The Call to Foster

“It’s Not Easy, But It Is Truly Worth It”: A Foster Mom Reveals the Truth Behind the Myths

Missouri Department of Social Services — Thu, 19 Mar 2026 12:49:30 -0500

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.

"You've gotta be able to love them beyond the hurt."

Missouri Department of Social Services — Fri, 20 Feb 2026 08:00:00 -0600

In this heartfelt episode of The Call to Foster Podcast, hosts Shasta Miller, Jessica Huckstep, and Ashton Kever sit down with Yolanda, a kinship foster parent, and her 13-year-old nephew, Jeremiah, to share their inspiring story. Yolanda opens up about her own experience in foster care as a child and how it shaped her decision to step in when Jeremiah needed a safe, loving home. Together, they discuss the challenges and joys of fostering teens, the importance of family bonds, and practical advice for navigating technology, setting boundaries, and finding support.

Jeremiah offers a unique perspective from a youth in care by sharing what helped him feel safe, his coping strategies, and his honest advice for future foster parents. From powerful insights on “loving beyond the hurt” to the role of community and counseling, this episode is packed with wisdom, encouragement, and real-life experiences that every foster parent or prospective foster family needs to hear.

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.

"It's the home-cooked meals, honestly."

Missouri Department of Social Services — Fri, 30 Jan 2026 10:44:35 -0600

In this episode, Shasta, Jessica, and Ashton, talk with Makenzie Muse. Makenzie is an older youth in foster care with a passion for independence. She shares her story and encourages foster parents to just listen. She also speaks highly of her foster placement and highlights that foster parents don't have to make big, grand gestures to win over the kids in their care. Sometimes, they just need the quality time and attention.

If you or someone you know is interested in becoming a foster parent, learn how to get started on our website.

Finding Support as a Foster Care Provider in Missouri

Missouri Department of Social Services — Thu, 16 Oct 2025 13:46:00 -0500

In this episode, Ashton and Shasta welcome a few guests who are making a difference in the lives of foster parents and children across Missouri. Their guests are:

Jennifer Adams from FosterAdopt Connect
Riannon Franklin from the Central Missouri Foster Care and Adoption Association
Kenya Willis from the Foster and Adoptive Care Coalition

Together, they explore many of the resources available to the Missouri foster care community, including support and independence programs tailored for older youth, innovative respite field trips, and family finding initiatives. Discover the physical resources available, such as clothing and food, and learn about the comprehensive foster parent training and support groups.

If you or someone you know is interested in becoming a foster parent, learn how to get started on our website.

"Get into the arena."

Missouri Department of Social Services — Wed, 17 Sep 2025 08:26:05 -0500

Listen along as Shasta, Jessica, and Ashton chat with Becca Underwood about her experiences as a foster parent. Becca works with an organization called CarePortal, which helps families around the country meet needs that contribute to children entering the state welfare system. Through her work, Becca was prepared to take on the care of a couple of children on a temporary basis through her job; however, the children were brought into care just before her team was able to make it happen. She and her family had never intended to get into foster care, but they stepped up and were able to work with the state to help take care of those children.

Becca also has two children whom she's adopted internationally, and she discusses the differences between that and local adoption through foster care.

If you or someone you know is interested in becoming a foster parent, learn how to get started on our website.

"You have to know it's not gonna be easy."

Missouri Department of Social Services — Tue, 19 Aug 2025 11:35:39 -0500

In this episode, Shasta, Jessica, and Ashton chat with Katie Tipton, a former foster youth who shares her experience and advice for current and future foster parents. Katie shares a lot of insight about the trauma a child coming into care might have and she encourages caregivers to remember that kids in care essentially come with a resume, but it is up to you to give them a chance to be more than their past.

If you or someone you know is interested in becoming a foster parent, learn how to get started on our website: https://dss.mo.gov/cd/foster-care/becoming-a-foster-parent.htm

"The biggest steps in life might be the scariest, but they are the most rewarding."

