Podcasts about child welfare

This episode of Fostering Change was originally scheduled to air in March — but after recording, Rob Scheer felt the conversation was too important to wait. He personally requested that it be released early so listeners could hear it as soon as possible.Rob is joined by Rachel Bruno, a Nashville-based author, speaker, and advocate whose deeply personal experience with the child welfare system ignited a powerful call for accountability and reform.After her children were unlawfully removed by child protective services, Rachel found herself confronting a system where parental rights, due process, and family integrity are often overlooked. Instead of staying silent, she fought back — ultimately securing a seven-figure civil rights settlement and emerging as a leading national voice for families facing similar injustices.Rachel is the author of Fractured Hope: A Mother's Fight for Justice and founder of Giver of Light, an organization dedicated to supporting families navigating child welfare involvement. Together, Rob and Rachel discuss hope after trauma, the urgent need for accountability, and why lived experience must guide ethical, child-centered reform.Episode Highlights• How one mother's fight sparked national conversations about reform• What families experience when due process is ignored• Accountability and justice within child welfare• How Giver of Light supports families in crisis• Why lived experience belongs at the center of policy change

(The Center Square) - Washington Democratic leadership Wednesday told The Center Square there is disagreement between Republicans and Democrats about the best way to respond to the tragic number of children dying or suffering critical incidents in homes with drug-addicted parents. Republicans have been trying for years to amend the Keeping Families Together Act and the “imminent harm” threshold for removing a child from a home where there is drug abuse, and/or neglect. As reported by The Center Square, supporters of a fix say the definition of imminent harm needs to be changes, as it is currently leading to children being sent back to homes where lethal drugs are present and, in many cases, led to their death. There were more critical incidents in 2025 than ever before. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Matt Anderson What we go over?Discovering Purpose: From Forestry to Child Welfare AdvocacyUnpacking the System's Transactional NatureNavigating Harm: Self-Awareness in Entrenched Systems Imagination Factory: Creating the Future, Not Fixing the PastFrom Crisis of Conscience to Co-Founding a New VisionBuilding Hope: Imagination Factory's Programs for ChangeUnpacking Privilege: The System's Failure to Connect FamiliesDesigning for Unshakable GoodnessChoosing Forgiveness: Listening, Trusting, and Taking Action

Washington in Focus Daily | Monday Feb. 17th, 2026 Carleen Johnson hosts The Washington in Focus Daily, a review of some of the top headlines concerning taxpayers in Washington State. On today's show, the state has raised taxes on high earners, Democrats are quietly trying to roll back their estate tax hikes , and two congressmen get into a heated debate over 'The Keeping Families Together Act'. Read more at TheCenterSquare.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Tusla Wellbeing Project was set up last September to review the welfare of children whose protection cases were closed during Covid. For the latest Independent chair of the Tusla Wellbeing project and Chief Executive of the Children's Rights Alliance Tanya Ward.

Washington in Focus Daily | Tuesday Feb. 10th, 2026 Carleen Johnson hosts The Washington in Focus Daily, a review of some of the top headlines concerning taxpayers in Washington State. On today's show, income tax proposal sparks massive opposition, critics claim the 'Keep Families Together Act' may endanger children, and Washington Democrats are restricting some new media. Read more at TheCenterSquare.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Chiefs from across the country are proposing that the federal government be removed from having control over how the on-reserve First Nations child welfare system is run. The details are contained in a plan that was submitted by the National Chiefs' Children's Committee to the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal in late December. • • • APTN National News, our stories told our way. Visit our website for more: https://aptnnews.ca Hear more APTN News podcasts: https://www.aptnnews.ca/podcasts/

In this episode of the Foster Friendly Podcast, Tyler Hunter shares his profound journey through foster care and adoption. He reflects on the challenges he faced, the coping mechanisms he developed, and the importance of community and support in his life. Tyler emphasizes the transformative power of foster care, the significance of forgiveness, and the need for advocacy in the child welfare system. His story is a testament to resilience, personal growth, and the impact of unconditional love and support.TakeawaysFoster care can be a life-saving experience.Masking feelings is a common coping mechanism for children in care.School can provide a safe haven for foster children.Finding a sense of normalcy is crucial for foster youth.Forgiveness is essential for personal healing.Community support is vital for children in foster care.Foster parents play a critical role in a child's life.Vulnerability is a challenge for many who have experienced trauma.Positive affirmations can significantly impact a child's self-worth.Advocacy is necessary to improve the foster care system.

In this episode of the Foster Friendly Podcast, hosts Brian, Courtney, and Travis welcome listeners to 2026 and discuss the new rhythm of the podcast. They reflect on the importance of understanding foster care, the emotional journey of becoming a foster parent, and the realities of handling goodbyes. The conversation emphasizes the need for a support system, the reasons families may quit fostering, and how communities can better support foster families. They also touch on the challenges faced by youth who age out of the foster care system and highlight the mission of America's Kids Belong.Takeaways:You'll never feel “fully ready” to foster — and that's normal. Nervousness and discomfort don't mean you aren't called or capable; they often mean you're taking the responsibility seriously.Saying “no” to a placement can be the most loving decision. New foster parents often feel pressured to say yes immediately, but the wrong yes can lead to burnout, disrupted placements, and quitting altogether.Good matches matter more than good intentions. Asking detailed questions about a child's needs, visitation schedule, trauma history, and daily demands helps protect both the child and your family.Fostering impacts your whole household — not just you. If you have kids, their ages, personalities, and emotional capacity matter, especially when placements are similar in age or gender.Goodbyes are inevitable — and they're supposed to hurt. Healthy goodbyes include honoring the relationship, marking the transition, allowing grief, and prioritizing the child's emotional needs over your own.You don't have to perform grief the same way every time. Some goodbyes will break your heart; others may bring relief — both responses are valid if the child was cared for well.Most foster families quit within the first year due to preventable factors. Lack of preparation, support systems, realistic expectations, and trauma-informed training are the biggest reasons families burn out early.Support systems are non-negotiable. Foster families need practical, consistent help — especially with transportation, meals, childcare, and schedule flexibility.If you're not fostering, don't wait to be asked — step in proactively. Foster parents are often helpers who don't ask for help; specific, concrete offers (“I'll take kids to practice Tuesdays”) make a real difference.

