Podcasts about Foster care

Drop us some Fan Mail. Thanks!Many parents raising adopted, foster, or kinship children feel like they're carrying most of the parenting load alone. Talking about it and changing it can be hard. In this episode, Josh Davis, PhD, shares practical, non-blaming strategies to improve communication, build confidence, and create a stronger parenting partnership when raising kids from hard places. As Father's Day approaches, Josh also offers some downloads for Dads!In this episode, we discuss:How common is it for one person in a partnership or marriage to feel as if the parenting load is uneven?How can we influence the relationship to invite our partners into a more balanced dynamic?What are the common reasons partners step back instead of stepping in? What are some signs that maybe criticism—even subtle—is affecting our partner's willingness to engage?What do you mean by “lowering the barrier to involvement?”How can we offer specific, doable examples to our partners without “telling them what to do?”What scripts can we use, or what language, to invite partnership?For parents/caregivers raising challenging kids who require a LOT of time, energy, emotional investment, etc., what are some helpful ways to stay emotionally connected and protect their marriage or partnership?If a listener wants to take what they've learned here and invite their partner in to share the parenting load, what are one or two first steps to try? Resources:Celebrating & Supporting Men in Foster & Kinship CareJosh Davis, PhD  - www.joshdavisphd.com/www.joshdavisphd.com and www.nlpfordads.com Why Mentors are Crucial When Raising Relative KidsSupport 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 podcastsWeekly articles/blog postsResource pages on all aspects of family building

As Father's Day approaches, this week's episode of Fostering Change is one of our most personal conversations yet.For years, listeners have heard Rob Scheer share his family's story through the lens of a former foster youth, adoptive father, advocate, and founder of Comfort Cases. This week, he sits down with his youngest son, Tristan, for an honest and heartfelt conversation about family, foster care, belonging, and the journey they've shared together.Tristan joined the Scheer family as an infant, alongside his older brother, Greyson, instantly transforming the family from two children to four. Today, at 17 years old, he's a high school junior, an accomplished football and track athlete, and a young man beginning to think about college, adulthood, and the future ahead.Together, father and son reflect on growing up in a family built through foster care and adoption, what it was like being surrounded by advocacy and public service, and how Tristan defines family, belonging, and home.More than a Father's Day episode, this is a conversation about love, resilience, healing, and the lasting impact of showing up for one another.Conversation HighlightsTristan's perspective on growing up in the Scheer familyWhat it means to be part of a family formed through foster care and adoptionGrowing up around Comfort Cases, advocacy, and public serviceThe values Rob and Reece worked to instill in their childrenHow family is built through commitment, consistency, and loveLessons learned from fatherhood, family, and shared experiencesAthletics, college aspirations, and Tristan's hopes for the futureWhy belonging matters at every stage of lifeWhy This Episode MattersThis conversation reminds us that foster care is not ultimately about systems, policies, or paperwork.It's about people.It's about children finding stability, growing into young adults, building relationships, and creating futures for themselves.As Father's Day arrives, we also recognize that families come in many forms. Some young people have traditional fathers in their lives. Others are guided by foster fathers, adoptive fathers, grandfathers, uncles, brothers, mentors, coaches, teachers, or caregivers who step forward when they're needed most.And many are still searching for that connection.To all those who show up, stay present, and help a young person know they matter: Happy Father's Day.And to every young person experiencing foster care, may this conversation remind you that family is not defined by biology alone. Family is built through love, commitment, and the people who choose to stay.

The President says U.S. and Iran have agreed to end the fighting and reopen the Strait of Hormuz. The agreement, months in the making, is set to take be signed Friday, but there is still no resolution to the issues that sparked the war. Plus, after 53 years, the New York Knicks have won the NBA championship, and celebrations across the city are underway. Also, action at the World Cup is heating up after the U.S. men's team got off to a strong start with a 4-1 win over Paraguay. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this inspiring episode, we explore a powerful story of redemption through an interview with Bethany, a dedicated foster mom, and Jaliyah, the biological mother of Bethany's former foster children. Their journey has been marked by many challenges, but their unwavering commitment to each other has led to a heartwarming reunion.Jaliyah worked incredibly hard to regain custody of her children, showing immense dedication and perseverance throughout the process. Bethany's intentional effort to maintain a supportive relationship with Jaliyah played a crucial role in this family's story. Her consistent presence and encouragement were vital in helping Jaliyah achieve her goal of reuniting with all her children.This episode underscores the significant impact that positive relationships between foster and biological families can have on the well-being of children. Tune in to hear how Bethany and Jaliyah's shared dedication has paved the way for healing and togetherness, and learn why maintaining these connections, when safe, can be so beneficial for everyone involved. Episode Highlights: How Bethany Got Started in Foster Care Jaliyah's Childhood & Upbringing Forming Relationships with Biological FamiliesGoing against the grain Reunification & Redemption   Find More on Hope Bridge:Visit Our Website Follow us on InstagramFollow us on Facebook 

What does it truly mean to find your voice after experiencing abandonment, loss, and a lifetime of unanswered questions? In this deeply moving episode of Living a Life by Design, Dr. Esther Graham sits down with Sharon Lee Williams—speaker, singer, advocate, and creator of OutRaised Voices—for an honest conversation about healing, identity, and discovering your worth beyond your circumstances. Drawing from her own experience growing up in foster care, Sharon Lee shares the emotional journey of overcoming feelings of rejection, learning to release shame, and finding the courage to rewrite the story she once believed about herself. Together, Esther and Sharon Lee explore the lasting impact of childhood trauma, the importance of belonging, the power of mentorship, and why it's never too late to step into your authentic voice. Sharon Lee also offers hope and encouragement to young people currently in foster care, reminding them that their present circumstances do not define their future. Whether you have personal experience with foster care, love someone who does, or are simply navigating your own journey of healing and self-discovery, this conversation is a powerful reminder that you are more than your past—and that your voice, your story, and your life matter. In this episode, you'll discover: How childhood experiences shape our sense of identity and self-worth The difference between having a voice and truly owning it Why healing is a lifelong journey—and it's never too late to begin The role of faith, community, and mentorship in overcoming adversity A message of hope for anyone who feels unseen, unheard, or "not enough" Join us for an inspiring conversation about resilience, authenticity, and the courage to find your voice beyond foster care. Because what happened to you is part of your story—but it is not the end of it.

