Child Welfare

Host Kristina Finch, Associate Director of Professional Development at the Florida Institute for Child Welfare, leads a series of conversations in this podcast, “Innovation at the Frontline: Supporting the Workforce.” In this episode, learn why leadership development is currently crucial in child welfare. KT Sherrod, assistant director of organizational development programming, and Byrony Escobar, a trauma-informed social worker, offer their expertise on training. They also describe the tools, skills, and mindset that child welfare leaders will need to succeed in the future. “What gives me hope for the future of leadership development is that shift we’re seeing towards a more human-centered, family-centered, person-centered practice, and emotionally intelligent leadership. Because for a long time, leadership and success have been defined by compliance and addressing crises as they come up. Now we’re finally recognizing that developing people, by supporting their growth, their resilience, their confidence especially, that’s what actually sustains the work.” — Byrony Escobar Guests: Kristyn “KT” Sherrod, Florida Institute for Child Welfare Byrony Escobar, Family Support Services Just a reminder: Our guests’ opinions are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official views, policies, or positions of the Florida Institute for Child Welfare. Tune in and subscribe to our Child Welfare Podcast at http://FICW.FSU.EDU/PODCAST The Florida Institute for Child Welfare seeks to promote safety, permanency, and well-being among children and families within the child welfare system. Learn more about our research and professional development programs at http://FICW.FSU.EDU Connect with us on social media: @FSUChildWelfare Facebook: @fsuchildwelfare Instagram: @fsuchildwelfare LinkedIn: @fsuchildwelfare Host:  Kristina Finch Producing/Editing: David Heller, Brantley Jones, Izzy Cring

Host Kristina Finch, Associate Director of Professional Development at the Florida Institute for Child Welfare, leads a series of conversations in this podcast, “Innovation at the Frontline: Supporting the Workforce.” In this episode, Kristina discusses the well-being practices and innovations being implemented for child welfare professionals in Florida. Learn more about the mission to enhance their well-being as they work with Florida’s children and families every day. “Sometimes burnout is unseen, and it becomes this big problem. How can leaders start to assess this within their organization before it kind of blows up, and the unseen becomes seen? Get an understanding of what's happening with frontline staff. What are their experiences and stories? Is there psychological safety in the organization so that these discussions can be really talked about?” Kristine Posada Guests: Kristine Posada, Florida Institute for Child Welfare Candice Howell, Florida Institute for Child Welfare Shivana Gentry, Sunshine Health Just a reminder: Our guests’ opinions are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official views, policies, or positions of the Florida Institute for Child Welfare. Tune in and subscribe to our Child Welfare podcast at http://FICW.FSU.EDU/PODCAST The Florida Institute for Child Welfare seeks to promote safety, permanency, and well-being among children and families within the child welfare system. Learn more about our research and professional development programs at http://FICW.FSU.EDU Connect with us on social media: @FSUChildWelfare Facebook: @fsuchildwelfare Instagram: @fsuchildwelfare LinkedIn: @fsuchildwelfare Host:  Kristina Finch Producing/Editing: David Heller, Brantley Jones, Izzy Cring

Host Kristina Finch, Associate Director of Professional Development at the Florida Institute for Child Welfare, leads a series of conversations in this podcast, “Innovation at the Frontline: Supporting the Workforce.” In this episode, Kristina discusses how simulation is being incorporated into preservice training for child welfare professionals in Florida. Her guests explain what kinds of simulations are proving valuable for caseworkers, and they envision how this method will influence training in the future. “Once they went through the simulation themselves, they were blown away. Every last one of them said, ‘I wish I had this type of training when I came through preservice.’” William Swain Guests: William Swain, University of South Florida Kimberly Lauterbach, Florida Department of Children and Families Just a reminder: Our guests’ opinions are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official views, policies, or positions of the Florida Institute for Child Welfare. Tune in and subscribe to our Child Welfare podcast at http://FICW.FSU.EDU/PODCAST The Florida Institute for Child Welfare seeks to promote safety, permanency, and well-being among children and families within the child welfare system. Learn more about our research and professional development programs at http://FICW.FSU.EDU Connect with us on social media: @FSUChildWelfare Facebook: @fsuchildwelfare Instagram: @fsuchildwelfare LinkedIn: @fsuchildwelfare Host:  Kristina Finch Producing/Editing: David Heller, Brantley Jones, Izzy Cring

