Shows
Fostering ChangeThe Croc King: Meet the Man with 3,000+ Pairs of Crocs with a Connection to Foster Care!Happy July and welcome back to a Best Of episode of Fostering Change! In this lively and heartwarming conversation, host Rob Scheer reconnects with fan-favorite Doogie Sandtiger, also known as The Croc King — a man with a passion for comfort and color who has collected over 3,000 pairs of Crocs.You may have seen Doogie on The Today Show or follow him on social media. But beyond the viral Croc fame, Doogie's story is deeply personal. Like Rob — and many youth in foster care — Doogie never learned how to tie his shoes as a child. That’s where Cr...2025-07-0122 min
Fostering ChangeCorporate Responsibility Shining Through: Supporting Youth in Foster CareOn today’s episode of Fostering Change, we continue our special acknowledgment that May is National Foster Care Awareness Month. We hope you have taken some moments to reflect on what you can do to support those in the foster care system: donate, volunteer your time, mentor, or even consider taking steps to be a CASA or foster parent. Thank you for all you do!If you’d like a simple way to support Comfort Cases, here’s an idea: You can participate in the Hundred X program. Click on the following link, and you’ll be guide...2025-05-2018 min
Fostering ChangeHow the Foster Care System Continues to Fail Children with Blair & Johnathan Bobbit-Miller!Content Warning: This episode contains discussions of difficult subject matter, including child abuse and the tragic death/murder of a young child. Listener discretion is strongly advised. If these topics may be triggering or upsetting, we encourage you to prioritize your well-being and consider this before listening to this episode.Welcome back for the second part of our special 2-episode series of Fostering Change, featuring the story of the horrific murder of 5-year-old Harmony Montgomery.On our last episode, we spoke with Judge Carol Erskine, author of the book A Cruel Injustice, which...2025-02-0421 min
Fostering ChangeFrom a Career On The Bench To Advocating For Youth In Foster Care with Judge Carol Erskine!Content Warning: This episode contains discussions of difficult subject matter, including child abuse and the tragic death/murder of a young child. Listener discretion is strongly advised. If these topics may be triggering or upsetting, we encourage you to prioritize your well-being and take this all into consideration prior to listening to this episode.On today’s special episode of Fostering Change we speak with Judge Carol Erskine. Judge Erskine is the author of the book, A Cruel Injustice. In thebook, and in today’s interview with Rob Scheer, Judge Erskine discusses the tragic death of 5-yea...2025-01-2124 min
Fostering Change12 years in a NYC Orphanage Didn’t Stop Lillian Colon from becoming a Rockette!"If you have nobody, you have yourself." Lillian ColonWhen Lillian Colon shared that phrase above with Rob Scheer when he interviewed her recently, there was a pause in the conversation as those words hit home. Reflect on them for a moment.On today’s episode of Fostering Change, Rob interviews Lillian Colon, who spent more than a decade in a strict New York City orphanage because her father “thought it would be best” to separate from the mother she adored. With restrictions all around her, she strove to be someone better than anyone...2024-10-1519 min
Fostering ChangeAchievements of Comfort Cases Scholarship Recipients: Changing the World!It’s October! Comfort Cases held our annual fundraiser event this past weekend, a “Farm-to-Table Feast.” It was a memorable event, with inspirational speakers, including our keynote speaker, Cowboy Jax, our emcee, the fabulous Jen Lilley, and our founder and host of Fostering Change, Rob Scheer. There’s still time to donate or contribute your most valuable asset - your TIME - to Comfort Cases. Please visit www.comfortcases.org to find out more!We recorded our show today several weeks ago but intentionally posted it today, as we are featuring not one, not two, but THREE Go...2024-10-0117 min
Fostering ChangeFighting the Legal System on Behalf of Youth in Foster Care Special Guest, Andrew Bridge, author of “The Child Catcher: A Fight for Justice & Truth ”Welcome to Season 6 of Fostering Change! Following 220 amazing episodes, we are so excited for what’s to come this season. We have special and moving guests, and throughout the season we are inviting some of Comfort Cases’ friends to co-host episodes with Rob Scheer. That includes today’s episode, as we are so lucky to have Rita Soronen, CEO of the Dave Thomas Center for Adoption join Rob to interview our first guest of the season, Andrew Bridge, author of The Child Catcher: A Fight for Justice & Truth. If you have a suggestion for a gues...2024-09-0335 min
Fostering ChangeBest of Season 5: Going “Bananas Foster” with the Savannah Bananas’ Philanthropic Owner, Emily ColeYou’ve made it! It’s the end of August and our final “Best of Season 5” episode of the season, and we’ve saved a very special episode just for you.Just a note that Season 6 will debut next week, Tuesday, September 3. We have some amazing guests lined up, and are doing something new this season: on several episodes, we are bringing in special guests to Co-Host interviews with Rob Scheer. You’ll recognize some of the names as previous guests, and there will also be some new names for you - who we know you will love as mu...2024-08-2828 min
Fostering ChangeBest of Season 5: Peter Mutabazi: Questions About Race & Other Challenges a Single Black Father Faces Who Adopts & Fosters Children of Various Races We hope you’ve been enjoying our “Best of Season 5 episodes, and have been able to catch up on other episodes of Fostering Change you may have missed.Today, we revisit an episode that aired back in November: Rob Scheer interviews Peter Mutabazi: entrepreneur, international advocate for children, and the founder of Now I Am Known, a nonprofit that supplies resources that encourage and affirm children and families. A single adoptive father of three and foster dad to many (34 as of this date!), Mutabazi is a former street kid originally from Uganda who has worked for Worl...2024-07-1628 min
Fostering ChangeAn Unlikely Journey to Parenthood Through America’s Broken Foster Care SystemWelcome to our first episode of Fostering Change’s “Best of Season 5”. Today, we revisit Rob’s interview with Mark Daley, author of SAFE: A Memoir of Fatherhood, Foster Care, and the Risks We Take for Family. We knew right away that this interview would be in our “Best of” series, and we think you’ll agree. So whether this is your first, second or third time listening to this interview, please enjoy!Today, on Fostering Change, Comfort Cases’ founder Rob Scheer has an enlightening conversation with Mark Daley, author of SAFE: A Memoir of Fatherhood, Foster Care, and t...2024-06-1826 min
Fostering ChangeNavigating the Foster Care System in California and BeyondWelcome to the Final Episode of Season 5. Thank you for joining us on this journey - whether you’re a new listener or if you’ve been with us all five seasons.Season 6 will debut in September, but following today’s episode, we will air some of our favorite episodes from the past season once again bi-weekly. So stay tuned!And for our final episode of the season, we wanted to go out on a HIGH NOTE, and couldn’t have looked any further than today’s guest, Rob Scheer’s good friend, Sarah Fraser...2024-06-0420 min
Fostering ChangeThis Award-Winning Record Producer Becomes a CASA to Support Youth in Foster Care - Benny GrinbergAs you likely recall, in Season 5, we moved to posting new episodes of Fostering Change bi-weekly. Well, we’ve just met so many amazing humans that we thought we’d make an exception during National Foster Care Awareness Month, so we have four episodes running this month! Before we get on to today’s show with the amazing Benjy Grinberg, just a suggestion to visit the Comfort Cases website - www.comfortcases.org, and see all of the programs we are working on this month, with some genuinely unique organizations. Thanks.And now, as they say...2024-05-1426 min
