Fostering Change

We're recapping 4 episodes in preparation for both a launch of season 3 AND dour 100th episode! Here's one of our favorites from season 2 with Rita SoronenFor more than 30 years, Rita Soronen has worked on behalf of abused, neglected and vulnerable children, providing leadership for local, state and national efforts working to improve the juvenile justice and child welfare systems, while striving to assure safe and permanent homes for North America’s children.Leading the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption, a national nonprofit public charity, since 2001 and the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption-Canada since 2004, Ms. Soronen works to find adoptive families for the more than 150,000 children waiting in North America’s foster care systems. Under her leadership, the Foundation has significantly increased its grant-making while developing strategic initiatives that act on the urgency of the issue. In 2020, the Foundation dedicated more than $32.6 million to grants and award-winning programs, such as Wendy’s Wonderful Kids, Adoption-Friendly Workplace and National Adoption Day. Additionally, through public service announcements, social media campaigns, articles, events, sponsorships and more, the Foundation is building awareness around the growing need for foster care adoption.In October 2011, independent research results were released from a five-year rigorous evaluation of the Foundation’s signature and groundbreaking program, Wendy’s Wonderful Kids. The research proved that children referred to the program are up to three times more likely to be adopted. Since 2005, the Wendy’s Wonderful Kids program has grown from seven pilot site grants to more than 475 sites across the U.S. and Canada. This program’s evidence-based model is dedicated to moving those children most at risk of aging out of foster care into permanent families. More than 10,000 children have been adopted as a direct result of Wendy’s Wonderful Kids. In 2017, with the support of the Blue Meridian Partners, the Foundation launched an aggressive, multi-year business plan to take Wendy’s Wonderful Kids to scale in all 50 states.Immediately prior to joining the Foundation, Ms. Soronen served as the executive director of Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Franklin County. During that time, she also served as the president of the Board of Trustees of the Ohio CASA/GAL Association and led the passage of specialty license plate legislation benefiting CASA programs throughout Ohio, as well as the design and implementation of model program standards assuring consistent application of effective advocacy for children involved in court proceedings at the local and state levels.Ms. Soronen is a nationally recognized child welfare advocate. She has testified before the U.S. House Ways and Means Committee on the importance of foster care adoption. A requested national speaker on the topics of children, the child welfare system and social innovation, Ms. Soronen has been a featured presenter at events for the Adoption Exchange Association, Center for Adoption Support and Education, Children’s Home Society of America, National Association of County Commissioners, National CASA Association and National Council for Adoption, among others.Ms. Soronen is a founding board member and past vice president of the Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute and is a current member of the advisory board. She also serves as a member of Barco’s Nightingales Foundation’s advisory board and the National Court Appointed Special Advocate/Guardian ad Litem (CASA/GAL) Association for Children’s board of trustees. Ms. Soronen is a recipient of the Angels in Adoption Award from the Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute, the National CASA Association Kappa Alpha Theta Program Director of the Year Award, the Ohio CASA/GAL Association Statewide Leadership Award and was a 2013 recipient of WSNY’s 20 Outstanding Women You Should Know. She is a fellow of the Jefferson Fellowship for Executive Leadership; was awarded an honorary Doctorate of Community Leadership from Franklin University in 2016; was named a YWCA Woman of Achievement in 2017; was named a National Number One by the Columbus Foundation in 2018; and was honored with Smart Business Network’s 2019 Smart 50 Program Award for Impact, Giving Back to the Community.A graduate of the University of Louisville, Ms. Soronen resides in Columbus, Ohio.🎥 Watch the full video episodes on YouTube!Head over to Comfort Cases on YouTube to catch every inspiring conversation:👉 youtube.com/@comfortcases Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of Fostering Change we sit down with Sharane Calister!Sharane Calister is an American singer with soulful sounds and a songwriter. A 28 year old native of Des Moines, Iowa. Sharane used music as an outlet and began playing the violin in third grade. Her passion to sing continued throughout high school while singing in multiple choirs including Bridges to Harmony Gospel Choir who performed for President Barack Obama. Although her biological parents are in her life now, Calister was adopted at the age of 10 by a cousin, Robin Calister who spent many years as a childcare provider. Sharane also has a twin sister with whom she has reunited. Sharane is best known for her appearance and performance on The Voice Season 14 working with Alicia Keys and Adam Levine. She landed in the Top 11 with powerful performances singing songs like “Make it Rain,” “All I Can Do is Cry,” “In My Blood,” and “Never Enough.” As a rising star, her journey does not stop although her stint with The Voice ended prior to the finale. She continues to sing with The Feel Right Band and Pie in the Sky band while making additional solo appearances throughout the country. As a foster care alumni and adoptee, Sharane gives back to communities. She recently was invited to perform for CASA of Los Angles at the Beverly Hills Hotel and the Selfless Love Foundation in West Palm Beach, Florida to advocate for foster care and adopted youth. She is honored to be invited to The Purple Project Youth Conference for the third year in 2020. Calister inspires youth by sharing that life continues and their light will shine despite their current circumstances; life can go their way too. Summer of 2019, Sharane hosted her first mini summer camp for female foster care youth or in placement between the ages of 13-18. The camp is titled “Sharane Calister Summer Sessions.” One of Sharane’s future goals is to establish a foundation which will offer guidance, inspiration and education to foster care youth & young adults. Sharane Calister’s journey is showcased through her powerful voice, she is currently writing and recording new music. Sharane released her single “Love You” on her birthday, February 25, 2020. Her latest single “Party Like There’s No Tomorrow” is up temple and released New Year’s 2021. More music is in the making from Sharane. 🎥 Watch the full video episodes on YouTube!Head over to Comfort Cases on YouTube to catch every inspiring conversation:👉 youtube.com/@comfortcases Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of Fostering Change we sit down with Dr. Suzie Friedman!Suzie is a licensed psychologist in private practice in Washington DC. She works with adult and older teen clients on a variety of concerns from anxiety to eating disorders to trauma. She is especially passionate about the work of helping clients heal from complex trauma and attachment injury, and to support them as they forge a path of personal growth. In her work with clients Suzie uses a relational approach that includes talk therapy, psychoeducation, and body based approaches including EMDR. In addition to her private practice, Suzie is an Adjunct Professor in the University of Maryland’s Counseling Psychology program where she provides clinical supervision to doctoral students and sometimes teaches at the undergraduate level.Dr. Suzie Friedman's Website:suzannefriedmanphd.comSocial Media:instagram @drsuzie_facebook @SuzanneMillerFriedmanPhd🎥 Watch the full video episodes on YouTube!Head over to Comfort Cases on YouTube to catch every inspiring conversation:👉 youtube.com/@comfortcases Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of Fostering Change we sit down with Ángela Quijada-Banks!