Shows
The Foster Friendly PodcastPowerful Children’s Book Illuminates Truths About Foster Care with Jessica MathisenIn this episode of the Foster Friendly Podcast, hosts Courtney and Travis speak with Jessica Mathisen, a former elementary school teacher and a foster adoptive mom. They discuss Jessica's journey into foster care and adoption, her experiences as a foster parent, and her recent children's book, No Matter Where I Go: God's Love for Kids in Foster Care, aimed at helping kids understand foster care. The conversation delves into the misconceptions surrounding foster care, the challenges faced by foster families, and the importance of relationships and love in the healing process for children in care. Jessica emphasizes t...2025-07-2329 min
The Foster Friendly PodcastIntroducing the Campus Housing Affordability for Foster Youth Act with Congressman LandsmanIn this episode of the Foster Friendly podcast, host Brian Mavis and co-host Courtney Williams engage with Congressman Greg Landsman, who discusses his advocacy for children and families, particularly those in the foster care system. Landsman shares his journey from local politics to Congress, emphasizing the importance of community support and early childhood education. He introduces his bill aimed at allowing foster care youth to use housing vouchers for on-campus living, highlighting the positive impact of community and belonging on educational success. The conversation explores the complexities of Congress, the importance of bipartisan support, and the need for consistent...2025-07-0235 min
Fit for His GloryOur Story for His Glory: Courtney's TestimonyIn today's episode, Courtney will share some of her testimony! We pray this is encouraging to you as well and that the Lord uses it to speak to you. Enjoy! 2025-06-2713 min
The Foster Friendly PodcastHelpful Tips and Advice When the Going Gets Tough for Foster Families with Bethany HallIn this episode of the Foster Friendly Podcast, hosts Travis Vangsnes and Courtney Williams welcome back Bethany Hall, a licensed family nurse practitioner and director of training at Chosen. They discuss the importance of foster care awareness, the impact of movies on perceptions of foster care, and the ongoing need for support in the foster care system. Bethany shares insights on the significance of one-on-one coaching for foster families and the necessity of understanding attachment styles to better support children from hard places. The conversation emphasizes hope, community support, and practical strategies for caregivers. In this conversation...2025-05-2835 min
The Foster Friendly PodcastOvercoming Odds: From Street Child in Uganda to Foster and Forever Dad with Peter MutabaziIn this episode of the Foster Friendly Podcast, host Brian Mavis and co-host Courtney Williams interview Peter Mutabazi, a remarkable individual who shares his journey from a challenging childhood in Uganda to becoming a foster parent in the United States. Peter discusses the importance of kindness, education, and the role of men in foster care, as well as the unique dynamics of adopting children of different races. He emphasizes the need for love and safety in the lives of children in foster care and shares insights from his experiences as a single father. Peter also talks about his books...2025-05-2139 min
The Foster Friendly PodcastFrontlines of Foster Care: A Conversation with Laura, Foster Parent PartnerIn this episode of the Foster Friendly Podcast, hosts Travis Vangsnes and Courtney Williams engage with Laura (Foster Parent Partner), a prominent figure in the fostering community, to discuss the importance of Foster Care Awareness Month. Laura shares her journey into engaging foster care, the impact of her social media presence, and the challenges faced by foster parents. The conversation also emphasizes the need for trauma-informed care, community involvement, and the importance of flexibility and grit in fostering. Laura also discusses her future plans and encourages listeners to get involved in supporting foster care initiatives....2025-05-1439 min
The Foster Friendly PodcastStories on Foster Care, Leadership, and Celebrating 10 Epic Years as an OrganizationIn this episode of the Foster Friendly podcast, host Brian Mavis and co-hosts Courtney and Travis celebrate the 10th anniversary of America's Kids Belong (AKB). They discuss the organization's journey from its inception, driven by personal experiences as foster parents, to its current status as a trusted nonprofit in the foster care space. The conversation highlights little things like the evolution of AKB's logo, to bigger things like the importance of trust in their operations, and the significant impact of their initiatives, including the I Belong Project and the Foster Friendly app. Brian shares a powerful origin story of...2025-05-0753 min