Fostering ChangeAn unflinching portrait of shattered families, desperation, and determinationMay 1 was the first day of National Foster Care Awareness Month. The team at Comfort Cases wants to take a moment to thank and recognize all of the foster parents, foster families, youth who are currently in foster care and those who have “aged out”. Thank you to the CASAs and the social service agencies and workers who are doing their best.And thank you to YOU, our faithful (and new) listeners of Fostering Change. We produce this podcast for you and in support of all you are doing. Thank you for your comments and sharing epis...2024-05-0723 min
Fostering ChangeHow Children and families affected by conditions such as Fetal Alcohol Syndrome can benefit from exposure to farms and farm animalsToday’s episode of Fostering Change is an in depth discussion with Susan Rich, founder and president of 7th Generation Foundation, about FAS: Fetal Alcohol Syndrome. FAS is close to home to our host, Rob Scheer, as one of Rob’s children has FAS. And although the diagnosis for Rob’s son was that he may never walk, or even talk, his son has achieved amazing things in his life, including being the President of his Student Government in High School, and has been accepted into the college he’s loved for years.Susan and R...2024-04-2324 min
Fostering ChangeA Foster Care Journey and How Change Must Happen to the Broken SystemJerold Hawkins was introduced to Rob Scheer and Comfort Cases in 2023 when the company he works for, Aptiv, held a “Packing Party,” packing up backpacks filled with new essential items to be delivered to local social service agencies for distribution to youth entering foster care in Michigan.Following the event, Jerold reached out to us because he wanted to share his story: his experience in foster care, moving to a variety of homes over a 5 year period - recalling “all my life’s belongings dumped into a black trash bag.”Jerold sha...2024-03-2623 min
Fostering ChangeAn Unlikely Journey to Parenthood Through America’s Broken Foster Care System with Mark DaleyToday, on Fostering Change, Comfort Cases’ founder Rob Scheer has an enlightening conversation with Mark Daley, author of SAFE: A Memoir of Fatherhood, Foster Care, and the Risks We Take for Family. The book offers a deeply personal window into what happens when the universal longing for family crashes up against the unique madness and bureaucracy of a child protection system that often fails to consider the needs of the most vulnerable parties of all—the children themselves.You will hear Rob share that he believes that SAFE is an important resource for anyone who is inter...2024-01-3024 min
Fostering ChangeA Truly Corporately Responsible Organization and How they Support Youth in Foster CareCorporate Responsibility. You hear that phrase often. But how many businesses truly follow through on being good corporate citizens? On today’s episode of Fostering Change you will meet one organization that does just that: Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield’s Indiana Medicaid Health Plan. In fact, this organization was Comfort Cases’ very first corporate sponsor - we are celebrating working with them for six years!You will hear Rob Scheer speak with April Lam, Chief of Staff for the health plan. April has a strong connection to Comfort Cases’ mission, as she not only works cl...2023-11-2818 min
Fostering ChangeChanging the Narrative: Questions About Race & Other Challenges a Single Black Father Who Adopts & Fosters Children of Various Races FacesWe hope you are ready for an especially inspiring episode of Fostering Change. Today, Rob Scheer interviews Peter Mutabazi: entrepreneur, international advocate for children, and the founder of Now I Am Known, a nonprofit that supplies resources that encourage and affirm children and families. A single adoptive father of three and foster dad to many (34 as of this date!), Mutabazi is a former street kid originally from Uganda who has worked for World Vision, Compassion International, and the Red Cross, and has appeared on media outlets such as the BBC and The TODAY Show.Rob and...2023-11-2121 min
Fostering ChangeExploring the Passion in Being a Resilient CaregiverIn a discussion that covers everything from medicare filings to the resources necessary for caregivers of all kind to thrive, today Rob Scheer speaks with Mike and Kristin Berry, the co-founders of The Resilient Caregiver, a global initiative that helps foster and adoptive caregivers build resiliency through understanding, education, and support.There are so many hoops one must jump through when becoming a foster parent or adopting, many just don’t know where to start. Kristin and Mike, have been there and done that, and through their recently rebranded organization, The Resilient Caregiver, they provide many of...2023-11-1423 min
Fostering ChangeSteps to Youth Can Take to Overcome BullyingToday, Rob Scheer talks with a real “go-getter”. Someone who doesn’t take no for an answer and truly reaches for the stars. Haley Marguerite is a motivational speaker, a publisher and an author. In fact, she published her first book at the age of 11!Haley is the talented author behind the beloved Charlie Takes an Adventure book series. Through her captivating stories, children learn important life lessons while joining Charlie, the adventurous penguin, on his incredible journeys and heartwarming experiences with his loving family. Haley’s passion for empowering kids to believe in themsel...2023-11-0815 min
Fostering ChangeOvercoming the Challenges of Youth Exiting Foster CareComfort Cases is thrilled to be working with the team from Amerigroup Georgia Families 360 on a powerful new initiative. Launched at the start of National Adoption Awareness Month, Comfort Cases and Amerigroup Georgia Families 360 are committing to get a Comfort Case(™) to every youth in foster care in the state of Georgia, finally ending the practice of black trash bags being given to youth who are entering or transitioning into foster care.This first-of-its-kind initiative, https://comfortcases.org/press/amerigroup-georgia-leads-the-nation-in-providing-comfort-cases-to-every-child-in-georgia-foster-care/, showcases the power of collective action and sets an inspiring precedent for other states to follow. To...2023-11-0716 min
Fostering ChangeZion Clark: Learning to Leverage Struggles to Survive and Thrive at the Highest LevelsYou may know the name Zion Clark, whose catchphrase is: “You Don't Need Legs To Leave A Footprint On Earth”Did you watch his documentary on Netflix? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HRvGlB1-Ku8Maybe you saw him on America’s Got Talent? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RRA3t_9hX50Or, you read his book, “Work With What You Got: A Memoir”, https://www.amazon.com/Work-What-You-Got-Memoir/dp/1536224219Today, Rob Scheer speaks with this amazing All-American wrestler, MMA fighter, Guinness World Record holder, and an interna...2023-10-3110 min
Fostering ChangeBecoming “Indomitable” and Fixing the Flaws in the Foster Care SystemSocial justice advocate Di Ciruolo is on a mission to shed light on these systematic injustices in the foster care system and provides a step-by-step approach to personal recovery and guidance for survivors and those who seek to support them in her new book, “Indomitable”, a true story of how she survived foster care.In today’s episode of Fostering Change, Rob Scheer and Di Ciruolo work together to highlight the flaws in the foster care system, and what can be done to FINALLY correct them, and help our most vulnerable youth.Indomitable is a tr...2023-10-2425 min
Fostering ChangeHelping Youth Who are Aging Out of the Foster Care SystemToday on Fostering Change, Rob Scheer speaks with Monica Pantoja, the dynamic Executive Director of the nsoro Educational Foundation.Founded in 2005, The nsoro Educational Foundation believes not one young person aging out of our nation's foster care system should have to navigate the world alone. Our mission provides the access to and attainment of post-secondary education through a holistic scholarship that shepherds our youth to and through college, optimally positioning our graduates for an equitable transition into adulthood. Nsoro’s Scholarship Program “Fostering Futures” provides a certified executive coach and a mentor with evidence curriculum, anchored in four t...2023-10-1023 min