Omari Richins, MPH of Public Health Careers podcast talks with Erin Williamson, LCSW, MPA.Erin Williamson is Chief Programs and Strategy Officer at Love 146, discusses her journey in the field of public health and anti-trafficking. She shares insights on the misconceptions surrounding human trafficking, the vulnerabilities that lead to it, and the role of technology in both facilitating and preventing trafficking. Erin emphasizes the importance of education and prevention strategies, particularly for adolescents, and highlights the progress made in anti-trafficking efforts while identifying gaps that still exist. She encourages proactive conversations about safety and healthy relationships, and shares her hope for the future of those affected by trafficking.Love146 Website: https://love146.org/

On episode 47, Michele is joined by a former youth she was connected to during her time in child welfare.On the episode Reilly discusses:·      His lived experience growing up in foster care·      Managing multiple moves and uncertainty·      His educational pursuits from graduating high school, attending trade school for carpentry, and then his current role at Edward Jones as a Financial Advisor·      The importance of positive mentors including Big Brothers and Big Sisters·      How important mindset is when you are not always in controlIf you are interested in working on your financial goals, the best way to contact Reilly:519-344-9872 | reilly.cusack@edwardjones.comWebsite: edwardjones.ca/reilly-cusackBio: Reilly is a Financial Advisor with Edward Jones. His approach is simple — "I sit down with people to understand their full situation, where they'd like to go, and the milestones they want to reach along the way. Together, we build a cost-effective plan through saving and investing to reach your goals, and I help monitor your situation to make sure things stay on track as life changes. If this is something that would help you, please feel free to reach out." If you like the show- let us know, subscribe, give us a rating and check us out on INSTAGRAM

Our lead story: The National Children's Chiefs Commission and the First Nations Child and Family Caring Society claim their plan for long-term First Nations child welfare reform is more thorough than the federal government's. NOTE: APTN NEWS BRIEF WILL BE ON HIATUS OVER THE HOLIDAYS, RETURNING TUESDAY, JANUARY 6, 2026. MUSIC: 'Abundance' by 1000 Handz is licensed under an Attribution 4.0 International License.

On this week's episode, Imprint reporter Michael Fitzgerald was in Washington last week to interview Alex Adams, who was confirmed in October to serve as the Assistant Secretary for Family Support at the Administration for Children and Families.Fitzgerald asked Adams about a wide range of subjects. They discussed the administration's goal of “A Home for Every Child” and how Adams plans to achieve that; how and why he plans to "barbecue" much of the regulatory language for states when it comes to federal funding and practice; why the administration has made demands that states roll back policies that are meant to protect LGBTQ+ youth; the role of kinship caregivers; and much more. Thanks to iFoster and Binti for sponsoring this episode of The Imprint Weekly Podcast.Reading RoomIt's Newsmatch season! Please consider donating to support this podcast and theincredible work that our Imprint reporters do every day. If you donate thismonth, your contribution will be DOUBLED!www.Imprintnews.org/donateWhite House Watch: Our Ongoing Coveragehttps://imprintnews.org/special-series/white-house-watchAlex Adams Nominated to Lead Administration for Children and Familieshttps://imprintnews.org/youth-services-insider/alex-adams-nominated-to-lead-administration-for-children-and-families/259907Trump's Child Welfare Leader Vows to Protect Benefits Paid to Foster Youthhttps://imprintnews.org/youth-services-insider/adams-vows-curb-abusive-practice-foster-youth-benefits/268451Trump Appointee Demands States Roll Back Foster Parenting Rules That Aim to Protect LGBTQ+ Youth https://bit.ly/453vaxFTrump's Child Welfare Leader Vows to Protect Benefits Paid to Foster Youthhttps://imprintnews.org/youth-services-insider/adams-vows-curb-abusive-practice-foster-youth-benefits/268451Idaho Child Welfare Leader Pushed Rapid Reforms in Brief Tenure Before Trump Appointment To Federal Officehttps://imprintnews.org/top-stories/idaho-child-welfare-leader-pushed-rapid-reforms-in-brief-tenure-before-trump-nomination-to-federal-office/267413Oregon Senator Presses Trump Admin for Action on Foster Care, Head Start and Migrant Youthhttps://imprintnews.org/youth-services-insider/oregon-senator-presses-trump-admin-for-action-on-foster-care-head-start-and-migrant-youth/268868Acronyms and initials used in this interview:TANF: Temporary Assistance for Needy FamiliesCFSR: Child and Family Services ReviewsPIP: Program Improvement PlanAPSR: Annual Progress and Services ReportSSBG: Social Services Block GrantCSBG: Community Services Block GrantRGA Republic Governors AssociationFYI: Foster Youth to IndependenceETV: Chafee Education and Training Voucher

