The Call to Foster

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.

The Call to Foster is a society podcast hosted by Missouri Department of Social Services, with 39 episodes on record and a Required Pod Score of 80. PitchCentric scores this show on Booking Probability, Listen Score, and live audience signals refreshed every 24 hours.

Missouri Department of Social Services hosts The Call to Foster, a society show with 39 episodes published.

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  Episode #2

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

  Mar 19, 202638 minS4

  <p>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.<br><br></p><p>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.</p><p>But Michelle didn’t think she could foster a...

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  Episode #1

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

  Feb 20, 202639 minS4

  <p>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.</p><p><br>Jeremiah offers a unique perspective...

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  Episode #10

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

  Jan 30, 202630 minS3

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

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  Episode #9

  Finding Support as a Foster Care Provider in Missouri

  Oct 16, 202545 minS3

  <p>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: </p>Jennifer Adams from FosterAdopt ConnectRiannon Franklin from the Central Missouri Foster Care and Adoption AssociationKenya Willis from the Foster and Adoptive Care Coalition<p>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 f...

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  Episode #8

  "Get into the arena."

  Sep 17, 202534 minS3

  <p>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...

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