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People, we need more people to consider becoming Foster carers which is a paid profession! See if this is for you and if you can get involved.

Dive into the heart of foster care with Elle, the passionate founder of Eastern Fostering Services. Her journey from nurse to fostering advocate spans over three decades, rooted in a childhood where fostering was "in her blood" through her experience working with Barnardo's.

Elle reveals the stark reality facing the UK's care system today – a deficit of 6,000 foster families while placement requests have skyrocketed from 50 to several hundred weekly. This growing crisis highlights why independent fostering agencies emerged as essential partners to local authorities, offering specialized support that consistently earns "good" to "outstanding" Ofsted ratings.

The conversation takes us behind closed doors to understand the profound trauma many fostered children carry. From children who eat under tables rather than at them to those unable to use basic cutlery, these behaviors reflect deep wounds that require patience, understanding, and specialized support. As Elle poignantly explains, healing sometime requires double the time a child spent in trauma before meaningful progress emerges.

We explore the potential of preventative "edge of care" services that could support birth families before separation becomes necessary, addressing the intergenerational cycles of trauma that often lead children into care. Elle challenges listeners to consider how society might better address root causes rather than symptoms – both in foster care and broader social issues.

For anyone considering fostering, Elle offers candid insight: "It's probably the hardest thing you'll ever do, but also potentially the most rewarding". Success comes in "little wins" – those precious moments when a child begins to trust, to heal, to believe that not all adults are the same. The strength of community also shines through as we learn how foster families support each other, creating networks where both carers and children find understanding and belonging.

Thinking about fostering or simply want to understand this vital service better? This episode offers a compassionate, eye-opening look at the challenges and profound rewards of providing a safe haven for our most vulnerable children.

For those interested in what Palliative care looks like at home there is "The Last Kiss" (Not a Romance)
Available on Amazon now
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Last-Kiss-Romance-Carers-Stories/dp/1919635289/ref=sr_1_1?crid=13D6YWONKR5YH&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9._59mNNFoc-rROuWZnAQfsG0l3iseuQuK_gx-VxO_fe6DLJR8M0Az039lJk_HxFcW2o2HMhIH3r3PuD7Dj-D6KTwIHDMl2Q51FGLK8UFYOBwbRmrLMbpYoqOL6I5ruLukF1vq7umXueIASDS2pO91JktkZriJDJzgLfPv1ft5UtkdQxs9isRDmzAYzc5MKKztINcNGBq-GRWKxgvc_OV5iKKvpw0I5d7ZQMWuvGZODlY.fqQgWV-yBiNB5186RxkkWvQYBoEsDbyq-Hai3rU1cwg&dib_tag=se&keywords=the+last+kiss+not+a+romance&qid=1713902566&s=books&sprefix=The+Last+kiss+n%2Cstripbooks%2C107&sr=1-1

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The leadership landscape is changing, but not fast enough. Linda Fisk, founder of Leadership Global, pulls back the curtain on the persistent gender gap in corporate leadership during this revealing conversation about women's path to the C-suite.

Drawing from her extensive background as a Chief Marketing Officer for major media corporations like Discovery Channel and Scripps Networks before becoming CEO of multiple organisations, Linda shares startling statistics that paint a stark picture: despite making up 58% of the civil workforce, women hold only 23% of C-suite positions in America, with women of colour comprising a mere 4%. The bias runs deep—both male and female managers are twice as likely to hire men over women, yet when gender is removed from applications, women's hiring rates jump by 25-46%.

What makes this conversation particularly illuminating is Linda's exploration of how traditionally "feminine" leadership qualities are finally being recognised as valuable business assets. Research by the Hay Group confirms women outperform men in 11 of 12 key emotional intelligence competencies. These "soft skills"—authentic communication, team development, empathy, and humility—once dismissed as weaknesses, now represent the future of effective leadership.

The pandemic has only widened existing gaps, with women facing higher rates of layoffs and career stagnation. Through Leadership Global, Linda has created a 10,000-member community across six continents dedicated to ensuring women have equal access to funding, opportunities, and connections typically reserved for men. Her vision isn't about displacing men but creating space at the table for diverse leadership that combines both mind and heart to build lasting, positive impact.