Missouri Department of Social Services — Tue, 15 Jul 2025 07:00:00 -0500

In this episode, hosts Shasta, Jessica, and Ashton speak with Barry and Hannah Cahill. These two foster parents are an incredible team with huge hearts. A biological family of five, the Cahills stay very busy providing the best care for all of the children in their home. When they started their foster parenting journey, it wasn't with teenagers in mind. After their first placement, a teenage girl, they decided to only foster teenage girls, even adopting their daughter, Felicity.

If you or someone you know is interested in becoming a foster parent, learn how to get started on our website: https://dss.mo.gov/cd/foster-care/becoming-a-foster-parent.htm

"Not all youth are delinquents."

Missouri Department of Social Services — Fri, 27 Jun 2025 18:59:06 -0500

In this episode, our hosts talk with an older youth with experience in the foster care system. Kurtis Dehart shares his story and provides hope to anyone considering fostering or worried about fostering teenagers. He's driven and responsible and shares the importance of helping teens, especially foster youth, become independent and responsible adults! If you've ever considered fostering, you don't want to miss this episode!

If you or someone you know is interested in becoming a foster parent, learn how to get started on our website: https://dss.mo.gov/cd/foster-care/becoming-a-foster-parent.htm

"Embrace what's coming your way."

Missouri Department of Social Services — Wed, 21 May 2025 08:16:24 -0500

In this episode, Shasta, Jessica, and Ashton talk to DeeDee Button. DeeDee is a former foster parent, adoptive parent, licensed foster parent trainer, a college student seeking a degree in social work, a foster parent ambassador, and the creator and owner of a nonprofit called "The Chaos Closet." DeeDee is doing it all and showing the world that supporting foster parents and foster children can extend far beyond becoming a foster parent. When she was young, her mother was a social worker and regularly shared stories of her work that made an impact on DeeDee. Listen along as she shares her story and passion!

If you or someone you know is interested in becoming a foster parent, learn how to get started on our website: https://dss.mo.gov/cd/foster-care/becoming-a-foster-parent.htm

"I would rather have loved and lost than to have never loved at all."

Missouri Department of Social Services — Tue, 29 Apr 2025 13:38:53 -0500

This month, our hosts have a conversation with Angel Williams, a former foster child who became a foster parent. Angel talks about her experience in the system, the challenges she's had in her journey to become a foster parent, and gives a raw and honest look at what it means to love the kids in your care knowing they may not be with you forever.

If you or someone you know is interested in becoming a foster parent, learn how to get started on our website: https://dss.mo.gov/cd/foster-care/becoming-a-foster-parent.htm

"Find some way to get involved."

Missouri Department of Social Services — Thu, 06 Mar 2025 12:53:44 -0600

In this episode, Shasta, Jessica, and Ashton speak with Tim Hite. Tim is the Executive Director of Divine Nest in Missouri. One piece of this nonprofit is the Sparrow House, a place for kids to go when they are removed from their homes for their safety and wellbeing while their case worker is in search of a foster placement. Tim and his wife are foster and adoptive parents and they've been passionate about helping kids in foster care for as long as they can remember. Their passion has created a legacy for their biological children - their oldest biological child is also a foster parent! Listen along and learn how you can make a difference for foster children - even if you don't become a foster parent!

If you or someone you know is interested in becoming a foster parent, learn how to get started on our website: https://dss.mo.gov/cd/foster-care/becoming-a-foster-parent.htm

"I don't know that anyone really feels totally ready for it."

Missouri Department of Social Services — Wed, 15 Jan 2025 12:36:19 -0600

Join Shasta, Jessica, and Ashton as they talk with Hillary Lammert. Hillary was adopted as a child and talks about her experience growing and learning as a foster/adoptive parent. She shares advice for working with biological parents, and practical information about taking care of yourself while you go through a foster and adoptive journey, the many lessons she learned in her first year of fostering, and the power and purpose in respite care. You don't want to miss this episode!