Drop us some Fan Mail. Thanks!We talk a lot about the child's experience in foster care, but what is this experience like for the child's birth parents? You may be surprised! Join our conversation with Dr. Darcey Merritt, a professor at the University of Chicago School of Social Work who researches this topic.In this episode, we discuss:What is a typical scenario, if there is such a thing, of how a parent finds themselves connecting with the child welfare system?What rights do birth parents have within the system?What are some of the challenges families face before the child is taken into custody?What are some of the challenges that they face once the child is in foster care?How can you become an ally to the child's parents?How does poverty factor in?Who most commonly reports birth parents to child welfare?How does race factor in?Research in the area of working memory on parental decision-making.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 podcastsWeekly articles/blog postsResource pages on all aspects of family building

In this episode of the Foster Friendly Podcast, co-hosts Brian Mavis and Courtney Williams engage with Paula Yost, an attorney and licensed clinical medical health clinician, who shares her journey of advocacy for children in foster care and those with special needs. The conversation explores the impact of personal experiences, such as preeclampsia, on advocacy work, the complexities of navigating the foster care system, and the importance of education and support for both children and their advocates.Paula emphasizes the need for unconditional love and the power of hope in transforming the lives of kids in foster care, while also addressing the hidden traumas they face and the systemic failures that often hinder their progress. The episode concludes with a call to action for foster parents to see themselves as advocates and to provide the love and support that these children desperately need.Pickup a copy of her book: "Tumbleweeds: How to Be an Advocate for Your Children and Yourself in a Failing System"https://a.co/d/07naKZELTakeawaysPaula Yost blends legal advocacy with therapeutic support.Preeclampsia changed Paula's perspective on health and advocacy.Foster parents need to be informed about children's backgrounds.The foster care system often fails to support children's needs.Advocacy is essential for navigating educational systems.Unconditional love is crucial for foster children.Trauma impacts foster children's development and relationships.Education and support can change the trajectory of foster kids' lives.Building trust with foster children is vital for their healing.Hope is a powerful tool in advocating for foster children. 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.

John Paul DeJoria grew up with no connections, no money, and no roadmap. He sold encyclopedias door-to-door despite constant rejection, got fired from three consecutive jobs, and lived out of his car while raising his young son. Then, with just $700, he launched John Paul Mitchell Systems and built it into a billion-dollar haircare company. That same relentless spirit later helped him turn Patrón Tequila into one of the most recognized spirit brands in the world. In this episode, John Paul joins Ilana to share what it truly takes to build something from nothing, why rejection is just redirection, and why success unshared is failure. John Paul DeJoria is a self-made billionaire, entrepreneur, and the visionary co-founder behind John Paul Mitchell Systems and Patrón Tequila. Beyond his iconic business achievements, he is a passionate philanthropist dedicated to creating a positive global impact. In this episode, Ilana and John Paul will discuss: (00:00) Introduction (03:40) Growing Up in Foster Care as an Immigrant Kid (11:20) The Navy Lessons That Shaped His Leadership (15:23) Making It Through Sudden Homelessness (23:23) How Getting Fired Led Him to Start Paul Mitchell (28:22) How He Made Billions With Only $700  (40:50) Letting Go of Fear, Failure, and Yesterday's Mistakes (46:14) Growing Patrón Against the Odds (53:30) What Meeting Gaddafi Taught Him About Kindness (56:57) The New AI Platform That's Making Entrepreneurship Easier (01:00:15) Why Happiness, Health, and Family Matter Most John Paul DeJoria is a self-made billionaire, philanthropist, and co-founder of John Paul Mitchell Systems, the world's largest privately owned salon haircare brand. He also co-founded The Patrón Spirits Company, growing it from zero distribution to over 3.5 million cases annually before its landmark sale. His upcoming memoir, Success Unshared Is Failure, details his extraordinary journey and his conviction that giving back is essential. Connect with John Paul: John Paul's Website: peacelovehappinessfoundation.org John Paul Mitchell Systems: https://www.paulmitchell.com Resources Mentioned: John Paul's Book, Success Unshared is Failure: https://www.amazon.com/Success-Unshared-Failure-John-DeJoria/dp/B0FSTBMCJ8 Leap Academy: Ready to make the LEAP in your career? There is a NEW WAY for professionals to fast-track their careers and leap to bigger opportunities.  Check out our free training today at https://bit.ly/leap--free-training

This week on the Small Town Summit podcast, we have a recording of Ben Whittinghill's STS article, Adorning the Gospel Through Foster Care. We pray this article is an encouragement to you as you consider displaying the gospel through the ministry of foster care. If you would like to read more Small Town Summit Articles, please visit: www.smalltownsummits.com/articlesTo sign up for our fall conference, please visit: www.stsfallconference.com

Rick Jackson joins The Morning Xtra for an in-depth conversation about his campaign for governor of Georgia. He discusses economic growth, government efficiency, election integrity, education reform, foster care, mental health challenges, and why he believes a business background is needed in state government. Jackson also shares his personal story, leadership philosophy, and vision for Georgia's future. Tune in for a wide-ranging discussion on the issues shaping the race for governor. Watch The Morning Xtra every weekday from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. on the Xtra 106.3 YouTube or listen on the Xtra 106.3 App

Drop us some Fan Mail. Thanks!Question: We're new foster parents and have noticed that our child is hiding food in their backpack, closet, and even under the bed. We make sure there's always plenty to eat, so we're confused and a little concerned. Is this something we should be worried about? Why might they be doing this, and how should we respond in a way that helps them feel safe?Resources:Practical Solutions to Typical Food Issues with Adopted, Foster, & Kinship KidsPhysical and Emotional Health Issues Common with Foster KidsPanel of Parents Adopting Older Kids: Surviving That 1st YearSupport 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 podcastsWeekly articles/blog postsResource pages on all aspects of family building

Children under five to be removed from residential care in Queensland; A fire kills 21 people in the Indian city of New Delhi; And in tennis, world number one Aryna Sabalenka has been dumped out of the French Open in a quarter-final upset. - करसम्बन्धी परिवर्तनहरूलाई लिएर नयाँ विरोध देखिदा सरकारले आज, ४ जुनमा आफ्नो प्रस्तावित बजेटका उपायहरूको पहिलो चरण पारित गराउने प्रयास गर्दै, साथै न्यु साउथ वेल्समा औषधी प्रयोजनका लागि चिकित्सकीय सल्लाहमा गाँजा प्रयोग गर्ने गाडी चालकहरूले स्वतः लाइसेन्स गुमाउन नपर्ने सम्भावना देखिएको लगायत आजका प्रमुख समाचार सुन्नुहोस्।हाम्रा थप अडियो प्रस्तुतिहरू पोडकास्टका रूपमा उपलब्ध छन्। यो नि:शुल्क सेवा प्रयोग गर्न तपाईंले आफ्नो नाम दर्ता गर्नु पर्दैन। पोडकास्टमा सामाग्री उपलब्ध हुनासाथ सुन्न यहाँ थिच्नुहोस्।एसबीएस नेपालीको प्रत्यक्ष प्रसारण हरेक मङ्गलवार र बिहीवार दिउँसो २ बजे SBS South Asian मा डिजिटल रेडियोमार्फत, आफ्नो टेलिभिजनको च्यानल ३०५ मा, SBS Audio एपमार्फत, SBS On Demand मा वा हाम्रो वेबसाइटबाट सुन्न सक्नुहुन्छ।साथै हामी सोसल मिडिया प्लेटफर्महरू फेसबुक, इन्स्टाग्राम र एक्स मा पनि रहेका छौं SBS Nepali का नाममा।