The Foster Friendly PodcastFostering Resilience: Humor and Play as Tools for Felt Safety with Brian, Travis, and CourtneyIn this episode of the Foster Friendly Podcast, hosts Brian, Courtney, and Travis explore the significance of play and humor in parenting, particularly in the context of fostering children who have experienced trauma. They share personal anecdotes about their own childhood experiences with play, discuss the psychological benefits of humor and play in building connections, and provide real-life examples of how these tools have helped them engage with children in their care. The conversation emphasizes the importance of creating a safe and comfortable environment for children to express themselves and the transformative power of play in fostering e...2025-04-0943 min
The Foster Friendly Podcast4 Healthy Habits You Need to Incorporate as a Foster Parent with Nicole BarlowIn this episode of the Foster Friendly Podcast, hosts Brian Mavis and Courtney Williams welcome Nicole Barlow, a former foster parent and health and wellness coach, to discuss the essential habits foster and adoptive parents need to adopt for their well-being. Nicole emphasizes the importance of self-care, nutrition, movement, and rest, explaining how these elements not only benefit the parents but also create a healthier environment for the children in their care. The conversation highlights practical strategies that parents can implement to improve their mental and physical health, ultimately leading to better outcomes for their families.2025-03-2631 min
While You GrowOT and the Foster Care System: A Capstone Conversation with Olivia AdamsSend us a textIn this episode of While You Grow, OTD student Olivia Adams discusses her capstone project and her experience working within the foster care system. She shares insights on the unique challenges children in foster care face, the role of occupational therapy in supporting their development and well-being, and how OT practitioners can make a difference in this setting. Tune in for an important conversation on advocacy, trauma-informed care, and the power of occupational therapy in fostering stability and growth for children in need. Olivia's Resource Website: https://sites.google.com/presby.e...2025-03-2120 min
The Foster Friendly PodcastHow to Foster Faithfully through Generous Hospitality with Abby CrooksIn this episode of the Foster Friendly Podcast, hosts Courtney and Travis engage with Abby Crooks, a veteran foster parent and founder of Fostering Faithfully. Abby shares her personal journey into foster care, the challenges and rewards of fostering, and the importance of community support for foster families. The conversation highlights the significance of celebrating foster children's birthdays and the emotional complexities of being a foster parent. Abby emphasizes the need for realistic expectations and the importance of finding joy in small victories while navigating the foster care system. She shares personal experiences and insights on fostering...2025-03-1946 min
Hustle For HappinessResilience Secrets: How to Bounce Back from AnythingHave you ever felt bogged down by your past? Just remember: your story isn't over yet. In this special episode, tune into Courtney's interview with host Nicole Johnson of The Wellthy Healthy Life Podcast about resilience, mindset shifts, and the journey of healing. Courtney shares her inspiring story of growing up in foster care, overcoming self-doubt, and turning past struggles into a source of strength. Together, they explore the difference between therapy and coaching, how to rewire limiting beliefs, and build resilience. Whether you're navigating setbacks or looking to pursue your passions, this episode is packed with actionable tools...2025-03-1747 min
The Foster Friendly PodcastWhat Foster Families Wish Caseworkers Knew and What Caseworkers Wish Foster Families Knew with Brian, Travis, and CourtneyIn this episode of the Foster Friendly Podcast, hosts Brian, Courtney, and Travis discuss the vital role of social workers in foster care, especially during Social Worker Appreciation Month. They explore the misconceptions surrounding social workers, the various roles of caseworkers, and the challenges they face. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding and appreciating the work of caseworkers, fostering a collaborative relationship between foster parents and caseworkers, and recognizing the humanity in each other's roles. The hosts also discuss the things foster parents often feel and wish caseworkers understood better. The episode concludes with suggestions on h...2025-03-1237 minFit for His GloryYour Body is a Gift & So Is Your Time: A Conversation with Brooke CollinsWhat is the main thing that stands between most women and success in their fitness journey? Time.In today's episode, Courtney interviews Brooke Collins of The Finding Freedom Co., a business that is helping women steward their time well for God's glory.During their conversation, Courtney and Brooke talk about her story, and she shares her passion for helping women grow in biblically based productivity and time management.You will not want to miss this episode as we talk all things faith, fitness, how to schedule your day, and more! The...2025-03-0735 min
