Both Sides of Then: Understanding Where We Come From with Jennifer Griffith

About this episode

Rob Scheer and Jennifer Griffith discuss the impact of maternal relationships on identity and the themes of abandonment and generational trauma.

On this episode of Fostering Change, Rob Scheer is joined by Jennifer Griffith, author of Both Sides of Then: Finding Love After Abandonment and host of the About Your Mother podcast. This conversation centers on a deeply personal and universal question: how much of who we become is shaped by the relationship we have—or don’t have—with our mother? Jennifer’s memoir explores abandonment, generational trauma, and the search for understanding and connection. While her story is not rooted in foster care, the themes resonate deeply. Many children in foster care experience separation from their biological parents, particularly their mothers, making this conversation especially relevant to identity, belonging, and emotional development. Together, Rob and Jennifer explore how early relationships shape us, how patterns are passed down, and how telling the truth about our stories can open the door to healing and transformation. Episode Highlights How maternal relationships influence identity and self-worth The lasting emotional impact of abandonment and separation Understanding and breaking cycles of generational trauma Why storytelling can be a powerful tool for healing How these themes…

People in this episode

Host: Rob Scheer

Guest: Jennifer Griffith

Topics covered

• maternal relationships
• identity
• abandonment
• generational trauma
• storytelling
• foster care

Keywords

• maternal influence
• identity development
• abandonment
• generational trauma
• foster care
• storytelling
• healing

Mentioned in this episode

Books & works: Both Sides of Then: Finding Love After Abandonment, About Your Mother

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