Podcasts about child welfare

In this episode of the Foster Friendly podcast, the hosts discuss the complexities of foster care reunification, sharing personal stories and insights. They explore the emotional challenges faced by birth families, the statistics surrounding reunification rates, and the importance of supporting these families. The conversation highlights the mixed feelings surrounding reunification, the goals of child welfare, and the impact of time spent in care on reunification outcomes. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the complexities of foster care, particularly focusing on the emotional challenges of temporary family dynamics, the journey of reunification, and the importance of building relationships with birth parents. They share personal experiences and insights on how to support both children in care and their biological families, emphasizing the need for understanding, patience, and effective communication. The discussion highlights the balance between ensuring safety for children and fostering positive relationships that can lead to successful reunifications.

Immigration advocates and the New York City Council are urging a judge to block federal law enforcement officials from working on Rikers Island. Plus, Lt. Gov. Antonio Delgado is running for governor of New York. Also, Council Speaker Adrienne Adams banked $2 million last week in matching funds thanks, in part, to her opponent. Meanwhile, the city's child welfare agency is seven times more likely to investigate a Black family than a white one according to the agency's own numbers. And finally, a Harlem neighborhood is the first to have its trash fully containerized and picked up by a fleet of new garbage trucks.

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.

A neighbor heard something strange coming from a shed. Deputies arrived and a girl answered from the other side of the locked metal doors: “We can't open it.”Inside, they found two barefoot, filthy, terrified teenagers. Five Black siblings, adopted by a white couple, were rescued that day from what prosecutors would later call one of the most disturbing cases of child torture, trafficking, and abuse in West Virginia history.In this episode, we're bringing you the trial and sentencing update in the case of Jeanne Whitefeather and Donald Lantz—the so-called “parents” who treated children like machines.Listen to the initial case here:Mid-week Mini | Adopted Washington Parents Enslave and Abuse Children and Evade CPS | Donald Lantz and Jeanne Whitefeatherhttps://murderandlove.com/mid-week-mini-adopted-washington-parents-enslave-and-abuse-children-and-evade-cps-donald-lantz-and-jeanne-whitefeather/**************************************Do you have thoughts about this case, or is there a specific true crime case you'd like to hear about? Let me know with an email or a voice message: https://murderandlove.com/contactFind the sources used in this episode and learn more about how to support Love and Murder: Heartbreak to Homicide and gain access to even more cases, including bonus episodes, ad-free and intro-free cases, case files and more at: https://murderandlove.comMusic:℗ lesfreemusicBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/love-and-murder-heartbreak-to-homicide--4348896/support.

What does it take to reimagine child welfare on a global scale? Caroline Boudreaux, Founder of the Miracle Foundation, shares her extraordinary evolution from corporate life to global changemaker. Her journey began on a spontaneous trip to India where, on Mother's Day in 2000, she met a group of orphaned children—and one moment changed her forever.“I put a hungry orphan on a wooden bed and heard her bones hit the wood. I've never been the same,” Boudreaux recalls.Originally launching Miracle Foundation as an international adoption agency, Caroline soon realized that adoption couldn't scale fast enough to match the need. She pivoted. Then, another revelation: 80% of institutionalized children actually had living family. “We couldn't just make orphanages better anymore—we had to help children go home,” she shares. That shift required a new model, a bold strategy, and a lot of resilience.The organization began empowering ‘kinship care'—supporting extended families to take children back in by addressing barriers like housing, education, or income. Then came Thrive Well: a transformative app that puts this care model into the hands of over 30,000 social workers, enabling systems change at scale.This inspiring discussion adds in the role of healthy board dynamics, founder self-awareness, and breaking through the myth that only “rich people” give. “You're not looking for donors with money,” Caroline says. “You're looking for souls who want to do something bigger than themselves.”Her metaphor? “We're all jumping into the river to save babies. But someone has to look upstream to stop them from falling in.”This conversation will challenge your assumptions, ignite your passion for systemic change, and offer inspiration for every nonprofit leader navigating evolving missions and growing impact.00:00:00 Welcome to Caroline Boudreaux 00:01:29 How a trip to India sparked a mission 00:04:14 The moment that changed everything on Mother's Day 00:07:10 Founding the Miracle Foundation 00:08:50 Early struggles and pivot from adoption 00:11:18 Discovering most “orphans” had families 00:13:03 The kinship care model explained 00:16:19 Partnering with Indian government and local leaders 00:17:40 Launching the Thrive Well app 00:20:01 Founder syndrome and building a strong board 00:21:22 Metaphor: saving babies vs. stopping them from falling in 00:23:22 Finding the right donors: look for souls, not dollars 00:25:27 The journey of learning, pivoting, and systemic change 00:27:08 Vision for a world without orphanages by 2040#FamilyFirst #MiracleFoundation #SystemsChangeFind us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

On today's show CEO of Peel CAS, Mary Beth Moellenkamp has devoted her career to children in care in the Child Welfare system. She's here to share with us her story, experience, and the realities of working in this field. The Luminato Festival is back this June, and offering many inclusive performances in theatre, music, and dance, as well as unique Audio Described tours around the city. Christine Malec is here with the details, and the associated LuminoCity podcast. Plus, a recent report published by Community Living Ontario is shedding light on the exclusion, seclusion, and restraint of students with disabilities in Ontario schools. Shawn Pegg, Director of Social Policy & Strategic Initiatives with Community Living Ontario, has the update.  Find Kelly & Company on YouTube!About AMIAMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.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

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

A budget bill is moving through Congress that includes significant cuts to the Medicaid program, one the largest federal programs and the provider of health insurance for one in five people in America. And it has an outsized impact on the child welfare system, both in the prevention of families becoming involved with it and for children in foster care.Zach Laris, founder of Bolder Horizon and author of the Child Welfare Wonk blog, joins us to review the nexus of Medicaid and child welfare, and what the impact of cuts to the system might mean for system-involved children and families.  Thanks to SpeakWrite for sponsoring this episode!Reading RoomHouse Begins Markup of Reconciliation Bill Todayhttps://imprintnews.org/youth-services-insider/house-begins-markup-reconciliation-bill-today/261108Foster Care Prevention & Group Care Limits: The Family First Act Takes Effecthttps://imprintnews.org/podcast/foster-care-prevention-group-care-limits-family-first-act-takes-effectChild Welfare Wonkhttps://www.childwelfarewonk.com/