New numbers from Health Canada suggest the country is experiencing a wave of flu cases at a level not seen in years. That means hospitalizations are also on the rise. And: Prime Minister Mark Carney has chosen Mark Wiseman as Canada's new ambassador to the U.S. Also: Ottawa's got a new offer to reform the on-reserve child welfare system. It's willing to spend more than $35 billion, which is substantially less than the $47.8 billion put forward by former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's government.Plus: Canadian pocketbooks lighter this holiday season, a look at potential airline labour disputes in 2026, more detail on how Bondi beach attack unfolded, and more.

Two separate processes, now in motion to try to end long-standing discrimination in the federal on-reserve child-welfare system, will take important steps this month. Chiefs in Ontario are seeking approval from the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal for a regional reform agreement, while First Nations leaders in the rest of the country, represented by the National Chief's Children's Council (NCCC), will present their own draft plan to the Tribunal just before Christmas. That's on this episode of Nation to Nation. • • • APTN National News, our stories told our way. Visit our website for more: https://aptnnews.ca Hear more APTN News podcasts: https://www.aptnnews.ca/podcasts/

On this edition of APTN News InFocus, host Cierra Bettens looks at the state of child welfare in Nunavut and why advocates say the territory is falling behind.  Child and youth representative Jane Bates has been raising the alarm for years. In her latest report she says the territory is making little progress in the areas most critical to keeping young people safe. She joins us to talk about what has to change and why she says Nunavut needs action not explanation. We also hear from the minister of Family Services on how she plans to address the concerns raised by Bates and the auditor general.  Before that, APTN's Justin Hardy checks in from Iqaluit with a look at the new legislature and the work ahead for Premier John Main and his cabinet. • • • APTN National News, our stories told our way. Visit our website for more: https://aptnnews.ca Hear more APTN News podcasts: https://www.aptnnews.ca/podcasts/

In this episode of the Foster Friendly Podcast, host Brian Mavis and co-host Travis Vangsnes welcome Callie Priest, the director of strategic partnerships for WindShape Homes. They discuss the mission of WindShape Homes, which was founded by the founders of Chick-fil-A to support children in foster care. Callie shares her unique journey into the foster care space, emphasizing the importance of mobilizing local churches to engage in foster care and provide support for vulnerable families. The conversation also covers the various programs and services offered by WindShape Homes, including their group care model and partnerships with churches to create supportive communities for foster families. Additionally, they introduce the new WindShape Homes podcast, aimed at raising awareness and sharing stories related to foster care. In this conversation, Callie discusses the barriers to awareness in foster care, the importance of collaboration among organizations, and the challenges of competition in the nonprofit sector. She emphasizes the need for a redemptive narrative in foster care and highlights the essential needs of children in the system, particularly the importance of Christ in their lives. The discussion also touches on the role of organizations in creating a supportive ecosystem for foster care and the necessity of working together to improve outcomes for children.Checkout WinShape Homes' resources and services:Listen to The WinShape Homes Podcast:TakeawaysWindShape Homes was founded to support children in foster care.Callie Priest has a background in nonprofit leadership and church ministry.The importance of mobilizing local churches to engage in foster care.WindShape Homes offers a group care model and foster care services.The organization partners with churches to create a supportive community for foster families.Callie emphasizes the need for clinical care in foster care programs.WindShape Homes has expanded its services to include a child placing agency.The organization aims to provide stability and support for vulnerable families.Callie highlights the complexity of the foster care system.The launch of the WindShape Homes podcast aims to raise awareness and share stories. Awareness is a significant barrier in foster care.A redemptive narrative is needed in foster care discussions.Collaboration among organizations is crucial for success.Competition among nonprofits can hinder progress.Foster care requires a community effort for better outcomes.Children in foster care need stable families and access to the gospel.Organizations should focus on collective impact rather than individual branding.The foster care system is complex and requires diverse expertise.Healthy ecosystems in foster care can lead to better care.Generosity and cooperation are essential in the nonprofit sector.

President Trump's White House event announcing an executive order on foster care got a lot of attention. But it is not the only indicator of what the administration might have in mind for policy making in child welfare during his second term. We dive into the specifics of the executive order and several other interesting announcements from Trump's team, then step back and try to describe the big picture. It's Newsmatch season! Please consider donating to support this podcast and the incredible work that our Imprint reporters do every day. If you donate this month, your contribution will be DOUBLED!www.Imprintnews.org/donateReading Room2025 Imprint Reporting Highlights Discussion, Tuesday, Nov. 9, 10am PST/1pm ESThttps://imprintnews.org/event/2025-imprint-reporting-highlightsWith New Executive Order, Trump Thrusts Foster Care Into National Spotlighthttps://imprintnews.org/top-stories/with-new-executive-order-trump-thrusts-foster-care-into-national-spotlight/268739The Other Trump Child Welfare Doctrine Issued This Monthhttps://imprintnews.org/youth-services-insider/the-other-trump-child-welfare-doctrine-issued-this-month/268999Trump Administration Says It's Aiming to Significantly Increase Foster Home Capacityhttps://imprintnews.org/top-stories/trump-administration-to-increase-foster-home-capacity/268969Trump's Child Welfare Leader Vows to Protect Benefits Paid to Foster Youthhttps://imprintnews.org/youth-services-insider/adams-vows-curb-abusive-practice-foster-youth-benefits/268451Trump Administration Grants Waiver Permitting Discrimination by Child Welfare Providershttps://imprintnews.org/featured/trump-grants-waiver-permitting-discrimination-by-child-welfare-providers/33541Designated Placements In, Conversion Therapy Out: Biden's Rule for LGBTQ+ Foster Youthhttps://imprintnews.org/youth-services-insider/new-biden-rule-lgbtq-placements-in-conversion-therapy-out/249274Tech Alphabet Soup and Child Welfare, with Carole Husseyhttps://imprintnews.org/podcast/tech-alphabet-soup-child-welfare