Looking to support women leaders or become one? Connect with Linda on LinkedIn or visit LeadHership Global to learn how you can help break down barriers in your organisation.

For those interested in what Palliative care looks like at home there is "The Last Kiss" (Not a Romance)
Available on Amazon now
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Last-Kiss-Romance-Carers-Stories/dp/1919635289/ref=sr_1_1?crid=13D6YWONKR5YH&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9._59mNNFoc-rROuWZnAQfsG0l3iseuQuK_gx-VxO_fe6DLJR8M0Az039lJk_HxFcW2o2HMhIH3r3PuD7Dj-D6KTwIHDMl2Q51FGLK8UFYOBwbRmrLMbpYoqOL6I5ruLukF1vq7umXueIASDS2pO91JktkZriJDJzgLfPv1ft5UtkdQxs9isRDmzAYzc5MKKztINcNGBq-GRWKxgvc_OV5iKKvpw0I5d7ZQMWuvGZODlY.fqQgWV-yBiNB5186RxkkWvQYBoEsDbyq-Hai3rU1cwg&dib_tag=se&keywords=the+last+kiss+not+a+romance&qid=1713902566&s=books&sprefix=The+Last+kiss+n%2Cstripbooks%2C107&sr=1-1

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Death may be the ultimate truth serum, but most of us avoid discussing it until we absolutely must. In this deeply insightful conversation with professional fiduciary Sarah Eklein, we explore why end-of-life planning isn't just about legal documents—it's about creating what she beautifully calls "a legacy of love, not a mess."

Sarah draws from her unique experience working with clients in their final life chapters to illuminate the tremendous gift of proper planning. As someone who regularly serves as a conservator, trustee, executor, and healthcare decision maker, she witnesses firsthand the stark difference between families who prepare thoughtfully and those who don't. The statistics are sobering: only one in three Americans create an estate plan, leaving countless families to navigate complex decisions during already emotional times.

Our discussion ventures beyond conventional planning into fascinating territory—the emergence of "funerals" (celebrations of life held before death), the evolution of family structures that necessitates new support systems, and the delicate considerations surrounding assisted dying legislation. Throughout it all, Sarah emphasizes that while documents matter, the conversations that precede them matter even more.

What's particularly striking is how focusing on our mortality can actually enrich our living. As Sarah notes, confronting death forces us into the present moment, helping clarify what truly matters. Her approach blends practical expertise with profound compassion, reminding us that comprehensive planning isn't morbid—it's one of the most loving gifts we can offer those we care about.

Whether you're just beginning to consider your own wishes or helping a loved one navigate their final chapter, this conversation offers both the practical guidance and emotional wisdom to approach this universal journey with intention, clarity, and heart. Download Sarah's free Legacy of Love workbook from her website to start crafting your own meaningful plan today.

For those interested in what Palliative care looks like at home there is "The Last Kiss" (Not a Romance)
Available on Amazon now
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Last-Kiss-Romance-Carers-Stories/dp/1919635289/ref=sr_1_1?crid=13D6YWONKR5YH&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9._59mNNFoc-rROuWZnAQfsG0l3iseuQuK_gx-VxO_fe6DLJR8M0Az039lJk_HxFcW2o2HMhIH3r3PuD7Dj-D6KTwIHDMl2Q51FGLK8UFYOBwbRmrLMbpYoqOL6I5ruLukF1vq7umXueIASDS2pO91JktkZriJDJzgLfPv1ft5UtkdQxs9isRDmzAYzc5MKKztINcNGBq-GRWKxgvc_OV5iKKvpw0I5d7ZQMWuvGZODlY.fqQgWV-yBiNB5186RxkkWvQYBoEsDbyq-Hai3rU1cwg&dib_tag=se&keywords=the+last+kiss+not+a+romance&qid=1713902566&s=books&sprefix=The+Last+kiss+n%2Cstripbooks%2C107&sr=1-1

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Discover the remarkable journey of Sir John Timpson, who transformed both his family's historic business and countless lives through revolutionary management practices and profound personal commitment to fostering children.

From the humble beginnings of a shoe shop in 1865, Sir John shares how Timpson evolved into a service empire built on a radical premise: trust your people completely. "There are only two rules," he explains. "Look the part and put the money in the till." This "upside-down management" approach has not only driven business success but created a platform for extraordinary social impact.