Ángela Quijada-Banks is a NAACP Image Award Nominated, American author of the best-selling book, The Black Foster Youth Handbook , Founder and C.E.O of Soulful Liberation ( a Book publishing company and podcast; where she aims to empower foster youth by day and break generational curses by night). She is the Founder and program director at Consciously Melanated Queens ( a community to support the holistic wellbeing of young women of color and providing guidance to uncover their divine purpose.) As a transformational speaker and artist, she has impacted thousands with her message to transmute your pain to purpose and power. As of 2021, Ángela is a scholar at Legacy Holistic Health Institute studying Holistic Health and plant medicine coaching. Through her everyday work with helping young people uncover their divine purpose, performing spoken word events, workshops, Board member at the FCN foundation and political advisory to legislators across the nation, she aims to aid in revolutionary change in holistic health, economic injustices, child-welfare disparities, cultural competency and identity within low-wealth communities of color both on a micro and macro level.In her most recent best-selling book, The Black Foster Youth Handbook she sheds light on a taboo topic through her own personal experience highlighting 50+ lessons she learned in order to support young people's journey and equip them with necessary tools to successfully age-out of foster care and holistically heal.Born in Anaheim, CA her reach has spanned across the nation and in several countries. Since the age of three years old, when she was first introduced to swing dancing she has always come back to it even in the most unstable of circumstances.To this day, Ángela is still open to learning new things that excites her including Kung Fu and drumming. Between her day to day adventures, Ángela enjoys traveling the world and adrenaline rushes at amusement parks with her husband, Michael. She is lovingly called a “graceful powerhouse” by all who know her, as she lives by the quote, “ If not me, then who? If not now, then when?”Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OriginalSoulFlowerInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/originalsoulflower/Twitter: https://twitter.com/Mrs_AngelaBanksLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angelaquijada-banks/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCTa_p8Ez0Z1xbZ2wpd4sUCgPortfolio: www.originalsoulflower.comDivine Purpose coaching: www.consciouslymelanatedqueens.comBook: The Black Foster Youth Handbook , 50+ Lessons I learned to successfully age-out of foster care and holistically heal www.blackfostercareyouthhandbook.com🎥 Watch the full video episodes on YouTube!Head over to Comfort Cases on YouTube to catch every inspiring conversation:👉 youtube.com/@comfortcases Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this week's episode of Fostering Change we have a great conversation with Kimberly Raff!Kimberly Raff experienced the foster care system after falling through the cracks and experiencing a very difficult childhood. At the age of 17, she emancipated from the system after graduating high school. Alone, scared, and not knowing what to do, she went back to live with her biological mother and step-father, even though drugs and alcohol were still a part of their lives. Shortly after moving to Colorado with them, they left her and moved out of state. Again, she was alone, without family and without a support system.It was while she was working one of her three jobs that one of her employers approached her about attending college. This changed the path that Kimberly could have gone down. The employer helped her apply, take the ACT, and enroll into Colorado Mesa University where Kimberly studied Computer Science, Accounting, and ultimately ended up getting her degree in Psychology Counseling after 12 years. During those 12 years Kimberly failed out of school, enlisted in the military, was medically discharged, and was again, left without any support. Through her struggles and triumphs she found who she was meant to become. Her career in child welfare brought memories back of her childhood, especially seeing older youth aging out of care with little to no supports of family or friends. In 2017, Kimberly founded Foster Alumni Mentors, a non-profit organization that provides support and guidance to those who experienced foster care, to build a community of support around them. http://www.kimberlyraff.com/https://fosteralumnimentors.org🎥 Watch the full video episodes on YouTube!Head over to Comfort Cases on YouTube to catch every inspiring conversation:👉 youtube.com/@comfortcases Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of Fostering Change we talk with Dr. John DeGarmo.Born in 1969, leading international foster care expert, consultant, and TED Talk speaker Dr. John DeGarmo has worn many hats throughout his life. Singing and dancing while touring around the world in the international super group, Up With People, serving as a D.J. at four different radio stations on two different continents, working in the professional wrestling industry, teaching English and Drama at the high school and college level, director of The Foster Care Institute, and founder and national development director of Never Too Late, a residential group home for boys in foster care. Dr. DeGarmo has had a variety of experiences. He is the author of several foster care books, including the new book The Little Book of Foster Care Wisdom: 365 Days of Inspiration and Encouragement for Foster Care Families, the best selling book Faith and Foster Care, as well as the foster care children's book A Different Home: A New Foster Child's Story. He is the director of The Foster Care Institute, and acts as a consultant to foster care agencies as well as an expert witness to legal agencies across the USA and globe. Dr. John is a High Content Speaker and informative trainer on the foster care system, and travels extensively across the globe, meeting with foster parents, child welfare workers, churches, schools, and organizations. Dr. John has appeared on several TV programs, including CNN, Good Morning America, and ABC, NBC, FOX, CBS, PBS stations. Dr.John and his family have even appeared on the popular show Wife Swap. He writes regularly for many magazines, and is a regular contributor to several publications, both in the United States and over seas.Dr. DeGarmo is married to Dr. Kelly DeGarmo, who hails from Australia, and the two of them have six children, both biological and adoptive. Dr. DeGarmo and his wife are also currently foster parents to three siblings, bringing their household to nine children. Dr. DeGarmo has been a foster parent to over 60 children over the years.Dr. DeGarmo and his wife are the recipients of the Good Morning America Ultimate Hero Award, and the Up With People Every Day Hero Award. The two also were honored with their city's Citizens of the Year Award. Dr. DeGarmo has also been honored with a Hero of the Homeless award, the Olivet College Distinguished Alumni Award, as well as an Exceptional People recipient. Dr. John DeGarmoThe Foster Care InstituteWatch my TEDx Talk on Foster Care : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0JQYUp6sEbYTEDx Talk and Transformative Speaker. International Expert in Foster Care and Parenting.Visit The Foster Care Institute : http://drjohndegarmofostercare.weebly.com/index.htmlLike Dr. DeGarmo on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/DrJohnDeGarmo Find Dr. John on Twitter @drjohndegarmoPhone: 706 318 9225🎥 Watch the full video episodes on YouTube!Head over to Comfort Cases on YouTube to catch every inspiring conversation:👉 youtube.com/@comfortcases Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of Fostering Change we sit down with Sensei Dave Armstrong Motivational Speaker Life Coach Mentor Unlimited Potential Network Academy Sensei Dave Armstrong, Motivational Speaker, Life Coach and at-risk youth expert! He grew up as a product of a broken family, foster care, youth correction facilities all while dealing with his only parent (his mother) dying when he was 13 years old.. After overcoming all of these obstacles in life and defying his destiny, he decided served humanity by dedicating 20+ years towards helping people better their lives and their relationships with their children or the children they work with. After Sensei Dave retired from 24- years of Active Duty Military Service he decided to open Unlimited Potential Network Academy Life Coaching and to publish his amazing motivational autobiography, Why Me, My Fight For Life available on amazon and on www.whyme.world. Sensei Dave Armstrong was a product of a broken family, foster care, youth correction facilities and a deceased, only parent at the age of 13. As an “at-risk” youth and a “product” of the inner-city educational system, young Sensei Dave was predestined to run with gangs, NOT graduate high school and be dead or in jail by the age of 18. After his mother passed away Sensei Dave lost all contact with his family and was in and out of boys homes, juvenile detention, and foster homes in California until he turned 18 and “transitioned” out of state custody. BUT…along the way he was influenced by many AMAZING people, two of which were; his CASA, Ron Barnick, an Air Force pilot and Sensei Otto Johnson, his