Hello everyone and welcome back to a very special Thanksgiving episode of Trudge Report. This week we take a break from the normal routine and welcome Rebecca Morgan to the show. Rebecca was a former foster care youth, current and long time child welfare professional, and someone who has addiction that runs rampant in her family. We first dive into her role as a child welfare professional and how she came to this line of work. Rebecca then shares her personal stories about entering the foster care system and being separated from her three brothers at age 15. She gives some background on the lead up to those events. Rebecca also shares about the addiction that was littered all through her family; from her father dying of a drug overdose, her mother's struggle with mental health and substance abuse, to her living brother who is homeless and on the streets. Rebecca gets raw and emotional in this episode. We thank her and praise her for the courage and commitment she has shown not only for her family but specially for herself. We want to wish all of our listeners and supporters a happy and healthy Thanksgiving, wherever you may be.“Gratitude is not only the greatest of virtues, but the parent of all others." — William ShakespeareDon't forget to like, share, rate, and download the podcast on all of your listening platforms. Check out and subscribe to our YouTube channel, @trudgrereportpod, for other content surrounding sports and trending topics. Trudge on good people. Contact the Guys:Instagram: @trudgereportpodFacebook: Trudge ReportTikTok: trudgereportpodYouTube: @trudgereportpod 

In this episode of The Resilient Leader's Journey, Craig Gordon, President and CEO of Communities for People, discusses the challenges and rewards of working in child welfare. He explains the organization's focus on child welfare programs, primarily funded through government contracts, and the complexities of managing a decentralized workforce. Craig highlights the high turnover rates in the industry and the importance of effective screening during the hiring process. He emphasizes the intrinsic rewards of working in this field and the career development opportunities available for staff. As a CEO, Craig shares his insights on leadership, collaboration, and the evolving nature of his role in addressing systemic challenges in child welfare. Communities for People focuses on child welfare programs. Most funding comes from government contracts. High turnover rates are a challenge in the industry. Effective screening is crucial for hiring staff. Intrinsic rewards are key to retaining staff.    05:22 Challenges in Staff Retention 16:38 The Role of a CEO in Child Welfare 18:53 Collaboration in the Nonprofit Sector

Join us for this episode of the Academy i3 Podcast as we welcome Sunni Dominguez, Tribal Stars Program Manager and member of the Ipay Nation of Santa Isabel. Sunni shares her expertise on the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA), discussing its history, why it matters, and how it impacts Native American families and child welfare professionals.In this conversation, we cover:The origins and purpose of ICWAKey provisions and compliance challengesThe importance of cultural connection and community leadershipBest practices for social workers and agenciesReal stories and lived experiences from Native communitiesWhether you're a child welfare professional, student, or someone interested in social justice and Native American issues, this episode offers valuable insights and actionable steps for making a positive impact.Sunni Dominguez is Iipay/Kumeyaay from the Ipay Nation of Santa Ysabel. She served as an elected tribal official for 14 years and currently sits on the Tribal Advisory Committee for the CDSS Office of Tribal Affairs. With over 20 years of experience in tribal family advocacy, early childhood education, and cultural preservation, she now serves as Program Manager for the Academy for Professional Excellence Tribal STAR program. As a trainer for ICWA: Working with Native American Families and Tribes, Sunni draws on her experiences as a mother, grandmother, foster parent, and Indian custodian to support better outcomes for Native American children and families. Her work focuses on spiritual healing and protecting past, present, and future generations.

Joyce talks about Donald and Melania Trump's, work to modernize the child welfare system and better the Foster care system.Joyce also talks about change starting with the community not with the government. 200 Child predators arrested in Florida, the Epstein files, SNAP Benefits, and a Minneapolis City Councilman experiences first hand the results of soft on crime policies after he was attacked by two teens. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The documentary "Take Care of Maya" outraged viewers, and a subsequent lawsuit resulted in a quarter of a billion-dollar judgment against the hospital that had treated her. But an appeals court has now reversed that judgment, and new questions have been raised. Was the hospital in the wrong? Or was Maya the victim of Munchausen Syndrome by proxy?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

State Representative Luke Meerman joins Steve to discuss an important and emotional hearing his House Oversight Subcommittee on Child Welfare is holding, giving a voice to victims and whistleblowers who say they were pressured by medical professionals into gender-altering treatments as minors. Meerman explains how his committee is working to uncover the truth about what's happening inside Michigan's health care system and ensure that vulnerable children are protected from irreversible medical decisions.