Drop us some Fan Mail. Thanks!Raising kids while caring for aging parents is more common than ever—and often overwhelming. We talk with Robyn Wind, the GRAND Voices Support Coordinator for the National Center on Grandfamilies at Generations United, about the realities of sandwich generation caregiving and practical ways foster, adoptive, and kinship families can find support. In this episode, we discuss:Can we start with a working definition of the term “sandwich generation”?How have you seen that definition evolve in recent years? From your work with the National Center on Grandfamilies and Generations United, what are you seeing right now that suggests this is becoming a bigger issue? What are the most common pressures you hear caregivers talk about?Where do you see caregivers feeling the most “pulled apart” between generations for whom they are caring? What are the moments when they feel like they can't meet everyone's needs at once?Are there differences in how this shows up for: Parents of young children vs. teens? Kinship caregivers or grandparents raising grandchildren? Many of our listeners are already parenting children with trauma or complex needs. How does that layer onto sandwich caregiving? Do you see unique challenges for kinship caregivers who may already be caring for grandchildren and are now also caring for aging spouses or siblings? What are some ways systems unintentionally fail these families? Where do they tend to fall through the cracks? What would better support look like if systems were truly designed for multigenerational families? What are the early signs that a caregiver is stretched too thin and at risk?What does realistic self-care actually look like in this season of life? How do you advise the caregivers you support to balance guilt or feelings of inadequacy, given that there is SO much need on both sides of their sandwich?What supports should caregivers try to put in place early? How can families share this sandwich-caring experience more effectively, instead of having one person carry it all? What resources or programs from Generations United should caregivers know about? What strengths do you see in sandwich generation families that we don't talk about enough? Resources:'Sandwich generation' caregivers caught between two generations in needCaring for Those Who Are Caring for Everyone: The Sandwich Generation Generations UnitedGrandfamilies.orgGKSNetwork.orgGrandfamilies & Kinship University - Generations UnitedSupport 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 podcastsWeekly articles/blog postsResource pages on all aspects of family building

Today marks the launch of National Fostering Awareness month, and research by Tusla shows that many are not aware that they might actually be eligible to be a foster carer. Speaking to Anton about her experience as a foster carer was Noeleen O'Reilly. Also Anton spoke to Jacqueline Smyth, Tusla National Lead for Foster Care.

Children under five to be removed from residential care in Queensland; A fire kills 21 people in the Indian city of New Delhi; And in tennis, world number one Aryna Sabalenka has been dumped out of the French Open in a quarter-final upset.

Foster parents experience unique circumstances that come with unique emotions, and sometimes it can feel as though no one can relate to their life. Strength and encouragement come from viewing foster care through the lens of the Gospel. This is the message that Jason Johnson, author of Reframing Foster Care, brings. In this interview, he will share stories from his own foster parenting journey, such as the hard decisions and processes that he and his wife have had to go through, including the very real issues that come with relating to the birth parents of the children they are fostering. He will offer support to foster parents, as well as encouragement to those who are considering fostering. Also, he will give practical ways that we can all help, whether we feel called to be involved in foster care or not. Receive Ted Cunningham's book Fun Loving You for your donation of any amount, and receive a free audio download of this program! Get More Episode Resources If you enjoyed listening to Focus on the Family with Jim Daly, please give us your feedback.

Kelli Ingram is living the ultimate modern rebellion: a southern-born Presbyterian recently-turned-Catholic, a homeschooling farmer, and a mother of nine. Kelli's journey is nothing short of wild. She went from birth control to agonizing infertility and foster care heartbreak to adoption and conception—even delivering her last baby in an inflatable pool…inside an RV park on the Florida coast…on purpose. If you've ever wondered how a self-proclaimed "Type-C" mom completely ditches rigid bedtime schedules and thrives in beautiful, countercultural chaos, you need to hear this.Kelli's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelliingram/NEW: Check out our Merch store! https://shop.lilaroseshow.com/Join our new Patreon community! https://patreon.com/lilaroseshow - We'll have BTS footage, ad-free episodes, and early access to our upcoming guests.A big thanks to our partner, EWTN, the world's leading religious network! Discover news, entertainment and more at https://www.ewtn.com/ Check out our Sponsors:-Hallow: https://www.hallow.com/lila Enter into prayer more deeply this season with the Hallow App, get 3 months free by using this link to sign up! -Patriot Mobile: Get 1 month of free service at https://patriotmobile.com/lila or call 972-PATRIOT w/ code LILA-Presidio Healthcare: Healthcare and doctors who share your values. Visit: https://www.presidiocare.com/lila -We Heart Nutrition: https://www.weheartnutrition.com/ Get high quality vitamin supplements for 20% off using the code LILA.

Host Justin Forman sits down with Chad Spencer — entrepreneur, Ashley Furniture dealer, and co-founder of the For Others Collective — in Nashville for a deeply personal conversation about what it looks like when God doesn't just own your business, but every dimension of your life: your giving, your family, your calling, and your pain. Chad's story begins in a Memphis apartment where three little girls slept on one sleeping bag, and it leads through a decade of infertility, failed adoptions, a business in freefall, and a premature baby born with a life-threatening condition — all converging on a single night in a hospital closet with a Tim Keller book he didn't choose to pick up. What follows is one of the most honest entrepreneurial testimonies you'll hear: a man who ran hard toward success, hit rock bottom on every front simultaneously, and found that God had been engineering every moment of it — including the son who changed everything. Today, Chad channels that journey into For Others, a nationwide initiative to end the child welfare crisis in America — not through charity alone, but through the same business rigor he applies to growing a furniture company. Vision. Path. Leadership. Team. Execution. The math, he says, is actually solvable. Key Topics: How a home makeover contest in Memphis sparked Beds for Kids — now 200,000 beds given nationwide through Ashley's Hope to Dream charity The decade-long adoption journey: failed adoptions in Russia and domestically, and what it cost Chad and his wife Kelly spiritually Hitting rock bottom simultaneously in business, marriage, and faith — and what God used to break through How a randomly grabbed Tim Keller book and Romans 8 in a hospital room became the moment everything changed The birth of For Others alongside worship artist Chris Tomlin — and the business framework Chad brought to the foster care crisis Why 400,000+ churches and 400,000+ kids in foster care is math any entrepreneur can understand The VPLTR framework: how Chad structures kingdom impact the same way he runs a business Notable Quotes: "God, I've got nothing. I am empty. I don't know what to do... but God, I need to hear from you." — Chad Spencer "Above all else, guard your heart, for it's the wellspring of life. I'd lost life there. I wasn't guarding it." — Chad Spencer "Purpose becomes a pillar. Not an addendum, not an attachment. Make it a part of the way we do things." — Chad Spencer

Foster Care & Adoption | 1 John by Christ Covenant

June 2, 2026- New York's top court has invalidated a program set up by the Hochul administration that critics described as a "shadow" foster care system. We explore the issue with Betsy Kramer, director of policy and special litigation at Lawyers for Children.