first martial arts instructor. Without their mentoring Sensei Dave Armstrong would not have been able to mentor, guide, help and motivate the 1000’s of youth, mentors, foster parents and humanity as he has done for years now. Sensei Dave is now retired after 24-years of service to our country in the U.S. Air Force, he has also sat on the Board of Directors as Vice President for non-profit organizations, created his own Martial Arts Mentoring program and owned three martial arts schools in the United States. As a U.S. Air Force Veteran Sensei Dave has been able to travel and see the world, spreading his positive and motivational personality from country to country. Currently Sensei Dave is a Professional Life Coach and Motivational Speaker, and tours around the United States and Europe helping individuals and companies achieve their personal and professional goals. From The Author “I truly hope that this book finds its place in your heart and is able to help you in some sort of way. I truly believe that I had to go through so much in order to better help humanity and bring people closer to true happiness within their lives. This is not a “feel good book”, it is a PERSPECTIVE book, it is a GUIDANCE book and it is a REAL LIFE book. I will take you through a journey of my life and events within but, I also hope to give you, the reader some enlightenment and tools to help you personally or to help you better work with at-risk youth or adults.”Website: www.upna.netFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/SenseiDaveArmTwitter: @UP_N_AInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/upnadotnet/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/UnlimitedPotentialNetworkAcd🎥 Watch the full video episodes on YouTube!Head over to Comfort Cases on YouTube to catch every inspiring conversation:👉 youtube.com/@comfortcases Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of Fostering Change we chat with Cody Mayo about his experience in the foster care system.Cody Mayo is from Saginaw, TX. He began his acting career when he was 12 performing in several theatre productions. He received a scholarship to attend the University of Oklahoma School of Drama to continue working on his craft. Cody resides in Los Angeles, CA and works as an Actor.He has previously appeared on MARVEL RUNAWAYS, FOX 9-1-1, CBS DOUBT, TNT MAJOR CRIMES, MTV FAKING IT, and an NBC Pilot CURSE OF THE FUENTES WOMEN.🎥 Watch the full video episodes on YouTube!Head over to Comfort Cases on YouTube to catch every inspiring conversation:👉 youtube.com/@comfortcases Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this week's episode of Fostering Change we get to have a sweet chat with Jay Rosenthal, Founder & Owner of Cupcakes with a purpose.About Jay:I have fond memories of baking cookies and cheesecakes with my mom, and as I got older I became interested in cupcakes; they're delicious and they allow for so much creativity.I've decided to combine my passion for baking and desire to help others into the business of Cupcakes With Purpose. Being able to facilitate giving back to domestic and international causes is the perfect way to fulfill my dream.By placing an order, you are supporting a cause that has personally affected you or someone you love.https://cupcakes-with-purpose.square.site/https://www.instagram.com/causescupcakeshttps://www.facebook.com/cupcakeswithpurpose+1 240-338-2636🎥 Watch the full video episodes on YouTube!Head over to Comfort Cases on YouTube to catch every inspiring conversation:👉 youtube.com/@comfortcases Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of Fostering Change we chat with Garon Wade!Garon Wade was adopted from Sri Lanka and raised in South Africa, Hawaii, The Gambia, Jamaica, Louisiana, and Jordan. He came to the United States in 2004 and earned his degree in political science and English literature at the University of Texas at Austin. He is also a graduate of the US Aeronautical Academy. Garon has been an air traffic controller for over a decade working at both Washington Tower (DCA) and Fort Lauderdale Tower (FLL). He spends his time boating the intracoastal waterways with his family, walking the beaches of south Florida, and continuing to travel the world. Please reach out to him on IG @garwade, Twitter @garon_wade or at [email protected]🎥 Watch the full video episodes on YouTube!Head over to Comfort Cases on YouTube to catch every inspiring conversation:👉 youtube.com/@comfortcases Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of Fostering Change we talk with Jen Lilley about her journey into foster care and learn more about her passion and the projects she's leading up!Jen is a true champion for charities. In addition to donating 100% of her music profits to create a neighborhood model of safe loving foster homes, she co-founded Christmas is Not Cancelled, Inc.: A marketing company that raises awareness and funds for amazing causes and nonprofits while giving participants the chance to win huge prizes! As a teenager, Jen garnered the National Educators Award for her work in Guatemala. She is known for advocating children’s rights and supports charities that focus on protecting children against physical and sexual abuse, human trafficking, and the world water crisis. Truly selfless, she is a foster and adoptive parent herself and is a celebrity ambassador for the child abuse and treatment organization Childhelp, Project Orphans, ECPAT, Olive Crest, The Dave Thomas Foundation, The Thirst Project, The Los Angeles Mission, Oneless, A21, Children of the Night, and the Innocent Justice Foundation, and she serves on the Board for Inter-Agency Council on Child Abuse and Neglect (ICAN) . A star on both the silver and small screens, including the Academy Award-winning film THE ARTIST, NBC’s iconic daytime series “Days of Our Lives,” ABC’s “General Hospital,” and a regular leading lady on the Hallmark Channel, actress/singer/philanthropist Jen Lilley has tackled countless roles throughout her illustrious career. Jen Lilley’s creative prowess does not end when the director yells cut, she is also a singer and songwriter. Her music exudes the same sultry ferocity of Twiggy and Jean Shrimpton, with Phil Spector’s wall of sound treatment via Rosie Danvers and her 50-piece orchestra. AXS.com said, “Lilley conjures up the sound of a 1960s girl group and embodies the same essence of Amy Winehouse. She takes a nostalgic twist on a modern song that will remind you of what classic music sounds like and have you longing for the days of Motown." When Jen Lilley is not busy in front of a camera, or perfecting her vocals in studio, she can be found hosting her podcast, "Fostering Hope with Jen Lilley" to demystify the foster care system and encourage loving people to get involved in the cause.Website: jenlilley.com or ChristmasIsNotCancelled.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/jenlilleyofficialTwitter: https://twitter.com/jen_lilleyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/jen_lilley/🎥 Watch the full video episodes on YouTube!Head over to Comfort Cases on YouTube to catch every inspiring conversation:👉 youtube.com/@comfortcases Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this week's episode of Fostering Change, we sit down and chat with JoyWorks' Founder and Author, Janet Lawless Christ.Janet’s books are written to help kids and their families talk about difficult issues like disabilities, food insecurity and homelessness. “People of all ages need to know the truth, talk about it, then seek and hold on tightly to the nuggets of joy they find. That’s where the understanding and healing begins.”https://joyworksnetworks.com/https://www.facebook.com/JoyWorksNetworkshttps://www.instagram.com/joyworks.networks/https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCyhJZwYFJqf38c9RvPdlhZg🎥 Watch the full video episodes on YouTube!Head over to Comfort Cases on YouTube to catch every inspiring conversation:👉 youtube.com/@comfortcases Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of Fostering Change we chat with Dr. Bruce Perry about Trauma, Resilience, And HealingDr. Perry is the Principal of the Neurosequential Network, Senior Fellow of The ChildTrauma Academy and a Professor (Adjunct) in the Departments of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at the Feinberg School of Medicine at Northwestern University in Chicago and the School of Allied Health, College of Science, Health and Engineering, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria  Australia.  Over the last thirty years, Dr. Perry has been an active teacher, clinician and researcher in children’s mental health and the neurosciences holding a variety of academic positions. His work on the impact of abuse, neglect and trauma on the developing brain has impacted clinical practice, programs and policy across the world. Dr. Perry is the author, with Maia Szalavitz, of The Boy Who Was Raised As A Dog, a bestselling book based on his work with maltreated children and Born For Love: Why Empathy is Essential and Endangered. Dr. Perry's most recent book, What Happened to You? Conversations on Trauma, Resilience, and Healing, co-authored with Oprah Winfrey was released in 2021.  