In this episode of Every Child Belongs, Kim sits down with Meredith Shuman, founder of James Trail, trauma-informed trainer, therapist, adoptive mom, and passionate advocate for families impacted by trauma.

Meredith brings nearly three decades of experience working with children, families, churches, and organizations across the U.S. and around the world. Together, Kim and Meredith explore why community and felt safety are essential for healing, especially for adoptive, foster, and kinship families navigating complex trauma.

You’ll hear Meredith unpack: -What trauma really is and why it affects far more families than we realize -Why many families struggle to find safety and belonging in church spaces -How reading the Bible through a trauma-informed lens changes how we see people like Moses and Gideon -What global churches understand about trauma that the U.S. often misses -Why nature is such a powerful tool for regulation, healing, and hope -Practical ways parents can advocate for kids in medical and high-stress environments -Why the holidays can be especially difficult for kids with trauma histories and how community helps carry the load

This conversation is honest, hope-filled, and deeply practical for parents, caregivers, church leaders, and anyone who wants to help create environments where kids and families can truly belong.

Connect with Meredith and James Trail: Website: https://www.jamestrail.org/

“Boundless Hope for Every Child: Help for the Hurting, Compassion for the Misunderstood, Belonging for the Lonely” by Kim Botto https://amzn.to/3Utuw6V (affiliate links)

Every Child Belongs explores how we can create spaces where every child feels heard and valued, whether neurodivergent, differently abled, or they’ve experienced trauma. We’ll hear from educators, parents, professionals, and more.

Kim Botto is an adoptive mom, grandma, an advocate for kids and teens with disabilities, as well as a long-time leader of kids in student ministries.