Fostering ChangeWhat We Can Do To Ensure that Youth in Foster Care Succeed in Life!In today’s episode of Fostering Change, Rob Scheer speaks with a true “angel”: Susan Ramirez, the founder of National Angels, a non-profit organization whose mission is “to walk alongside children, youth, and families in the foster care community by offering consistent support through intentional giving, relationship building, and mentorship.”Now in 21 cities in 16 states, National Angels goal is to keep youth in foster care in one home before they are returned to their biological family or become a permanent part of that home by adoption.As Susan notes in the interview: “Every child should...2023-10-0324 min
Fostering ChangeExperience a Truly Good Human: A NICU Nurse Adopts the Teen Mom of TripletsThis true story will inspire you like none you may have ever heard. Rob Scheer interviews Katrina Mullen. You may have seen Katrina on The Today Show, or in People Magazine. This unassuming NICU (NeoNatal Intensive Care Unit) Nurse has received universal praise for how she stepped up where others would not.As a neonatal nurse in a small Indiana hospital, she saw Shariya, a young mother sitting cribside of her 3 young babies she had just given birth to. This new mom, only 14 years old, was often alone, looking lost… and alone. Katrina would visit with Shariy...2023-09-2623 min
Fostering ChangeTODD PARR TALKS ABOUT HIS RECENT CHILDRENS BOOK "THE MONSTER MAC AND CHEESE PARTY" & MORE!Welcome to Season 5 of Fostering Change! For those of you who are new to us: “Welcome!” And for our returning friends, “Welcome Back!”Fostering Change is hosted by Rob Scheer, the founder of Comfort Cases, a non-profit organization whose mission is to promote hope and dignity to youth in foster care.We will post new episodes of Fostering Change every Tuesday on all of your favorite podcast channels, YouTube and on our Comfort Cases page (www.comfortcases/podcast). On the Comfort Cases page you can also find all of our previously aired episodes.2023-09-0523 min
Fostering Change“Best of Season 4”What Needs to Change in the Foster Care System - Cody RenegarThank you for joining us for our final “Best of Season 4” episode of Fostering Change. From all of us at Comfort Cases, we hope you had a wonderful summer and enjoyed revisiting some of our favorite episodes from this past season.Next week, September 5, we will post the first episode for our new season. Can you believe that we’re entering Season 5???? Neither can we! We want to thank everyone: our guests and our listeners for all you do to make Fostering Change the #1 podcast for issues regarding foster care and adoption.If you have...2023-08-2924 min
Fostering Change"Best of Season 4" A Transracially Adopted Person Shares Her Life Experiences: April DinwoodieApril Dinwoodie is an Adoption Activist, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging Consultant, and Parent Coach. Dinwoodie’s podcast Born in June, Raised in April: What Adoption Can Teach the World helps facilitate an open dialogue about identity, family, and differences of race, culture, and class. As a transracially adopted person (Black/bi-racial, adopted into a white family), April is fiercely dedicated to sharing her experiences to audiences of varied spectrums. In this week’s Fostering Change, April shares with host Rob Scheer her thoughts on helping individuals get a better understanding of people with similar backgrounds. She often consults with com...2023-08-1524 min
Fostering ChangeAn Inspirational “Best of Season 4” Interview: Lauren Ruotolo, advocate for women and the disabledAs we continue our “Best of Season 4 Series” this Summer, we go back to a true favorite: Rob Scheer talks with Lauren Ruotolo, author of “Unstoppable in Stilettos”, inspirational speaker and award winning content producer. Be this the first time you’ve heard this interview, or an encore, we know you’ll love Lauren as much as we do.At 18 months Lauren was diagnosed with a rare disease called McCune Albright's Syndrome which left her walking with crutches full time at the age of 5 years old. After spending more than 20 years in magazine publishing an...2023-07-1129 min
Fostering ChangeBest of Season 4: Kenisha Anthony - Living Life Despite BarriersFor our first “Best of” episode in July, we are revisiting our interview with Kenisha Anthony, a first-generation college graduate, award-winning advocate for youth, and author. Known for being resilient and bold, Kenisha Anthony is an outspoken activist utilizing her experiences to empower others. As a foster care visionary, she starred in the documentary, Foster Shock and has been featured on NPR and in Essence Magazine. Join our host Rob Scheer as he talks with Kenisha about her eye-opening memoir, LABELED,Story Key Notes:🖐️ Purpose of writing memoir🖐️ Lived experien...2023-07-0429 min
Fostering Change“Best of Season 4”: Hustling With Heart – How Mike Thorne is Helping Others Find Their Personal Trust CommunitiesOriginally posted in March, we couldn’t be happier to share Rob’s interview with his good friend, Mike Thorne, Mike’s focus of work is Human Transformation. He accomplishes this through an association with Vistage Worldwide, the largest Peer Advisory firm, and his work as Chairman of the National Council for Adoption.As the author of the new book, Hustle With Heart: Unlocking Self-Worth Through Personal Trust Communities, he works to help people transform and thrive - at home and at work - to find a better way forward with their lives.Mike i...2023-06-2026 min
Fostering ChangeBest of Season 4 | Damon Davis shares his journey through life as an adoptee to becoming an adoptive parent himselfPlease note that this episode initially aired in November, National Adoption Awareness Month. We acknowledge all, such as our guest Damon Davis, who continue raising awareness about adoption.In this week's episode of Fostering Change, Rob Scheer talks with author and podcast host Damon Davis. Host of the "Who Am I Really?" podcast (www.whoamireallypodcast.com) Damon interviews people who share their stories of adoption and their attempt to find their birth families. He has interviewed nearly 200 adoptees from an array of life experiences from awful adoptions and amazing reunions to inspiring adoptions and unfortunate reunions.2023-06-1334 min
Fostering ChangeBEST OF SEASON 4: Featuring Olympic Gold Medalist Greg LouganisToday we kick off our "BEST OF SEASON 4" series. And what better way than to re-broadcast our first episode of the season, featuring Olympic Gold Medalist, Greg Louganis. So please enjoy - either for the 1st time or again. And stay tuned for additional "Best ofs" through the summer until we premiere Season 5 in September.From the archive:We are so thrilled to launch our 4th Season of “Fostering Change.” Over the past 4 years, we have spoken with more than 150 Good Humans, who have shared their missions and inspiring stories. For our premiere episode of S...2023-06-0629 min
Fostering ChangeA Transracially Adopted Person Shares Her Life Experiences: April Dinwoodie, Episode 181April Dinwoodie is an Adoption Activist, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging Consultant, and Parent Coach. Dinwoodie’s podcast Born in June, Raised in April: What Adoption Can Teach the World helps facilitate an open dialogue about identity, family, and differences of race, culture, and class. As a transracially adopted person (Black/bi-racial, adopted into a white family), April is fiercely dedicated to sharing her experiences to audiences of varied spectrums. In this week’s Fostering Change, April shares with host Rob Scheer her thoughts on helping individuals get a better understanding of people with similar backgrounds. She often consults with com...2023-05-2322 min
Fostering ChangeHelping Children Find Their Forever FamiliesIn today’s podcast Rob Scheer and his guests discuss the needs of families looking to adopt. This includes creating paths for families who need extra support for safety and stability. They look at what is working and what can be done differently to help children and families thrive.Adoptions Together supports children and families formed through adoption, guardianship, foster care, and kinship care with specialized services offered at locations in Maryland, Virginia and DC. Support is available to every family for a lifetime of guidance, education, and counseling to ensure that each family stays strong together. 2023-05-1628 min