In this episode of the AmiSights Podcast, we interview Anthony Trucks. He is a coach, motivational speaker, author, former NFL player, and CEO of Dark Work and Identity Shift. During the conversation, he shares how he overcame significant challenges in his life and transformed them into opportunities for growth and success. "Your business should be boring. We do this, attract this. It's boring, but here's the thing: that boringness gets me into exciting rooms, on exciting stages, and exciting conversations. But if I didn't have the reliability and consistency of this machine running, there's no excitement later, just frustration." In this episode, Anthony dives into his journey from foster care to the NFL, discusses how he rebuilt his life after career-ending injuries, and shares his insights on systemizing success in business. Recorded on 3/27/26

In this episode of Restoried, we are introduced to Shelly Mast, the newest county coordinator serving Holmes County and the surrounding area, and a longtime foster mom herself. Shelly shares her journey into foster care, which began in 2020 during the chaos of COVID, and how God used both the beauty and heartbreak of that season to shape her faith and calling. She opens up about the challenges of foster care, including medical needs, reunification, and the emotional weight of loving children through uncertain outcomes. Out of her experience, Shelly co-founded Project 1018, focused on practical and relational support for foster families. Now, she brings that same heart into her work with Hope Bridge, helping churches and communities step into meaningful care for vulnerable children and families. This episode is a simple but powerful introduction to Shelly's story, and the heart behind her work: showing up, staying faithful, and loving kids and families in the middle of hard stories.  Episode Highlights:  Meet Shelly Mast  County Coordinator Foster Care  Project 1018 Church Mobilization Community  Find More on Hope Bridge: Project 1081Visit Our Website  Follow us on Instagram Follow us on Facebook  

Episode Summary Phoebe Johnson spent her childhood living in foster care. Today she runs the kind of home she once needed. As executive director of Firm Foundation Youth Homes and Gigi's Cottage, she talks with Micaela about what it took to get there, the foster mom who never gave up on her, and the two models that shape how the girls in her care are met every day: Trust-Based Relational Intervention and Grace Based Parenting. Her central message holds for any adult showing up for a child carrying complex trauma. You can't redirect a brain until it feels safe, and connection is what heals it. In This Episode 00:00  Cold open 00:15  Welcome, season framing, and a content note 01:30  Meet Phoebe: Firm Foundation Youth Homes and Gigi's Cottage 03:00  Phoebe's story: foster care, a pastor's family, and seven years to permanency 08:00  Losing Ona, a scholarship she didn't know existed, and the people who walked her into adulthood 12:00  Stepping into the executive director role 14:30  Empathy for a system under pressure: community problem, community solutions 17:00  Why loving your staff well is how you love the girls well 20:00  Length of stay, permanency, and meeting each girl where she is 23:00  Trust-Based Relational Intervention and how complex trauma lives in the brain 26:00  Grace Based Parenting: connection before correction, and play as a regulator 30:00  Staying connected with girls who age out 33:00  What general audiences misunderstand about group homes 36:00  The gaps Phoebe sees, and how anyone can step in 38:00  Where to find Phoebe's work 39:00  Reflection and close About Our Guest Phoebe Johnson is the executive director of Firm Foundation Youth Homes and its DCS-licensed group home, Gigi's Cottage. She grew up in foster care herself and now leads the kind of home that shaped her. Resources and Links Firm Foundation Youth Homes Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI), Karyn Purvis Institute of Child Development Grace Based Parenting by Tim Kimmel Voices for CASA Children National CASA/GAL Association for Children About the Show By Their Side: Advocating for Children in Foster Care is produced by Voices for CASA Children. Season 3, "Understanding Every Voice in the Room," features practical, human conversations with professionals and people with lived experience. Hosted by Micaela Tracy. New episodes biweekly. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the guests and host and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of VOICES or its affiliates. Content Warning: This episode may include discussions of sensitive topics that could be triggering for some listeners.   Voices for CASA Children  |  By Their Side: Advocating for Children in Foster Care

In this episode of the David vs. Goliath Podcast, Stan Gipe and Matt Dolman, Attorneys of Dolman Law Group based in Clearwater, FL, are joined by Sara Beller, a member of Dolman Law Group, to discuss the realities of institutional abuse cases involving foster care systems, schools, youth programs, and sports organizations. Sara shares insights from her background prosecuting sex crimes and explains how systemic failures within institutions can allow abuse to continue unchecked. The conversation covers warning signs parents should watch for, why many victims stay silent, the challenges survivors face when coming forward, and how evolving laws may still give survivors legal options years later. This episode also explores the importance of recognizing grooming behaviors, trusting instincts when something feels wrong, and creating environments where children feel safe speaking up. #DavidVsGoliathPodcast #DolmanLawGroup #InstitutionalAbuse #FosterCare #SchoolSafety #YouthSports #LegalPodcast #ChildAdvocacy #PersonalInjuryLaw #SurvivorAdvocacy

In this episode of Adoption Diaries, Annie & Caitlin are comparing two common paths to building a family:  domestic infant adoption & foster care.   They will break down the primary goals of each system - permanency versus reunification - and what that means for hopeful adoptive parents. They explore the key differences, timelines, emotional expectations, and costs along with trauma informed parenting considerations.  Understanding these factors can help families prepare for the realities of each journey with clarity and compassion.  As always, if you want to learn more about who we are and what we do, head to our website.  And of course, follow along on Instagram

LINKS + RESOURCES FROM THIS EPISODE:• Scripture References: • Find out more about Covenant Church at ⁠covenantchurchwv.com

Bree Fain and Nikki Baugus join Pastor Walton this week to discuss Harvest House, ministry to foster children and families, and Foster Care Awareness Month. 

Hundreds of thousands of kids rely on America's foster care system. West Virginia has the highest rate of foster care placements of any state - four times the national average. Foster care is most often needed because of parental substance use, mental health challenges, poverty and neglect. Six-thousand Mountain State kids are in foster care, but there's a shortage of licensed foster homes and residential facilities and that's why nearly 400 kids live in out-of-state institutions. On this Us & Them, an encore episode finds more than half of all states have seen their number of licensed foster homes drop, some by as much as 60 percent because many new foster parents don't stay in the system for long. While official foster care cases are tracked and overseen by state agencies, many types of so-called kinship care are not official or included in state data. 

America's foster care crisis is serious for nearly 400,000 kids who rely on the system. In the latest episode of Us & Them, host Trey Kay looks into the shortage of licensed foster homes – and the wide range of agencies and nonprofit organizations who offer help navigating what can be a complicated system. The post How A Wide Range Of Agencies Are Tackling The Foster Care Crisis, This West Virginia Morning appeared first on West Virginia Public Broadcasting.

In this inspiring episode of Daily Influence, Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with Dr. Audra Bullock, former NASA electrical engineer and founder of Friends of Foster Care, whose journey proves that true impact begins when we choose to act. After a powerful moment watching a child in the foster care system share his desire for a family, Audra's path shifted from engineering excellence to human-centered leadership. What followed was a mission-driven organization now supporting thousands of children with stability, education, and opportunity. Audra shares how she transitioned from a data-driven career at NASA to navigating the emotional and complex world of foster care, why influence—not just information—is the key to creating change, and how small, intentional actions can spark a ripple effect in our communities. If you've ever wondered how to turn compassion into action or felt called to make a difference but didn't know where to start, this conversation will challenge and inspire you. In this episode, you'll learn: • The defining moment that led Audra from NASA to nonprofit leadership • Why data alone doesn't drive change—and what actually does • Practical ways to move from intention to meaningful impact • How small conversations can create life-changing outcomes for children in foster care • The importance of aligning your influence with purpose With over 368,000 children in foster care in the U.S., the need for awareness, support, and action has never been greater. Learn more or get involved: www.friendsoffostercare.org

