Episode #174 From Fires to Foundations with the Freemans

Through sober momentum, the right school fit, and daily co-regulation, the Freemans moved from surviving to thriving. Ruby’s attendance shot up to 97%, she jumped three grade levels in math, and even won a science award. Elias found the right adult in his corner, became a student leader, and learned to love sports again. And Angela — now nearing four years sober — reframed advocacy, focusing on training the teacher in front of her child and protecting routines that bring safety and connection home.

In This Episode You’ll Hear
• What the Freeman family’s “before” looked and felt like when everything was on fire
• How one year of steady sobriety and co-regulation changed the tone of their home
• The power of placement as intervention and why “fit” matters more than label
• How one trusted adult at school can be the difference between crisis and confidence
• Angela’s advocacy reframe: stop fighting systems, start training people
• Real numbers that prove change — better attendance, higher grades, stronger bonds
• Practical home language to keep everyone safe: “cut this, not that”

Why It Matters
The Freeman story proves you don’t need perfect conditions to change a trajectory — just the right fit, one person who gets it, and small daily moves that protect safety and connection. It’s a story of resilience, recovery, and real-world success that reminds every caregiver: you’re not alone, and small changes stack up fast.

👉 You are stronger than you think. Progress starts with fit, relationship, and routine.

Resources and Links
🌐 Angela’s First Appearance (Episode 137): https://www.fasdsuccess.com/blog/podcast-episode-137

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📝 Get full show notes and all episodes here: https://www.fasdsuccess.com/podcast