Fostering ChangeHustling With Heart: How Mike Thorne is Helping Others Find Their Personal Trust CommunitiesMike Thorne’s focus of work is Human Transformation. He accomplishes this through an association with Vistage Worldwide, the largest Peer Advisory firm, and his work as Chairman of the National Council for Adoption.As the author of the new book, Hustle With Heart: Unlocking Self-Worth Through Personal Trust Communities, he works to help people transform and thrive - at home and at work - to find a better way forward with their lives.Mike is the former President of Yankee Candle and Russell Athletic and most recently CEO of Challenger Turf. He is...2023-03-2826 min
Fostering ChangeA Discussion About How the Pandemic Affected the Lives of Youth in Foster CareIn this week's episode of Fostering Change, Rob Scheer has an enlightening conversation with Bhavini Solanki, Director of Foster Care for Amerigroup’s Georgia Families 360 Program. In her role, she is responsible for the healthcare of children and youth in state custody, those who have been adopted through Georgia’s foster care system and a few hundred Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) managed members. Bhavini works collaboratively with all the state agencies to maintain quality outcomes and coordination of care for the most vulnerable members in the state. The conversation focuses on the increase of the numb...2023-03-1429 min
Fostering ChangeLearning to Live with “Grace and Empathy”In this week's episode of Fostering Change, Rob Scheer talks with Marpheen Chan, Author of “Moon in Full: A Modern Coming of Age Story”. Mapheen is an advocate for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. As a gay, first-generation Asian American born in California to a Cambodian refugee family and later adopted by an evangelical, white working-class family in Maine, Marpheen uses a mix of humor and storytelling to help people view topics such as racism, xenophobia, and homophobia through an intersectional lens.Story Key Notes:🖐️ Why write a book and what was the process like?2023-02-2827 min
Fostering ChangeA Very Special Valentine’s Day Episode: Rob Scheer Interviews his Son, MakaiIt was January 2009, and the doorbell rang at Rob and Reece Scheer’s townhouse in Washington, DC. Standing there was Sheri, a *“... social worker, holding the hand of a little boy with long cornrows and big, black eyes. He was two but he looked really little, less than a year old. Holding Sheri’s other hand was a young girl. ‘This is Amaya,’ Sheri said. ‘Amaya say hi to Mr. Rob. And this is Makai’. Makai didn’t react.” This was to be their third home since September.And that was Rob’s introduction to who would soon be his so...2023-02-1418 min
Fostering ChangeKenisha Anthony - Living Life Despite BarriersA first-generation college graduate, award-winning advocate for youth, and author. Known for being resilient and bold, Kenisha Anthony is an outspoken activist utilizing her experiences to empower others. As a foster care visionary, she starred in the documentary, Foster Shock and has been featured on NPR and in Essence Magazine. Join our host Rob Scheer as he talks with Kenisha about her eye-opening memoir, LABELED,Story Key Notes:🖐️ Purpose of writing memoir🖐️ Lived experiences as a child in care, advocate and social worker🖐️ Life after foster care, college...2023-02-0728 min
Fostering ChangeNational Miss Curvy 2022, Angelina Blare says: “Be the Change You Wish to See.”What happens when your adoption fails? And it’s your own grandmother who says it’s not working out? In this week’s episode of Fostering Change, Rob Scheer talks with a true survivor: Angelina Blare, National Miss Curvy 2022. Angelina is a member of QPI Nevada, member of the Child Justice Task Force for the State of Nevada and panel Speaking Guest for DCFS Nevada. She is using her platform to bring awareness to the many issues children in foster care face. Angelina is a young superstar - she is taking on issues regarding the failing foster care system as wel...2023-01-3123 min
Fostering ChangeFrom Chaos to Clarity with Marci Hopkins“Once I put down the drink, I just celebrated 7 years of sobriety... is when I really started healing from all of the pain from my trauma." Today, host Rob Scheer discuss addiction, abuse and amazing recovery with Marci Hopkins, author of “Chaos to Clarity: Seeing the Signs and Breaking the Cycles”. Marci is also host of the daily TV show, “Wake Up with Marci”, a show of “empowerment, celebrity inspiration, and learning to live our happiest lives!”. This week's episode of Fostering Change will enlighten and inspire you.Story Key Notes:🖐️ Chaos To Clarity; Seeing The S...2023-01-2431 min
Fostering ChangeDave Silbert's So What Else - Youth Development and Hunger Relief Non-ProfitIn this week's episode of Fostering Change, Rob Scheer talks with Dave Silbert, Co-Founder & Executive Director of So What Else. For as long as he can remember, Dave has always wanted to help people and serve his community in whatever way he could. As a young adult, Dave gained extensive experience working with people as the Assistant Director of an in-patient rehabilitation facility in California. After returning to the East Coast, he started his own personal training and sports coaching business, learning the in's and out's of running one's own business and the joy in working with kids.2023-01-1723 min
Fostering ChangeEmily Chang Joins Rob Scheer to Discuss Social Legacy, and How to Lead With Authentic Purpose.In this week's episode of Fostering Change, Rob Scheer talks with Emily Chang, author of The Spare Room. Emily has 23yrs corporate experience and executive leadership at P&G, Apple, InterContinental Hotels Group, and Starbucks. Now the CEO of McCann Worldgroup, China. Prior to joining McCann Worldgroup in 2020, Emily held executive marketing and commercial roles at P&G, Starbucks, Apple, and InterContinental Hotels Group. Known for designing innovative O+O branded experiences, she has led marketing innovations like opening the first Starbucks Roastery outside of Seattle, introducing Apple Podcasts in China, and creating one of China’s first reality te...2023-01-1029 min
Fostering ChangeDebbie Riley, Discussing Mental Health Services for the Foster Care and Adoption CommunitiesIn this week's episode of Fostering Change, Rob Scheer talks with Debbie Riley, LCMFT CEO and Co-founder of the Center for Adoption Support and Education (C.A.S.E.), a nonprofit adoptive family support center in the DC metro area. A nationally recognized adoption expert and public speaker, Ms. Riley is a licensed marriage and family therapist with 40 years of professional experience, including extensive health care management, administration, design and development of nationally acclaimed adoption-competency trainings and services, direct delivery of specialized counseling services, and mental health advocacy and public policy development. Story Key Notes:2023-01-0326 min
Fostering ChangeLauren Ruotolo, Inspirational Advocate for Women and the DisabledIn this week's episode of Fostering Change, Rob Scheer talks with Lauren Ruotolo. Lauren is the author of “Unstoppable in Stilettos”, inspirational speaker and award winning content producer. At 18 months Lauren was diagnosed with a rare disease called McCune Albright's Syndrome which left her walking with crutches full time at the age of 5 years old. After spending more than 20 years in magazine publishing and healthcare, Lauren now commits 100% of her time advocating for the 61 million people in the US and 1.2B globally who identify as disabled. Currently she is working with global corporations on why including disability in all your...2022-12-2729 min
Fostering ChangeDamon Davis Shares His Journey Through Life as an Adoptee to Becoming an Adoptive Parent HimselfPlease note that this episode was initially scheduled to air in November, National Adoption Awareness Month. We acknowledge all, such as our guest Damon Davis, who continue raising awareness about adoption.In this week's episode of Fostering Change, Rob Scheer talks with author and podcast host Damon Davis. Host of the "Who Am I Really?" podcast (www.whoamireallypodcast.com) Damon interviews people who share their stories of adoption and their attempt to find their birth families. He has interviewed nearly 200 adoptees from an array of life experiences from awful adoptions and amazing reunions to inspiring adoptions...2022-12-2034 min