Drop us some Fan Mail. Thanks!Are you considering residential treatment for your adopted child? We speak with Daniel Hochstetler of Fair Play Camp in South Carolina about preparing our families for residential treatment, navigating the programs, and how to set our families up for success after treatment. In this episode, we talk about:Pursuing residential treatment is one of the hardest decisions adoptive families can face. Based on your experience, how should we think about residential treatment within the broader picture of supporting our adopted kids? (i.e., exists on the spectrum of resources and interventions)Before we get into the details, what do you want adoptive families to hear right away if residential treatment is something they think they may need to consider?When we say residential treatment in this conversation, what does that mean?How is it different from other supports families may have already tried, like therapy, out-patient programs, or in-home services?What kinds of needs is residential treatment for adopted kids designed to meet?In your experience, how can residential care be helpful for kids and families who are really struggling?What are some misunderstandings that make this option feel more frightening or confusing than it needs to be?This is where many parents feel stuck. What are some signs that a family may need to start thinking about a higher level of care?Who should be part of making this decision? How can adoptive parents make sure they're not making it in isolation?When a family finds it necessary to move forward to placement in residential care, how can they talk with their child about residential treatment in a way that keeps the relationship intact?What reactions should parents expect, and how can they respond in ways that don't escalate their child's fear or shame?How can families stay connected while their child is in care?What helps parents partner well with the treatment team?Coming home is an important goal for parents and their kids to work toward. But it's not a reset button that magically clears the cache. It is, however, another transition. And transitions can be hard on everyone.What can you help our listeners understand about the transition home from the child's perspective?How should we be talking with our kids before leaving the residential program?What are realistic expectations for those first few weeks?What supports should already be in place before a child comes home? (work with caseworker from treatment, get recommendations, referrals, etc.)What are some simple ways to rebuild a connection without overwhelming the child?When old behaviors resurface—and they often do—how should parents respond?What does progress actually look like in real life during this phase?This experience affects everyone in the home. How can parents support siblings who may have been impacted by what's happened?Parents are often exhausted by this point. What does realistic, doable support look like for caregivers themselves?If a parent listening today feels like they're nearing this decision, what's one step they can take to feel more grounded and prepared for the experience?Resources:Parenting Children with Challenging Behavior (Resource Page)Accessing Residential Treatment Care for AdopteesExploring Medication for Adopted ChildrenDoes Your Child Need Residential TreatmentGet Residential Treatment for Your ChildSupport 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 podcastsWeekly articles/blog postsResource pages on all aspects of family building

In this episode of the Foster Friendly Podcast, host Brian Mavis speaks with Dr. John DiGarmo and Jen Lilley about their experiences in foster care and advocacy. They discuss their personal journeys, the challenges faced in the foster care system, and the importance of community support. The conversation also highlights their upcoming book, 'Called to Foster,' which aims to provide an honest guide for those considering fostering. The episode emphasizes the need for awareness and advocacy in the foster care system, as well as the emotional and practical realities of fostering children in crisis. The discussion also touches on the fears potential foster parents may have, the significance of community, and the transformative experiences that come from loving and caring for children in need.Pickup a copy of their book "Called to Foster?: An Honest Guide to Getting Started"https://a.co/d/0e6BFfwpDr. John DeGarmo's website: Foster Care Institutehttps://www.drjohndegarmofostercare.com/Jen Lilley's website:https://www.jenlilley.com/TakeawaysFoster care is a unique lifestyle full of sacrifices.Advocacy for foster children is crucial, especially during crises.Personal experiences shape the understanding of foster care.Community support is essential for foster parents.Awareness can lead to increased involvement in foster care.Not everyone is called to foster, but everyone can help.Fostering requires a different parenting approach due to trauma.The book 'Called to Foster' offers insights and guidance.Foster care can be more challenging than anticipated.Humor can be found in the toughest fostering moments. Fostering is both challenging and rewarding.Family support is crucial in the foster care journey.Taking an orientation class can provide valuable information.Foster parents need to love children unconditionally.Children in foster care need stability and structure.Foster care can lead to personal growth and empathy.Respite homes are essential for supporting foster families.Fostering can positively impact biological children.Every child deserves love and attention.Foster care can strengthen one's faith and sense of purpose. 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.

Welcome to the conclusion of our series on the Foster Care to Prison Pipeline. In this episode, we are joined by Jaylyn Van Fossen, who was previously in the foster care system in Vermont and currently a Social Work student, to discuss the barriers, needs, and hope for change centered on their lived experience and knowledge.  Show notes & Transcripts @ https://vermontcwtp.org/podcast/ Follow us on IG @thesocialworklens  

As National Foster Care Awareness Month comes to a close, this episode of Fostering Change focuses on something deeply important: what happens when organizations stop working in silos and start working together for young people.This week, Rob Scheer is joined by two Los Angeles-based leaders making a meaningful impact in the lives of youth connected to foster care: Beth Ryan, Executive Director & Founder of Stepping Forward LA, and Jorie Das, Executive Director of Friends of the Children Los Angeles.Together, their organizations are helping young people navigate some of the most difficult transitions imaginable — aging out of foster care, finding stability, building community, and creating long-term support systems rooted in consistency and trust.Beth Ryan's work through Stepping Forward LA focuses on youth transitioning out of foster care, with programs centered around mentorship, housing support, internships, workforce readiness, and a first-of-its-kind app designed by and for foster youth.Jorie Das leads Friends of the Children Los Angeles, which provides long-term professional mentorship to youth facing systemic barriers through a unique 12+ year commitment model focused on stability, prevention, and long-term success.Throughout the conversation, Rob, Beth, and Jorie explore how collaboration between nonprofits can strengthen outcomes for youth — and why consistent relationships remain one of the most powerful tools for healing and success.Episode HighlightsWhy aging out of foster care remains one of the biggest challenges facing young adultsHow mentorship and long-term relationships improve outcomes for youthThe importance of nonprofit collaboration instead of competitionHow Los Angeles reflects both the scale of the foster care crisis and the opportunity for innovationWhy Foster Care Awareness Month must lead to meaningful action and engagementAbout the GuestsBeth Ryan is the Executive Director & Founder of Stepping Forward LA, a nonprofit supporting youth aging out of foster care through mentorship, housing support, workforce development, and community-based solutions. As the organization approaches its 10-year anniversary, Stepping Forward LA continues expanding its impact across Los Angeles.Jorie Das is the Executive Director of Friends of the Children Los Angeles, an organization providing long-term professional mentorship to youth facing systemic barriers. Under her leadership, the organization has expanded across Los Angeles County, helping youth and caregivers through a prevention-focused model built on consistency and trust.Key Questions from This EpisodeWhat prompted the creation of Stepping Forward LA and Friends of the Children Los Angeles?What are the biggest challenges youth face when aging out of foster care?Why does long-term mentorship matter so much?How can nonprofits collaborate more effectively to support youth?What role do community, housing, and workforce development play in long-term stability?How can people move beyond awareness and take meaningful action?Connect with the GuestsStepping Forward LA