If you or someone you know is interested in becoming a foster parent, learn how to get started on our website: https://dss.mo.gov/cd/foster-care/becoming-a-foster-parent.htm

"If we don't take care of ourselves, how are we going to take care of our kids?"

Missouri Department of Social Services — Fri, 20 Dec 2024 15:29:37 -0600

This month's guest, Micah Smiley, shares her experience as a "medical home." Micah is currently a respite only foster home, but she started as a full foster home! Micah even moved to a new home to get closer to medical care for a child in her home. This episode is full of great information for anyone who is considering the opportunity to care for these children!

If you or someone you know is interested in becoming a foster parent, learn how to get started on our website: https://dss.mo.gov/cd/foster-care/becoming-a-foster-parent.htm

"Love can fix a lot..."

Missouri Department of Social Services — Wed, 20 Nov 2024 10:00:18 -0600

Our hosts, Shasta, Jessica, and Ashton talk to a very special guest this month - Shasta's husband, Chris Miller. Chris grew up in foster care, experiencing 6 or 7 placements before finally aging out of the system. While his story was not always positive, Chris does his best to share that even through the hard times, there is a lot of positive swirled in his life. Listen along as Chris shares his story and advice for anyone considering becoming a foster or adoptive parent.

If you or someone you know is interested in becoming a foster parent, learn how to get started on our website: https://dss.mo.gov/cd/foster-care/becoming-a-foster-parent.htm

"Get attached."

Missouri Department of Social Services — Thu, 17 Oct 2024 10:08:29 -0500

This month, Shasta, Jessica, and Ashton talk with Tori Ward. Tori was introduced to foster parenting at a young age when her parents became licensed. She saw, first-hand, the impact foster parents have in the lives of children. As soon as she could, she became a foster parent and is a mentor and advocate for foster parenting. Tori is living proof that you can be a foster parent at a young age and be successful and make a difference.

Want to know more about Tori? Check out this short interview she did with DSS.

If you or someone you know is interested in becoming a foster parent, learn how to get started on our website: https://dss.mo.gov/cd/foster-care/becoming-a-foster-parent.htm

Safe Haven Baby Boxes

Missouri Department of Social Services — Wed, 11 Sep 2024 06:00:00 -0500

Listen in on a conversation with the Founder and current CEO of Safe Haven Baby Boxes, Monica Kelsey. Safe Haven Baby Boxes' (SHBB) mission is to prevent the illegal abandonment of newborns through education, raising awareness of the safe haven law, and offering the only anonymous option, the Baby Box. Monica talks about how the organization got started, where the idea came from, and the impact of the boxes across the United States. Currently, Missouri has one box in Mehlville, MO, and several other Missouri communities trying to raise the appropriate funding to acquire a box.

A former foster parent herself, Monica encourages anyone considering foster care or adoption to take the leap and "Just do it!"

If you or someone you know is interested in becoming a foster parent, learn how to get started on our website: https://dss.mo.gov/cd/foster-care/becoming-a-foster-parent.htm

"Every kid needs a family history."

Missouri Department of Social Services — Mon, 19 Aug 2024 11:15:49 -0500

This month, Shasta, Jessica, and Ashton sit down with Deborah Stukey. Deborah is a retired school teacher and principal and is a resourceful learner. Her natural educating talents, as well as the training she received as an educator and to become a foster parent, has been extremely valuable in her foster parenting journey. Deborah has an adopted son with significant medical challenges and has learned a lot about how to take care of children with high medical needs while learning to care for him! She encourages all foster parents and potential foster parents to not shy away from caring for kids with high medical need - the learning curve is not too sharp and she says it is worth it! Most of all, she encourages all foster parents to never stop asking questions, even the hard ones.

If you or someone you know is interested in becoming a foster parent, learn how to get started on our website: https://dss.mo.gov/cd/foster-care/becoming-a-foster-parent.htm

"They deserve help just as much as anyone else."