Dr. Perry was on the faculty of the Departments of Pharmacology and Psychiatry at the University of Chicago School of Medicine from 1988 to 1991. From 1992 to 2001, Dr. Perry served as the Trammell Research Professor of Child Psychiatry at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas. During this time, Dr. Perry also was Chief of Psychiatry for Texas Children's Hospital and Vice-Chairman for Research within the Department of Psychiatry. From 2001 to 2003, Dr. Perry served as the Medical Director for Provincial Programs in Children's Mental Health for the Alberta Mental Health Board. He continues to consult with the government of Alberta on children’s issues and serves as a founding member of the Premier’s Council of Alberta’s Promise. ​Dr. Perry has conducted both basic neuroscience and clinical research. His neuroscience research has examined the effects of prenatal drug exposure on brain development, the neurobiology of human neuropsychiatric disorders, the neurophysiology of traumatic life events and basic mechanisms related to the development of neurotransmitter receptors in the brain. His clinical research and practice has focused on high-risk children. This work has examined the cognitive, behavioral, emotional, social, and physiological effects of neglect and trauma in children, adolescents and adults. This work has been instrumental in describing how childhood experiences, including neglect and traumatic stress, change the biology of the brain – and, thereby, the health of the child.  His clinical research over the last twenty years has been focused on integrating emerging principles of developmental neuroscience into clinical practice. This work has resulted in the development of innovative clinical practices and programs working with maltreated and traumatized children, most prominently the Neurosequential Model©, a developmentally sensitive, neurobiology-informed approach to clinical work (NMT), education (NME) and caregiving (NMC).  This approach to clinical problem solving has been integrated into the programs at dozens of large public and non-profit organizations serving at-risk children and their families. His experience as a clinician and a researcher with traumatized children has led many community and governmental agencies to consult Dr. Perry following high-profile incidents involving traumatized children and youth including the Branch Davidian siege in Waco (1993), the Oklahoma City bombing (1995), the Columbine school shootings (1999), the September 11th terrorist attacks (2001), Hurricane Katrina (2005), the FLDS polygamist sect (2008), the earthquake in Haiti (2010), the tsunami in Tohoku Japan (2011), the Sandy Hook Elementary school shootings (2012), and the Camp wildfire in California (2018) among many others.​Dr. Perry has published over 500 journal articles, book chapters and scientific proceedings and is the recipient of numerous professional awards and honors, including the T. Berry Brazelton Infant Mental Health Advocacy Award, the Award for Leadership in Public Child Welfare, the Alberta Centennial Medal and the 2014 Kohl Education Prize. He serves on the Board of Directors of multiple organizations including Prevent Child Abuse America and the Ana Grace Project.  He has presented about child maltreatment, children's mental health, neurodevelopment and youth violence in a variety of venues including policy-making bodies such as the White House Summit on Violence, the California Assembly and U.S. House Committee on Education. Dr. Perry has been featured in a wide range of media including 60 Minutes, National Public Radio, The Today Show, Good Morning America, Nightline, CNN, MSNBC, NBC, ABC and CBS News and the Oprah Winfrey Show. His work has been featured i

On today's episode we sit down and chat with David Simnick and we learn about a project that he has been working on for six years! This is a Big BIG episode.David Simnick is the Co-founder & CEO of Soapbox. He is an American University alumnus who graduated in 2009 with a BA in interdisciplinary studies in Communications, Legal Institutions, Economics and Government with a minor in Economics. He pursued a MA degree in 2010 from the University of Pennsylvania in Education, but paused his educational career to launch Soapbox.Wash your hands!Soapbox Products : ProductsDavid Simnick Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/david.simnickDavid Simnick Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/davidsimnick/Soapbox Website : https://www.soapboxsoaps.com🎥 Watch the full video episodes on YouTube!Head over to Comfort Cases on YouTube to catch every inspiring conversation:👉 youtube.com/@comfortcases Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of Fostering Change we chat with Sharlee Jeter. Sharlee Jeter is the author of the book “The Stuff: Unlock Your Power to Overcome Challenges, Soar, and Succeed” and President of the Turn 2 Foundation. Both her book and foundation are focused on youth achieving their potential through academic success, social support, and leadership development. Sharlee’s brother, Derek Jeter wanted to start a non-profit foundation. As their father was a drug and alcohol abuse counselor, they decided that due to his background, they need to support young people in their journey to success and try to help as many children as possible. Their foundation started small, operating from the basement of their house, and now have been operating for 25 years! They can be proud of the fact that they achieved a 100 percent rate of high school graduation for their beneficiary. This foundation is all about giving back, and it shows as we can see that many of their previous beneficiaries return to them to help them.Her book is focused on the fact that we need to know it from youth that we have the stuff in us and that way fear is removed. She states that people lower the bar for people in need (kids in the system) and that way sets their limits.She explains that it is just about saying to yourself you can do it, overcoming fear aboutdoing something and believing you can do it. Sharlee concludes that adults need to stop lowering the bar and limiting young people that way, but to inspire them and raise that bar higher. Kids want to do well and make someone proud, which would fulfil them and help them with growing up. She believes that kids need to go out and find someone who believes in them for support.Instagram : www.instagram.com/sjeter2 Website :  www.thestuffmovement.com  www.turn2foundation.orgThe Stuff: Unlock Your Power to Overcome Challenges, Soar, and Succeed : https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/The-Stuff/Sharlee-Jeter/9781501175152 🎥 Watch the full video episodes on YouTube!Head over to Comfort Cases on YouTube to catch every inspiring conversation:👉 youtube.com/@comfortcases Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode we get to sit down and catch up with Robert Selby and Glen Henry!Robert Selby is a full time father of a CHD warrior named Chace Elijah. Together they shine light on the medical needs community to help bring awareness with a positive spin to the CHD and Gtube community via social media in hopes to let people around the world know that they’re Never in a Fight Alone.Glen Henry is a father, husband, creator, musician, author, emcee, CEO, and mentor. He began on YouTube in 2015, documenting his journey as a stay at home father. Six years later, he has appeared in films alongside Will Smith, written children’s books, launched a multi-venture company, co-hosted a podcast with his wife of ten years, Yvette Henry, and added two more children for a total of four tiny humans who inspire him in all his endeavors. His company, Beleaf in Fatherhood, is centered around creating content to equip fathers, bring hope to mothers, and inspire children.We get into all the aspects of being a dad and catch up on their stories! Amazing Episode!To continue the story, follow Glen Henry on Social Media:Website : https://www.beleafinfatherhood.