“But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.” -Corinthians 12:9   Welcome to The Adoption & Foster Care Journey—a podcast to encourage, educate and equip you as you care for children in crisis through adoption, foster care and kinship care.   On this episode, host Sandra Flach wraps up National Foster Care Month with former foster youth and adult adoptee, Reuben Watson.    Reuben serves as the Director of Unity in Action at the Lexington Leadership Foundation, where he works to support families and address the child welfare crisis across Kentucky. A graduate of Eastern Kentucky University with a degree in Communication Studies, he is passionate about community engagement, mentorship, and empowering others through collaboration and hope.    Drawing from his own experiences overcoming adversity, Reuben uses his story to inspire resilience, healing, and renewal in the lives of children, families, and communities. He believes in creating pathways for people of faith and goodwill to take steps toward the renewal of the city of Lexington.   Listen to Sandra's conversation with Reuben Watson as he shares his redemption story and offers hope to foster and adoptive parents and youth.   Find Episode 533 wherever you get your podcasts.    Please be sure to subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share it on your social media.   Links mentioned in this episode: Lexington Leadership Foundation rwatson@lexlf.org See Available Trainings The Adoption & Foster Care Journey AFCJ on YouTube justicefororphansny.org justicefororphansny.org/hope-community     Email:  sandraflach@justicefororphansny.org sandraflach.com Soul Care Saturday—52 Devotions for Foster and Adoptive Moms Orphans No More—A Journey Back to the Father book on Amazon

Drop us some Fan Mail. Thanks!Question: The school thinks my foster son may have ADHD, but I know he's been through a lot of trauma. How do I know what's driving his behavior and how to advocate for the support he actually needs?Resources:The Grandparents' Guide to Back to SchoolHow Do Teachers Understand Adoption and What Can Parents Do About It?A Parent's Guide to Working with the Schools on BehaviorBack to School with Foster and Adopted KidsUnderstood.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 podcastsWeekly articles/blog postsResource pages on all aspects of family building

What happens when trauma becomes fuel instead of identity? In this episode of Business at the Speed of Light, Dr. Stefano Sinicropi sits down with entrepreneur, speaker, and Epic Talks founder Melitsa Waage for a deeply personal conversation about adversity, resilience, mindset, entrepreneurship, faith, emotional intelligence, and rebuilding a life from the ground up. Melitsa shares her experience growing up in foster care, battling abandonment, homelessness, suicidal thoughts, rejection, and self-doubt before transforming her life through personal development, accountability, business leadership, and faith. This episode explores the psychology behind fear, the impact of environment on human potential, and why many people stop themselves before life ever has the chance to challenge them. Dr. Sinicropi and Melitsa discuss: overcoming trauma and emotional pain entrepreneurship and identity transformation the power of proximity and mentorship why environment shapes success personal accountability and discipline fear of judgment and self-sabotage confidence through action networking, leadership, and community the importance of human connection in the AI era faith, spirituality, and purpose-driven leadership building businesses through speed and execution why “success loves speed” The conversation also dives into the dangers of conformity, limiting beliefs, and staying trapped in comfort. Melitsa explains how creating Epic Talks Miami became a response to personal need and how one decision can completely redirect a person's future. For entrepreneurs, executives, creators, healthcare professionals, and high performers, this episode offers a direct look at how mindset, resilience, and personal responsibility influence long-term success. Topics Include: Entrepreneurship mindset Foster care and adversity Trauma recovery Emotional resilience Leadership development Fear of failure Fear of judgment Personal growth Business networking Human connection Faith and spirituality High-performance mindset Confidence building Self-development Community and leadership Questions This Episode Answers: How do successful entrepreneurs overcome trauma? How does childhood adversity shape leadership? Why do many people sabotage themselves before success? How do you rebuild confidence after failure? Why does environment matter in personal growth? What role does faith play in entrepreneurship? Why are in-person communities still important in the digital age? How do high performers develop emotional resilience? What does “success loves speed” actually mean? How can one decision completely change your future? About Melitsa Waage: Melitsa Waage is an entrepreneur, speaker, and founder of Epic Talks Miami, a live business and leadership platform focused on entrepreneurship, networking, mindset, AI, finance, leadership, and personal growth. Through speaking engagements and educational events, she helps professionals and entrepreneurs develop confidence, build meaningful connections, and expand their impact. #BusinessAtTheSpeedOfLight #WellnessAtTheSpeedOfLight #Entrepreneurship #Leadership #Mindset #PersonalDevelopment

Jen Lilley and Dr. John DeGarmo | Called to Foster — The Honest Guide to Foster Care and Adoption Foster care. Adoption. The calling that changes everything. If you have ever felt that quiet pull on your heart — that nudge that says maybe we are supposed to do something — this episode is for you. In this episode of the What to Expect While Fostering and Adopting Podcast, Christine Marie sits down with actress and foster care advocate Jen Lilley and international foster care expert Dr. John DeGarmo to talk about their brand new book Called to Foster — the honest, hope-filled guide to every stage of the foster care and adoption journey. Jen Lilley, known from Days of Our Lives, Hallmark films, and dozens of beloved family movies — has fostered and adopted children through the Los Angeles County system and has become one of the most recognized voices for foster care in America. Dr. John DeGarmo is the founder of The Foster Care Institute, a TEDx Talk presenter, international consultant, and foster and adoptive parent to over 65 children. Together they wrote the book that every foster parent, adoptive parent, and anyone considering foster care needs in their hands. Dr. John did not want to be a foster parent. He believed every myth. Until a child sex trafficking ring victimized many of his own students and he could not look away. Jen never planned to become a foster care advocate. Until she opened her home and her heart through the LA County system and could not stop. This episode is raw. It is emotional. It is deeply faith-filled. And it will challenge every person listening to examine what they are doing or not doing for the children who are waiting. Because this is a kingdom priority. And if you are listening you are part of the mission field. In this episode you will hear: What led Jen Lilley and Dr. John DeGarmo to foster care and why neither of them planned it The hardest truths about foster care that most families are not prepared for How to love a child fully knowing they may leave What the church is getting wrong about foster care and the cost of its silence The faith moments that sustained them when they wanted to quit Why Called to Foster is the guide every foster and adoptive family needs How to get the book into the hands of caseworkers and child welfare professionals who need it Get the Book Called to Foster: https://a.co/d/03razpJS Connect with Dr. John DeGarmo: Website: https://www.drjohndegarmofostercare.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/john.degarmo.7 Connect with Jen Lilley: Website: https://www.jenlilley.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jen_lilley Connect with Christine: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cortisol_coach If this episode blessed you: Leave a review on Apple Podcasts it helps other foster and adoptive families find this show Share this episode with someone who has been praying for a breakthrough in their journey Buy an extra copy of Called to Foster and take it to your local child welfare office and give it to a caseworker who needs a ray of hope SEO Keywords and Tags: Jen Lilley foster care, called to foster book, Dr John DeGarmo foster care, foster care podcast, foster care adoption guide, how to become a foster parent, foster care and adoption journey, foster parenting advice, foster care Christian families, foster care faith, adoption journey podcast, foster care system, what to expect foster care, foster parent resources, foster care book 2025, foster to adopt, foster care calling, church and foster care, foster care community, Christine Marie podcast, what to expect while fostering and adopting, Jen Lilley book, Days of Our Lives Jen Lilley, foster care advocate, called to foster guide

May 21, 2026- We discuss a potential update to the state's Child Victims Act that would ensure government entities could be found liable for sexual abuse that happens at foster care organizations they contract with. Our guest is attorney Jeff Herman.