Connor examines involuntary commitment, substance abuse disorders, and the ethical dilemmas surrounding parenting and children's welfare. Should children be allowed to transition genders? When is the state justified in removing children from harmful environments? And what is the role of non-parental caregivers in a child's life?Join us for this thought-provoking episode that pushes the boundaries of our intuitions and ethical considerations around children's rights.[00:00] Introduction and Guest Introduction[00:18] Thought Experiments on Involuntary Commitment[05:11] Parenting and Authority[06:19] Sufficiency vs. Maximality in Child Upbringing[10:33] Children's Rights and Associational Rights[20:56] Cultural and Parental Interests[24:49] Gender Identity and Child Welfare[36:55] Defensive Kidnapping and Ethical Dilemmas[01:01:34] Conclusion and Final ThoughtsCheck out FeedSpot's list of 90 best philosophy podcasts, where Brain in a Vat is ranked at 15, here: https://podcast.feedspot.com/philosophy_podcasts/

Caoilfhionn Gallagher, Special Rapporteur on Child Protection discusses recommendations arising from the inquest into the death of Daniel McAnaspie.

In this episode of the Foster Friendly Podcast, hosts Travis Vangsnes and Courtney Williams engage with Laura (Foster Parent Partner), a prominent figure in the fostering community, to discuss the importance of Foster Care Awareness Month. Laura shares her journey into engaging foster care, the impact of her social media presence, and the challenges faced by foster parents. The conversation also emphasizes the need for trauma-informed care, community involvement, and the importance of flexibility and grit in fostering. Laura also discusses her future plans and encourages listeners to get involved in supporting foster care initiatives.Follow Laura:Instagram and YouTube: @foster.parenting

Send us a textLead Attorney, Joe Byrd interviews First Review Auditors, Alyssa Hudson and Kendall Leslie to discuss issues related to dependency & neglect, termination of parental rights, and non-capital criminal court claims. Additionally, Alyssa discusses supplier information issues. The discussion offers tips for attorneys arising from common problems auditors observe when processing claims.

    Slam the Gavel welcomes Bea Marnay to the podcast. She was last on Season 5, Episodes 114 and 193. Bea discussed reaching out to parents to help remedy the issue of the removal of children. However, that is to remove the funding to Child Welfare. This led to the  news article on January 28th, 2025, where The Imprint Youth & Family News came out with the article, "Child Welfare Leaders Stunned by Trump's Call to Freeze Social Services Spending; Legal Action Quickly Threatened."      "The funding is creating the BIG problem in Social Services, where they are  putting a dollar sign on our children, and they remove them for PROFIT. Not because they want to give the child a better a life, or not because of the "child's best interest," which is not happening in the courtrooms all across America, so the funding that was creating the removals for profit needed to be removed. This happened on January 28th, 2025. Apparently HHS employees were locked out of their offices. They are trying to bring in new staff." Stated Bea Marnay.     So much discussion in this podcast as Bea talked about a case where a child had gotten lost in the system and how CPS removed a newborn from a mother who had been in the foster care system. We also discussed how the traffickers are linked to HHS as RFK, Jr. stated.    To Reach Bea Marnay: ecett.org (end child exploitation think tank)***** Supportshow(https://www.buymeacoffee.com/maryannpetri)Maryann Petri: dismantlingfamilycourtcorruption.comhttps://www.tiktok.com/@maryannpetriFacebook:  https://www.youtube.com/@slamthegavelpodcasthostmar5536Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/guitarpeace/Pinterest: Slam The Gavel Podcast/@guitarpeaceLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maryann-petri-62a46b1ab/  YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@slamthegavelpodcasthostmar5536  Twitter https://x.com/PetriMaryannEzlegalsuit.comhttps://ko-fi.com/maryannpetri*DISCLAIMER* The use of this information is at the viewer/user's own risk. Not financial, medical nor legal advice as the content on this podcast does not constitute legal, financial, medical or any other professional advice. Viewer/user's should consult with the relevant professionals. Reproduction, distribution, performing, publicly displaying and making a derivative of the work is explicitly prohibited without permission from content creator. Podcast is protected by owner. The content creator maintains the exclusive right and any unauthorized copyright infringement is subject to legal prosecution. Support the showSupportshow(https://www.buymeacoffee.com/maryannpetri)http://www.dismantlingfamilycourtcorruption.com/

Bongani Bingwa speaks with Annette, the mother of an 11-year-old girl about the difficult situation facing their family. It was a sudden change in Naledi’s behavior that first raised concern—she became withdrawn, stopped socializing, and spent most of her time in her room. Her mother then noticed physical changes, including a rounder stomach and the development of breasts, which led to the heartbreaking discovery that Naledi was pregnant. Now, as the pregnancy progresses, the family is seeking justice and fighting to ensure that the responsible party is held accountable. 702 Breakfast with Bongani Bingwa is broadcast on 702, a Johannesburg based talk radio station. Bongani makes sense of the news, interviews the key newsmakers of the day, and holds those in power to account on your behalf. The team bring you all you need to know to start your day Thank you for listening to a podcast from 702 Breakfast with Bongani Bingwa Find all the catch-up podcasts here: https://buff.ly/36edSLV Listen live - 702 Breakfast is broadcast weekdays between 06:00 and 09:00 (SA Time): https://buff.ly/gk3y0Kj Subscribe to the 702 daily and weekly newsletters https://buff.ly/v5mfetc Follow us on social media: 702 on Facebook: https://buff.ly/qb3TsVe 702 on TikTok: https://buff.ly/7grIrVs 702 on Instagram: https://buff.ly/uXZHVil 702 on X: https://buff.ly/5XRmScd 702 on YouTube: https://buff.ly/UL2kzls See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of the Foster Friendly podcast, host Brian Mavis and co-hosts Courtney and Travis celebrate the 10th anniversary of America's Kids Belong (AKB). They discuss the organization's journey from its inception, driven by personal experiences as foster parents, to its current status as a trusted nonprofit in the foster care space. The conversation highlights little things like the evolution of AKB's logo, to bigger things like the importance of trust in their operations, and the significant impact of their initiatives, including the I Belong Project and the Foster Friendly app. Brian shares a powerful origin story of the organization and imparts leadership wisdom he's gained as a national nonprofit leader. The hosts also discuss the importance of supporting foster families and communities, the transformation of community engagement through innovative programs, and the future of nonprofits. They share additional leadership insights,  the significance of National Foster Care Month, and ways individuals can get involved in supporting foster care initiatives. The discussion emphasizes the need to change perceptions about foster children, families, and social workers to foster a more empathetic and supportive environment.