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BeleafMel/Twitter:Glen (@BeleafMel) | Twitterhttps://twitter.com › beleafmelInstagram: @beleafmel https://www.instagram.com/beleafmel/?hl=enYouTube: Beleaf In Fatherhood - YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com › channelTikTok: Beleaf N' Family (@beleafinfatherhood)🎥 Watch the full video episodes on YouTube!Head over to Comfort Cases on YouTube to catch every inspiring conversation:👉 youtube.com/@comfortcases Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join us as we interview with Matthew Everett. Matthew father to Kaitlyn and Ethan as well as the co-creator and executive producer of World of Dance with Jennifer Lopez on NBC. As CEO for World of Dance, which boasts over 20 million followers online, he built one of the world’s preeminent dance entertainment brands, celebrating creative self expression and uniting the world through artistry and motion. We chat about Being a dad and the current focus of World of Dance Studios,nurturing creative environments at home and work. We also get to learn more about World of Dance Studio in Tokyo!!🎥 Watch the full video episodes on YouTube!Head over to Comfort Cases on YouTube to catch every inspiring conversation:👉 youtube.com/@comfortcases Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is a story about parents that faced an unknown situation with a tragicoutcome. They lead us through the troubles they experience and how they manageto deal with everything.We meet Gideon and Jeanne, a couple full of positive energy and hope, whoThrough their story, they introduce us to their firstborn son Blaze. They named him afterBlaise Pascal, which seems like an irony to them now, and as a young boy he wascapable, talented, loving and kind. His creativity was the sign of an artist that wascommitted and brilliant.At some point in his late teens, Jeanne asked Blaze about his sexuality. He did not want to talk about it, as he was coming into his own as a young gay man. They were very open minded and respected his boundaries. They believe that the biggest problem was with community and constant bullying that Blaze experienced. They were part of the community that did not have any experience with diversity, especially in public schools. Due to this they were trying to find solutions in sending him to a school that was more open to him, where he could focus on his artistic and academic skills. Still, he managed to deal with all the problems and had a promising life in front of him.Unfortunately in 2018, at the age of just 20, home from college for the holidays, Blaze went missing. After more than a week of searching, his body was found less than a mile from home. He was murdered: a victim of a hate crime. After a time of grief and thinking about what they could have done differently,they realized that they need to focus on the future. They wish that they were moreproactive at the moment about his situation. Due to that, they are now working hardtoward achieving that community embrace differences, as that is the only way ofmoving forward.Jeanne believes that it is enough if you manage to change at least oneperson. She explains that our influence and experience can help someone in theirhard times, and if it helps only one person it is enough. It will change their life andfrom that moment can have a rippling effect on the whole community and world.For more information, please visit: blazebernstein.org and join the Facebook Group: #BlazeItForward🎥 Watch the full video episodes on YouTube!Head over to Comfort Cases on YouTube to catch every inspiring conversation:👉 youtube.com/@comfortcases Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of Fostering Change, Rob starts off talking about making his heart smile! His special guest Connie Going is always there for him when he needs to reach out!They start talking about the challenges of the Covid pandemic. Connie explains more about Family Blooms, and how they provide assistance for mothers. It's essential to empower mothers to reach supports on their own and to not be another victim. Rob believes we must invest in our community, in the form of investing in the families. Family Blooms is moving into the heart of St. Petersburg. They've also added child welfare navigation. Connie talks about her son's amazing story and a little about her own background as well. She had to fight the system to adopt him. Now he is at the culinary Institute of America in his third semester and possibly receiving an internship in Aspen, Colorado. The second half is a very emotional segment as Rob and Connie dive deep on their own personal experiences and feelings.FacebookConnieGoing.comhttps://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063635084226Support group for Adoptive Parents EVERY Thursday night at 9pm ESTConnieGoing.com Adoptive Support Grouphttps://www.facebook.com/groups/1667568840204821Family Blooms: International Center for Adoption and Surrogacyhttps://www.facebook.com/FamilyBloomsCenterTwitter: @GoingConnieInstagram: @conniegoing        @familyblooms2019  🎥 Watch the full video episodes on YouTube!Head over to Comfort Cases on YouTube to catch every inspiring conversation:👉 youtube.com/@comfortcases Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Daniel Hall was a boy whose mother had brain cancer and his father couldn’t take care of the 5 kids. His 2 brothers and himself were sent to an abusive foster home where he was beaten, starved and terrified of the situation but didn’t know how to get out of it. He was lucky enough to be adopted but unfortunately his brothers aged out of the system.By age 13, Dan was teaching college grads how to write software in a small Vermont town. Dan also teaches foster parents how it is to be in the system. He met his older brother who graduated from high school when he was 16 and became best friends until he passed away.Statistics say only 54% of children in foster care graduate from high school.Knowing about baggage, Rob explains how it feels to finally have a forever family and no matter what kind of baggage adopted kids come with, the love that parents have in their heart is what makes it all worth it. Daniel is showing his kids that no matter how hard it is, it is not a failure and he is always there for them. His and his wife's goal is to teach the kids to be always there for each other after they are gone.If it was up to Dan, he would send the kids out of the system with some dignity. But it wouldn’t happen without the community. Your community is not your zip code but the human race.Website: http://www.danielbhall.com/🎥 Watch the full video episodes on YouTube!Head over to Comfort Cases on YouTube to catch every inspiring conversation:👉 youtube.com/@comfortcases Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode we are talking about Fostering Change, a platform where we speak about foster care and adoption with the CEO and president of the Dave Thomas foundation for Adoption, Rita Soronen.Rita’s foundation is expanding with their signature adoption program: Wendy’s Wonderful Kids program that started in 2004, and celebrated 10.000 adoptions last year. Through this platform, not only do they raise awareness but it is also about emerging best practices across the country. They created the program Child Focus Recruitment, based on some emerging social practices.Why are so many kids in foster care? Is foster care the answer? There are many cases of abuse, abandonment, neglect, but the ones that are the most concerning are the cases of kids who aged out of the system and are on their own once they must leave the foster care. One might think that these kids are doing just fine being out there on their own, but we forget they are not permitted to make a mistake since they have no one to lean on.Every child deserves to have permanency and a foundation, but not all kids are lucky enough to find their forever family. We are truly hoping that we will find even more strategies to find homes with people who are ready to open up their hearts. They are OUR children and we have to advocate for them since change comes about when we talk about it!davethomasfoundation.orgfacebook.com/DaveThomasFoundationforAdoption/IG and Twitter @dtfa linkedin.com/company/dave-thomas-foundation-for-adoption/#FosterCareAdoption#AdoptionAdvocate#AdoptionAwareness🎥 Watch the full video episodes on YouTube!Head over to Comfort Cases on YouTube to catch every inspiring conversation:👉 youtube.com/@comfortcases Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The problems in the foster care system are not only a problem in America but all over the world, and the fact that children leave foster care with a trash bag, a rubbish bag, or a bin bag is heartbreaking. Rob, the founder and CEO of the Comfort Cases organization explains the importance of taking the initiative and get involved! A goodwill campaign, YDWD (“You Donate, We Deliver”) was operating in the UK during the height of the pandemic. The initial contact among both parties’ organizers eventually led to the idea for cooperation between the two. ‘Comfort Cases’ and YDWDs’ decided to expand the Comfort Cases mission together. Now Katie, Sarah, and Rich, together with a group of 9 other individuals are now a part of the team. When first talking to Sarah, Rob was thrilled to find out that YDWD delivered 100.000 meals. The number itself shows all the effort they put in. The