⚠️ Advisory: This episode includes discussion of child abuse and family trauma.Welcome to this week's episode of Fostering Change, where host Rob Scheer speaks with Susan Chesnutt — a family law attorney, child welfare advocate, and former foster youth based in Vero Beach, Florida.Susan's journey is one of resilience and purpose. After growing up in the foster care system, she became a child abuse investigator for Florida's Department of Children and Families (DCF), then earned her law degree and founded The Chesnutt Law Firm, focusing exclusively on child welfare and family law. She also hosts the podcast From Foster Care to Family Law: A Child Welfare Focus, where she and her guests unpack the toughest issues facing families today.In this powerful conversation, Rob and Susan explore:✅ Lived experience as a foundation for advocacy.“I know what it's like to feel powerless in a system that's supposed to protect you. That's why I fight so hard to make sure every child—and every parent—has a voice.”✅ What really happens inside a DCF investigation.Susan breaks down the process from the inside, reminding families that “you have rights, even when it feels like you don't.”✅ Why empathy matters in family law.Her trauma-informed approach prioritizes safety, healing, and understanding over blame.✅ A call for systemic change.“We can't fix the child welfare system until we start valuing families instead of labeling them. Real reform begins with compassion.”Susan's unique perspective—combining lived experience, government service, and legal advocacy—shows how justice and empathy must go hand in hand.

In this episode of the Foster Friendly Podcast, hosts Brian Mavis and Travis engage with Kelly and Tracie Ward, a couple deeply involved in foster care and adoption. They share their personal journey, the challenges and joys of fostering, and how their church has embraced a mission to support families in crisis. The Wards emphasize the importance of community involvement, the need for churches to open their homes, and the profound impact of fostering on both children and families. They discuss the I Belong Project and the significance of reaching out to biological parents, highlighting that true ministry involves loving and supporting families in need.Travis's That's So Rad! PodcastCheckout out our resources for Faith CommunitiesTakeawaysThe Wards have been married for 29 years and have eight children, including adopted and foster children.They have fostered 29 kids in the past two years and recently became grandparents.Their church's mission evolved to focus on foster care and adoption care.Fostering is not just about the children; it's also about supporting their biological parents.The church community can play a vital role in supporting foster families and children.Fostering can change the trajectory of lives, both for children and their families.The I Belong Project helps connect children in need with potential adoptive families.Churches should open their homes to foster children and their families.True ministry involves meeting families where they are and providing support.Fostering creates a ripple effect, inspiring others to get involved.  Thank you for listening to this episode of The Foster Friendly Podcast.Learn more about being a foster or adoptive parent or supporting those who are in your community.Meet kids awaiting adoption. Join us in helping kids in foster care by donating $18 a month and change the lives of foster kids before they age out.Visit AmericasKidsBelong.org and click the donate button to help us change the outcomes of kids in foster care.

Ten years after Truth and Reconciliation came into being, seven Indigenous writers reflect on its ambitions and outcomes. What's been accomplished and what has been abandoned.The limits of reconciliation as a framework for meaningful and lasting change are addressed in the topics of: child welfare, economic development, gender, land jurisdiction and the media. In the wake of near total annihilation, Indigenous peoples are now bringing back what was taken. About AMIAMI is a not-for-profit media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians who are blind or partially sighted. Operating three broadcast services, AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French, AMI's vision is to establish and support a voice for Canadians with disabilities, representing their interests, concerns and values through inclusion, representation, accessible media, reflection, representation and portrayal.Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+Learn more at AMI.caConnect with Accessible Media Inc. online:X /Twitter @AccessibleMediaInstagram @AccessibleMediaInc / @AMI-audioFacebook at @AccessibleMediaIncTikTok @AccessibleMediaIncEmail feedback@ami.ca Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Ronald E. Richter brings an unparalleled perspective to child welfare. With a career that spans over 35 years as a legal aid attorney, family court judge, former commissioner of New York City's Administration for Children's Services (ACS), and as CEO of JCCA, a 200-year-old nonprofit that supports more than 17,000 children and families across New York each year, Ron has seen the system from every angle. After serving the last ten years as CEO, Ron Richter will step down from his role at JCCA in October. We'll discuss what's working in child welfare, where we're still falling short, and stories that have stayed with him.

The post Burnout in Child Welfare Professionals and Foster Parents appeared first on Foster Adopt Minnesota.

West Virginia is a top 10 state in the growth of energy jobs. And, those in charge of the state's child welfare system say they learned some important lessons this summer. The post Energy Jobs Rising And Lessons From A Child Welfare Tour, This West Virginia Morning appeared first on West Virginia Public Broadcasting.

Adam Sandler plays a man child who decides to take another person's kid as his own. But this is a comedy so don't think about that too much. The boys discuss.  Links You can rate and review us in these places (and more, probably) Does This Still Work? - TV Podcast https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/does-this-still-work-1088105 ‎Does This Still Work? on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/does-this-still-work/id1492570867 Creator Accountability Network creatoraccountabilitynetwork.org. Mom Sentenced in Baby-Selling https://www.newspapers.com/article/newsday-286-big-daddy-1999-1/179011974/ Kids' Interests Lose in Adoption Option Page 1: https://www.newspapers.com/article/newsday-286-big-daddy-1999-21/179012193/ Page 2: https://www.newspapers.com/article/newsday-286-big-daddy-1999-22/179012368/ A Bond, Broken (A7 & A52) Page 1: https://www.newspapers.com/article/newsday-286-big-daddy-1999-31/179012489/ Page 2: https://www.newspapers.com/article/newsday-286-big-daddy-1999-32/179012569/  

The West Virginia Dept. of Human Services has released the results of its statewide listening tour. And we'll preview the latest Us & Them edition, which takes a look at this country's criminal justice system and what it would take to make it stronger for all. The post Findings From Child Welfare Tour And Rebuilding Justice In A Divided America, This West Virginia Morning appeared first on West Virginia Public Broadcasting.