Former teacher Rebeca Melo told the Associated Press that inside the Word of Faith Christian School, children would turn on each other in the middle of class. One child would accuse another of having demons. The group would surround the accused. According to Melo, children were thrown to the ground and beaten. Teachers were allegedly told not to intervene. John Cooper, who worked as a teacher's aide in Jane Whaley's class, said Whaley reportedly encouraged the violence and warned students not to tell their parents. But the school was one layer. Former members described a system in which children were allegedly removed from their biological parents and placed with church ministers for years — cut off from contact for up to a decade. The effect was that children bonded with minister guardians while parents were trapped in the church by the fear of losing access. When parents left and fought for custody, the church reportedly deployed attorneys, money, and congregant witnesses against them. Three single mothers told the AP that a church member serving as a county court clerk allegedly bypassed the foster system and gained custody of their children. One mother told a judge she would rather her son go to foster care than back to the church. A judge found clear evidence of abuse. The church sued DSS and reportedly won. Tony Brueski continues a five-part investigation with the most vulnerable victims — the children who had no choice about being inside.Join Our SubStack For AD-FREE ADVANCE EPISODES & EXTRAS!: https://hiddenkillers.substack.com/Want to comment and watch this podcast as a video? Check out our YouTube Channel. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8-vxmbhTxxG10sO1izODJg?sub_confirmation=1Instagram https://www.instagram.com/hiddenkillerspod/Facebook https://www.facebook.com/hiddenkillerspod/Tik-Tok https://www.tiktok.com/@hiddenkillerspodX Twitter https://x.com/TrueCrimePodThis publication contains commentary and opinion based on publicly available information. All individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Nothing published here should be taken as a statement of fact, health or legal advice.#WordOfFaith #JaneWhaley #ChildAbuse #Cult #TrueCrime #Spindale #CultSurvivors #HiddenKillers #FosterCare #ReligiousAbuse

Drop us some Fan Mail. Thanks!What if families had support before a crisis led to foster care? In this episode, we talk with Dr. David Anderson, psychologist and founder and executive director of SAFE Families for Children, about a community-based model that helps keep children safe while supporting parents through difficult seasons. Dr. Anderson also serves as Executive Director of Lydia Home Association in Chicago and has been recognized as an Ashoka Fellow and Prime Movers Fellow.In this episode, we discuss:For someone new to SAFE Families, how would you explain what it is?Can you share a little about yourself and what drew you to create SAFE Families?Who are the families you serve, and what situations bring them to you?Why is a program like SAFE Families especially needed right now?What happens to families when this kind of support isn't available?How is SAFE Families different from traditional foster care?What kinds of training and screening do volunteers undergo?What support do volunteers receive along the way?What are the main ways people can get involved?Can you share a story or two that captures the impact of SAFE Families?What do families or volunteers often say after being part of this?Who tends to be a great fit for this kind of role?What hesitations do you hear most, and what would you say to those concerns?If one of our listeners is interested in serving this community, what's the first step to get involved?For a parent or caregiver listening today who feels underwater or overwhelmed, what encouragement can you offer?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 podcastsWeekly articles/blog postsResource pages on all aspects of family building

Alison, Liz, and Rebecca welcome AU Public Policy Counsel Rachael Stryer to review what came out of the state legislative sessions this year. They survey the laws state legislatures passed to force religion into public schools, use religion to discriminate against LGBTQ people, and divert public money to private religious schools.    Show Notes Rachael Stryer's AU Bio  Organized Power in Numbers  American Atheists - State of the Secular States  Legislative trackers AU ACLU Mapping Attacks on LGBTQ Rights in U.S. State Legislatures  Congressional Scorecards See your state ACLU for regional legislative tracking Action Alerts FFRF AF AU National Women's Law Center ACLU Bills and Cases Discussed Ten Commandments Displays in Schools Alabama (SB 99) Tennessee (HB 47) Ongoing Lawsuits FFRF AU Prayer in Schools Alabama (HB 511): Requiring public schools to allow student-led prayer and requiring the pledge of allegiance Idaho (HB 623): Requiring a 60 second moment of silence for prayer or meditation at the beginning of the school day Chaplains Alabama (HB 8): Permitting school boards to adopt policies allowing volunteer school chaplains into schools Release Time Info on LifeWise  AU: "Release time is a problem for church-state separation"  FFRF Action Fund: "State Issue: LifeWise Academy/Release Time"  Classroom Instruction and Curriculum Policies Tennessee (SB 1828): Requires public school history curriculums to teach about the positive impact of religion on American history and the influence of Judeo-Christian values Idaho (S 1336) and Utah (HB 312 and SB 268): Requiring curricula to teach the influence of Christianity in American history Vouchers Espinoza v. Montana Department of Revenue (2020) Carson v. Makin (2022) Columbus City School District v. State of Ohio Wisconsin PTA et al vs. Wisconsin State Assembly et al Healthcare Refusal Utah (SB 174) and Iowa (HF 571): Gives healthcare providers and religious healthcare institutions the right to refuse to provide services that violate religious beliefs.  Foster Care and Adoption  Indiana (HB 1389): Allows government-funded child placement agencies to use religion as a justification for refusing to work with families, youth in care, and prospective parents. And to allow adoptive or foster parents the right to "raise a child in a manner consistent with [their] sincerely held religious beliefs." Elizabeth Rutan-Ram et al. v. Tennessee Department of Children's Services et al (AU) Anti-Sharia law Tennessee (HB 2279), Florida (HB 1471), Iowa (HF 2695), and Idaho (H 602) Arkansas (SR 21)   Check us out on YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, Bluesky, and X. Our website, we-dissent.org, has more information as well as episode transcripts.

On this episode of Fostering Change, Rob Scheer is joined by Christie Werts, a former foster youth, Army veteran, author, and adoptive mother whose life has come full circle through foster care.Christie shares her journey in her book, Life's Sad Story, God's Love Story, tracing a path from childhood trauma and separation to healing, compassion, and building a family of her own.This is an especially emotional conversation for Rob, who reflects openly on the painful experience of his own mother leaving him and his siblings — and the lasting impact that loss has had throughout his life.Together, Rob and Christie explore how childhood trauma shapes identity, how healing can emerge in unexpected ways, and what it means to return to the foster care system — not as a child, but as a parent determined to create something different.At the center of Christie's story is compassion: a decision to foster and later adopt her husband's ex-wife's child in order to keep siblings connected and together.And by the end of the conversation, Christie leaves listeners with a message that becomes the emotional heartbeat of the episode: this is ultimately a love story — about God, healing, and hope.As Christie shares: “There's a love story ahead of you. And it's gonna be ok.”Episode HighlightsChristie's journey from foster youth to foster and adoptive parentThe emotional impact of childhood separation and abandonmentHow trauma and healing can exist side by sideA remarkable decision to keep siblings together through adoptionThe role of faith, compassion, and second chances in rebuilding familyAbout the GuestChristie Werts is a former foster youth, Army veteran, author, speaker, and mother of five whose life has come full circle through foster care and adoption. After experiencing trauma in the system as a child, she later returned to foster care as a parent, ultimately adopting a child connected to her own family.Through her book, Life's Sad Story, God's Love Story, Christie shares a deeply personal journey of resilience, faith, healing, and compassion.Key Questions from This EpisodeWhat inspired you to write Life's Sad Story, God's Love Story?How did your childhood experiences in foster care shape your life?What led you to step back into foster care as a parent?How did the decision to adopt your husband's ex-wife's child come about?What did healing look like for you over time?How have kindness and compassion shaped your family today?What message do you hope listeners take from your story?Connect with Christie

The Defender Podcast is officially rebooted. Hosted by Rob Ingram, Ken Norwood, Herbie Newell, and Ford Reasons, we're back with a simple mission: give you practical, gospel-rooted tools to defend the fatherless in about 10 minutes a week.In Episode 1, we introduce the new crew, unpack the biblical vision behind this podcast rooted in Isaiah 1:17, and give you a first look at Lifeline's biggest initiative of the year, the 19 in 19 road trip, 19 states in 19 days starting June 8th.Whether you're a pastor, a donor, a foster or adoptive parent, or just someone who wants to do something for vulnerable children, this podcast is for you. 