number of children in the foster care system is overwhelming. There are 96,000 in the foster care system in the UK and 438,000 in the USA. One of the problems with care leavers in the UK is that when they reach the age of 18, they are no longer wanted in the care homes. Foster children in the UK often have 3 placements a year. According to Richard, one of the driving principles is bringing light to the issue as it exists globally. The Foster Care Fortnight UK is the biggest foster care awareness raising campaign whose idea is to help people understand and value fostering, and acknowledge the positive impact that it can have on the lives of children. Richard explains how he, prior to learning about comfort cases, was largely unaware of the situation in the UK, and around the world in general. It is worth mentioning that Comfort Cases UK is launching with 70+ cases, to be delivered in May.The ‘tag still on them’ is a touching story about Rob and his daughter when she got her first ever new pajamas. You can find more details about all the events on our Facebook page, Instagram profile, and TwitterOn the following links http://www.comfortcases.org/ https://www.facebook.com/Comfort-Cases-UK-101986278711820 https://www.instagram.com/comfortcasesuk/  For any additional information on all our projects, you are welcome to send us an email at [email protected]🎥 Watch the full video episodes on YouTube!Head over to Comfort Cases on YouTube to catch every inspiring conversation:👉 youtube.com/@comfortcases Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Richard Krulik, CEO of Briggs & Riley, is the special guest this week on the Fostering Change Podcast. Rob and Richard talk about A Case for Giving event and the history of this charitable program.700 is the average number of foster care kids entering the system each day in the US. None of those children are in foster care by a choice they made and not one of them would choose that for themselves. They need to know that they matter, they are not invisible nor disposable.Briggs & Riley, a luggage company, showed that a bag can change one's life for the better. Richard, the CEO of the company explains how they, for about 10 years, have been replacing the foster children’s trash bags with a piece of luggage. They are running an amazing program, where people can bring any brand of usable luggage into a retail store to give it a “second life”, a second purpose and help sustainability as well. Donors get a credit that can be applied to the purchase of a Briggs & Riley bag. Then, their bag is donated to a local foster home or a battered women’s shelter.Now together with Comfort Cases, Briggs & Riley is creating an opportunity for the program to expand to a nationwide network of foster homes.Up until last year Comfort Cases had delivered over 150,000 comfort cases in all 50 states and Puerto Rico, without the help of a lot of corporate sponsors. Briggs & Riley is the one that decided to stand next to Comfort Cases and weather the storm of Foster Care.Richard thinks that we can really make a difference as a collective group. Social good and collective power of a group of people combined with a company can make a difference to improve the lives of those around us. Helping the kids that are finding their forever home is an initiative and effort that they took on as a company. Richard encourages other companies to think and do the same so the world can be better tomorrow than it was yesterday. Investing in a child in foster care is investing in our future. 30 000 children a year are aging out of foster care and 70% of them become homeless. But by giving them usable luggage instead of a trash bag can make a lot of difference in how they feel.If everybody were to do a couple of little things on a consistent basis, it could really move the needle. So all the puzzle pieces come together nicely and come up with some ways to make the world a better place. Just do one thing a day and you too can make a difference.When you donate a gently used piece of Briggs & Riley luggage to a participating retailer, Briggs & Riley will restore and deliver these bags to a local foster care agency. Donors will also receive up to $100 credit towards their Briggs & Riley luggage purchase. Visit https://www.briggs-riley.com/pages/a-...​ to sustainably support children in your community.https://www.facebook.com/BriggsandRiley/https://www.instagram.com/briggsandriley🎥 Watch the full video episodes on YouTube!Head over to Comfort Cases on YouTube to catch every inspiring conversation:👉 youtube.com/@comfortcases Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

About the Guest:Willy Bolander - www.willybolander.comFather of 8 children, 7 adopted from foster care. Founder of non-profit, Go Foster! (2013-2019)In the Episode : Willy discusses his experience in recruiting and retaining foster parents via Go Foster! The idea was born as a research idea in Florida, where they discovered a huge need for improvements in the existing system. He talks about the lack of understanding by everyone involved about how to foster recruiting. Rob talks about his state funding billboard advertisements near bus stops and how it is appalling to him.They discuss the topic of religion, the role it plays in the adoption process and some of the barriers that can be put in the path to connecting kids with forever homes.After the break, Rob mentions some of his experiences with different agencies and their random requirements and disqualifiers.Willy shares his opinion that agencies funded by the state should “shut up” when it comes to their personal beliefs and using those personal beliefs to disqualify potential families.The pair talk about something they have in common, adoption of an adult child!🎥 Watch the full video episodes on YouTube!Head over to Comfort Cases on YouTube to catch every inspiring conversation:👉 youtube.com/@comfortcases Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rob shares a story of how a teacher made a major impact on his life before introducing Kyle Tolsyka, music teacher, musician and the author of "Where do I fit?"Kyle, talks about his inspiration and motivation to write the book and hints that there might be another book in the future!After the break Kyle even reads the book!🎥 Watch the full video episodes on YouTube!Head over to Comfort Cases on YouTube to catch every inspiring conversation:👉 youtube.com/@comfortcases Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mike talks about activating endangered animals as heroes to inspire and teach youth. They talk about their two main heroes the Slow loris and the Red Panda.April 18 is a big event for Protectors of the endangered! Lot’s of fun activities are planned that will support the cause!protectorsoftheendangered.org🎥 Watch the full video episodes on YouTube!Head over to Comfort Cases on YouTube to catch every inspiring conversation:👉 youtube.com/@comfortcases Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rob and Jessica take about what has been happening at Connect our kids over thee last year and how Covid has affected their operation. Jessica talks about their co founder and the lack of technology in the foster care system. Currently it takes 8 days to end an extended family member, but with connect our kids technology the same process can be completed in 30 seconds!In the second half Rob and Jessica talk more about relationships and how difficult it can be for foster children to develop relationships. 🎥 Watch the full video episodes on YouTube!Head over to Comfort Cases on YouTube to catch every inspiring conversation:👉 youtube.com/@comfortcases Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rob gives some background on how Ben has been giving back and how despite his fame and celebrity he has felt alone at times.Ben talks all about writing his book “Alone in Plain Sight” and explains his thoughts about “shared pain”Together they discuss ego and how to recognize and mange it. We also learn more about the origins and operations of Generous Coffee and generous movement!🎥 Watch the full video episodes on YouTube!Head over to Comfort Cases on YouTube to catch every inspiring conversation:👉 youtube.com/@comfortcases Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rob Chats with Caroline Boudreaux from Miracle Foundation and what an impact they have made round the world. Caroline recaps her trip to India that inspired the start of the Miracle Foundation. Her story includes an emotional recap of holding children in villages on Mother’s day.They discuss topic of OPC “Other People’s Children” and how everyone needs to realize every child matters. “It’s not where they lay their head, It’s if they have a place to lay their head on.” - Rob ScheerCaroline shares background on how she helped raise the care n 300 orphanages. “The minute a child enters the system, the damage its already done.” - Caroline Boudreaux🎥 Watch the full video episodes on YouTube!Head over to Comfort Cases on YouTube to catch every inspiring conversation:👉 youtube.com/@comfortcases Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rob sits back down with Bob Dalton from Sackcloth and Ashes to talk more about their partnership. Bob shares more about their partnership with Native American artists and leaders and his book. This is the second half of a 2 part series. Don't miss the first half of the story!