A fitness influencer’s appearance in Dubai has gone viral after he brought his daughters on stage to show off their six-packs. But should kids ever be set appearance-driven physical goals – or is that a shortcut to body dysmorphia? Helen asks Florence Gillet of Beyond Body Image and PT Rory Brown. Plus, OT Adam Griffin and speech pathologist Tina Younes talk Speech, Language and Hearing Month, Anna Kaminski from NeuroKinds discusses new research on the impact of yelling at kids, and Charlie Bannan from Haus & Haus is on hand to answer your real estate questions...See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A child welfare bill that passed through both chambers of the Missouri General Assembly this week will raise the minimum age for marriage from 16 to 18. House Minority Leader Ashley Aune, a Democrat from Platte County, says this will prevent young women from being victimized.

In this conversation, Dr. Han Goh shares his extensive journey in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), detailing his experiences under the mentorship of Dr. Brian Iwata and his transition from academia to private practice. He discusses the evolution of ABA, particularly concerning insurance reform and its implications for service delivery. Han emphasizes the importance of training foster parents using behavioral techniques to improve outcomes for children in foster care, highlighting the significance of family unity and collaboration in the field. He also touches on his international connections and future aspirations to advance ABA practices globally. Watch the video of this conversation here! https://youtu.be/ewcSHeCXXWQ   Continuing Education Credits (https://www.cbiconsultants.com/shop) BACB: 0.5 Learning IBAO:  0.5 Learning QABA: 0.5 General We also offer certificates of attendance! Follow us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/behaviourspeak/ Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/benreiman.bsky.social.bsky.social LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/behaviourspeak/ Contact: Dr Han-Leong Goh https://www.linkedin.com/in/han-leong-goh-%E5%90%B3%E6%BC%A2%E9%BE%8D-ph-d-bcba-d-lba-nc-6280a981/ Breakthrough Autism https://www.breakthroughnc.com/ Articles Referenced: Rescorla RA, Wagner AR. A theory of Pavlovian conditioning: Variations in the effectiveness of reinforcement and nonreinforcement. In: Classical Conditioning II: Current Research and Theory (Eds Black AH, Prokasy WF) New York: Appleton Century Crofts, pp. 64-99, 1972 Dunlap, G., & Vollmer, T. R. (2008). Introduction to the Special Issue on the Florida Behavior Analysis Services Program. Research on Social Work Practice, 18(5), 365-366. https://doi.org/10.1177/1049731508318644  Van Camp, C. M., Vollmer, T. R., Goh, H.-L., Whitehouse, C. M., Reyes, J., Montgomery, J. L., & Borrero, J. C. (2008). Behavioral Parent Training in Child Welfare: Evaluations of Skills Acquisition. Research on Social Work Practice, 18(5), 377-391. https://doi.org/10.1177/1049731507314008  Van Camp, C. M., Montgomery, J. L., Vollmer, T. R., Kosarek, J. A., Happe, S., Burgos, V., & Manzolillo, A. (2008). Behavioral Parent Training in Child Welfare: Maintenance and Booster Training. Research on Social Work Practice, 18(5), 392-400. https://doi.org/10.1177/1049731508318658 Stoutimore, M. R., Williams, C. E., Neff, B., & Foster, M. (2008). The Florida Child Welfare Behavior Analysis Services Program. Research on Social Work Practice, 18(5), 367-376. https://doi.org/10.1177/1049731508318654   Related Behaviour Speak Podcast Episodes: Episode 40: Dr. Kim Crosland https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-40-applications-of-behaviour-science-to-foster-care-runaways-the-homeless-and-bullying-with-kimberly-crosland-phd-bcba-d/ Episode 135: Arturo Garcia https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-135-addressing-human-trafficking-with-behavior-analysis/ Episode 206: Arthur Hairston https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-206-autistic-youth-in-foster-care-with-arthur-hairston-med-bcba/ Links: Malaysia ABA https://m-aba.com/  

In this episode of the Foster Friendly Podcast, hosts Brian and Courtney engage with Kayla and Chris Habegger, a couple navigating the world of non-traditional kinship care. They discuss their journey into fostering, the importance of community awareness, and the dynamics of kinship care. The conversation highlights the emotional and practical aspects of fostering, emphasizing the need for understanding and support within families and communities.Kayla and Chris Habegger share their experiences as new foster parents, discussing the challenges and insights gained from their journey. They emphasize the importance of empowering children to share their stories, understanding the complexities of trauma, and the need for ongoing training and support in foster care. The couple reflects on their goals for reunification with the child's biological family and the significance of maintaining healthy relationships throughout the process.