Host Kristina Finch, Associate Director of Professional Development at the Florida Institute for Child Welfare, leads a series of conversations in this podcast, “Innovation at the Frontline: Supporting the Workforce.” In this episode, Kristina takes a closer look at virtual coaching and how it’s being used to help child welfare professionals better understand their own strengths and how best to employ them on the job. Learn about successes and challenges resulting from virtual coaching and what the future holds for this innovative approach. “Coaching is tapping into their motivations. Because if I tap into their motivations, they're more likely to achieve what they want to achieve and not what I want to achieve.” Steve McGarvey Guests: Candice Howell, Florida Institute for Child Welfare Steve McGarvey, Florida Institute for Child Welfare Brenda Lockwood, Butler Institute for Families Just a reminder: Our guests’ opinions are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official views, policies, or positions of the Florida Institute for Child Welfare. Tune in and subscribe to our Child Welfare podcast at http://FICW.FSU.EDU/PODCAST The Florida Institute for Child Welfare seeks to promote safety, permanency, and well-being among children and families within the child welfare system. Learn more about our research and professional development programs at http://FICW.FSU.EDU Connect with us on social media: @FSUChildWelfare Facebook: @fsuchildwelfare Instagram: @fsuchildwelfare LinkedIn: @fsuchildwelfare Host:  Kristina Finch Producing/Editing: David Heller, Brantley Jones, Izzy Cring

Host Kristina Finch, Associate Director of Professional Development at the Florida Institute for Child Welfare, leads a series of conversations in this podcast, “Innovation at the Frontline: Supporting the Workforce.” In this episode, Kristina discusses with her guests the value of instructional design in child welfare training—why it matters, how training is shaped by the way people learn, and what type of innovations are being developed to help child welfare professionals in the future. “Instructional design really is the foundation of effective training. It helps us align learning experiences with the actual needs of the child welfare workforce. We see learning as a journey, not a one-time event.” Samantha Schoenberger Guests: Lyndi Bradley, Institute for Trauma & Resilience Studies Samantha Schoenberger, Florida Institute for Child Welfare Tenille Taylor, Florida Institute for Child Welfare Just a reminder: Our guests’ opinions are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official views, policies, or positions of the Florida Institute for Child Welfare. Tune in and subscribe to our Child Welfare podcast at http://FICW.FSU.EDU/PODCAST The Florida Institute for Child Welfare seeks to promote safety, permanency, and well-being among children and families within the child welfare system. Learn more about our research and professional development programs at http://FICW.FSU.EDU Connect with us on social media: @FSUChildWelfare Facebook: fsuchildwelfare Instagram: fsuchildwelfare LinkedIn: fsuchildwelfare Host:  Kristina Finch Producing/Editing: David Heller, Brantley Jones, Izzy Cring

Host Kristina Finch, Associate Director of Professional Development at the Florida Institute for Child Welfare, leads a series of conversations in this podcast, “Innovation at the Frontline: Supporting the Workforce.” In this episode, Kristina explores with her guests how virtual reality is transforming child welfare training for students and professionals across Florida. They are developing valuable skills designed to help them practice real-world scenarios in a safe environment before they ever meet a family on the job. “VR technology is a technology we can use to immerse them in a realistic situation where they have the opportunity to interview families. How they react to you depends on how you question them. There are 16 quadrillion potential pathways through this experience, so no one's getting the same experience.” — Kyle Cook Guests: Kyle Cook, Former Manager Florida Institute for Child Welfare Katerina Manias, Florida Institute for Child Welfare Kristen Puckett, Florida Department of Children and Families Just a reminder: Our guests’ opinions are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official views, policies, or positions of the Florida Institute for Child Welfare. Tune in and subscribe to our Child Welfare Podcast at http://FICW.FSU.EDU/PODCAST The Florida Institute for Child Welfare seeks to promote safety, permanency, and well-being among children and families within the child welfare system. Learn more about our research and professional development programs at http://FICW.FSU.EDU Connect with us on social media: @FSUChildWelfare Facebook: @fsuchildwelfare Instagram: @fsuchildwelfare LinkedIn: @fsuchildwelfare Host:  Kristina Finch Producing/Editing: David Heller, Brantley Jones, Izzy Cring

Host Vivian Ko, Assistant Director of Professional Development and Worker Well-Being Research & Evaluation at the Florida Institute for Child Welfare, explores how Florida’s foster parents serve as frontline partners in prevention, what approaches support positive outcomes for children, and where systems can be improved. Vivian, an adoptive mother and former foster parent, talks with foster and adoptive mothers Lori Ann Chapman and Selena Garrison about their personal journeys through foster care. Both became involved with the system because they wanted to provide stability, love, and advocacy for children who have experienced trauma. Lori and Selena tell stories that reveal how difficult foster parenting can be, but they say watching children heal, grow, and feel safe is what sustains them. “Supporting foster parents is prevention. I hope we're able to clearly identify the gaps so that we can better prepare and support foster parents from the beginning. Because when foster parents are set up for success, kids are going to be more stable, and the outcomes are going to improve.” Selena Garrison Resources mentioned in this episode: The Fostering Foundation: https://www.thefosteringfoundation.org/ The Pearl Project: https://www.thepearlproject.org/ “Memoirs of a Middle Mama”: https://www.facebook.com/memoirsofamiddlemama/ Just a reminder: Our guests’ opinions are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official views, policies, or positions of the Florida Institute for Child Welfare. Tune in and subscribe to our Child Welfare Podcast at http://FICW.FSU.EDU/PODCAST The Florida Institute for Child Welfare seeks to promote safety, permanency, and well-being among children and families within the child welfare system. Learn more about our research and professional development programs at http://FICW.FSU.EDU Connect with us on social media: @FSUChildWelfare Facebook: @fsuchildwelfare Instagram: @fsuchildwelfare LinkedIn: @fsuchildwelfare Host:  Vivian Ko Producing/Editing: David Heller, Brantley Jones, Izzy Cring