🎥 Watch the full video episodes on YouTube!Head over to Comfort Cases on YouTube to catch every inspiring conversation:👉 youtube.com/@comfortcases Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rob sits down with the CEO of Sackcloth & Ashes Bob Dalton. They discuss how Bob started Sackcloth & Ashes. Bob shares personal reasons why he made the transition from the non profit sector to the for profit sector, including an emotional discussion about his mother's journey. 🎥 Watch the full video episodes on YouTube!Head over to Comfort Cases on YouTube to catch every inspiring conversation:👉 youtube.com/@comfortcases Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Rob reconnects with a longtime friend Noah Ehlert discuss a variety of subjects and discuss Noah's recent adventures as well as future aspirations. They discuss Noah's bike journey across the United states and some of the experiences he encountered along the way. It's a very emotional piece and definitely worth the listen as we learn about the trama youth in the foster care system face.You can listen to the episode in the player here or subscribe on your favorite podcast app linked below. Please be sure to leave us a review as it will greatly help us spread the word!We are booking guests for upcoming episodes now. If you have a story to tell as it relates to foster care, please email [email protected] PodcastsGoogle Podcasts - You may have to search for “Fostering Change” as the link sometimes does not go directly to our podcast.SpotifyStitcherTuneInDeezerPlease click here to read the full statement regarding Comfort Cases mission as it relates to helping migrant children entering the United States foster care system.🎥 Watch the full video episodes on YouTube!Head over to Comfort Cases on YouTube to catch every inspiring conversation:👉 youtube.com/@comfortcases Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this week's episode, Rob is with special guest Barrie Carr. As Fostering change prepares to launch season 2 of the podcast, Barrie and Rob discuss the previous season and what to expect in the new season! Amazing guests, touching testimonials, intriguing ideas, and more!Get your BE A GOOD HUMAN shirts, hoodies, masks, and mugs in our Gifts That Give Back Shop at comfortcases.org/shopSubscribe to Fostering Change on your favorite podcast app and please be sure to leave us a review.Apple PodcastsGoogle Podcasts - You may have to search for “Fostering Change” as the link sometimes does not go directly to our podcast.iHeartRadioSpotifyStitcherTuneInDeezerContact us - [email protected]🎥 Watch the full video episodes on YouTube!Head over to Comfort Cases on YouTube to catch every inspiring conversation:👉 youtube.com/@comfortcases Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this week's episode, Rob and Dana talk to Rob C. and J-Hawk from Fall Forward Radio, a new podcast focused on highlighting people doing big things to help their communities. When Rob and Jay heard about Comfort Cases they knew they had to use their platform to help. They invited Rob Scheer to be one of the first guests on their podcast, and then they took to TikTok to raise money. Having never hosted a fundraiser like this before, Rob and Jay weren't sure what to expect... But they set a goal of $12,000 and ended up raising $14,000. They wanted to see what we do at Comfort Cases first-hand, so they flew from Florida to tour the center and present us with a check. Listen as they talk about what inspired them to start their podcast and how they plan to use their show to keep the positive momentum going.Fall Forward Radio websiteFall Forward Radio on InstagramFall Forward Radio on FacebookRob Scheer on the Fall Forward Radio podcastGet your BE A GOOD HUMAN shirts, hoodies, masks, and mugs in our Gifts That Give Back Shop at comfortcases.org/shopSubscribe to Fostering Change on your favorite podcast app and please be sure to leave us a review.Apple PodcastsGoogle Podcasts - You may have to search for “Fostering Change” as the link sometimes does not go directly to our podcast.iHeartRadioSpotifyStitcherTuneInDeezerContact us - [email protected]🎥 Watch the full video episodes on YouTube!Head over to Comfort Cases on YouTube to catch every inspiring conversation:👉 youtube.com/@comfortcases Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Rob and Dana talk to siblings Stephanie and Beatriz who were separated during their time in foster care. With 8 years between them, they had very different experiences and only lived in the same household with a relative for a very short time. They are now very close and also maintain relationships with their other 4 siblings. Listen as they talk about the struggles their biological mom faced and how they overcame all of the challenges in their young lives.Learn more about our mission at comfortcases.org.Shop for BE A GOOD HUMAN merch at comfortcases.org/shop. For every gift purchased, an item will be given to a child in foster care.🎥 Watch the full video episodes on YouTube!Head over to Comfort Cases on YouTube to catch every inspiring conversation:👉 youtube.com/@comfortcases Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

To wrap up National Adoption Awareness Month, Rob and Dana talk to Amaya and Makai Scheer about their family and what it's like to be adopted. Listen as Amaya shares some of her earliest memories of being with Rob and Reece and Makai talks about how it feels to be part of a big family.🎥 Watch the full video episodes on YouTube!Head over to Comfort Cases on YouTube to catch every inspiring conversation:👉 youtube.com/@comfortcases Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As part of our National Adoption Awareness Month series, this week’s podcast features author and foster care adoption advocate Marcy Bursac. Marcy adopted her two children from foster care and just released a book, The Forgotten Adoption Option, which serves as a guide to adopting from foster care. Marcy talks about why she decided to adopt from foster care, how she met her children, and how they are thriving despite all of the trauma they experienced with their birth parents.The Forgotten Adoption Option focuses on both making the decision to adopt from foster care and how to navigate the system and get through the process. She explains how adopting from foster care is much more affordable and can take less time than waiting to adopt an infant both internationally and domestically. Pre-order The Forgotten Adoption Option:Amazon - Ships January 1, 2021Barnes & Noble - Ships January 1, 2021Google Play - AudiobookChirp - AudiobookKobo - AudiobookScribd - AudiobookFollow Marcy on her Facebook page.Shop our Comfort Cases "Gifts That Give Back" store to get your BE A GOOD HUMAN merchandise. For every gift purchased, an item will be given to a child in foster care. www.comfortcases.org/shop.🎥 Watch the full video episodes on YouTube!Head over to Comfort Cases on YouTube to catch every inspiring conversation:👉 youtube.com/@comfortcases Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week we welcome Alexis and Justin Black back to the Fostering Change podcast. Alexis and Justin are newlyweds who both grew up in foster care. In their first novel, Redefining Normal: How Two Foster Kids Beat the Odds and Discovered Healing, Happiness, and Love, Alexis and Justin reveal how they overcame traumatic childhoods and developed a healthy relationship. Listen as they share some details about writing the book and how they hope it will help others. Alexis also talks about being adopted at the age of 26 and why it was so important that her foster parents become her legal parents years after she “aged out” of the foster care system.To learn more about Comfort Cases and our mission, visit www.comfortcases.org.Get your BE A GOOD HUMAN merch in our Gifts That Give Back shop - www.comfortcases.org/shop - for every gift purchased, an item will be given to a child in foster care.Thank you for listening and please be sure to leave us a review!🎥 Watch the full video episodes on YouTube!Head over to Comfort Cases on YouTube to catch every inspiring conversation:👉 youtube.com/@comfortcases Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