In this episode of the Foster Friendly Podcast, host Brian Mavis and co-host Courtney Williams engage with Ryan O'Donnell, a tech entrepreneur and former foster parent, who discusses his journey from organizing a record-breaking food drive to creating a technology platform aimed at improving communication and collaboration within the foster care system.Ryan shares his personal experiences as a foster parent, the challenges he faced, and how these experiences inspired him to develop 'Your Case Plan', an app designed to streamline communication among all parties involved in a child's welfare. The conversation also touches on the importance of legal representation for families, the need for affordable housing solutions for foster youth, and the broader implications of technology in enhancing the foster care system.TakeawaysRyan O'Donnell is a tech entrepreneur and former foster parent.He organized a record-breaking food drive during high school.His experiences as a foster parent highlighted communication issues in the system.'Your Case Plan' was developed to improve collaboration in foster care.The app is free for families and aims to streamline communication.Ryan emphasizes the importance of legal representation for families in the system.Affordable housing solutions are crucial for youth aging out of foster care.The foster care system often lacks transparency, leading to poor outcomes.Ryan's work aims to break the cycle of families entering the system.The conversation highlights the need for multifaceted solutions in foster care. Thank you for listening to this episode of The Foster Friendly Podcast.Learn more about being a foster or adoptive parent or supporting those who are in your community.Meet kids awaiting adoption. Join us in helping kids in foster care by donating $18 a month and change the lives of foster kids before they age out.Visit AmericasKidsBelong.org and click the donate button to help us change the outcomes of kids in foster care.

Greg Bishop talks live with state Rep. Jed Davis about his continued concerns about the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services' use of interns. He says he's seeking legislative solutions but worries the issue could get buried heading into an election year.

John and Jonathan tackle the dark side of IVF and surrogacy, from terrifying abuse cases to legal highways that allow registered sex offenders to become parents. They connect these issues to the pro-life movement and discuss the Trump administration's surprising stance on IVF.

This podcast is eligible for a Certificate of Completion if you complete a Post Podcast Test. August 13, 2025 Jeremy Carney, MSW, PhD  and Charley Joyce, MSW know that child welfare work can be challenging.  Yet it offers a deeply rewarding career path for individuals passionate about making a positive impact in the lives of children,… The post Why Becoming a Child Welfare Professional is a Great Idea appeared first on Foster Adopt Minnesota.

Boost well-being and retention for child welfare workers through trauma-informed care and psychological safety.In this episode of the Academy i3 podcast, the discussion centers around the critical issues of workforce recruitment and retention in the field of child welfare. Guest Lisa Maaca Bartlett, an experienced social work professional and academic, shares her insights on creating supportive work environments, the impacts of trauma-informed care, and the significance of psychological safety within organizations. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the unique challenges faced by child welfare workers, including secondary traumatic stress, and offers practical strategies to improve retention and well-being among staff. This episode is a valuable resource for leaders and practitioners looking to enhance their organizational culture and support their teams effectively.Episode Chapters:00:00 - Intro07:00 – Research on Workforce Retention11:47 – Themes for High Turnover Rates16:38 – Impact of Stress and Burnout24:22 – Trauma-Informed Care in Practice35:29 – Supporting Current Workers: Psychological Safety36:20 – Understanding Psychological Safety37:30 – Four Stages of Psychological Safety48:42 – Trauma-Informed Care and Workforce Retention StrategiesCheck out the resources we mentioned:National Child Traumatic Stress Network (NCTSN) – Trauma-Informed Care Curriculum: https://www.nctsn.org/Harvard Business Review Article: "The Hazards of a ‘Nice' Company Culture" by Timothy R. Clark (2021): https://hbr.org/2021/06/the-hazards-of-a-nice-company-cultureLearn about our guest: Lisa Maaca Bartlette, MSSA, is a social service entrepreneur and founder of Lisa Maaca, Inc., specializing in Trauma-Informed Care. Drawing from her own healing journey and extensive social work experience in Ohio and California, Lisa delivers transformative, evidence-based programs and keynotes across the US. She consults and trains California's Child Welfare and Juvenile Probation workforce, helping reshape how trauma is understood and addressed. With a background in Business Management, a Master of Science in Social Administration, and ongoing doctoral studies focused on Trauma-Informed Care and Neurobiology of Trauma, Lisa combines research and real-world practice to inspire positive organizational change.Contact Lisa on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-maaca-bartlette-47225525/ Subscribe for more psychological safety and workforce development content: https://www.youtube.com/@TheAcademySDSUFollow us on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/sdsuacademy#ChildWelfareWorkforce #TraumaInformedLeadership #PsychologicalSafety