Commissioner Vicki Reed joins Dr. Sandie Morgan to discuss the intersection of juvenile justice and child welfare, highlighting the importance of collaboration, care, and community in supporting vulnerable youth and preventing their exploitation. Vicki Reed Vicki Reed has dedicated her career to child welfare and juvenile justice, with over two decades of experience working with system-involved youth. She holds a degree in law enforcement and a master's in criminal justice, and has been a strong advocate for vulnerable children in both public and private sectors. Vicki has served as a juvenile probation officer, the director of a youth-serving agency, and has helped shape state-level training for child welfare workers in Kentucky. Beyond her advocacy and service as Juvenile Justice Commissioner of Kentucky, she is also an accomplished author. In her previous appearance on this podcast (episode 246), Vicki discussed her novel The Car Thief. In this episode, she shares insights from her latest novel, Sleight of Hand, which also draws from her extensive experience working with youth. Key Points Vicki Reed shares how an unexpected opportunity and sense of calling led her to come out of retirement to serve as Kentucky's Juvenile Justice Commissioner. She emphasizes the critical difference between juvenile justice and adult corrections, noting that punitive approaches fail with youth and that rehabilitation, mental health support, education, and pro-social activities are far more effective. The high cost of long-term incarceration underscores the need for early intervention and supportive programming for at-risk youth. Reed discusses how negative placement experiences in foster care can reinforce harmful behaviors, while positive, stable placements with appropriate support can change life trajectories. Her novels, The Car Thief and Sleight of Hand, serve as creative tools to educate readers about the juvenile justice and child welfare systems, illustrating how caring adults make a significant difference in a young person's life. The character of Alex in Sleight of Hand, who experiences 64 placements, highlights the systemic issues facing youth in foster care and the importance of wraparound services. Vicki introduces the concept of “automatic adult responses” and stresses the value of reframing interactions with youth, drawing on insights from expert Charlie Applestein and his approach from No Such Thing as a Bad Kid. Pro-social activities, such as music lessons, art therapy, or simple childhood experiences like flying a kite, play a key role in building competencies and self-worth for vulnerable youth. Collaboration across systems—child welfare, juvenile justice, and mental health—is vital, as these sectors often serve the same youth but in siloed ways. Reed advocates for dual status teams like those in Indiana, which require collaborative planning for youth involved in both child welfare and juvenile justice systems. Children in congregate care (group homes or residential placements) are at higher risk for exploitation, making family-based care the preferred model whenever possible. Reed calls for greater community engagement, suggesting ways individuals can support youth through fostering, volunteering as court advocates (CASA), or contributing to foster care organizations. Resources Book: Sleight of Hand by Vicki Reed Book: The Car Thief by Vicki Reed Charlie Applestein: No Such Thing as a Bad Kid EHT246: Why You Should Read The Car Thief Transcript [00:00:00] Sandie: Welcome to the Ending Human Trafficking Podcast, brought to you by Vanguard University's Global Center for Women and Justice, here in Orange County, California. I'm Dr. Sandy Morgan, and this is the show where we equip you to study the issues, be a voice, and make a difference in the fight to end human trafficking. [00:00:22] Today I'm thrilled to welcome back Commissioner Vicki Reed. To the show,

The murder trial that exposed horrifying gaps in child protection.An 8-year-old girl, barely clinging to life, was rushed to a London hospital after a cab driver sees her state. By the time paramedics got her there, it was already too late.  In this heartbreaking case, I tell you about the abuse, the failures, and the devastating loss of Victoria Climbié—and how an entire system let her down when she needed it most.************************************************************************************************Podcast Promo: Mythical True Crime*************************************************************************************************Do you have thoughts about this case, or is there a specific true crime case you'd like to hear about? Let me know with an email or a voice message: https://murderandlove.com/contactFind the sources used in this episode and learn more about how to support Love and Murder: Heartbreak to Homicide and gain access to even more cases, including bonus episodes, ad-free and intro-free cases, case files and more at: https://murderandlove.com~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~Please take some time to Rate, Share, Subscribe!

In this episode of the Foster Friendly Podcast, hosts Courtney Williams and Travis Vangsnes speak with Scott Fuller, Vice President of Advancement at Murphy Harpst Children's Center. They discuss the organization's century-long commitment to caring for vulnerable children in foster care, Scott's personal journey into the field, and the innovative therapeutic programs offered, including equine therapy. The conversation highlights the importance of community support and the evolution of child welfare services in Georgia. This conversation also delves into the complexities of congregate care and residential group homes, exploring the evolving landscape of child welfare. The speakers discuss the myths surrounding residential care, pros and cons of residential foster care settings, the importance of community in healing, and the challenges faced by youth transitioning to adulthood. They emphasize the need for supportive policies and community involvement to address the gaps in foster care and ensure that every child receives the love and attention they need to thrive.

A record number of New Yorkers are on cash assistance, but starting April 28, recipients will once again need to meet work requirements to keep their benefits. Meanwhile, a new report finds that low-income Black and Hispanic families in the city face a disproportionate number of child welfare investigations. Plus, the sanitation department is opening a new compost pickup site in Astoria, offering free bags of compost to residents on select days.

Today we talked to Alex Jutca; he leads analytics and technology at the Allegheny County Department of Human Services, where his team's mission is to build the country's leading R&D lab for local government. Allegheny County is known for having the best integrated data of any state and local system in the country, and they've applied it effectively, like using predictive algorithms in child welfare.We discussed:* What issues are consistent across Pittsburgh, Philly, and Baltimore?* How does a local CPS actually work?* When shouldn't you involuntarily commit people with severe mental disorders?* Why has anti-addiction drug development stalled out? This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.statecraft.pub

