Summer is here, and on this episode of Kinship Connection, hosts Stephanie Bressler Ratcliffe & Jan Johnson are diving into all things summer! Being a kinship caregiver doesn't take a vacation when school lets out. Summer can bring unique challenges, but it also creates opportunities to build memories, strengthen bonds, and celebrate the special moments that make family so meaningful. Kinship caregivers play a vital role in providing stability, connection, and nurturing relationships for the children in their care.

Episode 7: "Kinship Rocks"

Kinship caregiving isn't always easy, but one thing is certain—Kinship Rocks!

In this uplifting episode, hosts Jan Johnson and Stephanie Bressler Ratcliffe celebrate the incredible strength, resilience, and dedication of kinship caregivers. From overcoming challenges to creating stable, loving homes for children, kinship caregivers are making a difference every single day.

In this episode, Jan and Stephanie talk about how kinship caregivers often find strength they never knew they had. Through hard days, emotional challenges, family stress, and unexpected responsibilities, caregivers discover resilience, patience, courage, and a deeper love for the children in their care.

This episode is a reminder that even in the middle of struggle, there is growth. You are stronger than you think, and every step you take matters.

Every kinship caregiver faces storms—some expected, many not. From family crises and financial strain to navigating schools, agencies, health challenges, and the emotional weight of raising children unexpectedly, the journey can feel overwhelming at times.

In this episode of The Kinship Connection, kinship grandmothers Jan Johnson and Stephanie Bressler Ratcliffe discuss how caregivers can weather life's toughest storms while continuing to provide stability, love, and hope for the children in their care.

“Dumpster Diaries” is a real and relatable conversation about the chaos, stress, and emotional overload that kinship caregivers face every day. Jan and Stephanie share honest stories, and encouragement for grandparents and relatives doing their best to hold everything together — even when life feels completely overwhelming especially when being dumped on by someone else.

Jan & Stephanie discuss with their guest Denise, the emotional and physical stress of kinship caregiving, recognizing burnout, and learning how to reset mentally and emotionally while raising grandchildren.

“It takes a village — and you already belong to one.” Kinship grandmothers Jan Johnson and Stephanie Bressler Ratcliffe share heartfelt conversations about the people who make up their “village” — the family, friends, neighbors, support groups, and community members who help them navigate the joys and challenges of kinship caregiving.

In this episode, Jan and Stephanie remind caregivers that asking for help is not weakness — it’s strength. Through personal stories, laughter, honesty, and encouragement, they explore the importance of connection, support, and knowing that no kinship caregiver has to walk this journey alone.

Whether your village is large or small, this episode offers reassurance, understanding, and hope for anyone raising family members with love.

“Let’s Get Started...Meet the Voices Behind The Kinship Connection”

The Kinship Connection is a weekly podcast hosted by kinship grandparents Jan Johnson and Stephanie Bressler Ratcliffe. Through honest and heartfelt conversations, they explore the real-life joys and challenges of raising grandchildren and stepping into the role of caregiver.

Each episode offers encouragement, practical insight, and a sense of connection for others navigating the kinship journey. From emotional moments to everyday victories, Jan and Stephanie share their experiences openly—creating a space where kinship caregivers feel seen, supported, and understood.

Whether you’re new to kinship care or have been on this path for years, The Kinship Connection reminds you that you’re not alone.