Full Disclosure with James O'Brien cover image

Full Disclosure with James O'Brien

Baroness Lola Young: From foster care to the House of Lords

Nov 29, 2024
Baroness Lola Young, a pioneering Member of the House of Lords and author of 'Eight Weeks: Looking Back, Moving Forwards, Defying the Odds', shares her inspiring journey from foster care to a life of purpose. She discusses the emotional challenges of navigating her identity amid complex family dynamics and trauma. Lola reflects on her school experiences, the impact of race, and the struggle for acceptance. Now a mentor and advocate, she emphasizes the importance of empathy and the quest for societal change through her work in the arts and politics.
57:52

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Baroness Lola Young's foster care experience emphasized self-reliance from a young age, shaping her identity amidst challenging circumstances.
  • Her quest for understanding her past through care records unveiled important cultural connections, impacting her sense of self and belonging.

Deep dives

Fostering Roots

The podcast delves into the early life of Baroness Lola Young, who was placed in foster care at eight weeks old. This placement was with an elderly foster mother, known as Daisy, who provided a unique and unconventional nurturing environment during a time when such foster arrangements were less formalized. Young's experience revealed the complexities of her identity, as she initially believed she was handed over at six weeks, leading to a poignant realization about her connection to her biological mother. The distinction of being cared for by someone from a different racial background only deepened her understanding of her own identity and foster care experiences.

Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts

Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
App store bannerPlay store banner