  Lisa Gitelson - The Fresh Air Fund: Because a Summer Can Last a Lifetime. This is episode 756 of Teaching Learning Leading K12, an audio podcast. Lisa Gitelson is the CEO of The Fresh Air Fund. Each year the nearly 148-year-old nonprofit invites about 3,000 low-income New York City-based children ages 8-18 to spend the summer swimming, rowing, hiking, and stargazing in Fresh Air Fund camps. Throughout Lisa's career in public service, as an attorney and child welfare advocate, she has been dedicated to addressing the needs of underserved youth.  Prior to joining The Fund, she was Assistant Executive Director/Legal Counsel for The New York Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NYSPCC). She is also an Adjunct Professor at Silberman School of Social Work, Hunter College, CUNY, where she teaches the Policy & Practice of Child Welfare.  As Assistant Executive Director/Legal Counsel for NYSPCC, Lisa identified legislation and other public policy issues that impacted the organization's work and developed an advocacy agenda to move public policy efforts forward.  Previously, she served as Associate Executive Director, Downstate, at the Council of Family and Child Caring Agencies (COFCCA) where she was responsible for bringing private foster care, juvenile justice, residential care and prevention services agencies together to coordinate advocacy efforts for the child welfare and juvenile justice systems. In this role, Lisa represented COFCCA member agencies in discussions with the Administration for Children's Services, the New York City Council and the New York State Office of Children and Family Services.    Prior to COFCCA, Lisa was the Director of Foster Care and Adoption Services at Sheltering Arms Children and Family Services. She began her career as an attorney representing foster care agencies before serving in multiple leadership and supervisory roles at the New York City Administration for Children's Services, Family Court Legal Services. Lisa is a graduate of Colgate University and has a JD from Washington University School of Law. Our focus today is The Fresh Air Fund. Awesome talk! So much to learn! Please share. Before you go... You could help support this podcast by Buying Me A Coffee. Not really buying me something to drink but clicking on the link on my home page at https://stevenmiletto.com for Buy Me a Coffee or by going to this link Buy Me a Coffee. This would allow you to donate to help the show address the costs associated with producing the podcast from upgrading gear to the fees associated with producing the show. That would be cool. Thanks for thinking about it.  Hey, I've got another favor...could you share the podcast with one of your friends, colleagues, and family members? Hmmm? What do you think? Thank you! You are AWESOME! Connect & Learn More: https://freshair.org/ https://x.com/FreshAirFund https://www.instagram.com/thefreshairfund/?hl=en https://www.facebook.com/freshairfund LGitelson@freshair.org Length - 32:10

Greg Bishop provides the back and forth between Illinois House Republicans and Gov. J.B. Pritzker over criticism of the governor's handling of child welfare and developmental disability housing agencies.

Ambassador Wendy Sherman, the 21st U.S. Deputy Secretary of State and the first woman in that position, has been a diplomat, businesswoman, professor, political strategist, author, and social worker. She served under three presidents and five secretaries of state, becoming known as a diplomat for hard conversations in hard places. As Deputy Secretary, she was the point person on China. While serving as Undersecretary for Political Affairs, Sherman led the U.S. negotiating team that reached an agreement on the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action between the P5+1, the European Union and Iran.  And, as Counselor at the State Department, she led on North Korea and was engaged on Middle East negotiations. For her diplomatic accomplishments she was awarded the National Security Medal by President Barack Obama. At Harvard Kennedy School, she was a professor of the practice of public leadership, director of the Center for Public Leadership at the Harvard Kennedy School (where she is now a Hauser Leadership Fellow), and a current and former Senior Fellow at the School's Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs. In 2002, along with former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright, Sherman built a global consulting business, The Albright Group. Sherman previously served on the President's Intelligence Advisory Board, chaired Oxfam America's Board of Directors, served on the U.S. Department of Defense's Defense Policy Board, and was Director of Child Welfare for the State of Maryland. She is the author of the book: “Not for the Faint of Heart: Lessons in Courage, Power and Persistence.” Sherman attended Smith College and received a B.A. cum laude from Boston University and a Master's degree in Social Work from the University of Maryland. Ralph Ranalli of the HKS Office of Communications and Public Affairs is the host, producer, and editor of HKS PolicyCast. A former journalist, public television producer, and entrepreneur, he holds an BA in political science from UCLA and a master's in journalism from Columbia University.Scheduling and logistical support for PolicyCast is provided by Lilian Wainaina. Design and graphics support is provided by Laura King and the OCPA Design Team. Web design and social media promotion support is provided by Catherine Santrock and Natalie Montaner of the OCPA Digital Team. Editorial support is provided by Nora Delaney and Robert O'Neill of the OCPA Editorial Team. 

This week, the Minnesota Supreme Court heard arguments in a case that could reshape child custody laws for Native American children. At the heart of the case is a challenge to the Minnesota Indian Family Preservation Act, or MIFPA. Plus, a proposed bill in Congress is raising concerns about voting among Native communities across the country. The Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act would require all Americans to prove their citizenship in person with official documents when registering to vote .

Welcome back to Seasoned Sessions! This episode, we discuss; a couple sentenced to hundreds of years in prison after abusing their adoptive children, the upcoming Ronnie Spector biopic with Zendaya, and more – plus, we give Beyoncé's Sir Davis a taste test. Get in touch with us at @seasonedsessionspod, @adaenechi, and @its_hanifahh – have a great week!

In this moment, as many of us experience a shift in what we are allowed to talk about at work related to DEI and identity, we are sharing this series of episodes exploring how Vermont is talking about antiracism and abolitionism in child welfare. Please join us in this series: How the Story is Told: An Abolitionist Child Welfare Conference. This is Part 3: The child welfare that can be realized through our imaginations and life's work featuring Dr. Brenda Solomon. Show notes & transcripts available @ https://vermontcwtp.org/podcast/  Follow us on IG: @thesocialworklens  https://www.instagram.com/thesocialworklens/

Click here to send us a topic idea or question for Weekend Wisdom.Why is kinship care important, and what are some of the challenges? Our guests are Gregory Jones, a granddad raising five grandkids from birth to now ranging in age from 9 to 12; Ana Beltran, an attorney, and director of the Grandfamilies & Kinship Support Network: A National Technical Assistance Center; and Erica Burgess, a social worker with over 25 years of experience in child welfare, specializing in kinship care.In this episode, we discuss:How common is kinship care throughout the US—both formal (child welfare involved) and informal?Grandparents raising grandkids or aunts and uncles raising nephews and nieces is often complicated and comes with a mix of challenges and blessings.What are some of the blessings?What are some of the challenges? Managing the relationship between the caregiver and the parents.What are some common challenges in this relationship?What are some common boundaries that need to be set in kinship care?Lack of preparation and training for raising kids who have experienced trauma, neglect, prenatal exposure to alcohol or drugs, etc.Lack of financial support.How can social workers and child welfare professionals make sure that kinship caregivers get the full extent of financial support?Access to resources. What are some typical resources that kinship caregivers should ask about and that child welfare agencies should consider providing?We see a significant variance between jurisdictions in social workers and child welfare professionals in the embrace of placing children with relatives.Why are some social workers hesitant to place kids with relatives?From an ethical perspective, why must social workers open their minds to looking for kin first when removing a child from their parents?Placing children with kin rather than the state taking custody. (Hidden foster care/kinship diversion)Legal considerationsEthical considerations with the hidden foster.Great resources:Grandfamilies & Kinship Support Network: A National Technical Assistance Center Grandfacts: State Fact Sheets for Grandparents and Other Relatives Raising ChildrenNCKinshipFamilies.org - Legal Permanency Options for NC Kinship Families websiteFree Kinship Legal Clinic Kinship Caregivers and the Child Welfare Systemhttps://www.childwelfare.gov/pubs/f-kinshi/Online Kinship Support Group - email tracy@creatingafamily.orgSupport 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

