Today we’d like to introduce you to Natalie Burnett

Hi Natalie , thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.

I am not yet where I aspire to be, but I understand that success takes time. My growth is ongoing, and considering my challenging start, marked by abusive relationships and the heartache of losing my children for three years before winning them back, I wouldn’t wish my experience on anyone. I’ve overcome a great deal, and I take pride in that. Now, I am determined to succeed in raising awareness and aiding those who have faced similar trials. My goal is to enlighten those who haven’t experienced such situations and to support families and children navigating the foster care system. It’s crucial to ensure they are heard and know they are important; these children and the families fighting for them matter, as do former foster children.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?

As we all know, there is no such thing as a “smooth” road; there will always be bumps and potholes. My struggle has been, and still is, with the system and the people I am gradually removing from my life because they do not support or believe in my life choices.

I firmly believe that the public, the school system, and the system itself, as well as close friends and family, contribute to my struggles.

It’s the public that is not fully aware of families and children dealing with the system. It’s the school system that is not only unaware but also lacks steps for former families and children who have dealt with the system. I know firsthand that as soon as they hear you have crossed paths with the system, you forever have this target on your back.

And once you’ve crossed paths with the system, you find out how your friends, family, and even partners treat you. But with all these struggles, it has helped me see people for who they really are.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?

As I’ve mentioned before, I have been and occasionally still am involved in stand-up comedy, but I am now focusing more on becoming an activist to challenge the system.

I take pride in the decisions I’m making today, as well as in acknowledging my past mistakes. I’ve faced significant consequences for those poor choices, but I’ve never considered myself superior to anyone. I’m proud to stay humble and to have overcome my mistakes, learning from them, which I believe truly distinguishes me from many others.

Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?

One page that stands out to me is a Facebook page called “The Reality Series: CPS The Horror Stories.” It brings to light the ways in which the system is failing and harming individuals.

I believe it’s something everyone should check out.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: nattyisthebest
• Facebook: [email protected] OR Natalie Ellison