Chris DelMarco, Attorney, Legal Services of North Florida Domestic violence (DV) and intimate partner violence (IPV) affect individuals across all demographics. Human services and law enforcement responders often encounter IPV cases and must collaborate to support survivors. Despite their shared goal of ensuring safe families and communities, these collaborations can be challenging due to differing priorities, processes, and responsibilities. Attorney Chris DelMarco of Legal Services of North Florida specializes in representing survivors of domestic, sexual, and dating violence, as well as stalking. Her work focuses on enhancing the safety and long‑term stability of survivors and their children. Ms. DelMarco says successful outcomes for DV survivors include: -Ensuring that they feel heard and feel like they can return for help -Offering supportive, nonjudgmental interactions -Creating systems that hold perpetrators accountable—not survivors “Domestic violence survivors really do know more about their situation than any of us ever will. They know about the danger they face. They know about what will and won’t help. They know what they need to be safer and to provide safety for their kids. We all really need to consider their knowledge, perspectives, and experiences and make sure those things are interwoven in whatever remedies we are working with them on.” Chris DelMarco Content Note: This episode contains an in-depth discussion about domestic violence and intimate partner violence, including descriptions of abusive behavior and its emotional and psychological impacts. These topics may be distressing or activating for some listeners. If you or someone you know is experiencing violence or feels unsafe, please consider taking a break from this episode or listening with support. For confidential help, contact: National Domestic Violence Hotline (NDVH) 📞 Phone: 1‑800‑799‑SAFE (7233) 📱 Text: Text “START” to 88788 💬 Chat: Available at thehotline.org https://www.thehotline.org/ https://acf.gov/fysb/ndvh https://www.mnadv.org/get-help/24-hour-national-hotline/ National Sexual Assault Hotline (RAINN) 📞 Phone: 1‑800‑656‑HOPE (4673) https://www.justice.gov/ovw/resources-for-survivors Florida-Specific Domestic Violence Hotlines Florida Statewide Domestic Violence Hotline (24/7) 📞 Phone: 1‑800‑500‑1119 📞 TTY: 1‑800‑621‑4202 https://www.fcadv.org/dv-hotline https://www.myflfamilies.com/services/abuse/domestic-violence https://www.fpedv.org/get-help/ The Institute honors the many ways those impacted by violence identify. For that reason, we will use the terms “victim” and “survivor” interchangeably to honor both preferences. We also recognize that professionals use different terms to describe their work in this space, including “domestic violence,” “intimate partner violence,” and “partner violence.” While each of these terms has a specific meaning, we will again use terms interchangeably for professional representation. Just a reminder: Our guests’ opinions are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official views, policies, or positions of the Florida Institute for Child Welfare. Tune in and subscribe to our Child Welfare podcast at http://FICW.FSU.EDU/PODCAST The Florida Institute for Child Welfare seeks to promote safety, permanency, and well-being among children and families within the child welfare system. Learn more about our research and professional development programs at http://FICW.FSU.EDU Connect with us on social media: @FSUChildWelfare http://Facebook.com/FSUChildWelfare http://Instagram.com/FSUChildWelfare http://LinkedIn.com/company/FSUChildWelfare Host:  Dr. Lisa Magruder Producing/Editing: David Heller, Brantley Jones, Izzy Cring