AP correspondent Donna Warder reports on a lawsuit that accuses Vermont child welfare officials of targeting pregnant women considered unsuitable for motherhood.

If you ask almost anyone about the time of year that people feel the most down, the time people are most at risk for depression, suicide, and increased substance use, they will answer winter. Surprisingly, perhaps, the research shows that it's actually when spring moves into summer. Joshua Arvidson discusses that research and what can be done to help individuals improve their mental health during challenging times of the year. Joshua is Chief Operations Officer for Alaska Behavioral Health. He is a licensed clinical social worker and an expert in trauma informed care for children who established the Alaska Child Trauma Center at Alaska Behavioral Health. He serves on the Steering Committee for SAMHSA's National Child Traumatic Stress Network and is the Principal Investigator for the Military Family Child Trauma Program. He's also on the Editorial Review Board for the Journal of Child and Adolescent Trauma and has presented on childhood trauma at over 100 conferences, including the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies. Joshua serves on the Board of Directors for FOCUS and has designed and taught courses on clinical practice with children and adolescents and childhood trauma for the University of Alaska Anchorage. Joshua has published in the journals Child Welfare 360, Child Maltreatment, the Journal of Child and Adolescent Trauma, and Trauma, Abuse and Violence. Alaska Behavioral Health, its resources, and its programs can be reached at https://alaskabehavioralhealth.org/ The views and opinions of the guests on this podcast are theirs and theirs alone and do not necessarily represent those of the host, Westwords Consulting or the Kenosha County Substance Abuse Coalition. We're always interested in hearing from individuals or organizations who are working in substance use disorder treatment or prevention, mental health care and other spaces that lift up communities. This includes people living those experiences. If you or someone you know has a story to share or an interesting approach to care, contact us today! Follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube. Subscribe to Our Email List to get new episodes in your inbox every week!

Elisa Izquierdo was a young child whose tragic death revealed deep flaws in the child welfare system. In this video, we explore her heartbreaking story—from the early signs of abuse to the reforms inspired by her case, including the groundbreaking Elisa's Law. Join us as we examine how one tragedy sparked a nationwide call for accountability and change, while honoring Elisa's memory and the fight to protect our most vulnerable. Viewer discretion is advised.   Watch the Youtube version (Sources in the Description) https://youtu.be/akpqh-EsnUk   Check out my website and submit cases www.danellehallantc.com Follow my socials! facebook.com/danellehallan Instagram.com/danellehallanyt https://www.tiktok.com/@danellehallan

In a recent episode of The Spark, host Asia Tabb sat down with Carrie King, Katie Brilhart, and Becky Ludwit from the PA Partnerships for Children (PPC) to discuss their advocacy efforts for better education, healthcare, child welfare, and policies that support children and families in Pennsylvania.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What policy successes and failures have shaped outcomes for kids in the past five years, and what is necessary to create solutions in the next five? Join Naomi and Ian for the final episode of the Are You Kidding Me? podcast. From breakthroughs in school choice, to failures in child safety, to the growing ideological capture in child welfare and education, our hosts discuss “the good, the bad, and the ugly” of recent years–while looking ahead to what's needed to create a better future for America's children.Resources• Subscribe to the Are You Kidding Me? Monthly Newsletter • Stay Up to Date with The Free InitiativeShow Notes• 1:10 | “The Good”: Victories for School Choice • 5:04 | “The Good”: The Importance of Family Structure• 9:42 | “The Good”: Pushback against Extreme Ideas in Child Welfare • 13:10 | “The Bad”: Poor Policies around Reporting Child Safety Risks• 17:27 | “The Bad”: Misconceptions around Racial Disparities in Child Data • 18:40 | “The Bad”: The Family First Prevention Services Act's Impact on Residential Care • 25:13 | “Looking Ahead”: Report Data by Family Structure• 29:35 | “Looking Ahead”: Better Policies around Child Maltreatment Fatalities • 32:31 | How to Stay Connected with Naomi and Ian's Work