Missouri Department of Social Services — Thu, 18 Jul 2024 11:15:08 -0500

This month we had a wonderful call with the Kueblers! Alexus Kuebler, a former foster child, is passionate about being a safe home for Missouri's foster children. She knew she wanted to be a foster and adoptive parent since she was taken into care. The Kueblers are excited to work with families to achieve reunification. Listen along and soak up their passion!

If you or someone you know is interested in becoming a foster parent, learn how to get started on our website: https://dss.mo.gov/cd/foster-care/becoming-a-foster-parent.htm

SOUND OF HOPE: The Story of Possum Trot

Missouri Department of Social Services — Tue, 18 Jun 2024 06:00:00 -0500

The fight for children starts July 4, 2024.

In this episode of the Call to Foster, our hosts are joined by Darrell Missey, the Director of Children's Division, and Rebekah Weigel, Writer and Producer of "SOUND OF HOPE: The Story of Possum Trot". Hear from the writer of this incredible film about the writing process, the characters, and the true story of Possum Trot, Texas, as well as her experience as a foster parent and social worker. Rebekah has great advice and practical solutions that you need to hear. You don't want to miss this movie - get your tickets today!

Want more information about how you can host a private showing of this film? Learn more on the Angel Studios website.

If you or someone you know is interested in becoming a foster parent, learn how to get started on our website: https://dss.mo.gov/cd/foster-care/becoming-a-foster-parent.htm

"101 Considerations for Foster Parents"

Missouri Department of Social Services — Thu, 16 May 2024 13:59:08 -0500

In this episode, our hosts speak with author, youth pastor, and foster parent, David Wermuth. David has over 11 years of experience as a foster parent to older teen boys with a goal of independence. He used his experience as a foster parent to share stories of encouragement and helpful tips in his book, "101 Considerations for Foster Parents." A licensed therapist in Missouri, David specializes in working with children and families. You won't want to miss this episode!

Pick up your own copy of David's book or share it with a foster parent you know.

If you or someone you know is interested in becoming a foster parent, learn how to get started on our website: https://dss.mo.gov/cd/foster-care/becoming-a-foster-parent.htm

"If they go home and you're not a little sad, you didn't do your job."

Missouri Department of Social Services — Mon, 15 Apr 2024 06:00:00 -0500

Listen along as Jessica and Shasta talk with Jason Seter, a foster parent and co-trainer in Missouri for over 10 years. Jason admits that they started fostering to adopt, but then quickly fell in love with fostering and realized the great need for foster homes. Having cared for children from one day old to fifteen years old, he has found that each child is unique and different. Jason also discusses the reality that some families "get it together" after their children have been adopted to someone else and the opportunities he has had to help his children foster their relationships with their biological families - even after they are his adopted children.

If you or someone you know is interested in becoming a foster parent, learn how to get started on our website: https://dss.mo.gov/cd/foster-care/becoming-a-foster-parent.htm

"The whole system isn't made up of that horrible news headline."

Missouri Department of Social Services — Wed, 13 Mar 2024 06:00:00 -0500

Shasta, Jessica, and Ashton talk with Missouri Foster Parent Pauline Roberts in this episode. Pauline shares a lot of practical advice and wisdom with for future and current foster parents. She stresses the importance of remembering that foster parents are coming into this family's story at one of the worst possible moments imaginable. These parents love their children and she is passionate about knowing the main goal of foster care, reunification. Listen along as she speaks candidly and whole-heartedly about her journey as a foster parent.

If you or someone you know is interested in becoming a foster parent, learn how to get started on our website: https://dss.mo.gov/cd/foster-care/becoming-a-foster-parent.htm

“It's gonna be the most amazing thing you ever do.”

Missouri Department of Social Services — Fri, 09 Feb 2024 06:00:00 -0600

In this episode, Shasta, Jessica, and Ashton talk with a very impressive foster parent, Ali Keck, who at the time of recording was 25 years old! After only 3 months of foster parenting, Ali has a lot of practical advice and experience to share with young, new, or even seasoned foster parents. She also addresses how foster parenting fits in when it comes to her personal life and her passion truly shines through.

