Best Travis Vangsnes Podcasts (2025)

1
Exploring Non-Traditional Kinship Care and Embracing New Challenges with Chris and Kayla Habegger 37:18

1d ago37:18

37:18

In this episode of the Foster Friendly Podcast, hosts Brian and Courtney engage with Kayla and Chris Habegger, a couple navigating the world of non-traditional kinship care. They discuss their journey into fostering, the importance of community awareness, and the dynamics of kinship care. The conversation highlights the emotional and practical aspe…

1
That's So Rad! Trailer 1:52

4d ago1:52

1:52

In this trailer episode, Travis shares his vision for That's So Rad! podcast. He shares how one of the key antidotes in an era of so much much anger, polarization, disconnection, and epidemics of anxiety and loneliness is finding meaningful connection with each other as humans. That's exactly what this podcast attempts to do. That's So Rad! he shar…

1
A Lively Conversation on Congregate Care and Celebrating a Century of Caring for Kids with Scott Fuller 47:37

8d ago47:37

47:37

In this episode of the Foster Friendly Podcast, hosts Courtney Williams and Travis Vangsnes speak with Scott Fuller, Vice President of Advancement at Murphy Harpst Children's Center. They discuss the organization's century-long commitment to caring for vulnerable children in foster care, Scott's personal journey into the field, and the innovative t…

1
How to Bridge Holistic Sleep Principles and Trauma-Informed Care with Allison Ezell 43:26

15d ago43:26

43:26

In this conversation, Allison Ezell shares her journey into becoming a pediatric sleep consultant, driven by her experiences with her son Brooks, who faced significant sleep challenges due to trauma. The discussion delves into the complexities of sleep for children from trauma-impacted backgrounds, emphasizing the neurological aspects of sleep and …

1
Fostering Resilience: Humor and Play as Tools for Felt Safety with Brian, Travis, and Courtney 41:31

22d ago41:31

41:31

In this episode of the Foster Friendly Podcast, hosts Brian, Courtney, and Travis explore the significance of play and humor in parenting, particularly in the context of fostering children who have experienced trauma. They share personal anecdotes about their own childhood experiences with play, discuss the psychological benefits of humor and play …

1
Mentoring and the Power of Changing Lives Through Love and Support with Kim Swilpa 27:27

29d ago27:27

27:27

In this episode of the Foster Friendly Podcast, hosts Travis and Courtney speak with Kim Swilpa, the Executive Director of New Jersey Angels. Kim shares her unique journey from the cosmetic industry to foster care advocacy, highlighting the challenges faced by youth aging out of the system. The conversation also delves into the Dare to Dream progra…

1
4 Healthy Habits You Need to Incorporate as a Foster Parent with Nicole Barlow 30:00

1M ago30:00

30:00

In this episode of the Foster Friendly Podcast, hosts Brian Mavis and Courtney Williams welcome Nicole Barlow, a former foster parent and health and wellness coach, to discuss the essential habits foster and adoptive parents need to adopt for their well-being. Nicole emphasizes the importance of self-care, nutrition, movement, and rest, explaining …

1
How to Foster Faithfully through Generous Hospitality with Abby Crooks 44:53

1M ago44:53

44:53

In this episode of the Foster Friendly Podcast, hosts Courtney and Travis engage with Abby Crooks, a veteran foster parent and founder of Fostering Faithfully. Abby shares her personal journey into foster care, the challenges and rewards of fostering, and the importance of community support for foster families. The conversation highlights the signi…

1
What Foster Families Wish Caseworkers Knew and What Caseworkers Wish Foster Families Knew with Brian, Travis, and Courtney 35:52

2M ago35:52

35:52

In this episode of the Foster Friendly Podcast, hosts Brian, Courtney, and Travis discuss the vital role of social workers in foster care, especially during Social Worker Appreciation Month. They explore the misconceptions surrounding social workers, the various roles of caseworkers, and the challenges they face. The conversation emphasizes the imp…

1
His Faith Became the Catalyst to Overcome Dark Times in Foster Care with Michael Weitzman 51:34

2M ago51:34

51:34

In this conversation, Michael Weitzman shares his profound journey from growing up in the foster care system to becoming an advocate for vulnerable children. Michael's faith in God became his lifeline as he faced some really difficult times in foster care. He discusses the challenges he faced, including a failed adoption, emotional struggles, and t…

1
Cultivating Connection: Building Stronger Relationships in the Kitchen with Chef Kibby 42:25

2M ago42:25

42:25

In this episode of the Foster Friendly podcast, Chef Kibby shares his unique journey as a foster adoptive parent and professional chef. He discusses how the pandemic forced him to confront personal challenges and discover the profound connection between food and emotional well-being. Chef Kibby emphasizes the importance of using food as a tool for …