In this Florida Man Friday episode, Ky tells you the case of Diane Natasha Mack, a former child welfare worker whose actions led to the tragic death of her adopted daughter, Selena. The narrative begins with a seemingly routine 911 call: a mother reporting her unresponsive child. However, what unfolds next is a shocking revelation of abuse and neglect that raises serious questions about the child welfare system. When first responders arrived, they found a malnourished 13-year-old child covered in wounds, a grim reflection of the systemic horrors that had transpired in Diane's home.As we explore the timeline of events, it quickly becomes apparent that Diane's initial claims about her daughter's condition were fabricated. Instead of calling for help immediately, she opted to drive her other children two and a half hours away. This decision to delay medical assistance underscores a chilling narrative of neglect and potential premeditation. The investigation into Diane's home revealed further evidence of sustained abuse, including shackles and blood-stained restraints, highlighting the level of violence and control exerted over Selena. The findings at the crime scene were so disturbing that Sheriff Paul Blackman described it as one of the most shocking cases he had ever encountered.Throughout the episode, we bring to light Diane's background as a Department of Children and Families (DCF) worker, a role that ironically positioned her to protect vulnerable children rather than harm them. My discussion emphasizes the immense failure of the child welfare system, questioning how someone with such a background could adopt children and then subject them to such deplorable treatment. As I break down Diane's history and her stint as a court-appointed guardian ad litem, I confront systemic issues within the DCF — from overwhelmed caseworkers handling excessive caseloads to the alarming lack of proper oversight that allowed this abuse to occur unnoticed.We also hear from Selena's biological mother, Jennifer, who lost custody years prior and desperately sought to reunite with her daughter. Her emotional pleas resonate throughout the episode, serving as a stark reminder of the human cost when child welfare systems fail. As the ramifications of Diane's actions unfold, I discuss the ongoing legal proceedings, including the charges of first-degree murder and the state's pursuit of the death penalty, and reflect on the broader implications for child welfare policies in Florida.As I wrap up the episode, I reflect on the critical need for reform within the DCF and the urgent call to action regarding child protective services nationwide. The tragedy of Selena's case is more than just a singular horror; it reveals widespread systemic failures that place countless children at risk. I encourage listeners to engage with this case and share their thoughts, stressing the need for awareness and accountability in the fight for children's rights and safety. The episode serves as a grim reminder that we must not turn a blind eye; each child deserves protection and care, and it's up to us to advocate for systemic change.********************************************************************************Sources:https://www.myfloridanews.com/news/southwest/sebring-woman-charged-with-murder-and-abuse-of-adopted-daughter/article_2e36efcc-5ca9-5cbb-bdb3-9f17264f1405.htmlhttps://www.lawyerherald.com/articles/60882/20241118/daughter-dead-garage-florida-child-welfare-worker-abuse-bruised-diane-natasha-mack.htmhttps://www.wfla.com/news/highlands-county/ex-department-of-children-and-families-worker-accused-of-killing-teen-daughter/https://people.com/dcf-worker-charged-murder-daughter-found-naked-emaciated-diaper-8747303https://www.fox35orlando.com/news/florida-woman-charged-murder-abuse-death-adopted-daughter-13**********************************************************************************HOW TO SUPPORT LOVE AND MURDER:

Are you curious about the emotional rollercoaster of fostering and adopting as an out gay family? Merry Elkins and Cathy Worthington sit down with Lane Igoudin, author of "A Family, Maybe." Lane shares his poignant journey of fostering and adopting multicultural children, diving deep into the complexities faced by LGBTQ families. Hear Lane read the first chapter of his memoir, capturing the heart-stopping moment he and his partner Jonathan welcomed a newborn with a complex background into their lives. Discover why they chose fostering over other options and how it impacted their relationship. Lane candidly discusses the cultural dynamics within their family and the broader social and political challenges surrounding adoption rights. This episode is a heartfelt exploration of love, resilience, and advocacy. Tune in for insights and inspiration!Lane's BioLane Igoudin, Ph.D., is the author of A Family, Maybe, a life-changing journey through foster adoptions to fatherhood (Ooligan Press, Portland State University, 2024). He has written extensively on adoption, parenting, and other issues for Adoption.com, Forward, Jewish Journal, and Parabola and spoken about his book on NBC's “Daytime” show, syndicated radio shows, literary and parenting podcasts, as well as live audiences on his 12-stop book tour. A Family, Maybe received endorsements from US Congressman Alan Lowenthal, California Senator Sheila Kuehl, bestselling writers like Janet Fitch and Greta Boris, parenting experts and social work professionals. Lane is professor of English and linguistics at Los Angeles City College.Connect with LaneWebsite: www.laneigoudin.comEmail: laneigoudin@gmail.comFacebook: www.facebook.com/lane.igoudin/Instagram: @laneigoudin

In this episode of the Foster Friendly Podcast, hosts Brian, Courtney, and Travis discuss the vital role of social workers in foster care, especially during Social Worker Appreciation Month. They explore the misconceptions surrounding social workers, the various roles of caseworkers, and the challenges they face. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding and appreciating the work of caseworkers, fostering a collaborative relationship between foster parents and caseworkers, and recognizing the humanity in each other's roles. The hosts also discuss the things foster parents often feel and wish caseworkers understood better. The episode concludes with suggestions on how foster parents can show appreciation to their caseworkers, reinforcing the idea that they are all part of the same team working towards the best outcomes for children in care.

On this West Virginia Morning, Kentucky's Mammoth Cave National Park is just one of the sites already feeling the effects of firing federal workers at National Parks, and West Virginia's new Secretary of the Department of Human Services, Alex Mayer, discusses the future of child welfare. The post New Human Services Secretary Discusses Child Welfare And Effect Of Federal Cuts Are Felt At Mammoth Cave, This West Virginia Morning appeared first on West Virginia Public Broadcasting.

Tonight, we dive into a chilling exposé with Hadassah Feinberg, a whistleblower from Governor Josh Shapiro's small Jewish community in Pennsylvania. As a mandated reporter, she uncovered child abuse cover-ups, only to face retaliation from local officials who targeted her family and kidnapped her kids. Fleeing to Florida, Hadassah discovered the corruption stretched to the highest levels, implicating those in power. Join us as she reveals the shocking truth about abuse, intimidation, and a system protecting itself—all from the town where the governor calls home. www.youtube.com/@SpeakUpPa

Join Fantom Facts Society as we unravel the chilling tale of CPS tearing families apart under false pretenses, spotlighting Spike Cohen's recent victory in Georgia aiding wrongly accused parents. We plunge into the shadowy tactics of CPS, exposing how they manipulate courts and wield their own medical experts to unjustly remove kids—with zero accountability for their errors. Then, we shift gears to explore Dr. Elizabeth Loftus' groundbreaking—and controversial—work on implanting false memories, a journey that kicked off in the ‘60s alongside the enigmatic Jolly West. Is memory manipulation a diabolical tool or a misunderstood marvel? We weigh the pros, cons, and ethical quagmires in this mind-bending episodeCPS corruption, Spike Cohen, Georgia parents, family separation, false pretenses, court system abuse, medical manipulation, child removal, no accountability, Dr. Loftus, false memories, memory implantation, Jolly West, 1960s research, psychological ethics, mind control, CPS tactics, parental rights, justice system flaws, memory science, controversial psychology, ethical dilemmas, child welfare, government overreach, implanted evidence, courtroom deception, CPS doctors, family trauma, memory distortion, psychological manipulation, Spike Cohen activism, Georgia success, CPS reform, false accusations, Dr. Loftus legacy, pros and cons, diabolical science, memory reliability, CPS underbelly, parental advocacy, unethical practices, court leverage, memory experiments, child protection flaws, psychological impact, systemic abuse, truth vs. fabrication, Fantom Facts, investigative deep dive