Drop us some Fan Mail. Thanks!Question: We are seriously considering becoming foster parents.  We have 2 children by birth, and I am really worried about how this will affect them and what I can do to prevent some of the negative effects.Resources:The Impact of Fostering and Adoption on Kids Already in the Family (Resource)Talking with your Resident Kids about Foster Care or Kinship Care (Resource)What You Should Know About Disrupting Birth Order in Adoption & Foster CareSupport 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 podcastsWeekly articles/blog postsResource pages on all aspects of family building

In this episode of The Table, Rick Morton is joined by Chelsea Sobolik and Emily Richards to discuss the nuanced and often messy realities of child welfare, foster care, reunification, and community engagement. They explore how relational poverty and community connections impact vulnerable children and families, emphasizing the importance of humility, creativity, and long-term thinking for the church and advocates.Key topics covered:The emotional and trauma-related complexities of reunification after foster careThe gap in formalizing respite care and kinship connections at the systemic levelThe importance of community involvement and church engagement in supporting child welfareHow relational poverty contributes to family instability and the power of positive community bondsThe role of faith and the church in fostering relational healing and providing long-term supportPractical ways to mobilize local communities, including micro-nurturing hope and forming intervention networksThe danger of systems and policies that focus only on immediate needs versus long-term relationship buildingThe significance of long-term, ongoing relationships and the power of small, consistent acts of kindnessThe ongoing tension between hope in the gospel and the brokenness of the human systems in placeEncouragement for believers to embrace hard, relational work as part of living out their faithTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction: The importance of community and relational solutions in child welfare02:21 - Challenges around formal respite care and systemic gaps04:50 - The messiness of reunification and attachment trauma09:02 - The power of positive interactions and community connections15:00 - The church's role in fostering relational flourishing20:00 - Long-term perspective in foster care and the importance of community over projects25:00 - Handling trauma post-adoption and systemic barriers33:00 - The significance of long obedience and faithfulness in the work of child welfare38:00 - The church as the long-term community sustaining vulnerable families43:00 - The importance of honesty about the brokenness and reliance on God's grace48:00 - Inviting action: How everyday believers can make a differenceResources & Links:This episode challenges believers and child welfare advocates alike to consider how they can leverage relational work, systemic humility, and faithfulness to transform broken systems and seed long-lasting hope in their communities.

Drop us some Fan Mail. Thanks!Foster families are doing significant work to support both the children in their homes and the parents of those kids. What do they need to thrive in this work? We talk with Cathleen Bearse, a licensed therapist, foster mom, and the creator of Fearless Fostering. She supports foster and adoptive parents with practical tools, emotional guidance, and trauma-informed strategies with her real-life experiences and clinical expertise.In this episode, we talk about:Your organization is called ‘Fearless Fostering' – what does that mean to you right now in the work that you do with foster families every day?What makes fostering profoundly worth it in your life and in your family, even when it's hard?What are some unexpected joys in fostering that people don't hear about enough?When things feel heavy, how do you recommend resource parents reconnect with their ‘why'?What are the challenges that catch foster parents off guard the most?Where do you see foster parents becoming depleted or overwhelmed?What is often misunderstood about the emotional weight of fostering?How does isolation show up in foster parenting?How can fostering strain a household without the right support?What patterns have you seen in marriages or partnerships under stress?How does chronic stress show up in foster parents' mental and physical health?What early warning signs should families not ignore?If you could give every foster parent four supports, what would they be?CommunityTherapeutic SpacePermission to UnschedulePermission to Focus on “Just You”What does realistic self-care actually look like for foster parents?Where should foster parents begin if they realize they need more support?How can they pursue continuing education without becoming overwhelmed?What would you say to someone who wants to foster but fears they aren't strong enough?What is one message you want every foster parent to hear today?Finally, what would a strengthened foster family look like five years from now if we truly supported them well?Resources:Self-care for Foster ParentsWhat is Respite Care and How Do I Access It?What Foster Parents Want You to Know About FosteringSupport 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 podcastsWeekly articles/blog postsResource pages on all aspects of family building

Forrest Lang is an author and CSA (child sex abuse) advocate. He shares the story of his own childhood abuse, growing up in the foster care system, the death of his best friend, and how the Navy saved him. Look for his memoir, Angel Blue: A Song Of Redemption.More about Forrest etc:https://www.instagram.com/forrestlangofficial?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qrhttps://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063723156268&mibextid=wwXIfr&mibextid=wwXIfrhttps://youtube.com/@forrest619?si=5jFDz_OTG7BxCelXhttps://angelbluebook.com/shop/https://a.co/d/dGVg9mXhttps://books.apple.com/us/audiobook/angel-blue-a-song-of-redemption-unabridged/id1641763928https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/angel-blue-forrest-lang/1147815412This episode is sponsored Quince. Go to www.Quince.com/mental for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Now available in Canada, too.This episode is sponsored by Alma. Search their directory of over 20,000 therapists with different specialities, life experiences, and identities, and 99% of them take insurance. Go to www.HelloAlma.com/happyhourThis episode is sponsored by Timeline. Timeline's clinically proven formula is now available at a new, lower price . Mitopure now starts at $99, with the exact same science and formula and listeners can still get 20% off when they go to www.timeline.com/MENTALThis episode is sponsored by The Jordan Harbinger Show. Learn more about the world, improve your critical thinking skills and be entertained! Listen or subscribe here: jordanharbinger.com/subscribe Apple Podcasts: jordanharbinger.com/itunesSpotify: jordanharbinger.com/spotifyHere are the two episodes Paul recommended.https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/1280-cory-doctorow-why-everything-got-worse-and-what/id1344999619?i=1000747830030Andhttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/1238-ken-burns-what-if-the-american-revolution-isnt-over/id1344999619?i=1000736232557If you're interested in seeing or buying the furniture that Paul designs and makes follow his IG @ShapedFurniture or visit the website www.shapedfurniture.comWAYS TO HELP THE MIHH PODCASTSubscribe via Apple Podcasts (or whatever player you use). It costs nothing. It's extremely helpful to have your subscription set to download all episodes automatically. https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/mental-illness-happy-hour/id427377900?mt=2Spread the word via social media. It costs nothing.Our website is www.mentalpod.com our FB is www.Facebook.com/mentalpod and our Twitter and Instagram are both @Mentalpod Become a much-needed Patreon monthly-donor (with occasional rewards) for as little as $1/month at www.Patreon.com/mentalpod Become a one-time or monthly donor via PayPal at https://mentalpod.com/donateYou can also donate via Zelle (make payment to mentalpod@gmail.com) To donate via Venmo make payment to @Mentalpod See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.