The heart of our conversation explores the parallel between Sir John's business philosophy and the fostering journey he shared with his late wife Alex. Together they fostered 90 children, an experience that profoundly shaped their approach to business. "Alex worked on instinct," Sir John reflects. "She trusted people to give them a lift in life." This instinct-led compassion became the foundation for Timpson's revolutionary approach to employment, including hiring ex-prisoners (now over 10% of their workforce) and creating programs like "Dreams Come True" that fulfill employee wishes ranging from family reunions to medical treatments.

We delve into the challenges facing foster care today, with Sir John advocating for less bureaucracy and more trust in foster carers' judgment. His passionate belief that children benefit most when carers are trusted to include them fully as family members offers valuable insight for anyone considering fostering or working within the care system.

What emerges is a powerful testament to how compassion can drive both business success and meaningful social change. As Alex Timpson simply put it: "You can be nice and make lots of money." Join us for this inspiring conversation that challenges conventional wisdom about business, family, and what it means to truly care for others.

For those interested in what Palliative care looks like at home there is "The Last Kiss" (Not a Romance)
Available on Amazon now
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Last-Kiss-Romance-Carers-Stories/dp/1919635289/ref=sr_1_1?crid=13D6YWONKR5YH&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9._59mNNFoc-rROuWZnAQfsG0l3iseuQuK_gx-VxO_fe6DLJR8M0Az039lJk_HxFcW2o2HMhIH3r3PuD7Dj-D6KTwIHDMl2Q51FGLK8UFYOBwbRmrLMbpYoqOL6I5ruLukF1vq7umXueIASDS2pO91JktkZriJDJzgLfPv1ft5UtkdQxs9isRDmzAYzc5MKKztINcNGBq-GRWKxgvc_OV5iKKvpw0I5d7ZQMWuvGZODlY.fqQgWV-yBiNB5186RxkkWvQYBoEsDbyq-Hai3rU1cwg&dib_tag=se&keywords=the+last+kiss+not+a+romance&qid=1713902566&s=books&sprefix=The+Last+kiss+n%2Cstripbooks%2C107&sr=1-1

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A family transformed by fostering shares their raw, honest journey of opening their home to two young children from backgrounds of neglect. After a year of fostering two siblings who arrived unable to use cutlery, without proper clothing, and never having experienced boundaries, this family reveals the beautiful transformation they've witnessed—and experienced themselves.

What makes this conversation particularly insightful is the multiple perspectives shared: Sarah, who moved out shortly after the children arrived, describes watching the progress from outside "the hurricane"; Shania, who relates to the children through her own challenging childhood, sees herself in their journey; and Rachel, still living at home while studying for GCSEs, experiences the day-to-day reality of creating consistency and boundaries amid the chaos. Together, they paint a complete picture of fostering's challenges and profound rewards.

The family discusses their most powerful revelation—that fostering filled "a hole in our family that we didn't know about until it was filled." As they approach a significant milestone where the children will likely remain permanently in their care, they reflect on the importance of routine, therapeutic approaches, and unfailing consistency in helping these children thrive. Despite the difficulties, their unanimous message rings clear: fostering has been absolutely worth it, transforming not just the children's lives but completing their family in ways they never anticipated.

Considering becoming a foster carer? This family's journey shows that while the path isn't always easy, the opportunity to make a profound difference in children's lives—and discover unexpected completeness in your own family—makes every challenge worthwhile. Have you ever considered how fostering might transform your life too?

For those interested in what Palliative care looks like at home there is "The Last Kiss" (Not a Romance)
Available on Amazon now
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Last-Kiss-Romance-Carers-Stories/dp/1919635289/ref=sr_1_1?crid=13D6YWONKR5YH&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9._59mNNFoc-rROuWZnAQfsG0l3iseuQuK_gx-VxO_fe6DLJR8M0Az039lJk_HxFcW2o2HMhIH3r3PuD7Dj-D6KTwIHDMl2Q51FGLK8UFYOBwbRmrLMbpYoqOL6I5ruLukF1vq7umXueIASDS2pO91JktkZriJDJzgLfPv1ft5UtkdQxs9isRDmzAYzc5MKKztINcNGBq-GRWKxgvc_OV5iKKvpw0I5d7ZQMWuvGZODlY.fqQgWV-yBiNB5186RxkkWvQYBoEsDbyq-Hai3rU1cwg&dib_tag=se&keywords=the+last+kiss+not+a+romance&qid=1713902566&s=books&sprefix=The+Last+kiss+n%2Cstripbooks%2C107&sr=1-1

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Join me for the very first silly, experimental episode of everything EOL. It's a bit fun the girls and I recorded at Xmas to test the equipment and explore the concept of Compassion.