In this conversation, Michael Weitzman shares his profound journey from growing up in the foster care system to becoming an advocate for vulnerable children. Michael's faith in God became his lifeline as he faced some really difficult times in foster care. He discusses the challenges he faced, including a failed adoption, emotional struggles, and the impact of trauma on his life. Michael emphasizes the importance of mentorship and faith in his journey, ultimately finding purpose in serving others and sharing his story of resilience and hope. He also shares more on the pain of abandonment and the ongoing impact of these experiences on his relationships and identity. He emphasizes the importance of community, mentorship, and the role of faith in healing. Michael discusses the complexities of navigating relationships with both biological and adoptive siblings, and the necessity of building connections to foster healing and transformation. He calls for greater engagement from the community to support foster children, highlighting that relationships are crucial for their development and well-being.You can reach Michael at: maweitzman@icloud.com

On this week's episode, we review some of the recent action out of Washington, including what's going on with federal funds, the impact of Trump's executive orders on some youth with lived experience, and who is temporarily leading child welfare and youth justice policy. We also break down the findings from a report on health care for youth who have aged out of foster care, and a new bill that would fund post-adoption support. Reading RoomRegister for Empowered Youth Voices: Overcoming Imposter Syndrome and Building Confidence in Storytelling.https://bit.ly/3EZiz4tThe Acting Leaders on Child Welfare, Youth Justicehttps://imprintnews.org/youth-services-insider/the-acting-leaders-on-child-welfare-youth-justice/259082Early Trump Actions Leave Lived Experience Jobs in Fluxhttps://imprintnews.org/youth-services-insider/early-trump-actions-leave-lived-experience-jobs-flux/258758Trump Halts, then Reinstates, Legal Counsel for Unaccompanied Minors Seeking Asylumhttps://imprintnews.org/youth-services-insider/trump-halts-legal-counsel-for-unaccompanied-minors-seeking-asylum/259021Report Notes Trends, Barriers in Medicaid Enrollment for Former Foster Youth https://imprintnews.org/youth-services-insider/gao-notes-trends-barriers-in-medicaid-enrollment-for-former-foster-youth/258781Bills Introduced on Adoption Support, Rehominghttps://imprintnews.org/youth-services-insider/bills-introduced-adoption-support-rehoming/258945

An estimated 5% of foster youth qualify for Social Security benefits, but in many states, child welfare agencies use these funds to help cover the cost of care. In 2018 alone, agencies in 49 states and Washington, D.C., received at least $165 million in benefits intended for foster youth.In this episode, Shoshana Weissmann interviews Maureen Flatley, subject matter expert in child welfare and child exploitation. They discuss how these funds are managed, the policies guiding their use, and the ongoing conversations about their impact on foster youth and the child welfare system.

House Committee on Appropriations Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Date: Thursday, February 27, 2025 – 9:00 AM Location: Capitol Complex, 2008 RHOB, Washington, DC, 20515, USA Aurene Martin Board of Directors Member National Indian Child Welfare Association More on Indianz.Com: https://indianz.com/News/2025/02/24/video-american-indian-and-alaska-native-public-witness-hearing-day-3/

In this episode of InnerViews, host Ivory Bennett sits down with Montina Myers-Galloway, a licensed clinical mental health counselor, TEDx speaker, and advocate for Black women healing from parentification. Together, they explore the impact of adultification and emotional burdens placed on Black youth in foster care and juvenile justice. Montina shares how professionals can create trauma-informed spaces, support mental well-being, and empower youth to reclaim their narratives. This conversation is a must-listen for those committed to breaking cycles and fostering emotional healing in child welfare.

Show Notes:Content Warning: This episode contains discussions about drug use, abuse, and neglect. Please proceed with care.Two years after his first appearance on the podcast, Joe returns to share the incredible and often painful journey of adopting his niece and nephew. In this raw and honest conversation, he details the struggles of navigating a deeply flawed foster care system, the emotional toll of parenting children with trauma, and the ongoing challenges of healing as a family.From dealing with corrupt social workers to searching for the children's fugitive parents, Joe takes us inside the reality of stepping up when no one else would. Now, with the adoption finalized, he and his wife continue to work through behavioral struggles, the lack of mental health resources, and the weight of carrying a story that is far from over.Despite everything, they remain committed to giving these kids a future filled with safety, stability, and love.

On this week's episode, Abecedarian Group President Celia Sims joins us to discuss child welfare and education policy, and the intersection of the two. Sims, who spent most of her career on Capitol Hill, reflects on a recent op-ed she wrote for The Imprint and shares thoughts on the practicability of President Trump's proposal to shutter the Department of Education. Celia Sims is the founder of the Abecedarian Group, and serves as a volunteer court appointed special advocate. Sims has served as an advisor on education and child welfare policy for former Sen. Richard Burr (R-N.C.) and the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions, and was vice president of government relations for KinderCare Education.Reading RoomCommon Ground Is The OnlyPolitical Path for Child Welfarehttps://imprintnews.org/opinion/common-ground-only-political-path-child-welfare/256030The Imprint's extensivecoverage on educational stability for youth in foster carehttps://imprintnews.org/tag/essaNew Report HighlightsOngoing Challenges for NYC Students in Foster Carehttps://imprintnews.org/top-stories/new-report-highlights-ongoing-challenges-for-nyc-students-in-foster-care/237967