Don't miss this episode! Be sure to share with anyone you know who might be interested in foster parenting and send them to our website to get started: https://dss.mo.gov/cd/foster-care/becoming-a-foster-parent.htm

“You get to be a lifelong part of their family.”

Missouri Department of Social Services — Wed, 10 Jan 2024 06:00:00 -0600

In this episode, Shasta, Jessica and Ashton spoke with Jared Baker, a current foster parent in Missouri. Jared and his wife are ambassadors, advocates, and trainers for future foster parents and are passionate about the cause.

If you or someone you know is interested in becoming a foster parent, share this episode with them! You can also find out more information on our website at https://dss.mo.gov/cd/foster-care/becoming-a-foster-parent.htm

"I always try to put myself in their shoes."

Missouri Department of Social Services — Mon, 11 Dec 2023 06:00:00 -0600

Shasta, Jessica and Ashton chat with Abby Pancoast about her foster parenting journey. Abby admits that they became foster parents with the intention to adopt and discusses the heartbreak that can come with reunification. She also shares some insight into what it might look like to be a foster parent during the holiday seasons.

If you're considering becoming a foster parent, don't hesitate to visit our website to get started: https://dss.mo.gov/cd/foster-care/becoming-a-foster-parent.htm

The Forgotten Adoption Option

Missouri Department of Social Services — Wed, 15 Nov 2023 06:00:00 -0600

In this episode of The Call to Foster, Ashton sits down with Angie Swarnes, Deputy Director of Children's Division over Permanency, and Marcy Bursac, local author and founder of the Forgotten Adoption Option. We were honored to get to hear Marcy's story firsthand. The impact Marcy is making with her nonprofit is undeniable and we look forward to working with her more in the future. To learn more about Marcy and The Forgotten Adoption Option, visit her website https://forgottenadoptionoption.com/ .

If you or someone you know is interested in becoming a foster parent or adopting through foster care, you can learn more on our website at https://dss.mo.gov/cd/foster-care/becoming-a-foster-parent.htm

"There are no kids too far gone."

Missouri Department of Social Services — Thu, 09 Nov 2023 06:00:00 -0600

In honor of National Adoption Month, we spoke to adoptive parent and Southwest Regional Director for the Children's Division, Pam Alston. Pam brings a unique perspective to our podcast as an employee of the Children's Division. Her story is a perfect example of how children might find you and their permanent home through foster care. While this podcast is usually focused on reunification, as that is the first goal when a child enters care, sometimes a child is seeking more than a temporary loving home, and you could be the one to provide it.

If you're considering becoming a foster parent, visit our website dss.mo.gov/cd/foster-care/.

"Don't think your age counts you out."

Missouri Department of Social Services — Tue, 10 Oct 2023 06:00:00 -0500

We had the privilege of speaking with Dave and Patty Hedrick this month about their journey with foster care. They stress how important it is to pour into the kids and find common interests. Eager to care for more kids, the Hedricks want potential foster parents to know that age doesn't count you out and that these kids will keep you young.

If you're considering becoming a foster parent, visit our website dss.mo.gov/cd/foster-care/.

"This isn't gonna be our forever."

Missouri Department of Social Services — Fri, 15 Sep 2023 11:20:07 -0500

In this episode, hosts Shasta Miller, Jessica Huckstep, and Ashton Kever, had the privilege of talking with Miss Black Missouri, USA, Eugenia Doreen. Eugenia was previously a foster youth in Missouri and shares her experience in the foster system. Now, a successful college graduate working at a law firm, Eugenia has built a platform supporting and encouraging foster youth to follow their dreams, go to college, and helping them navigate the system. She has great advice for current and potential foster parents - you don't want to miss this one!

If you're considering becoming a foster parent, visit our website dss.mo.gov/cd/foster-care/.

