Find Your Hope
Anchor of Hope Podcast
Welcome to the Spero Anchor of Hope Podcast, your guiding light in the journey of mental health and resilience. Each episode features insightful discussions that delve into critical topics surrounding mental well-being, behavior, and effective educational strategies. Through engaging expert interviews and heartfelt personal stories, we empower our listeners to navigate life’s challenges with hope and informed perspectives. Join us as we explore the depths of understanding and foster resilience together.
Meet Your Host
Tunezia Badger
Tunezia Badger is one of the inspiring co-hosts of the podcast Anchor of Hope. With nearly 4 years at Spero Family Service as the Development Coordinator, she also serves as a dedicated CARE trainer, focusing on empowering others and fostering compassion within her community.
Tunezia loves to share uplifting stories from her life and experiences to encourage others on their personal growth journeys. Her warm personality and insightful perspective make her an engaging presence, making Anchor of Hope a must-listen for anyone seeking a more fulfilling life.
Carleka Spann
Meet Carleka Spann, one of the hosts of Anchor of Hope! As a member of the Spero Family for over a year, Carleka has brought her passion and expertise to roles like Family Finding Specialist for Foster Care and a coach at TLP.
With over 15 years of experience in social services, sales, and HR, she’s also an inspirational speaker, author, proud mom, and BeBe (grandmother). A self-proclaimed “foodie,” Carleka enjoys traveling and spending quality time with her family.
Her hope is to enlighten, add value, and as much insight as possible to our community and our viewers through each new episode.
Upcoming Episodes and Featured Guests
Episode 5: From Office to Home: Foster Care Workers Who Foster
February 20, 2025
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In this heartfelt and inspiring episode of the Anchor of Hope, we dive into the unique journey of foster care professionals who not only dedicate their careers to improving the lives of children but also open their hearts and homes as foster parents. Our guests, Taylor Stockman, supervisor of the Spero Family Services Foster Care program, and Kristen Malone, a foster care professional at Caritas Family Solutions, share their incredible stories and experiences. Taylor, a passionate advocate for children and families, discusses her dual role as a supervisor and a foster parent. Kristen is raising her four children, three of whom she adopted from the foster care system. She reflects on the joys and challenges of balancing her personal and professional life. Join us as these amazing women explore the rewards of fostering, the obstacles they’ve faced, and how their work in foster care has shaped their approach to parenting. Their stories will inspire you and shed light on the life-changing impact of fostering.
Episode 4: Nurturing Spiritual Life with Children
Coming January 29, 2025
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In this inspiring episode of the Anchor of Hope Podcast, host Carleka Spann welcomes two passionate leaders in spiritual development: Rev. Victor Long, pastor of the First United Methodist Church in Mt. Vernon, and Rev. Gina Ellis, the Spiritual Life Coordinator at Spero Family Services. Join us as we explore the vital role that nurturing spiritual connections plays in the lives of children and youth. Our guests share their unique experiences and insights on how to foster meaningful relationships with young individuals in a rapidly changing world. From innovative programs to heartfelt stories, you’ll discover practical strategies that can help guide the next generation toward a deeper understanding of their faith and purpose.
Episode 3: Merry Mindfulness: Self-Care for the Holiday Season
December 6, 2024
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In this episode of Anchor of Hope, we welcome Becca Chavez, Program Manager at Spero Family Services Counseling and Wellness Center, and Stephanie Bowdler, Assistant Director of Programs at One Hope United. As the holiday season approaches, the stress and mental health challenges can feel overwhelming. Becca and Stephanie provide valuable insights into navigating these pressures, emphasizing the importance of self-care. They share practical techniques to manage holiday stress, encourage listeners to prioritize their mental well-being, and remind us that it’s perfectly okay to say no and carve out time for ourselves. Tune in for a dose of mindfulness and strategies to make this holiday season a more joyful and balanced experience!
Episode 2: Beyond the Crown with Shanale Mason: Grief & Hope
October 29, 2024
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In this heartfelt episode of Anchor of Hope, we chat with Shanale Mason, United States of America Ms. Illinois, who shares her journey from humble beginnings in Southern Illinois to her crowning achievement. Shanale opens up about overcoming grief during her adolescence and the resilience it instilled in her. Her powerful message offers hope and empowerment, reminding today’s youth that there is always a path to healing and light even in the darkest times. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that uplifts and motivates!
Episode 1: Doulas and Maternal Health
October 3, 2024
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In honor of Black Maternal Health week, we had a conversation about doulas and maternal health with 2 professionals in the field. Joining us are Jaime Richardson, Program Manager of Spero’s Parents as Teachers program, a dedicated midwife, and an experienced doula. Alongside her is Chastity Mays, the passionate owner of Hathor Doula Services and a co-administrator at The Little Resource Center in Carbondale, Illinois.
Older Episodes
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Copyright Infringement Policy for Anchor of Hope Podcast
The information and content shared on the Anchor of Hope podcast are intended for informational and educational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Spero Family Services or its affiliates.
While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, our discussions may not cover every aspect of a topic and should not be considered professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to seek the counsel of qualified professionals regarding specific issues related to family services, mental health, or any other relevant topics.
The Anchor of Hope podcast may discuss sensitive topics, including but not limited to mental health, trauma, and family dynamics. Listener discretion is advised. If you or someone you know is in crisis or needs immediate support, please seek help from a licensed mental health professional or contact local emergency services.
Spero Family Services does not endorse or guarantee the accuracy of any third-party resources or websites mentioned in the podcast. By listening to our podcast, you acknowledge that you are responsible for your own actions and decisions.
Thank you for joining us on the Anchor of Hope podcast where we aim to foster understanding, support, and connection within our community.