The Foster Effect

In this episode of The Foster Effect, Laura Lee Wood shares her experience in child welfare and the important role of a Guardian ad Litem (GAL). She talks about the realities children and families can face within the foster care system, the importance of collaboration and understanding trauma, and practical ways communities can come alongside children and families.

In this episode of The Foster Effect, Dr. Michael Christian shares deep insights into trauma, its impact on the brain, and effective ways for caregivers and foster parents to support healing in traumatized children. This conversation is essential for anyone involved in caring for or working with children who have experienced trauma.

What happens when teens in foster care age out without a stable support system?

In this episode, Carrie DuRard, co-founder of Jonathan's Path, shares how their organization is changing that reality. From meeting urgent needs through the Pathline to providing a progressive housing model that prepares teens for independent living, Jonathan's Path is creating lasting stability for youth who need it most. Hear how community support, practical resources, and consistent relationships are helping rewrite the future for teens in foster care.

Join us as we explore the transformative work of Scarlet Hope, where faith meets action in the adult entertainment industry. Emily Humphries shares how compassion and outreach are bringing hope and life change to women in vulnerable situations.

Discover the transformative power of discipline over punishment with Pastor Todd Griggs, a seasoned leadership coach. In this episode, Todd shares practical insights on how focusing on values and emotional regulation can foster healthier relationships with your kids. Learn to correct behavior without shame, guide your family with core values, and create nurturing environments for foster children. Whether you're a parent or caregiver, these insights will empower you to lead with wisdom and hope. Tune in to unlock your child's potential and build resilience.

In this episode of The Foster Effect, hosts John Widrick and Jennifer Gallahar tackle the essential questions every family should ask before fostering. They share practical insights on understanding medical and behavioral needs, family capacity, and the importance of unity and communication. Discover strategies to prepare your home and heart for fostering, ensuring a stable and loving environment for children. Perfect for prospective and current foster families, this episode offers the clarity and confidence needed to make a lasting impact.

In this conversation, Adam Johnson, regional manager for Care Portal, discusses the platform's role in connecting local communities to children and families in crisis. He emphasizes the importance of building relationships, the practicalities of engaging churches and businesses, and shares real-life stories of impact. The discussion also touches on personal experiences that shape leadership, the motivation behind service, and how families can get involved in meaningful ways.

In this episode, I sit down with Mr. Lance Villio from the Governor’s Faith-Based Community Initiatives for an incredible conversation on leadership, collaboration, and impact. Lance shares insights into some of the huge initiatives happening across the state of Tennessee and how he’s been able to bring the faith-based community together to tackle some of our most pressing challenges. From fostering dialogue to building real relationships, Lance shows how the power of connection can spark meaningful change.

You’ll definitely want to check this one out—it’s a conversation full of wisdom, inspiration, and practical takeaways for leaders in every space.

In this episode of Live One for One, join Pastor Todd Griggs as he delves into the pressing issue of anxiety among today's youth. Discover practical strategies for empowering young people to overcome challenges, develop resilience, and thrive in an ever-changing world. Through insightful conversations and personal anecdotes, Pastor Todd shares his journey and offers guidance for parents, educators, and leaders seeking to support the next generation. Tune in to learn how to foster a mindset of growth and courage in the face of anxiety.

In this episode, we sit down with Ella Bat-Ami, a fierce advocate for foster youth who aged out of Tennessee’s foster care system at 18. Ella’s journey didn’t stop there — she has become a powerful voice for change, successfully writing and passing the Foster Youth Bill of Rights and continuing to push for systemic protections for kids in state custody.While her legislative accomplishments are impressive, Ella reminds us that her most important title is “big sister.” With five younger foster siblings looking up to her, Ella’s passion for foster care reform is personal and unwavering.Now a freshman at Belmont University with her sights set on law school, Ella is determined to become a public defender and keep fighting for those without a voice. Her story is one of resilience, courage, and hope for the future.