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The Call to FosterThe Missouri Department of Social Services is proud to present The Call to Foster, a heartwarming new podcast series that features inspiring stories from foster parents across the state. Author: Missouri Department of Social Services
The Missouri Department of Social Services is proud to present The Call to Foster, a heartwarming new podcast series that features inspiring stories from foster parents across the state. Each episode will highlight their unique experiences and perspectives, how they overcame hesitations, and provide helpful advice for anyone considering becoming a foster parent. Prepare your heart as you hear first-hand from the compassionate families and individuals working together to make a difference for Missouris most vulnerable children. Language: en Genres: Kids & Family, Society & Culture Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it Trailer: |
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“It’s Not Easy, But It Is Truly Worth It”: A Foster Mom Reveals the Truth Behind the Myths
Episode 2
Thursday, 19 March, 2026
In this powerful episode, hosts Shasta Miller, Jessica Fox, and Ashton Kever sit down with foster mom Michelle Ward to uncover the raw truth about foster parenting - the myths, the heartbreak, the healing, and the life‑changing rewards.Michelle opens up about how a mission trip first sparked her interest in fostering, and how her own family’s history with abuse inspired her to open her home specifically to teens — including her daughter, who wanted to help other teens overcome trauma just as she had.But Michelle didn’t think she could foster at first. She was single, renting her home, and didn’t have a high income — three of the biggest misconceptions about foster parenting. Together, the hosts break down these common myths and explain what actually qualifies someone to foster.Michelle also shares unforgettable stories from her earliest placements, including a teen mother and her baby who became like family — and why their move‑out became her first true heartbreak as a foster parent.She doesn’t shy away from the hard parts either. From kids making false allegations to “hotlining” her over normal household rules, Michelle explains how trauma shapes behaviors — and why many foster kids sabotage happiness simply because they’ve never experienced it safely before.Through it all, she delivers a message every potential foster parent needs to hear: “It’s not easy, but it is truly worth it.”This episode is an honest and hope‑filled conversation for anyone curious about fostering, anyone who has ever doubted their qualifications, or anyone who simply wants a deeper understanding of the resilience, courage, and love found in the foster care community.If you’ve ever considered fostering or want to better understand the impact you can make, this conversation will leave you inspired and informed. Learn how to get started on our website.
