraShonta Brinson, about DraShonta's childhood and how they have built a community together.  Hear the full episode on the StoryCorps Studio archive website.

See more about the Shine on North Carolina Campaign on the Institute for Family website.

]]> Dr. Sebrina Cooke-Davis speaks with her friends, mother and daughter Dr. Kim Lewter and DraShonta Brinson, about DraShonta's childhood and how they have built a community together.  Hear the full episode on the StoryCorps Studio archive website.

See more about the Shine on North Carolina Campaign on the Institute for Family website.

]]> Institute for Family Buzzsprout-14829382 Mon, 29 Jul 2024 14:00:00 -0400 347 1 12 full false Sanaa Sharrieff Clip - Shine on North Carolina Campaign Sanaa Sharrieff Clip - Shine on North Carolina Campaign Sanaa shares her experiences of parenting her 9-year-old twins and her 16- and 23-year-old daughters. She reflects on the changes she has made to meet her children's individual needs. This inspiring story showcases warmth, love, compassion, and understanding in a mother's journey of caring for her children. The recording is produced by the Institute for Family, using interviews recorded by StoryCorps Studios.

See more about the Shine on North Carolina Campaign on the Institute for Family website.

]]> Sanaa shares her experiences of parenting her 9-year-old twins and her 16- and 23-year-old daughters. She reflects on the changes she has made to meet her children's individual needs. This inspiring story showcases warmth, love, compassion, and understanding in a mother's journey of caring for her children. The recording is produced by the Institute for Family, using interviews recorded by StoryCorps Studios.

See more about the Shine on North Carolina Campaign on the Institute for Family website.

]]> Institute for Family Buzzsprout-15494909 Mon, 29 Jul 2024 13:00:00 -0400 359 1 10 full false Madeline Attianese and Amanda Tapler Clip - Shine on North Carolina Campaign Madeline Attianese and Amanda Tapler Clip - Shine on North Carolina Campaign "Family is important, but it is equally important to find people who feel like home." This powerful quote was shared by Madeline Attianese during a heartwarming conversation with her chosen mom Amanda Tapler. The conversation reflects on the strong bonds and situations created within their chosen family, which are just as impactful as those within their biological families. This recording is produced by the Institute for Family, using interviews recorded by StoryCorps Studios. Listen to the full conversation here.

See more about the Shine on North Carolina Campaign on the Institute for Family website.

]]> "Family is important, but it is equally important to find people who feel like home." This powerful quote was shared by Madeline Attianese during a heartwarming conversation with her chosen mom Amanda Tapler. The conversation reflects on the strong bonds and situations created within their chosen family, which are just as impactful as those within their biological families. This recording is produced by the Institute for Family, using interviews recorded by StoryCorps Studios. Listen to the full conversation here.

See more about the Shine on North Carolina Campaign on the Institute for Family website.

]]> Buzzsprout-15494871 Mon, 29 Jul 2024 13:00:00 -0400 531 1 11 full false