Fostering ChangeHow this Child of Foster Care Grew Up to be a Wall Street Tycoon & a Proponent of Education and PhilanthropyIn this week's episode of Fostering Change, Rob Scheer talks with Ed Hajim. Ed recounts in his memoir, ON THE ROAD LESS TRAVELED: An Unlikely Journey from the Orphanage to the Boardroom, how he grew-up mainly in orphanages and in foster homes with no consistent family or support system. Feeling at times lonely, angry, jealous and poor. YET, despite huge obstacles, Ed Hajim became a Wall Street executive, a business tycoon of the highest order. Ed learned to survive, to keep himself strong and focused. And step by step, he turned his life around, even g...2022-12-1329 min
Fostering ChangeActor, Author Mike Provenzano talks about giving back to youth in foster careIn this week's episode of Fostering Change, Rob Scheer talks with Mike Provenzano, Actor and Spokesperson. Mike is a father of 4 boys who became an award winning actor later in life and has been at it for about 6 years now. Mike is someone who enjoys helping others any way that he can, be it advice or any other way. He lived in foster care as a child and always looking for ways to give back.Story Key Notes:🖐️”Roxy the Reindeer’s Magical Christmas Journey”🖐️ Giving back and helping others🖐️ Grew up in F...2022-12-0618 min
Fostering ChangeWhat Needs to Change in the Foster Care System - Cody RenegarIn this week's episode of Fostering Change, Rob Scheer talks with Cody Renegar, Hairstylist, Author and Artist.Cody is a hairstylist, fine artist, and author of the memoir "Changing the Stars." He currently lives in California with his husband, Terry. He has a son, Levi, who, with his partner, Alaya, has given Cody three grandkids. Cody is the hairstylist of choice for many Hollywood entertainment industry celebrities and A-listers. Los Angeles is his main stage, although he also maintains a large clientele in Washington, D.C., and Arkansas. He is a cosmetologist and master barber with twenty-five years of...2022-11-2922 min
Fostering ChangeClosing the Opportunity Gap with Rasie BamigbadeIn this week's episode of Fostering Change, Rob Scheer talks with Rasie Bamigbade ,Leadership Coach, Author & Speaker. Rasie is a leadership coach, bestseller author of Lead In Your Truth and Speaker. She helps business and corporate leaders lead their teams more effectively through self leadership. Closing the opportunity gap in leadership is at the core of Rasie's work. She does this through her successful coaching program and youth mentorship program.Story Key Notes:🖐️ Clarity of where I am going - Goals🖐️ Self Belief – Doing the work to build on self belief🖐️ Lead...2022-11-2221 min
Fostering ChangeOn National Philanthropy Day We Talk About The Secret to Happiness: GIVING With Gideon BernsteinIn this week's episode of Fostering Change, we celebrate National Philanthropy Day by bringing on a return guest. Rob Scheer talks with Gideon Bernstein, Chartered Financial Analyst and Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy and the author of The Workbook for Giving: Exercises for identifying the resources, giving goals, and giving strategies for you and your family.Gideon Bernstein has served as a trusted financial advisor to families in Orange County, California, for decades.Currently a Principal and Chief Investment Officer at Leisure Capital Management, his passion is working with nonprofit boards, families, and private fo...2022-11-1524 min
Fostering ChangeThe CEO of the National Council for Adoption shares how they advocate for positive adoption experiencesIn this week's episode of Fostering Change, Rob Scheer talks with Ryan Hanlon, President & CEO, National Council for Adoption.Ryan worked in the field of adoption since 2004 and he is a social worker / adoption researcher previously at an adoption agency, but with NCFA since 2017. We advance our mission through research, education, and advocacy. Story Key Notes:🖐️ Families utilize post-adoption resources at relatively high rates.🖐️ Private domestic adoption includes more situations where adoptive family and birth family have ongoing contact/relationship.🖐️ Overall, parents report high satisfaction rate with their decision to adopt.2022-11-0824 min
Fostering ChangeOlympic Gold Medalist Greg Louganis Shares his Journey on the Season 4 Premiere of Fostering ChangeToday, November 1, 2022, we are so thrilled to launch our 4th Season of “Fostering Change.” Over the past 4 years, we have spoken with more than 150 Good Humans, who have shared their missions and inspiring stories For our premiere episode of Season 4 we could not be more excited to have Olympic Gold Medalist, Greg Louganis as our guest. Enjoy!In this week's episode of Fostering Change, Rob Scheer talks with Greg Louganis, Louganis was adopted at 9 months by Frances and Peter Louganis, who lived in Lemon Grove, CA, just outside of San Diego. Teased and bullie...2022-11-0129 min
Fostering ChangeBest of “Fostering Change” Season 3 | Mindy Henderson - The Truth About Things That SuckIn this week’s episode of Fostering Change Rob Scheer talks with Mindy Henderson, author, editor, speaker, advocate. Henderson is the author of THE TRUTH ABOUT THINGS THAT SUCK, A Motivational Speaker, Writer, Coach, Host of The Truth About Things That Suck podcast, guest contributor of “Morning Motivations” on CBS Austin’s “We Are Austin” lifestyle morning show and was recently named an “Austin Woman to Watch” by Austin Woman Magazine. After a 20-year career in high-tech, Mindy shifted her focus toward helping others realize their potential and normalizing disability. Driven to build a world that welcomes and includes EVERYONE, Mindy...2022-10-1829 min
Fostering ChangeBest of “Fostering Change” Season 3 | Anthony TrucksOriginally aired March 22, this is our first “Best of” episode, as we conclude Season 3.Rob Scheer talks with Anthony Trucks,Coach, Speaker, Author, Former NFL, CEO at Identity Shift.Anthony is an experienced president with a demonstrated history of working in the health wellness and fitness industry. Strong business development professional skilled in Athlete Development, Coaching, Sales, Football, and Event Management.Key Story Notes: 🖐️The Six Types of Failure: Learn how to stop placing importance on fear of failing and learn instead to reframe failures as you learn when...2022-10-1133 min
Fostering ChangeHow a blanket can bring a SMILE to a child in Foster Care Jessica RudolphIn this week's episode of Fostering Change, Rob Scheer talks with Jessica Rudolph, CEO & Founder of My Very Own Blanket.My Very Own Blanket is a non-profit organization started in December of 1999, dedicated to comforting children in foster care with a blanket they can call “their very own”, bringing them love, comfort and most of all a SMILE. Her aspirations are to help spread more love, comfort and hope to children in foster care across the nation and around the world! Named as one of the Sunny 95 Inaugural Event “20 Outstanding Women You Should Know” February 2008, she has als...2022-10-0422 min
Fostering ChangeJustin & Alexis Black: How to Foster Kids Beat the Odds and Discovered Healing, Happiness and LoveIn this week's episode of Fostering Change, Rob Scheer talks with Justin and Alexis Black. They are authors, speakers, business owners and part of the Forbes Next 1000 class of 2021. Together, they’ve published an award-winning, bestselling book titled Redefining Normal: How Two Foster Kids Beat The Odds and Discovered Healing, Happiness and Love that has impacted over 15,000 individuals and families. With ROSE (Rising Over Societal Expectations) Empowerment Group and Redefining Normal, they hope to continue the conversation on healthy relationships, mental health, and healing through speaking engagements, trainings and book clubs.Story Key Notes:...2022-09-2723 min