In this episode of the Foster Friendly Podcast, host Brian Mavis and co-host Courtney Williams welcome Laura Mobley, who shares her extensive experience in the foster care and adoption space. They discuss the launch of the Fostering Front Door initiative, aimed at providing a curated resource for individuals interested in foster care. The conversation highlights the importance of community support, the differences between fostering and adoption, and the need for accessible information to guide potential foster parents on their journey. They also discuss the challenges and needs of the foster care system, emphasizing the importance of providing resources and support for potential foster parents. They explore the necessity of creating a space for individuals to learn about fostering, the role of continuing education, and the significance of relationships in the lives of children in foster care. The introduction of FosterCon as an educational initiative is highlighted, along with the various support options available for those involved in the foster care system.Foster Front Door website: https://americaskidsbelong.org/lp/fostering-front-door-program Thank you for listening to this episode of The Foster Friendly Podcast.Learn more about being a foster or adoptive parent or supporting those who are in your community.Meet kids awaiting adoption. Join us in helping kids in foster care by donating $18 a month and change the lives of foster kids before they age out.Visit AmericasKidsBelong.org and click the donate button to help us change the outcomes of kids in foster care.

On this week's episode, Michael Tanana of Lyssn, joins us to talk about artificial intelligence, or AI, in the child welfare system. Tanana helped found Lyssn, which uses AI to help assess the quality of various services in a way that used to require painstaking transcription and notetaking. We talked about starting an AI company in this space and also about his views around the ethical application of it in a system where the integrity of families is often on the line.  Michael Tanana is a data scientist, machine learning researcher and software engineer. He co-founded Lyssn in 2017. Reading RoomTech Alphabet Soup and Child Welfarehttps://imprintnews.org/podcast/tech-alphabet-soup-child-welfareWhite House Issues Plan for Artificial Intelligence Bill of Rightshttps://imprintnews.org/youth-services-insider/white-house-issues-plan-for-artificial-intelligence-bill-of-rights/234146In a New Study, Georgia Professor Explores the Use of Artificial Intelligence in the Child Welfare Fieldhttps://imprintnews.org/top-stories/in-a-new-study-georgia-professor-explores-the-use-of-artificial-intelligence-in-the-child-welfare-field/256116Using Algorithms and Artificial Intelligence in Child Welfarehttps://imprintnews.org/child-welfare-2/using-algorithms-artificial-intelligence-in-child-welfare/33429Opinion: Child Welfare Should Go Slow on AIhttps://imprintnews.org/opinion/child-welfare-should-go-slow-ai/242819

Greg Bishop reviews continued concerns Illinois Statehouse Republicans have with the Pritzker administration's management of the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services.

Host Bill Radke discusses the week’s news with Seattle Times Claudia Rowe, Washington Policy Center’s David Boze, and KUOW’s Cat Smith.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Steve Gruber talks with State Rep. Luke Meerman, who represents Michigan's 89th House District, about growing calls for a “DOGE Michigan”-style accountability movement and what Republicans in Lansing are doing to investigate state leadership. Meerman also shares insights from his work on child welfare reform, informed by his personal experience as a foster parent, and discusses whether any investigations have been launched into Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson or Attorney General Dana Nessel for what critics call failed leadership.

Are you unintentionally sabotaging your custody case by involving child welfare services the wrong way?Navigating divorce is already complex, but when DCFS or CPS enters the picture, things can quickly spiral. In this episode, Heather Quick and Robin Sax unpack the legal and emotional landmines parents face when reporting abuse or neglect, often without realizing the long-term consequences. Whether you're trying to protect your child or just survive a high-conflict co-parenting dynamic, understanding how to interact with these agencies is crucial.Discover the most common communication mistakes that escalate legal battles.Learn why threatening to report abuse can damage your credibility and your case.Understand when and how to seek legal guidance to protect your family the smart way.Press play to learn how to navigate child welfare involvement with strategy—not fear—and protect your parenting rights.Join us on our podcast as we navigate the complexities of marriage, divorce, separation, and all related legal and emotional aspects, including adultery, alimony, child support, spousal support, timesharing, custody battles, and the financial impact of dissolution of marriage.Interested in working with us? Fill out this form here to get started. Not quite ready? Interact with us on socials! Linktree: https://linktr.ee/FloridaWomensLawGroup Florida Women's Law Group Website: https://www.floridawomenslawgroup.com/Robin Sax's Links:Official Website: https://www.robinsax.com/ Dear Co-Parent Website: https://www.dearcoparent.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robinsax Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not an advertisement for legal services. The information provided on this podcast is not intended to be legal advice. You should not rely on what you hear on this podcast as legal advice. If you have a legal issue, please contact a lawyer. The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and guests are solely those of the individuals and do not represent the views or opinions of the firms or organizations with which they are affiliated or the views or opinions of this podcast's advertisers. This podcast is available for private, non-commercial use only. Any editing, reproduction, or redistribution of this podcast for commercial use or monetary gain without the expressed, written consent of the podcast's creator is prohibited.Thank you for listening, please leave us a review and share the podcast with your friends and colleagues. Send your questions, comments, and feedback to marketing@4womenlaw.com.