1
Teens Openly Share Their Experiences as Birth Children in a Foster Home with Eli and Ayla Williams 45:11

2M ago45:11

45:11

In this episode of the Foster Friendly Podcast, host Courtney Williams engages in a heartfelt conversation with her children Eli and Ayla about their experiences growing up in a large foster family. They discuss the emotional complexities of fostering, the dynamics of their family, and the lessons learned through their journey. The conversation hig…

1
A Powerful Journey From Foster Care to Foster Parenting with Melissa Smallwood 41:01

3M ago41:01

41:01

In this episode of the Foster Friendly Podcast, Melissa Smallwood shares her profound journey through the foster care system, her experiences as a young mother, and the resilience she developed along the way. From her abrupt entry into foster care to the nurturing relationships that helped her thrive, Melissa emphasizes the importance of hope, supp…

1
The Staggering and Perpetual Problem of Too Many Foster Families Quitting with Brian, Travis, and Courtney 55:42

3M ago55:42

55:42

In this episode of the Foster Friendly podcast, hosts Brian, Travis, and Courtney discuss the challenges faced by foster parents, particularly the high attrition rates. They explore the emotional and systemic impacts of foster parent quitting on child welfare and the children in care. The conversation delves into the reasons behind these challenges…

1
Helping Kids and Families Heal Through the Power of Connection with Jenni Lord 51:26

3M ago51:26

51:26

In this episode of the Foster Friendly podcast, our hosts Brian Mavis and Courtney Williams interview Jenni Lord, founder of the nonprofit CHOSEN. Jenny shares her personal journey into the child welfare space, highlighting the importance of understanding trauma in foster care and adoption. She discusses the evolution of CHOSEN, its mission to supp…

1
Helpful Insights on Birth Children in Foster and Adoptive Families with Daniela Coats 38:10

3M ago38:10

38:10

In this episode of the Foster Friendly podcast, hosts Brian and Courtney engage in a heartfelt conversation with Danielle Coates, who shares her unique experiences growing up in a foster and adoptive family. Danielle discusses the challenges and joys of being a biological sibling to foster children, the feelings of invisibility and replacement she …

1
We Don't Age Out of Needing a Family: Teens in Foster Care with Tracee Rudd 48:35

4M ago48:35

48:35

In this episode of the Foster Friendly Podcast, hosts Travis Vangsnes and Courtney Williams interview Tracy Rudd, State Director of Colorado Kids Belong. Tracy shares her journey into foster care advocacy, the importance of recruiting foster parents, and the impact of the I Belong Project-which connects children in foster care awaiting adoption to …

1
A Lively Foster Care Conversation with Focus on the Family’s Dr. Sharen Ford 40:32

4M ago40:32

40:32

In this episode of the Fosterer Friendly podcast, Brian Mavis and Courtney Williams engage with Dr. Sharen Ford, a nationally recognized child welfare consultant with over 30 years of experience and Director of Foster Care and Adoption at Focus on the Family. Dr. Ford discusses the significance of public-private partnerships in foster care. Dr. For…

1
Foster Care 101: Things You Don’t Need to Do to Be Foster Parents with Brian, Travis, and Courtney 43:25

4M ago43:25

43:25

In this episode of the Foster Friendly podcast, hosts Brian, Travis, and Courtney discuss the realities of foster parenting, focusing on what foster parents don't need to do. They share personal experiences, emphasizing the importance of embracing imperfection, learning from failures, and providing stability for children in foster care. The convers…

1
The Importance of Water Safety Lessons for Kids in Foster Care with Sarah Boyd 25:39

4M ago25:39

25:39

In this episode, Travis and Courtney are joined by Sarah Boyd from Aqua-Tots. Aqua-Tots offers swimming lessons for children of all ages and abilities, with a focus on preventing drownings and building confidence. Sarah shares stories of how their program has made a life-saving impact on children and provided peace of mind for parents. Whether it's…

1
Caring for Yourselves Better as a Foster Family with Rebecca Harvin and Stacy Lasonde 40:02

4M ago40:02

40:02

In this episode of the Foster Friendly Podcast, hosts Courtney Williams and Travis Vangsnes discuss the critical issues surrounding foster care, particularly the high rate of burnout among foster parents. They are joined by Rebecca Harvin and Stacy Lasonde, who share their experiences and insights on the importance of support systems for foster fam…

1
Foster Mom Inspiring Her City to Better Support Families with Cayela Moody 40:47

5M ago40:47

40:47

In this episode of the Foster Friendly podcast, hosts Brian Mavis and Courtney Williams engage with Cayela Moody, a passionate advocate for foster care and community support. Cayela shares her journey as a foster adoptive parent and her efforts to establish a foster-friendly community in Jacksonville, Florida. The conversation highlights the import…