November is National Adoption Awareness Month and we are looking forward to featuring guests with various adoption experiences. Today Rob and Dana welcome April Dinwoodie, a writer, coach, consultant, and host of the Born In June, Raised In April podcast. As a woman of color who was adopted into a white family, April offers her insight into the complexities of transracial adoption. Learn more about April at www.aprildinwoodie.com.Shop our Comfort Cases Gifts That Give Back Shop to get your BE A GOOD HUMAN merch! Every purchase gives an item to a child in foster care. www.comfortcases.org/shop🎥 Watch the full video episodes on YouTube!Head over to Comfort Cases on YouTube to catch every inspiring conversation:👉 youtube.com/@comfortcases Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week Rob and Dana talk to foster care advocate and former pro-football player Gaelin Elmore. First removed from his parents’ home at 10 months old, Gaelin spent several years in and out of foster care. When he was 16, his high school football coach became his legal guardian. He earned a scholarship to play football in college and in 2017 he signed a contract with the Cincinnati Bengals. After playing one season, he decided to retire when he realized that a career in the NFL just wasn’t right for him.Listen as Gaelin talks about his childhood, his emotional journey during his time with the NFL, what he’s doing now to help children in foster care, and his hopes for the future.🎥 Watch the full video episodes on YouTube!Head over to Comfort Cases on YouTube to catch every inspiring conversation:👉 youtube.com/@comfortcases Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this week’s Fostering Change podcast, Rob and Dana talk to author and foster care survivor Sasha Martin. Sasha spent the first ten years of her life going back and forth between living with her mom and living in various foster homes. When she was 10 years old, she went to live with a family friend who became her permanent guardian. A few years later, they moved to Paris and then Luxemburg. Years later and after becoming a mother herself, Sasha discovered a love for cooking and set a goal to make a meal from every country in the world. She documented her recipes and stories and National Geographic published her book, Life from Scratch, in 2015. Listen as Sasha talks about her experiences in foster care, suffering tragic losses in her life, and how she found peace and belonging through a love of cooking.🎥 Watch the full video episodes on YouTube!Head over to Comfort Cases on YouTube to catch every inspiring conversation:👉 youtube.com/@comfortcases Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this week’s Fostering Change podcast, Rob and Dana talk to Foster Care Institute founder John DeGarmo. As a foster and adoptive father, author, and industry consultant, John offers his insight on a number of child welfare issues. He created the Foster Care Institute after experiencing frustration with the system and lack of support as a foster parent. His training programs are used by child welfare agencies all over the country to educate both staff and foster parents.John and his wife have been foster parents to 60 children over the last 20 years. In his 2019 TedXTalk, he tells the story of one of those children whom the system failed. John also talks about the importance of foster parent support groups and how he deals with the heartbreak and stress of caring for children who have experienced trauma. 🎥 Watch the full video episodes on YouTube!Head over to Comfort Cases on YouTube to catch every inspiring conversation:👉 youtube.com/@comfortcases Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week Rob and Dana talk to foster care survivor, writer, and advocate Quay Bowen. Quay is sharing her story on her website in the hopes of writing a book. She talks about her life growing up, her relationship with her birth family, and how poorly she was treated by the Atlanta foster care system.🎥 Watch the full video episodes on YouTube!Head over to Comfort Cases on YouTube to catch every inspiring conversation:👉 youtube.com/@comfortcases Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of Fostering Change, Rob and Dana talk to Foster Boy creator and attorney Jay Paul Deratany. Set to be released this weekend, Foster Boy tells the story of a teenage boy who was failed by the foster care system. Combining his passion for acting, writing, and advocating for children in foster care, Jay Paul wrote this film in the hopes of inspiring people to take action to change the system. Through his work as a personal injury attorney, Jay Paul has seen the devastating impact of the foster care system on children it is supposed to care for. He talks about how the for-profit foster care agencies make money on the backs of children and shares some stories about children he has represented. 🎥 Watch the full video episodes on YouTube!Head over to Comfort Cases on YouTube to catch every inspiring conversation:👉 youtube.com/@comfortcases Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this week's Fostering Change podcast, Rob and Dana talk to Connect Our Kids founders Jennifer Jacobs and Jessica Stern. Connect Our Kids is a website that helps child welfare agencies find and track family connection and data for children in the foster care system. Jennifer and Jessica have used their backgrounds in government, homeland security, and communications to create a unique program that significantly enhances the ability for social workers to find family members and the best possible placements for kids in care. Listen as they tell their stories and share how Connect Our Kids works.🎥 Watch the full video episodes on YouTube!Head over to Comfort Cases on YouTube to catch every inspiring conversation:👉 youtube.com/@comfortcases Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Rob and Dana talk to high school student Joe Davis about why he chose Comfort Cases for his Eagle Scout project. We are inspired every day by the number of kids of all ages who are doing big things to support our mission to help other children. Joe is not only passionate about collecting donations for Comfort Cases as part of his project, but he is also focused on the importance of spreading awareness about the needs of children in foster care. 🎥 Watch the full video episodes on YouTube!Head over to Comfort Cases on YouTube to catch every inspiring conversation:👉 youtube.com/@comfortcases Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Rob and Dana talk to married couple Alexis Lenderman-Black and Justin Black. Both Alexis and Justin spent time in foster care and are now advocates for children in the system. They are getting ready to release their first book, Redefining Normal, in November. The book is about how they overcame difficult childhoods and learned how to have a healthy relationship with each other. Listen as they share their stories and talk about their lives growing up, how they met, and what to expect from their upcoming book.🎥 Watch the full video episodes on YouTube!Head over to Comfort Cases on YouTube to catch every inspiring conversation:👉 youtube.com/@comfortcases Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this week’s episode of Fostering Change, Rob and Dana welcome Keri Richmond, the founder of Foster Strong. Keri previously told her story on Episode 40 of the podcast, and now she is sharing information about the organization she is building with other former foster youth. Foster Strong is about embracing the resilience of men and women who grew up in foster care and ending the stigma about children in the system.🎥 Watch the full video episodes on YouTube!Head over to Comfort Cases on YouTube to catch every inspiring conversation:👉 youtube.com/@comfortcases Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week's episode, Rob and Dana welcome the newest member of the Scheer family, 19-year-old Alex. Rob and Alex share the story of how they met and what life is like as a family of 7. Alex also talks about his struggles in foster care and what got him through the most difficult times in his life.🎥 Watch the full video episodes on YouTube!Head over to Comfort Cases on YouTube to catch every inspiring conversation:👉 youtube.com/@comfortcases Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode, Rob and Dana talk to Ivymarie Washington about her journey in foster care and how she became a part of the Foster Strong organization. Ivy and her older brother were removed from their parents’ home when she was 6 years old. They were placed in a children’s home for the maximum 180 days and were then placed in a foster home when she was 7. She remained in that foster home until she aged out of care at the age of 18.She currently works as a foster care and adoption specialist at the agency that placed her when she was in care.🎥 Watch the full video episodes on YouTube!Head over to Comfort Cases on YouTube to catch every inspiring conversation:👉 youtube.com/@comfortcases Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.