Real and raw conversations about parenting.
For bio, foster, adoptive or blended families to increase understanding of issues we all experience as families.
Hosted by: Amy Smith, foster adopt parent
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Ep 75: Care Communities Impact
Sep 14, 2026 โข 00:32:10
What if supporting foster care didn't require becoming a foster parent? In this episode, we explore Utah's Care Communities program and how volunteers provide meals, rides, childcare, and emotional support to foster families. Hear firsthand stories about building trust, strengthening communities, and creating lasting relationships that help children and caregivers…
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Ep 74: Comfort and Care
Aug 13, 2026 โข 00:27:24
This episode is a moving reminder that every child deserves belonging, dignity, and the assurance that someone is cheering them on. Whether you are a foster parent, professional, advocate, or simply someone who wants to make a difference, Rob Scheer's story will leave you inspired to be a doer and…
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Ep 73: Fostering in Small Towns
Jul 7, 2026 โข 00:36:25
We have had a lot of higher needs placements. TBRI has been one of the best trainings weโve done. The patience and consistency it teaches is something we use every day. And being on the same page with your partner is huge, especially when youโre parenting children who have experienced…
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Ep 72: Pride in Every Home
Jun 9, 2026 โข 00:24:05
In this Pride Month episode, foster parents Jessica and Giselle share how they built their family through foster care. They discuss belonging, supporting LGBTQ+ youth, and creating safe, inclusive homes. Their story offers encouragement, practical advice, and a powerful reminder that every child deserves to be loved, accepted, and truly…
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Ep 71: First-Time Fostering
May 12, 2026 โข 00:26:10
Laura from Foster Parenting joins Amy Smith to talk about her new book, First Time Fostering. Together they explore practical tools, scripts, and real-life strategies to help new foster parents navigate placements, advocate effectively, and support every child in the home with confidence and clarity.
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Ep 70: Still Standing
Apr 7, 2026 โข 00:25:47
Carlos Rios Redd grew up in foster care, moving through more than ten homes and three adoptions. In this episode, he shares how resilience, faith, and meaningful relationships helped him heal, reconnect with siblings, and build a successful adult life. His story offers hope and insight for foster youth and…
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Ep 69: Reunification
Mar 10, 2026 โข 00:25:23
Heartfelt conversation with foster mom Crystal Dukes on reunification, supporting biological families, and building lasting connections in foster care.
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Ep 68: Mentorship Program
Feb 10, 2026 โข 00:25:49
Utah Foster Careโs Mentoring Program pairs experienced foster parents with families who need extra support. In this episode, Michelle Ostmark shares how mentors provide guidance, emotional support, and real-life insightโhelping foster and kinship families feel less alone and more confident as they care for children in foster care.
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Ep 67: Trust-Based Relational Intervention
Jan 13, 2026 โข 00:28:11
In this episode, TBRI specialist Terumi Sagers shares how trustโbased relational intervention helps children heal through connection, empowerment, and compassionate structure. Drawing from her experience as a foster and adoptive parent, she offers practical steps caregivers can use to build safety and lasting relationships.
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Ep 66: Compassion in Action
Dec 9, 2025 โข 00:25:57
Dave from Daveโs Auto shares his inspiring journey of giving back through Utah Foster Care and community service. From his motherโs orphanage story to organizing a massive Christmas event for families in need, Dave reminds us that service changes lives and creates lasting memories. Tune in for heartfelt stories and…
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Foster parent reminder โ You get in-service credit that counts towards your training hours for tuning into our Fostering Conversations Podcast. Head over to the training portal to get credit.
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