1
A Field of Dreams for Foster Care with Savannah Bananas Co-Owner Emily Cole 36:57

5M ago36:57

36:57

In this episode of the Foster Friendly podcast, hosts Brian and Travis welcome Emily Cole, co-owner of the Savannah Bananas, who shares her journey in fostering and the creation of their nonprofit, Bananas Foster. The conversation explores the joy of building a community, the emotional connection to foster care, and the importance of optimism in fa…

1
How to Best Navigate the Holidays as a Foster Family with Bethany Hall 45:42

5M ago45:42

45:42

In this episode of the Foster Friendly Podcast, hosts Travis and Courtney, along with guest Bethany Hall, discuss the complexities of navigating the holidays for children in foster care. They explore the emotional challenges, the importance of managing expectations, and strategies for preparing both parents and extended family for the unique dynami…

1
America’s Kids Belong’s Three Signature Solutions to Fixing Recruitment and Retention Issues with Nanette Kirsch and Phil Grizzle 54:12

5M ago54:12

54:12

In this episode of the Foster Friendly Podcast, host Brian Mavis is joined by his colleagues (who form the Executive Leadership Team), Nanette Kirsch and Phil Grizzle, to discuss the mission of America's Kids Belong (AKB) and the challenges faced in the foster care system. They emphasize the importance of family in improving outcomes for children i…

1
Former Naval Officer Shares About His Experiences in Foster Care with Dairius Kawawehi 48:35

6M ago48:35

48:35

Darius Kawewehi, a former foster youth, shares his experiences and insights on being in foster care. He was born and raised in Hawaii and grew up surrounded by the Hawaiian culture. Darius shares the story of his viral video in high school where he read a thank you letter to his adoptive mom. He then delves into his journey of entering foster care …

1
Adopting From Foster Care: A Need That Few Know Much About with Marcy Bursac 30:10

6M ago30:10

30:10

In this episode, Courtney and Brian interview Marcy Bursac, founder of the Forgotten Adoption Option, about her experience with foster care adoption. Marcy shares her personal journey of adopting two siblings from foster care and the challenges she faced along the way. She also discusses the need for more awareness and support for foster care adopt…

1
One Couple's Journey of Going From Zero to Four Kids Instantly with Adriana and Jamie Howard 52:40

6M ago52:40

52:40

Jamie and Adriana Howard share their adoption journey of becoming an instant family of six through foster care. They initially planned for domestic infant adoption but felt drawn to foster care and older children. They emphasize the importance of learning as they go and being open to trying new strategies when it comes to parenting. They highlight …

1
The Rewarding and Challenging Journey of Fostering as a Single Dad with Nicholas Kelley 35:31

6M ago35:31

35:31

In this episode of the Foster Friendly Podcast, Travis and Courtney interview Nicholas Kelley, a single foster dad who shares his journey into fostering and running a family-owned "Foster Friendly" restaurant, Kelley's Tavern and Grill, in Georgia. Nicholas talks about his experiences as a foster dad and the unique perspective he brings to the fost…

1
Foster Care 101: Addressing the Most Common Myths and Questions with Brian, Travis, and Courtney 45:00

7M ago45:00

45:00

In this episode of the Foster Friendly podcast, hosts Brian, Courtney, and Travis delve into the fundamentals of foster care, sharing personal stories and insights from their experiences. They discuss the definition of foster care, the statistics surrounding it, and the pressing need for more foster families. The conversation also addresses common …

1
How One Colorado Church Is Loving Its Neighbors in Foster Care with Buddy Sampson 32:31

7M ago32:31

32:31

In this episode, Pastor Buddy Sampson discusses the importance of foster care from a church perspective and the biblical mandate to care for orphans. He shares how his church, Overland Durango, meets the requirements to be a foster-friendly faith community by teaching about foster care, supporting foster families, and providing trauma sensitivity t…

1
It’s Never Too Late to Bring Your Gifts and Experiences to Foster Care with Larry and Tammie May 41:20

7M ago41:20

41:20

In this episode of the Foster Friendly Podcast, Brian Mavis and Courtney Williams interview Larry and Tammie May, a couple who adopted a child after their biological children had grown up. The conversation explores their decision to adopt, the challenges they faced, and the importance of being brave and stepping out of the norm. They discuss the pa…

1
Caseworker Shares Valuable Insights on All Things Foster Care with Becca Bramley 40:47

7M ago40:47

40:47

Becca Bramley, a foster care caseworker, discusses her background and role as a therapeutic foster care program manager. She explains the difference between general foster homes and therapeutic foster homes, highlighting the intensive support provided by the latter. Becca also delves into the concept of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and the …