Domestic violence (DV) and intimate partner violence (IPV) affect individuals across all demographics. Human services and law enforcement responders often encounter IPV cases and must collaborate to support survivors. Despite their shared goal of ensuring safe families and communities, these collaborations can be challenging due to differing priorities, processes, and responsibilities. Juan Carlos Areán of Futures Without Violence (https://futureswithoutviolence.org/) discusses his 35‑year career working with individuals who cause harm in intimate partner relationships. He provides training and develops curricula focusing on the intersection of fatherhood and domestic violence for organizations nationwide. Mr. Areán says fatherhood can be a powerful influence in batterer intervention programs because many fathers who cause harm are motivated to change for the sake of their children. That has led to support programs that leverage men’s roles as fathers to encourage behavior change. “Anyone who has worked with fathers who use violence realizes that many of them can be motivated to change when they realize the damage that they are doing to their children. So basically, through the love of their children, that's where the change can happen.” Juan Carlos Areán Guide for fathers who want to change and heal their relationships: https://futureswithoutviolence.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Father-Workbook-English-FINAL-2025.pdf Intervention Services in Florida: https://www.myflfamilies.com/bipc National Helpline for people who cause harm: https://acallforchangehelpline.org/ Content Note: This episode contains an in-depth discussion about domestic violence and intimate partner violence, including descriptions of abusive behavior and its emotional and psychological impacts. These topics may be distressing or activating for some listeners. If you or someone you know is experiencing violence or feels unsafe, please consider taking a break from this episode or listening with support. For confidential help, contact: National Domestic Violence Hotline (NDVH) 📞 Phone: 1‑800‑799‑SAFE (7233) 📱 Text: Text “START” to 88788 💬 Chat: Available at thehotline.org https://www.thehotline.org/ https://acf.gov/fysb/ndvh https://www.mnadv.org/get-help/24-hour-national-hotline/ National Sexual Assault Hotline (RAINN) 📞 Phone: 1‑800‑656‑HOPE (4673) Florida Statewide Domestic Violence Hotline (24/7) 📞 Phone: 1‑800‑500‑1119 📞 TTY: 1‑800‑621‑4202 https://www.fcadv.org/dv-hotline https://www.myflfamilies.com/services/abuse/domestic-violence https://www.fpedv.org/get-help/ The Institute honors the many ways those impacted by violence identify. For that reason, we will use the terms “victim” and “survivor” interchangeably to honor both preferences. We also recognize that professionals use different terms to describe their work in this space, including “domestic violence,” “intimate partner violence,” and “partner violence.” While each of these terms has a specific meaning, we will again use terms interchangeably for professional representation. Just a reminder: Our guests’ opinions are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official views, policies, or positions of the Florida Institute for Child Welfare. Tune in and subscribe to our Child Welfare podcast at http://FICW.FSU.EDU/PODCAST The Florida Institute for Child Welfare seeks to promote safety, permanency, and well-being among children and families within the child welfare system. Learn more about our research and professional development programs at http://FICW.FSU.EDU Connect with us on social media: @FSUChildWelfare http://Facebook.com/FSUChildWelfare http://Instagram.com/FSUChildWelfare http://Twitter.com/FSUChildWelfare http://LinkedIn.com/company/FSUChildWelfare Host:  Dr. Lisa Magruder Producing/Editing: David Heller, Brantley Jones, Izzy Cring

E4: Case Management and Survivor Support: Bridging Systems Sarah Tedder, Case Manager, 4 Sisters Solutions Domestic violence (DV) and intimate partner violence (IPV) affect individuals across all demographics. Human services and law enforcement responders often encounter IPV cases and must collaborate to support survivors. Despite their shared goal of ensuring safe families and communities, these collaborations can be challenging due to differing priorities, processes, and responsibilities. In this episode, Sarah Tedder, a case manager with 4 Sisters Solutions, discusses the intersection of DV and child welfare. DV is a factor in many of the cases that Ms. Tedder manages, and she believes that child welfare professionals can benefit from more training on the “power-and-control dynamics” of these relationships. She says DV survivors are too often held accountable in cases, rather than those causing harm, and there needs to be an accountability shift from focusing on what a survivor can do to protect children to emphasizing what an abuser can do to stop creating violence. Tune in to learn her definition of success in DV cases and her specific hopes for future improvements to Florida’s child welfare system. “I would like to see a professional being available [in the judicial process] that can provide insight into their perspective on addressing the batterers in the case, not just the survivor. But really getting somebody in there that can address the alleged perpetrator right out of the gate because that’s really where the accountability needs to start from.” Sarah Tedder Content Note: This episode contains an in-depth discussion about domestic violence and intimate partner violence, including descriptions of abusive behavior and its emotional and psychological impacts. These topics may be distressing or activating for some listeners. If you or someone you know is experiencing violence or feels unsafe, please consider taking a break from this episode or listening with support. For confidential help, contact: National Domestic Violence Hotline (NDVH) 📞 Phone: 1‑800‑799‑SAFE (7233) 📱 Text: Text “START” to 88788 💬 Chat: Available at thehotline.org https://www.thehotline.org/ https://acf.gov/fysb/ndvh https://www.mnadv.org/get-help/24-hour-national-hotline/ National Sexual Assault Hotline (RAINN) 📞 Phone: 1‑800‑656‑HOPE (4673) https://www.justice.gov/ovw/resources-for-survivors Florida Statewide Domestic Violence Hotline (24/7) 📞 Phone: 1‑800‑500‑1119 📞 TTY: 1‑800‑621‑4202 https://www.fcadv.org/dv-hotline https://www.myflfamilies.com/services/abuse/domestic-violence https://www.fpedv.org/get-help/ The Institute honors the many ways those impacted by violence identify. For that reason, we will use the terms “victim” and “survivor” interchangeably to honor both preferences. We also recognize that professionals use different terms to describe their work in this space, including “domestic violence,” “intimate partner violence,” and “partner violence.” While each of these terms has specific meaning, we will again use terms interchangeably for professional representation. Just a reminder: Our guests’ opinions are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official views, policies, or positions of the Florida Institute for Child Welfare. Tune in and subscribe to our Child Welfare podcast at http://FICW.FSU.EDU/PODCAST The Florida Institute for Child Welfare seeks to promote safety, permanency, and well-being among children and families within the child welfare system. Learn more about our research and professional development programs at http://FICW.FSU.EDU Connect with us on social media: @FSUChildWelfare http://Facebook.com/FSUChildWelfare http://Instagram.com/FSUChildWelfare http://Twitter.com/FSUChildWelfare http://LinkedIn.com/company/FSUChildWelfare Host:  Dr. Lisa Magruder Producing/Editing: David Heller, Brantley Jones, Izzy Cring