"If you have all the love in the world to give to someone, this is what you need to do."

Missouri Department of Social Services — Fri, 11 Aug 2023 07:00:00 -0500

Join Shasta and Jessica as they talk with Mary Bailey, an experienced foster parent in Missouri. Mary touches on a lot of great topics, but one thing she is clear about in this discussion is the importance of knowing your boundaries. As a potential foster parent, it is okay for you to have a preference of the children you will care for and it is especially helpful when you can be open about those boundaries with Children's Division. We are so grateful that we have foster parents like Mary sharing the love they have in their hearts with Missouri children who need it most!

"I found out I was adopted after my father died."

Missouri Department of Social Services — Tue, 11 Jul 2023 14:10:18 -0500

Brandon and Liz Matthews share their moving story of their journey into foster parenting and many inspiring stories of their experiences. This pair is full of passion and we are proud to have them as Foster Parent Ambassadors for the State of Missouri.

If this heartwarming story inspires you to look into fostering, don't hesitate to reach out to your nearest Children's Division office or email fostercare@dss.mo.gov to get started. Please share this podcast with anyone you know who might be considering becoming a foster parent!

"It was scary to leave my newborn son with a stranger."

Missouri Department of Social Services — Tue, 20 Jun 2023 09:31:41 -0500

Listen as Amanda Kane, a foster parent, and Colleen Mulhollan, a biological mother, share their story of reunification. Their relationship went from strangers to sisters over the span of the case. Now, like sisters, they spend time together regularly and share holidays as one big family unit.

"My husband and I were in and out of the system as kids."

Missouri Department of Social Services — Wed, 03 May 2023 08:00:00 -0500

In celebration of National Foster Care Month, The Call to Foster invited special guests, Darrell Missey, Director of the Missouri Children's Division, and Lauren Masterson, Permanency and Foster Care Licensing Manager, to join Shasta in interviewing Missouri foster parent, Rebecca Kadlez. Rebecca has an incredible story that begins with her own experience as a foster child and her ability to use that experience to help current foster children as a resource parent. In this episode, learn all about Rebecca and her time as a foster parent and foster parent ambassador.

"If you have compassion for the human race, participate."

Missouri Department of Social Services — Mon, 03 Apr 2023 08:00:00 -0500

In this episode, Shasta and Jessica chat with Elliot and Mandy Nohr. This couple is passionate and dedicated to making a difference in the lives of the children AND families in their care. They cover big topics like staying in contact with some of the children who've moved on from their home, ways they help children adjust to their home, and the importance of working with the biological families to support the child or children in their home.

"I got into foster care for my heart to be broken."

Missouri Department of Social Services — Thu, 09 Mar 2023 08:00:00 -0600

In this episode, Jessica and Shasta talk to Stephanie Reese, a passionate single parent fostering in Missouri. Stephanie confronts the issue of attachment, reunification, and debunks the myth that foster parents have to be married or stay at home parents. As a full time employee herself, Stephanie has adopted two children and continues to foster children in her area in hopes to break the cycle of trauma for the children in her care.

"We'll love them while we've got them."

Missouri Department of Social Services — Tue, 21 Feb 2023 11:28:15 -0600

In this episode of "The Call to Foster," Jessica and Shasta talk with Mickey and Amanda Goodwin. The Goodwin's share stories from their foster family journey covering topics like attachment, common misconceptions about foster care, and ways Children's Division can better support their foster families.

"They're just like an extended part of our family."

Missouri Department of Social Services — Tue, 21 Feb 2023 11:22:51 -0600

Join Jessica Huckstep and Shasta Miller as they interview Norma Hahn about her experience as a foster parent. Hear first-hand about what it is like to be a foster parent and listen as Norma shares her experiences.

The Call to Foster Podcast Trailer

Missouri Department of Social Services — Tue, 21 Feb 2023 08:30:23 -0600

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 Missouri’s most vulnerable children.