1
What It’s Like Being a Teenager in Foster Care with Britt Kelley 36:57

8M ago36:57

36:57

In this conversation, hosts Brian and Travis interview Britt Kelley, Foster Friendly Manager with Colorado Kids Belong. Britt is a former foster youth alumni and shares about her experiences as a teenager in foster care. They discuss the challenges faced by teens in foster care, the importance of supportive foster families, and the need for empathy…

1
Inspiring Lessons From Sound of Hope: The Story of Possum Trot with Brian, Travis, and Courtney 35:32

8M ago35:32

35:32

In this lively conversation, hosts Brian, Travis, and Courtney discuss the movie 'Sound of Hope' and its portrayal of a church in Possum Trot, Texas, that adopted 77 kids. They share their personal reactions to the movie and highlight the importance of understanding the context and time period in which the story takes place. They discuss the need f…

1
Couple Shares Their Journey of Fostering Kids With Special Needs with the Housers 46:04

8M ago46:04

46:04

In this heartwarming episode of the Foster Friendly Podcast, hosts Brian and Travis interview Woody and Mindy Houser, an inspiring couple from South Dakota who specialize in caring for children with high-level medical needs. The Housers share their journey into foster care, which began after the stillbirth of their daughter and led them to adopt tw…

1
Leading Foster Care Expert Shares Powerful Stories and Insights with Dr. John DeGarmo 34:17

8M ago34:17

34:17

In this latest episode of the Foster Friendly Podcast, hosts Courtney and Travis are joined by Dr. John DeGarmo, a renowned foster care expert who has fostered over 60 children and is the director of the Foster Care Institute. Dr. DeGarmo is a global keynote speaker and foster care consultant, best selling author, and trauma informed presenter and …

1
From Foster Care to PhD: Overcoming Education Hurdles with Dr. Danisha Keating 48:03

8M ago48:03

48:03

This week’s conversation explores how being in foster care impacts education. Dr. Danisha Keating is a former foster youth, a CEO, an international motivational speaker, and an author. She shares her personal journey and the challenges faced by foster youth in education. Dr. Keating also discusses the emotional struggles and trauma that foster yout…

1
What’s Behind the Foster Care to Prison Pipeline? with Bernie Lattner 49:02

9M ago49:02

49:02

In this episode, we explore the sobering and eye-opening correlation of many former foster youth who end up incarcerated. Social policy experts have deemed this all too common reality as the "foster to prison pipeline." Our guest, Bernie Lattner, has an extremely unique and helpful vantage into this phenomonen as a long time foster dad, mentor, and…

1
A Critical Need for Fostering and Adopting Siblings with Former Foster Youth Tina Bauer 26:52

9M ago26:52

26:52

Tina gives her testimony of being in the foster care system then being adopted. She is able to discuss what she had to go through during her time in foster care and her experience of recovering from the effects of being in foster care after being adopted. Tina elaborates on the issues of reciprocal adoption of siblings and the role she played as a …

1
Empty Nester Adopts Seven Siblings After Tragedy Struck with Pam Willis 49:37

9M ago49:37

49:37

In 2019, Pam and her husband Gary were about to be empty nesters when she saw a story on Facebook about a sibling group of seven whose parents were killed in a car crash. They were desperately needing a family who could keep them all together. It was then that she and Gary made the life changing decision to become new parents again after raising fi…

1
Foster Friendly Communities Providing Huge Support to Foster Families with Nanette Kirsch 33:05

9M ago33:05

33:05

Nanette Kirsch, as the executive director of marketing and communications for America's Kids Belong (AKB), details her experience in tech marketing that contributed to spearheading AKB's marketing strategy. She delves into the idea of foster-friendly communities— underscoring that community support is vital to foster families. The discussion doesn'…

1
Advocating for Older Children in Foster Care with Barry Farmer 37:11

10M ago37:11

37:11

The latest episode of the Foster Friendly Podcast is spent with Barry Farmer. He is not only an adoptive father but a strong voice for foster care and adoption advocacy. Barry walks us through his personal narrative — a tale of being raised under kinship care and later becoming a foster parent at quite a young age. Barry and hosts, Travis and Court…

1
Welcome to The Foster Friendly Podcast 49:15

11M ago49:15

49:15

Hosts Brian Mavis, Travis Vangsnes, and Courtney Williams present the Foster Friendly podcast in its debut episode. The show seeks to widen the Foster Friendly effort, which includes The Foster Friendly App, designed to support foster families. The goal of the podcast is to give foster and adoptive parents information and assistance. This show also…

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