Fostering ChangeGiovanna Ventola Discusses How Kids See Books as a Mirror in their Own LivesIn this week's episode of Fostering Change, Rob Scheer talks with Giovanna Ventola, an entrepreneur and self published children’s book author who lives in Chicago. She wrote the story of her rescue pup, “Waylon’s World” about Waylon’s journey to his forever home with her in the big city. It’s the first children’s book she’s written but she already has plans to add more to the series. Walyon has been the cutest little mascot for kids and he’s a big hit when they do live readings in Chicago.Story Key Notes:🖐️...2022-09-2021 min
Fostering ChangeEmpowering children to be caring, confident and resilient: SlumberkinsIn this week's episode of Fostering Change, Rob Scheer talks with Callie Christensen and Kelly Oriard. Callie and Kelly are Co-CEOs and Co-Founders of Slumberkins, a direct-to-consumer, e-commerce children's brand on a mission to promote emotional wellness and provide tools to help raise caring, confident and resilient children. Callie and Kelly started their business with a culmination of more than 20 years of friendship and a shared life passion for promoting early emotional learning. As mothers with backgrounds in family therapy and early education, they identified a need for intentional children's products while on maternity leave together in 2016. Now...2022-09-1329 min
Fostering ChangeRick Ornelas - Creating Purpose: Fostering Change Episode 144In this week’s episode of Fostering Change, Rob Scheer talks with Rick Ornelas, Bestselling author & Founder of I Spark Change. Rick Ornelas is a bestselling author, Ultimate Success Coach™, and founder of I Spark Change. He helps individuals gain clarity and guidance by eliminating the roadblocks preventing their personal and professional success so they can elevate their social impact and spread positive change.Story Key Notes:🖐️ How Rick Changed His Whole Life in 2020 to Go Down this Path🖐️ Creating Purpose in One’s life🖐️ Global Impact2022-09-0623 min
Fostering ChangeTony Hynes, Center for Adoption Support (CASE) / Fostering Change Episode 143In this week’s episode of Fostering Change, Rob Scheer talks with Tony Hynes. Tony is an adoptee, former foster youth, author of “The Son with Two Moms:, Training Specialist at the Center for Adoption Support and Education, and PH.D. Candidate studying the well-being of adult interracial adoptees. Rob and Tony discuss The importance of discussing Intersectionality in adoptive/foster care communities, and how to empower adoptees/foster communities through the life-course.Story Key Notes:🖐️ The Son With Two Moms🖐️ The Importance of Discussing Intersectionality in Adoptive/Fostered Care C...2022-08-3036 min
Fostering ChangeFrom an Abusive Home to Advocate for Foster Care ReformIn this week’s episode of Fostering Change, Rob Scheer talks with Keri Richmond,Executive Director at Unbelievably Resilient and Manager of Child Welfare Policy at American Academy of Pediatrics. Keri Richmond is a passionate advocate for children and families in both her personal and professional life. After being in Ohio’s foster care system off and on for four years, and being adopted into an abusive home, as an adult, Keri has become an active leader for foster care reform as an international speaker, podcast host, policy wonk, and advocate. Keri is particularly impassioned about healin...2022-08-2328 min
Fostering ChangeFostering Change | CCAI Foster Youth Internship ® ProgramIn this week’s episode of Fostering Change, Rob Scheer talks with Angelique Salizan, Policy Director of the Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute (CCAI), and with their summer Interns, all who are or have been in foster care: Stormy Lukasavage, Christina Parker & Ryan Young. CCAI hosts its annual Foster Youth Internship ® Program every summer- where young adults who have spent time in foster care come to DC and work on a policy recommendation for nine weeks.Angelique Salizan, Policy Director (she/her/hers) Angelique’s work in child welfare advocacy, policy, and reform dates back to...2022-08-1640 min
Fostering ChangeFostering Change Podcast: Harvey Gallagher- Campaigning for youth in foster care and foster agenciesIn this week’s episode of Fostering Change, Rob Scheer talks with Harvey Gallagher, Chief Executive, Nationwide Association of Fostering . Harvey began his career volunteering to support disadvantaged children. He has worked for local authorities and national charities in the UK. He holds an MBA, is a fellow of the Royal Society of Arts, charity trustee, volunteer and chair of school governors. He comes from a care-experienced family, is a father of five, grandfather, runner, cyclist, vegan and Newcastle United supporter!Story Key Notes:🖐️ Foster care works really well for most children most of the...2022-08-0928 min
Fostering ChangeA Dedicated Shopping Experience for Youth in Foster Care at The TwigIn this week’s episode of Fostering Change, Rob Scheer talks with Lindsey May, Program Coordinator at The Twig, & Nicole Britton, Director of Development at The Twig. They share the history of The Twig and how it remains a resource for children in foster care where their needs are met and provided with love and encouragement.“Twig” stands for: “The Way to Inspire and Give.” Twig shops are located in Venice and Bradenton, Florida. There are designated “shopping days” for youth in foster care.Nicole Britton: Starting as a volunteer which turned into her role as the...2022-08-0230 min
Fostering ChangeFostering Change | Joseph TolesIn this week’s episode of Fostering Change Rob Scheer talks with Joseph Toles, Licensed Mental Health Counselor. Rob and Joseph talk about Joseph’s life living as a former foster child, working in the system, and now adopting kids from the system.Story Key Notes:🖐️ Joseph’s Experience in Foster Care and How it Informed Childhood Decisions and Choices🖐️ How did Joseph’s Experiences Impact Career, Family, Identity Choices?🖐️ Why did Joseph Decide to AdoptYou can find out more about Joseph by visiting:Websites: Josepht...2022-07-2623 min
Fostering ChangeFostering Change | Keri VellisIn this week’s episode of Fostering Change Rob Scheer talks with Keri Vellis,Biological, Adoptive, Foster Mom, Author & Advocate. Keri has 3 biological children & adopted three from foster care. She has fostered over 20 children, written 3 children’s books: Sometimes - for foster children; When I Was Little - for children who have suffered from trauma & abuse, and her latest book, Tummy Mom for adoptive children. Keri has a NonProfit Keris Kids which distributes the books nationally. To find out more about these titles, please visit: https://www.kerivellis.com/Story Key Notes:🖐️...2022-07-1930 min
Fostering ChangeFostering Change | Jodi GrinwaldIn this week’s episode of Fostering Change Rob Scheer talks with Jodi Grinwald, Founder & Change Agent, Today is the Day, LLC,CEO & Co-Founder, Zzak G. Applaud Our Kids Foundation.Jodi has over 17 years of experience as a not-for-profit (for-impact) organization expert and has won several benchmark awards. After working in leadership positions for two national not-for-profit (for-impact) organizations, Jodi, became the Ceo & Co-founder of the Zzak G. Applaud Our Kids Foundation. The organization provides 100% funding to children who meet the financial needs requirements to take ongoing lessons in the performing arts in a unique way. The organization funds th...2022-07-1220 min
Fostering ChangeFostering Change | Jen LilleyIn this week’s episode of Fostering Change Rob Scheer talks with Jen Lilley. In 2007, Lilley married Jason Wayne. In 2016, Lilley and her husband became foster parents through the organization, Childhelp. In June 2019, Lilley and Wayne adopted their two foster sons and in July 2019, she gave birth to a daughter. And just 2 months ago in May, she gave birth to another daughter!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 Hallmar...2022-07-0527 min
Fostering ChangeFostering Change | Mindy HendersonIn this week’s episode of Fostering Change Rob Scheer talks with Mindy Henderson, author, editor, speaker, advocate. Henderson is the author of THE TRUTH ABOUT THINGS THAT SUCK, A Motivational Speaker, Writer, Coach, Host of The Truth About Things That Suck podcast, guest contributor of “Morning Motivations” on CBS Austin’s “We Are Austin” lifestyle morning show and was recently named an “Austin Woman to Watch” by Austin Woman Magazine. After a 20-year career in high-tech, Mindy shifted her focus toward helping others realize their potential and normalizing disability. Driven to build a world that welcomes and includes EVERYONE, Mindy...2022-06-2829 min