Mystical Misfits with Courtney and PhilUnlocking Your Genius: Overcoming Self-Doubt & Finding Your Flow Join Courtney and Phil in this insightful and deeply personal conversation as they explore the power of creativity, overcoming self-doubt, and finding your true passion. Phil shares his journey with an animation desk from Fox Studios and his desire to create graphic novels. They delve into the importance of daily creative habits, the wisdom of 'The Artist's Way,' and the challenges of sharing your unique vision with the world. In this episode, you'll discover: The importance of embracing your creative flow and letting go of self-criticism. How societal pressures and limiting beliefs can hinder your potential. The power of i...2025-02-2544 min
The Foster Friendly PodcastTeens Openly Share Their Experiences as Birth Children in a Foster Home with Eli and Ayla WilliamsIn this episode of the Foster Friendly Podcast, host Courtney Williams engages in a heartfelt conversation with her children Eli and Ayla about their experiences growing up in a large foster family. They discuss the emotional complexities of fostering, the dynamics of their family, and the lessons learned through their journey. The conversation highlights the importance of compassion, patience, and the challenges faced when welcoming new foster children into their home. Eli and Ayla share their insights on the impact of fostering on their lives and the significance of family support in navigating difficult situations. In this...2025-02-1946 minFit for His GloryYour Body is a Gift: Even in BrokennessIn today's episode, Courtney interviews Brooke Davis the Women's Director at Watkinsville First Baptist in Athens, GA.Courtney and Brooke dive into the heavy but necessary topic of how to view and treat your body as a gift, even when you've experienced physical brokenness. Brooke shares her story of battling cancer in her 20s and all God taught her through that experience.If you or a loved one has gone through a season of physical brokenness: this episode is for you. We know it will leave you feeling encouraged, seen, and challenged.🚨 NEXT ROU...2025-02-1433 min
The Foster Friendly PodcastThe Staggering and Perpetual Problem of Too Many Foster Families Quitting with Brian, Travis, and CourtneyIn this episode of the Foster Friendly podcast, hosts Brian, Travis, and Courtney discuss the challenges faced by foster parents, particularly the high attrition rates. They explore the emotional and systemic impacts of foster parent quitting on child welfare and the children in care. The conversation delves into the reasons behind these challenges, the importance of mentorship, and the need for support systems to help foster families navigate their difficult journeys. They also discuss the challenges faced by foster parents, including feeling unheard and unsupported within the system. They emphasize the importance of community support and systemic c...2025-02-0557 min
The Foster Friendly PodcastHelpful Insights on Birth Children in Foster and Adoptive Families with Daniela CoatsIn this episode of the Foster Friendly podcast, hosts Brian and Courtney engage in a heartfelt conversation with Danielle Coates, who shares her unique experiences growing up in a foster and adoptive family. Danielle discusses the challenges and joys of being a biological sibling to foster children, the feelings of invisibility and replacement she faced, and the importance of supporting biological kids in foster families. The conversation also delves into practical strategies for parents to engage their biological children in discussions about fostering and adoption, emphasizing the need for open communication and validation of their feelings.2025-01-2239 min
The Foster Friendly PodcastWe Don't Age Out of Needing a Family: Teens in Foster Care with Tracee RuddIn this episode of the Foster Friendly Podcast, hosts Travis Vangsnes and Courtney Williams interview Tracy Rudd, State Director of Colorado Kids Belong. Tracy shares her journey into foster care advocacy, the importance of recruiting foster parents, and the impact of the I Belong Project-which connects children in foster care awaiting adoption to families. The conversation delves into the challenges and triumphs of adopting teenagers, the significance of building a support system for foster families, and the need for systemic change in the foster care system. Tracy emphasizes the importance of community involvement and encourages listeners to o...2025-01-1550 min