What does compassion truly look like in our everyday lives? Drawing the curtains back on my own family dynamics, this heartfelt conversation with my three daughters reveals the beautiful, sometimes messy reality of how we care for one another.

Through candid dialogue that bounces between laughter and serious reflection, we discover the unique compassion languages each family member speaks. Shania shares how being "outside the situation" allows her to support her sister during emotional moments. Rachel opens up about vulnerability and the comfort that comes from the right person checking in. Sarah demonstrates her love through practical gestures—offering dinner, drinks, and tangible support when words fail.

The conversation uncovers a profound truth: compassion wears many faces. For some, it's the gift of presence during difficult times. For others, it's acts of service that speak volumes. We joke about having "the empathy of a wooden spoon," yet reveal the depth beneath surface reactions—how understanding sometimes "takes a while to sink in" but arrives with genuine care.

Most touching are the single words each daughter chooses to describe being good to others: "proud," "warm," and "selfless." These simple terms capture the essence of compassion's reciprocal nature—how giving to others fulfills something essential in ourselves.

Whether you're navigating family relationships or seeking to better understand your own compassion style, this intimate glimpse into our pajama-clad philosophy session offers valuable insights on the healing power of showing up for each other. What's your compassion language, and how might understanding it transform your connections?

For those interested in what Palliative care looks like at home there is "The Last Kiss" (Not a Romance)
Available on Amazon now
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Last-Kiss-Romance-Carers-Stories/dp/1919635289/ref=sr_1_1?crid=13D6YWONKR5YH&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9._59mNNFoc-rROuWZnAQfsG0l3iseuQuK_gx-VxO_fe6DLJR8M0Az039lJk_HxFcW2o2HMhIH3r3PuD7Dj-D6KTwIHDMl2Q51FGLK8UFYOBwbRmrLMbpYoqOL6I5ruLukF1vq7umXueIASDS2pO91JktkZriJDJzgLfPv1ft5UtkdQxs9isRDmzAYzc5MKKztINcNGBq-GRWKxgvc_OV5iKKvpw0I5d7ZQMWuvGZODlY.fqQgWV-yBiNB5186RxkkWvQYBoEsDbyq-Hai3rU1cwg&dib_tag=se&keywords=the+last+kiss+not+a+romance&qid=1713902566&s=books&sprefix=The+Last+kiss+n%2Cstripbooks%2C107&sr=1-1

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From isolation to belonging, this heartfelt conversation with Jill Wilkinson reveals the transformative power of compassionate communities. After relocating to Colchester nine years ago, Jill found herself trapped in a cycle of anxiety and loneliness until a chance encounter with local mental health advocate Shawn Leek's walking group changed everything.

With raw honesty, Jill shares her personal journey of finding connection through Colchester's growing compassionate communities movement. As a "Compassionate Connector" at St Helena's Books and Brew café, she now helps others bridge the gaps that once left her feeling like an outsider. The warmth in her voice is palpable when she describes the joy of unexpectedly running into friends while shopping: "I go out and I get a hug. Gosh, shopping at Tesco, I get a hug!"

This episode delves into the practical initiatives making Colchester a recognized "Compassionate City," including workshops that teach people how to have difficult conversations around grief and loss. Jill reflects on how our societal discomfort with death and dying has created unnecessary isolation, noting how some people "cross the street" to avoid those who are grieving simply because they don't know what to say.

Most powerfully, Jill articulates the philosophy driving her involvement: "I want a compassionate, kind world and I'm sorry it's not yet happening and we have to do it from the ground up." Her belief that "everybody's your brother and sister" regardless of "this outer suit" offers a profound perspective on human connection that transcends our increasingly divided society.

Whether you're feeling isolated yourself or looking to create more meaningful connections in your community, this conversation will inspire you to take that first step toward building a more compassionate world. What small action could you take today to strengthen the web of compassion in your own community?