E3: Law Enforcement and Domestic Violence: A Collaborative Approach Dep. Chief Maurice Holmes, Tallahassee Police Department Domestic violence (DV) and intimate partner violence (IPV) affect individuals across all demographics. Human services and law enforcement responders often encounter IPV cases and must collaborate to support survivors. Despite their shared goal of ensuring safe families and communities, these collaborations can be challenging due to differing priorities, processes, and responsibilities. In this episode, Deputy Chief Maurice Holmes of the Tallahassee Police Department says that throughout his career, he has seen more training to better equip officers for DV and child welfare–related responses. Today’s training recognizes DV is a complicated cycle of childhood trauma, mental illness, and patterns of harm. While arrests rarely provide a full solution, Deputy Chief Holmes says achieving long-term success for families must include effective collaboration among community partners on interventions. “We want to make a positive impact in children’s lives because they’re suffering trauma. We’re all working together. I just wish everyone had the mindset that we’re a team.” Dep. Chief Maurice Holmes Content Note: This episode contains an in-depth discussion about domestic violence and intimate partner violence, including descriptions of abusive behavior and its emotional and psychological impacts. These topics may be distressing or activating for some listeners. If you or someone you know is experiencing violence or feels unsafe, please consider taking a break from this episode or listening with support. For confidential help, contact: National Domestic Violence Hotline (NDVH) 📞 Phone: 1‑800‑799‑SAFE (7233) 📱 Text: Text “START” to 88788 💬 Chat: Available at thehotline.org Provides 24/7 confidential support, crisis intervention, and referrals. https://www.thehotline.org/ https://acf.gov/fysb/ndvh https://www.mnadv.org/get-help/24-hour-national-hotline/ National Sexual Assault Hotline (RAINN) 📞 Phone: 1‑800‑656‑HOPE (4673) Provides confidential support for survivors of sexual assault, which often overlaps with intimate partner violence. https://www.justice.gov/ovw/resources-for-survivors Florida Statewide Domestic Violence Hotline (24/7) 📞 Phone: 1‑800‑500‑1119 📞 TTY: 1‑800‑621‑4202 https://www.fcadv.org/dv-hotline https://www.myflfamilies.com/services/abuse/domestic-violence https://www.fpedv.org/get-help/ Florida Department of Children & Families (DCF) – Domestic Violence Resources 📞 Phone: 1‑800‑500‑1119 📞 TTY: 1‑800‑621‑4202 https://www.myflfamilies.com/services/abuse/domestic-violence https://www.flfamily.org/get-help/domestic-violence/ The Institute honors the many ways those impacted by violence identify. For that reason, we will use the terms “victim” and “survivor” interchangeably to honor both preferences. We also recognize that professionals use different terms to describe their work in this space, including “domestic violence,” “intimate partner violence,” and “partner violence.” While each of these terms has a specific meaning, we will again use terms interchangeably for professional representation. Just a reminder: Our guests’ opinions are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official views, policies, or positions of the Florida Institute for Child Welfare. Tune in and subscribe to our Child Welfare podcast at http://FICW.FSU.EDU/PODCAST The Florida Institute for Child Welfare seeks to promote safety, permanency, and well-being among children and families within the child welfare system. Learn more about our research and professional development programs at http://FICW.FSU.EDU Connect with us on social media: @FSUChildWelfare http://Facebook.com/FSUChildWelfare http://Instagram.com/FSUChildWelfare http://Twitter.com/FSUChildWelfare http://LinkedIn.com/company/FSUChildWelfare Host: Dr. Lisa Magruder Producing/Editing: David Heller, Brantley Jones, Izzy Cring