What would it take to transform child welfare into a system rooted in healing, trust, and human connection?   In this powerful episode, we speak with Paul Nixon, an independent social worker and internationally recognized leader in restorative practices. From his early work in the UK to consulting across Australia, New Zealand, and beyond, Paul has spent decades championing relational approaches that honor the voices of those most impacted.   Now contracted with Vermont's child welfare system, Paul shares insights from his current work helping transform services to become more relational, connected, and family-centered. He explores how restorative practices challenge punitive models and instead prioritize listening, accountability, and meaningful engagement with children, families, and communities. This conversation is both deeply practical and visionary—highlighting what's possible when we lead with empathy and prioritize relationships at every level of the system. Transcripts & show notes @ https://vermontcwtp.org/podcast/ Follow us on IG: https://www.instagram.com/thesocialworklens/  

This week, we're sharing an interview with Talia Lavin, author of Culture Warlords: My Journey into the Dark Web of White Supremacy. In this chat, we speak about her more recent book, Wild Faith: How the Christian Right is Taking Over America. There's a lot in the book, most of it pretty disturbing (especially, I'm sure, for anyone who is ex-vangelical) and there is discussion of hateful ideology and child abuse and corporal punishment, though not in lurid detail, so listener discretion is advised. We hope to cover related topics in the future. Links: Newsletter: https://buttondown.com/theswordandthesandwich Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taliainteralia/ Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/swordsjew.bsky.social . ... . .. Featured Track: Voice Of God Is Government by Bad Religion from How Could Hell Be Any Worse

On this week's “Headlines” edition of the  Imprint Weekly Podcast, we talk about the new federal dashboard for child welfare data from through the Adoption and Foster Care Analysis and Reporting System. We discuss the dashboard itself and what we hope it evolves to include, and then break down some of the trendlines in this year's numbers. We also discuss the latest on President Trump's spending request for 2026, what made it into the “Big Beautiful” reconciliation bill that now sits with the Senate, and more happening in Washington, D.C. We close with a review of some state headlines around liability insurance in California, a lawsuit in Tennessee, adoptee rights in Georgia, luggage for New York foster youth, and a new report on foster care in Minnesota.Thanks to Lyssn for sponsoring this episode!Reading RoomA Deep Dive on New Federal Foster Care Datahttps://imprintnews.org/youth-services-insider/deep-dive-new-federal-foster-care-data/261418White House Watchhttps://imprintnews.org/special-series/white-house-watchHouse Reconciliation Bill Proposes Deepest SNAP Cut in History, Would Take Food Assistance Away From Millions of Low-Income Familieshttps://bit.ly/3HNktXfHouse Begins Markup of Reconciliation Bill Todayhttps://imprintnews.org/youth-services-insider/house-begins-markup-reconciliation-bill-today/261108Trump 2026 Budget Consolidates or Eliminates Several Youth Programshttps://bit.ly/4e5qNWjAmeriCorps Must Restore Grant Funding and Members to States that Sued over Cuts, Federal Judge Ruleshttps://bit.ly/45PJZFjFoster Care Agencies in California's Central Valley are Facing an Insurance Crisis, and Possibly Closurehttps://bit.ly/4mUvhTzThe Insurance Cliff Coming for California Foster Carehttps://imprintnews.org/youth-services-insider/insurance-cliff-coming-california-foster-care/251572Tennessee Sued Over Foster Care Conditions Againhttps://bit.ly/3ZqMMkxGeorgia Opens Adoptee Access to Original Birth Certificateshttps://bit.ly/43TSlsSNew York to Provide Luggage for Foster Youthhttps://imprintnews.org/top-stories/ny-lawmakers-agree-to-bill-for-foster-youth-luggage/261536Minnesota Foster Youth Publish Groundbreaking Reporthttps://bit.ly/4kzjEA3

The New York City Administration for Children's Services, or ACS, has been using predictive artificial intelligence to flag some families for greater scrutiny, according to a recent investigation by The Markup. Colin Lecher reported the story and tells Marketplace's Meghan McCarty Carino, like all AI systems, it can encode historical biases.

The New York City Administration for Children's Services, or ACS, has been using predictive artificial intelligence to flag some families for greater scrutiny, according to a recent investigation by The Markup. Colin Lecher reported the story and tells Marketplace's Meghan McCarty Carino, like all AI systems, it can encode historical biases.

Click here to send us a topic idea or question for Weekend Wisdom.Are you a professional working with kinship caregivers? You need to listen to this interview with Dr. Tyreasa Washington, is a nationally and internationally recognized scholar specializing in kinship care families (e.g., grandparents raising grandchildren). She is a Distinguished Senior Scholar for Child Welfare at Child Trends, the leading research organization in the United States focused solely on improving the lives of children, youth, and families.In this episode, we discuss:Advantages of keeping children with extended family when their parents are not able to raise them.How do kids who are raised temporarily or permanently by relatives fare compared to kids placed with unknown foster parents?One of the biggest questions we receive from professionals is how to engage kinship caregivers. They tell us that they set up programs to support kinship caregivers, but few show up. This seems universal. Why does this happen?We also hear about institutional trauma-(law enforcement struggles/foster care system struggles- leads to lack of trust--not feeling safe in their community, not trusting DSS.) How does this impact kinship caregivers? How does it impact those of us trying to serve them?What types of support are the most helpful?What are some cultural differences you've observed in Black relatives raising children within the family, and how do these differences impact how professionals interact with kin raising children?What have you found in your research on the impact of caregiving on the health of kinship caregivers?Need for training for kinship caregivers.How can professionals support self-care with folks who are so busy just getting by?Support the showPlease leave us a rating or review. This podcast is produced by www.CreatingaFamily.org. We are a national non-profit with the mission to strengthen and inspire adoptive, foster & kinship parents and the professionals who support them.Creating a Family brings you the following trauma-informed, expert-based content: Weekly podcasts Weekly articles/blog posts Resource pages on all aspects of family building