Fostering ChangeFostering Change | Shenandoah ChefaloIn this week’s episode of Fostering Change Rob Scheer talks with Shenandoah Chefalo,Owner/President of Chefalo Consulting: Trauma-Informed Specialist.Shebabdoah is a former foster kid, Author of Garbage Bag Suitcase: A Memoir and owner of Chefalo Consulting. They talk about Looking at the whole person and whole system transformation to create systems of healing. Story Key Notes:🖐️ Understanding the impact of trauma on people and the impact of trauma on organizations.🖐️ That when we look at systems designed to help, we often focus on those they serve.🖐️ Thinking about int...2022-06-2131 min
Fostering ChangeFostering Change | York BradshawIn this week’s episode of Fostering Change Rob Scheer talks with York Bradshaw, Ph.D. President, Urban Hunger Project, Inc.York Bradshaw had a long career at several universities, where he served as Professor of Sociology and Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. His academic work focused on improving education and health in cities in both the U.S. and Africa. More recently, he served as an educational consultant and professional grant writer. And he is now President of the Urban Hunger Project.Urban Hunger Project is a nonprofit organization that serves food to...2022-06-1426 min
Fostering ChangeFostering Change | Susan SilvermanIn this week’s episode of Fostering Change Rob Scheer talks with Susan Silverman, a rabbi, writer and activist. She is the author of Casting Lots: Creating a Family in a Beautiful, Broken World (Da Capo Press) a memoir that weaves the story of her family, formed through birth and adoption, with Jewish theology and ritual. Susan is the founding director of Second Nurture: Every Child Deserves a Family -- and a Community. Second Nurture partners with communities in LA County and Columbus, OH, to help them prioritize fostering and adoption from foster care among their member families. While som...2022-06-0729 min
Fostering ChangeFostering Change | Marcy BursacIn this week’s episode of Fostering Change Rob Scheer talks with Marcy Bursac, Adoptive Mom, Author, Podcast Host, and App Designer. Foster care adoption was Marcy's Plan A. She and her husband adopted a biological sibling pair. While remote schooling her children during the pandemic, Marcy began to see a gap between adults with a desire to adopt and the 115,000 adoptable children within the United States.With a heart for those children and a deep desire to take action, Marcy wrote a book, The Forgotten Adoption Option: A How-To and Self-Reflection Guide for Pursuing Foster Ca...2022-05-3134 min
Fostering ChangeFostering Change | Brittany Cruikshank and Nancy MolendaIn this week's episode of Fostering Change, Rob Scheer talks with Nancy Molenda, Executive Director, Mattel Children's Foundation and Mattel Corporate Philanthropy, and Brittany Cruickshank, Senior Specialist, Mattel Children's Foundation and Mattel Corporate Philanthropy. Everyone at Comfort Cases is thrilled with our new partnership with Mattel. They have kindly donated many hundreds of stuffy's and UNO card games and other assorted items. We look forward to their continued support. At the Mattel Children's Foundation, play is one of the most powerful ways we can affect meaningful change in kids' lives. So whether...2022-05-2425 min
Fostering ChangeFostering Change | Kate TrambitskayaIn this week’s episode of Fostering Change Rob Scheer talks with Kate Trambitskaya, Chief Executive Officer, Spence-Chapin Services to Families and Children. As Chief Executive Officer, Kate oversees the administration, programs, and strategic plan of Spence-Chapin. Kate began working at Spence-Chapin in 2012, most recently serving as Executive Vice President, General Counsel for the organization. Before coming to Spence-Chapin, Kate was a Senior Team Leader/Attorney for the Family Court Legal Services, Administration for Children’s Services in Brooklyn for six years, representing the Commissioner of Social Services in court and various judicial proceedings. Kate is a Posse Foundation alum...2022-05-1738 min
Fostering ChangeFostering Change | Rita SoronenIn this week’s episode of Fostering Change Rob Scheer talks with Rita Soronen, President & CEO of the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption. Rita is a national non-profit public charity executive with extensive national experience in fundraising, grantmaking, strategic planning and organizational management and program growth. Children's social justice issues are always a focus while providing a business environment of accountability and excellence in finance management, marketing, communications, governance and planning on their behalf.Story Key Notes:🖐️ Who does DTFA Serve? 🖐️ What does Scaled Mean? 🖐️ More than 11,000+ children have been Adopted from t...2022-05-1034 min
Fostering ChangeFostering Change | Leigh Anne TuohyIn this week’s episode of Fostering Change Rob Scheer talks with Leigh Anne Tuohy, Foster Care advocate, Motivational Speaker, NY Times Best Selling author and Interior Designer. Leigh Anne is an interior designer by trade, but her heartbeat is advocating for children at risk of slipping through the cracks of society. Leigh Anne and her husband Sean live in Memphis, TN. They are the proud parents of daughter Collins, and sons Michael and Sean, Jr.Story Key Notes:🖐️ Forever Family Friday🖐️ Build a Community that Inspires You. Surround Yourself with Others that W...2022-05-0337 min
Fostering ChangeFostering Change | Audra O’NeilIn this week’s episode of Fostering Change Rob Scheer talks with Audra O’Neil.Audra is an author, widow, and mother of twin thirteen year-old boys. Her husband Chad died in November of 2105, five months after being diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma. Being a reading and writing teacher and coach, Audra felt called to use the gift of writing to share her journey through the pitfalls and trials of young widowhood.After meeting other young widows, and absorbing their stories, Audra has found a reservoir of strength from which to draw. She is hoping to support othe...2022-04-2627 min
Fostering ChangeFostering Change | Richard ValenzaIn this week’s episode of Fostering Change, Rob Scheer talks with Richard Valenza. Richard is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Raise A Child Inc., the nationwide leader in the recruitment, retention and support of LGBTQ+ and all prospective parents interested in building loving families for children in foster care™. In its eleven-year history, RaiseAChild has served more than 35,000 prospective and current foster and foster-to-adopt parents across the United States.In establishing RaiseAChild, Rich has drawn on 30 years’ success in marketing and development for major television networks, international apparel brands, and nonprofit organizations. Today, Valenz...2022-04-1935 min
Fostering ChangeFostering Change | Chris SimonsenIn this week’s episode of Fostering Change Rob Scheer talks with Chris Simonsen , CEO at Orangewood Foundation. Chris spent many years of his career in various financial executive roles in the for-profit world. Fifteen years ago, he made a significant “life decision” by accepting the CFO position at a small nonprofit in Orange County, CA called Orangewood Foundation. This became one of the best decisions he has ever made.Orangewood Foundation supports teens and young adults in Orange County, California. Many of them have either spent time in the foster care system, are struggling with homelessn...2022-04-1231 min
Fostering ChangeFostering Change | Julie & David BulittIn this week’s episode of Fostering Change, Rob Scheer talks with Julie and David Bulitt. Julie and David have been married for more than 35 years and have four daughters, two of whom are biological, and two adopted, and three grandchildren. Together, Julie and David are the authors of the award-winning book, The 5 Core Conversations for Couples, relationship coaches and speakers. Story Key Notes:🖐️ Overview of 5 core conversations - what are they, why couples need to communicate in these areas🖐️ Focus on parenting (one of the core conversations is titled “Parents and partners”)2022-04-0539 min