Domestic violence and intimate partner violence (IPV) affect individuals across all demographics. Human services and law enforcement responders often encounter IPV cases and must collaborate to support survivors. Despite their shared goal of ensuring safe families and communities, these collaborations can be challenging due to differing priorities, processes, and responsibilities. In this episode, Maria Folsom discusses her work as a victim advocate with the Leon County Sheriff’s Office. Ms. Folsom provides 24/7 support to survivors of all crimes. With 30 years of service as a victim advocate, she has experience teaching life skills to female inmates, helping others manage trauma, and supporting individuals with disabilities. “I build rapport, and I do try to let them feel I’m on their side.” Maria Folsom Leon County Victim Advocate Unit: https://www.leoncountyso.com/citizen-center/victim-information Content Note: This episode contains an in-depth discussion about domestic violence and intimate partner violence, including descriptions of abusive behavior and its emotional and psychological impacts. These topics may be distressing or activating for some listeners. If you or someone you know is experiencing violence or feels unsafe, please consider taking a break from this episode or listening with support. For confidential help, contact: National Domestic Violence Hotline (NDVH) 📞 Phone: 1‑800‑799‑SAFE (7233) 📱 Text: Text “START” to 88788 💬 Chat: Available at thehotline.org https://www.thehotline.org/ https://acf.gov/fysb/ndvh https://www.mnadv.org/get-help/24-hour-national-hotline/ National Sexual Assault Hotline (RAINN) 📞 Phone: 1‑800‑656‑HOPE (4673) Teen Dating Abuse Helpline 📞 Phone: 1‑866‑331‑9474 📞 TTY: 1‑866‑331‑8453 Florida-Specific Domestic Violence Hotlines Florida Statewide Domestic Violence Hotline (24/7) 📞 Phone: 1‑800‑500‑1119 📞 TTY: 1‑800‑621‑4202 https://www.fcadv.org/dv-hotline https://www.myflfamilies.com/services/abuse/domestic-violence https://www.fpedv.org/get-help/ Florida Department of Children & Families (DCF) – Domestic Violence Resources 📞 Phone: 1‑800‑500‑1119 📞 TTY: 1‑800‑621‑4202 DCF partners with certified shelters and programs statewide and helps locate services in your area. https://www.myflfamilies.com/services/abuse/domestic-violence https://www.flfamily.org/get-help/domestic-violence/ The Institute honors the many ways those impacted by violence identify. For that reason, we will use the terms “victim” and “survivor” interchangeably to honor both preferences. We also recognize that professionals use different terms to describe their work in this space, including “domestic violence,” “intimate partner violence,” and “partner violence.” While each of these terms has specific meaning, we will again use terms interchangeably for professional representation. Just a reminder: Our guests’ opinions are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official views, policies, or positions of the Florida Institute for Child Welfare. Tune in and subscribe to our Child Welfare podcast at http://FICW.FSU.EDU/PODCAST The Florida Institute for Child Welfare seeks to promote safety, permanency, and well-being among children and families within the child welfare system. Learn more about our research and professional development programs at http://FICW.FSU.EDU Connect with us on social media: @FSUChildWelfare http://Facebook.com/FSUChildWelfare http://Instagram.com/FSUChildWelfare http://Twitter.com/FSUChildWelfare http://LinkedIn.com/company/FSUChildWelfare Host:  Dr. Lisa Magruder Producing/Editing: David Heller, Brantley Jones, Izzy Cring

Domestic violence and intimate partner violence (IPV) affect individuals across all demographics. Human services and law enforcement responders often encounter IPV cases and must collaborate to support survivors. Despite their shared goal of ensuring safe families and communities, these collaborations can be challenging due to differing priorities, processes, and responsibilities. In this episode, survivor and parent advocate Sharwline Nicholson shares her experience and advocacy work. A nationally recognized speaker, Nicholson offers invaluable insights into how systems can better support families affected by domestic violence and child welfare involvement. “I am who I am. I speak authentically and this is my experience, and I'll share my experience.” —Sharwline Nicholson About Sharwline: https://iamnicholson.com/ Nicholson’s Four Factors for Judicial Consideration in Cases Involving Domestic Violence and Children: https://promising.futureswithoutviolence.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Nicholsons-Four-Factors-for-Judicial-Consideration-in-Cases-Involving-Domestic-Violence-and-Children.pdf Florida’s Professionally Mandated Reporter Course by the Department of Children and Families (DCF): https://www.myflfamilies.com/sites/default/files/PT/FlProMandatedReporter/story.html Content Note: This episode contains an in-depth discussion about domestic violence and intimate partner violence, including descriptions of abusive behavior and its emotional and psychological impacts. These topics may be distressing or activating for some listeners. If you or someone you know is experiencing violence or feels unsafe, please consider taking a break from this episode or listening with support. For confidential help, contact: National Domestic Violence Hotline (NDVH) 📞 Phone: 1‑800‑799‑SAFE (7233) 📱 Text: Text “START” to 88788 💬 Chat: Available at thehotline.org National Sexual Assault Hotline (RAINN) 📞 Phone: 1‑800‑656‑HOPE (4673) https://www.justice.gov/ovw/resources-for-survivors Florida-specific Domestic Violence Hotlines Florida Statewide Domestic Violence Hotline (24/7) 📞 Phone: 1‑800‑500‑1119 📞 TTY: 1‑800‑621‑4202 https://www.fcadv.org/dv-hotline https://www.myflfamilies.com/services/abuse/domestic-violence https://www.fpedv.org/get-help/ Florida Department of Children & Families (DCF) – Domestic Violence Resources 📞 Phone: 1‑800‑500‑1119 📞 TTY: 1‑800‑621‑4202 DCF partners with certified shelters and programs statewide and helps locate services in your area. https://www.myflfamilies.com/services/abuse/domestic-violence https://www.flfamily.org/get-help/domestic-violence/ The Institute honors the many ways those impacted by violence identify. For that reason, we will use the terms “victim” and “survivor” interchangeably to honor both preferences. We also recognize that professionals use different terms to describe their work in this space, including “domestic violence,” “intimate partner violence,” and “partner violence.” While each of these terms has specific meaning, we will again use terms interchangeably for professional representation. Just a reminder: Our guests’ opinions are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official views, policies, or positions of the Florida Institute for Child Welfare. Tune in and subscribe to our Child Welfare podcast at http://FICW.FSU.EDU/PODCAST The Florida Institute for Child Welfare seeks to promote safety, permanency, and well-being among children and families within the child welfare system. Learn more about our research and professional development programs at http://FICW.FSU.EDU Connect with us on social media: @FSUChildWelfare http://Facebook.com/FSUChildWelfare http://Instagram.com/FSUChildWelfare http://LinkedIn.com/company/FSUChildWelfare Host:  Dr. Lisa Magruder Producing/Editing: David Heller, Brantley Jones, Izzy Cring