For those interested in what Palliative care looks like at home there is "The Last Kiss" (Not a Romance)
Available on Amazon now
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Last-Kiss-Romance-Carers-Stories/dp/1919635289/ref=sr_1_1?crid=13D6YWONKR5YH&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9._59mNNFoc-rROuWZnAQfsG0l3iseuQuK_gx-VxO_fe6DLJR8M0Az039lJk_HxFcW2o2HMhIH3r3PuD7Dj-D6KTwIHDMl2Q51FGLK8UFYOBwbRmrLMbpYoqOL6I5ruLukF1vq7umXueIASDS2pO91JktkZriJDJzgLfPv1ft5UtkdQxs9isRDmzAYzc5MKKztINcNGBq-GRWKxgvc_OV5iKKvpw0I5d7ZQMWuvGZODlY.fqQgWV-yBiNB5186RxkkWvQYBoEsDbyq-Hai3rU1cwg&dib_tag=se&keywords=the+last+kiss+not+a+romance&qid=1713902566&s=books&sprefix=The+Last+kiss+n%2Cstripbooks%2C107&sr=1-1

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When Tracy Britten rushed home from her 50th birthday retreat to find her mother had just been discharged from hospital during COVID lockdowns, she had no idea how profoundly this experience would reshape her life. Sitting amidst the tranquil surroundings of Earl's Cone allotments, Tracy shares the raw reality of caring for her dying mother at home – siblings taking shifts, promising never to leave her side, and witnessing a passing so peaceful they weren't immediately certain it had happened.

"I made a promise that I would not leave you," Tracy recalls telling her mother – a commitment that extended beyond death as she helped prepare her mother's body afterward, something many don't realize is possible. This profound experience of family reconnection during crisis became the foundation for unexpected growth.

Following her mother's passing, Tracy and her sons used a small inheritance to launch Britten's Bites, a food business that has become a family passion. Meanwhile, Tracy transformed her allotment into both a source of herbs for their cooking and a place to grow flowers specifically for people facing difficult times – a living memorial to her mother's legacy.

But Tracy's story takes an even more remarkable turn as she reveals her own cancer journey, diagnosed at just 42 when doctors discovered aggressive breast cancer hidden beneath what seemed to be a simple cyst. Through treatments, surgeries, and eventually genetic testing that revealed a rare PALB2 mutation, Tracy's experience has rippled outward to potentially save many lives, including her sister's through preventative surgery.

Now ten years cancer-free but managing ongoing treatment side effects, Tracy shares how nutrition became her secret weapon during recovery. Her experiments with beetroot, spinach and kale so dramatically improved her blood tests that doctors were astounded, reinforcing her belief in food as medicine – knowledge she now passes on through both her cooking and her son's interest in nutrition.

Listen as we explore how confronting mortality can transform us in unexpected ways, create deeper family bonds, and inspire paths of healing and growth that extend far beyond ourselves. Tracy's dream of someday creating a larger sanctuary garden for others facing difficult times perfectly captures her remarkable spirit – always nurturing, always growing, always finding beauty even in life's most challenging moments.

For those interested in what Palliative care looks like at home there is "The Last Kiss" (Not a Romance)
Available on Amazon now
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Last-Kiss-Romance-Carers-Stories/dp/1919635289/ref=sr_1_1?crid=13D6YWONKR5YH&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9._59mNNFoc-rROuWZnAQfsG0l3iseuQuK_gx-VxO_fe6DLJR8M0Az039lJk_HxFcW2o2HMhIH3r3PuD7Dj-D6KTwIHDMl2Q51FGLK8UFYOBwbRmrLMbpYoqOL6I5ruLukF1vq7umXueIASDS2pO91JktkZriJDJzgLfPv1ft5UtkdQxs9isRDmzAYzc5MKKztINcNGBq-GRWKxgvc_OV5iKKvpw0I5d7ZQMWuvGZODlY.fqQgWV-yBiNB5186RxkkWvQYBoEsDbyq-Hai3rU1cwg&dib_tag=se&keywords=the+last+kiss+not+a+romance&qid=1713902566&s=books&sprefix=The+Last+kiss+n%2Cstripbooks%2C107&sr=1-1