Fostering ChangeFostering Change | Einat NathanIn this week’s episode of Fostering Change Rob Scheer talks with Einat Nathan.Einat started a small, weekly magazine column in Israel based on the concept that the classic parenting method of being a “know-it-all expert” doesn’t resonate with children, and that while the parent-child relationship is not an equal relationship, it is a relationship where the value of equality should be present. Einat shared personal parenting struggles, from screen time arguments to how to suggest dieting to your kids (hint: don’t), along with how she solved these issues. The column eventually grew into a cultural phenomenon...2022-03-2934 min
Fostering ChangeFostering Change | Anthony TrucksIn this week’s episode of Fostering Change Rob Scheer talks with Anthony Trucks, Coach, Speaker, Author, Former NFL, CEO at Identity Shift. Anthony is an experienced president with a demonstrated history of working in the health wellness and fitness industry. Strong business development professional skilled in Athlete Development, Coaching, Sales, Football, and Event Management.Key Story Notes: 🖐️The Six Types of Failure: Learn how to stop placing importance on fear of failing and learn instead to reframe failures as you learn when you fail forward. 🖐️The Difference Between Health...2022-03-2232 min
Fostering ChangeFostering Change | Brittany BurchamIn this week’s episode of Fostering Change Rob Scheer talks with Brittany Burcham . Brittany has been an emergency and respite foster parent for teens in Birmingham, AL, since 2019. Last year, she started a TikTok called @fostertheteens and has since gained almost a MILLION FOLLOWERS on TikTok and Instagram. It was one of her teen fosters that pushed her to create her TikTok account, fostertheteens, last April in order to talk about what it's like to foster a teenager.Key Story Notes: 🖐️The Misconceptions of Fostering Teens,🖐️The Need for Families Willing to Foster Tee...2022-03-1530 min
Fostering ChangeFostering Change | Foster Nation & Kate Somerville SkincareIn this week’s episode of Fostering Change Rob Scheer talks with Kate Somerville and Maggie Linn. Kate Somerville, a trailblazing brand in the world of prestige skincare, has been healing skin and transforming lives for over two decades. With these core values in mind, the brand announced a long-term partnership with Foster Nation, an organization empowering foster youth aging out of the system to become the nation’s future leaders through career mentorship. Key Story Notes:🖐️The Kate Somerville x Foster Nation Partnership 🖐️How Maggie and Kate came together, their stories🖐️W...2022-03-0841 min
Fostering ChangeRob Scheer and Dr. Gail Saltz discuss: R.A.D: Reactive Attachment Disorder, and other mental health issuesOn this special episode of Fostering Change, we welcome Dr. Gail Saltz., M.D. Rob Scheer, host of Fostering Change and founder of Comfort Cases, interviews Dr. Saltz about a very personal topic: R.A.D. Reactive Attachment Disorder. Why is this personal? One of Rob’s sons has been diagnosed with R.A.D. and he and his husband Reece have to deal with all of the issues regarding RAD on a daily basis.Rob and Dr. Saltz further delve into other mental health issues and treatments for them, as well as other fascinating issues about...2021-12-2856 min
Fostering ChangeFostering Change | Jodi MeltzerRob Scheer interviews multi-award-winning author Jodi Meltzer who has written extensively about grief, parenting and divorce for various publications, including HuffPost, The Mighty, Scary Mommy, and Thrive Global. She has just published the book, Goodnight Star, Whoever You Are. A Boston native, she recently relocated to Tampa in search of more sunshine, literally and figuratively. To learn more about Jodi and her books, including the previously published, When You Lived in My Belly, please visit jodimeltzer.com. Today’s episode of Fostering Change is timely, as November 18th, 2021 is Children’s Grief Aw...2021-11-1629 min
Fostering ChangeSeason 2 Episode 5 : Caroline BoudreauxRob 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...2021-03-2331 min
Fostering ChangeEpisode 67: Fall Forward RadioOn 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...2020-12-1525 minFostering ChangeEpisode 65: The Scheer FamilyTo 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. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2020-12-0116 minFostering ChangeEpisode 52: Rob's Son Alex AbernathyIn 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. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2020-08-1122 minFostering ChangeEpisode 47: Robert Selby from DADSIn this episode, we shift focus from foster care to fatherhood and welcome Robert Selby, one of the dads featured in the DADS documentary on Apple TV. Through their participation in the film, Rob Scheer and Robert have become friends. We wanted to hear more about Robert’s story, his relationship with his son and his son’s mother, and what’s next for him and his amazing family. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2020-07-0727 min
Changers and CreatorsRob ScheerRob Scheer defines what it means to be a changer and a creator. As someone who was in foster care as a child, he wanted to make a difference for kids today who are still carrying their belongings in trash bags. So, in 2013, Rob founded Comfort Cases. Additionally, he and his husband Reece have adopted five children who were in foster care and they have built a beautiful family. Their work has received national attention, and they're being featured in the brand new Apple TV+ Documentary Dads. Check out the Comfort Cases website and follow Rob on Facebook, Twitter...2020-06-1727 minFostering ChangeEpisode 24: Advocacy and ImpactWhen you give to Comfort Cases, you're not just supporting our mission to eliminate the use of trash bags in the foster care system, you are also supporting the advocacy work we do to bring about real change. Rob Scheer is a leading advocate for youth in foster care. He knows first-hand what it feels like to struggle with feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness, and depression. He travels the country to share his story and works tirelessly to educate policymakers and the public about the experiences of children in the system.In this episode, Rob and...2020-01-1430 minFostering ChangeEpisode 18: Reece ScheerIn this episode, Rob and Dana talk to Rob's husband and Comfort Cases co-founder Reece Scheer. Together, Rob and Reece talk about their foster-to-adopt journey and what made them decide to grow their forever family by adopting from the foster care system. They share some of the struggles they faced on their journey and how their four children have brought so much joy to their lives.For more info, please visit comfortcases.org/podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2019-11-2627 min
Giving Back PodcastYou Choose Your Path, You Choose How to Make a Difference — Rob Scheer with Comfort Cases (Part 2)inspiring communities to bring dignity and hope to youth in foster care. In the second part of this interview, Rob shares some stories from his new book, A Forever Family. The book is raw, emotional, and, in some parts, difficult to read. Rob represents just one of several common foster cases, and we as a community need to do better for our future children. Key Takeaways: [2:20] In his book, A Forever Family, Rob reveals a lot of very hard and difficult childhood experiences. [5:25] Our system is not designed for the well-being of...2019-01-2842 min
Giving Back PodcastYou Choose Your Path, You Choose How to Make a Difference — Rob Scheer with Comfort Cases (Part 1)Rob Scheer is the Founder of Comfort Cases, a nonprofit dedicated towards inspiring communities to bring dignity and hope to youth in foster care. As a foster kid himself, Rob knows the difficult challenges children in the system face. He has recently released a new book, A Forever Family, detailing some of the horrible experiences he had as a child and how life on the other side really does get better! Find out more about Rob in this two-part interview. Key Takeaways: [3:00] This is Rob’s second guest appearance on the show! [4...2019-01-2141 min