Content & Support Disclaimer: This episode features in-depth discussion of human trafficking involving children and young adults. While essential for awareness, some details may be distressing or triggering. Listener discretion is strongly advised. In this episode, Lauren Herod speaks with three guests who lead efforts to prevent human trafficking and help victims of commercial sexual abuse in Florida. Dr. Vicky Basra, Stephanie Burke, and Jennifer Brooks of the Delores Barr Weaver Policy Center, also known as “See the Girl,” discuss the need for more training among child welfare professionals on human trafficking. They explain how systemic gaps complicate prevention efforts and what policy changes are needed to make more progress on the problem. Tune in to learn about their success stories with trafficking survivors, including a 13-year-old girl, and how the organization offers hope by leading with compassion, patience, and new practices backed by the latest research. If you—or someone you know—needs help or wishes to report trafficking, here are 24/7 confidential resources: National Human Trafficking Hotline Phone: 1‑888‑373‑7888 Text: HELP → 233733 (“BEFREE”) TTY (hearing impaired): 711 Email: [email protected] Live Chat: via humantraffickinghotline.org Child Abuse & Exploitation Specific Hotlines: Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline: 1‑800‑422‑4453 National Center for Missing & Exploited Children: 1‑800‑843‑5678 or report online at Cybertipline.org [youth.gov] Florida-specific Support Florida Abuse Hotline (for children/vulnerable adults): 1‑800‑96‑ABUSE (1‑800‑962‑2873) [myflfamilies.com], [floridahealth.gov] Florida Human Trafficking Reporting Line: 1‑855‑FLA‑SAFE (1‑855‑352‑7233) [djj.state.fl.us], [floridahealth.gov] Office of Human Trafficking Intervention (FL Dept. Juvenile Justice): (850) 717‑2714 [djj.state.fl.us] Just a reminder: Our guests’ opinions are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official views, policies, or positions of the Florida Institute for Child Welfare. Tune in and subscribe to our Child Welfare podcast at http://FICW.FSU.EDU/PODCAST The Florida Institute for Child Welfare seeks to promote safety, permanency, and well-being among children and families within the child welfare system. Learn more about our research and professional development programs at http://FICW.FSU.EDU Connect with us on social media: @FSUChildWelfare http://Facebook.com/FSUChildWelfare http://Instagram.com/FSUChildWelfare http://Twitter.com/FSUChildWelfare http://LinkedIn.com/company/FSUChildWelfare Host: Lauren Herod Producing/Editing: David Heller, Brantley Jones, Izzy Cring