The Foster Friendly PodcastA Lively Foster Care Conversation with Focus on the Family’s Dr. Sharen FordIn this episode of the Fosterer Friendly podcast, Brian Mavis and Courtney Williams engage with Dr. Sharen Ford, a nationally recognized child welfare consultant with over 30 years of experience and Director of Foster Care and Adoption at Focus on the Family. Dr. Ford discusses the significance of public-private partnerships in foster care. Dr. Ford also shares her extensive experience and insights on how collaboration between faith-based organizations and government agencies can lead to better outcomes for children in the foster care system. The conversation covers the roles of state and private agencies, the importance of community involvement, a...2025-01-0842 min
The Foster Friendly PodcastFoster Care 101: Things You Don’t Need to Do to Be Foster Parents with Brian, Travis, and CourtneyIn this episode of the Foster Friendly podcast, hosts Brian, Travis, and Courtney discuss the realities of foster parenting, focusing on what foster parents don't need to do. They share personal experiences, emphasizing the importance of embracing imperfection, learning from failures, and providing stability for children in foster care. The conversation highlights the balance between generosity and realism, encouraging foster parents to create a nurturing environment without overwhelming children with excess. In this conversation, the hosts discuss various aspects of foster care, emphasizing the importance of making informed decisions, understanding placement dynamics, and the challenges of adhering t...2025-01-0245 min
The Foster Friendly PodcastThe Importance of Water Safety Lessons for Kids in Foster Care with Sarah BoydIn this episode, Travis and Courtney are joined by Sarah Boyd from Aqua-Tots. Aqua-Tots offers swimming lessons for children of all ages and abilities, with a focus on preventing drownings and building confidence. Sarah shares stories of how their program has made a life-saving impact on children and provided peace of mind for parents. Whether it's learning basic water survival skills or refining stroke techniques, Aqua-Tots Swim Schools aims to instill a lifelong love of swimming while prioritizing safety. She emphasizes the need for accessibility and the role businesses can play in supporting foster families. Courtney and Travis encourage...2024-12-2727 min
Cake TherapyFields and Flour Therapy: Exploring Healing Through Baking Therapy and Social WorkDiscover the remarkable blend of social work and culinary art therapy with our guest, Courtney Fields, a registered social worker and passionate baker from Canada. Courtney shares her transformative journey of healing through baking, revealing how it became her refuge during a period of grief. She explains how this personal therapy evolved into Fields and Flour, her unique business where she combines her expertise in social work with the joys of baking. The episode sheds light on how activities like baking can enhance mental well-being and inspire personal growth, offering a fresh perspective on therapeutic practices.Explore...2024-12-2048 min
The Foster Friendly PodcastCaring for Yourselves Better as a Foster Family with Rebecca Harvin and Stacy LasondeIn this episode of the Foster Friendly Podcast, hosts Courtney Williams and Travis Vangsnes discuss the critical issues surrounding foster care, particularly the high rate of burnout among foster parents. They are joined by Rebecca Harvin and Stacy Lasonde, who share their experiences and insights on the importance of support systems for foster families. The conversation highlights the creation of Haven Retreats, Rebecca's nonprofit organization aimed at providing therapeutic retreats for foster and adoptive caregivers. The discussion delves into the emotional challenges faced by foster parents, the significance of addressing grief, and the need for community support...2024-12-1841 min
The Foster Friendly PodcastFoster Mom Inspiring Her City to Better Support Families with Cayela MoodyIn this episode of the Foster Friendly podcast, hosts Brian Mavis and Courtney Williams engage with Cayela Moody, a passionate advocate for foster care and community support. Cayela shares her journey as a foster adoptive parent and her efforts to establish a foster-friendly community in Jacksonville, Florida. The conversation highlights the importance of support systems for foster families, the motivations behind choosing foster care, and the role of businesses in creating a supportive environment for foster families. Cayela emphasizes that even after closing their foster home, there are still opportunities to contribute to the foster care community through advocacy...2024-12-1142 min