Content & Support Disclaimer: This episode features in-depth discussion of human trafficking involving children and young adults. While essential for awareness, some details may be distressing or triggering. Listener discretion is strongly advised. In this episode, Dr. Joan Reid, professor of criminology at the University of South Florida and director of the USF Trafficking in Persons Research Lab, explains how her research is helping create solutions to prevent trafficking. Her key goals include: - Developing more effective ways to connect trafficking survivors to services. - Supporting child welfare professionals’ efforts to help victims and survivors. Dr. Reid has written more than 60 articles focused on child sex trafficking in Florida, including groundbreaking research documenting a disproportionate risk of exploitation in sex trafficking among children with disabilities. Her research has been used in cases before the U.S. Supreme Court and state courts. Tune in to learn how Dr. Reid’s research is influencing government policy and helping Florida to become a leader in data-driven policy targeting human trafficking. Dr. Reid encourages child welfare professionals and anti-trafficking programs to contact the USF Trafficking in Persons Research Lab to learn how to better serve trafficking victims and survivors. Find resources here: https://www.usftiplab.org/resources/ If you—or someone you know—needs help or wishes to report trafficking, here are 24/7 confidential resources: National Human Trafficking Hotline Phone: 1‑888‑373‑7888 Text: HELP → 233733 (“BEFREE”) TTY (hearing impaired): 711 Email: [email protected] Live Chat: via humantraffickinghotline.org Child Abuse & Exploitation Specific Hotlines: Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline: 1‑800‑422‑4453 National Center for Missing & Exploited Children: 1‑800‑843‑5678 or report online at Cybertipline.org [youth.gov] Florida-specific Support Florida Abuse Hotline (for children/vulnerable adults): 1‑800‑96‑ABUSE (1‑800‑962‑2873) [myflfamilies.com], [floridahealth.gov] Florida Human Trafficking Reporting Line: 1‑855‑FLA‑SAFE (1‑855‑352‑7233) [djj.state.fl.us], [floridahealth.gov] Office of Human Trafficking Intervention (FL Dept. Juvenile Justice): (850) 717‑2714 [djj.state.fl.us] Just a reminder: Our guests’ opinions are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official views, policies, or positions of the Florida Institute for Child Welfare. Tune in and subscribe to our Child Welfare podcast at http://FICW.FSU.EDU/PODCAST The Florida Institute for Child Welfare seeks to promote safety, permanency, and well-being among children and families within the child welfare system. Learn more about our research and professional development programs at http://FICW.FSU.EDU Connect with us on social media: @FSUChildWelfare http://Facebook.com/FSUChildWelfare http://Instagram.com/FSUChildWelfare http://Twitter.com/FSUChildWelfare http://LinkedIn.com/company/FSUChildWelfare Host:  Lauren Herod Producing/Editing: David Heller, Brantley Jones, Izzy Cring

Content & Support Disclaimer: This episode features in-depth discussion of human trafficking involving children and young adults. While essential for awareness, some details may be distressing or triggering. Listener discretion is strongly advised. In this episode, Dr. Charrita Ernewein, assistant professor at the University of Tampa and director of community education for the ⁠FREE Network⁠, joins host Lauren Herod to discuss efforts to prevent human trafficking in Florida. As a destination state, Florida ranks among the highest in the nation in human trafficking rates, according to a ⁠2024 state report⁠. In her role at the FREE Network, Dr. Ernewein focuses on human trafficking education, advocacy, and collaboration. She works to bring together organizations, including law enforcement and child welfare agencies, to address this persistent problem. Her doctoral research explored ways to help survivors of human trafficking reintegrate into the community. Their key needs include long-term housing, financial support, legal assistance, and better access to health care. Dr. Ernewein says many survivors were trafficked as children, often through familial connections. She says too many survivors are stigmatized, complicating their recovery. Dr. Ernewein is advocating for more trauma-informed training among professionals in child welfare, law enforcement, and health care. She’s also working to expand education among families about internet crimes against children. If you—or someone you know—needs help or wishes to report trafficking, here are 24/7 confidential resources: National Human Trafficking Hotline Phone: 1‑888‑373‑7888 Text: HELP → 233733 (“BEFREE”) TTY (hearing impaired): 711 Email: [email protected] Live Chat: via humantraffickinghotline.org Child Abuse & Exploitation Specific Hotlines: Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline: 1‑800‑422‑4453 National Center for Missing & Exploited Children: 1‑800‑843‑5678 or report online at Cybertipline.org [youth.gov] Florida-specific Support Florida Abuse Hotline (for children/vulnerable adults): 1‑800‑96‑ABUSE (1‑800‑962‑2873) [myflfamilies.com], [floridahealth.gov] Florida Human Trafficking Reporting Line: 1‑855‑FLA‑SAFE (1‑855‑352‑7233) [djj.state.fl.us], [floridahealth.gov] Office of Human Trafficking Intervention (FL Dept. Juvenile Justice): (850) 717‑2714 [djj.state.fl.us] Just a reminder: Our guests’ opinions are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official views, policies, or positions of the Florida Institute for Child Welfare. Tune in and subscribe to our Child Welfare podcast at http://FICW.FSU.EDU/PODCAST The Florida Institute for Child Welfare seeks to promote safety, permanency, and well-being among children and families within the child welfare system. Learn more about our research and professional development programs at http://FICW.FSU.EDU Connect with us on social media: @FSUChildWelfare http://Facebook.com/FSUChildWelfare http://Instagram.com/FSUChildWelfare http://Twitter.com/FSUChildWelfare http://LinkedIn.com/company/FSUChildWelfare Host:  Lauren Herod Producer: David Heller Sound Engineer/Editor: Brantley Jones

Join us for a conversation about the complicated relationship between poverty and neglect, and how new research aims to disentangle them to improve the well-being of families. Experts Clare Anderson and Luke Waldo discuss the importance of shifting support for parents to a prevention approach and offer data-informed suggestions for best practices.

Researcher Elizabeth Curley discusses novel interventions for supporting parents and caregivers during incarceration, such as the recently developed INTER program, in this episode.

This episode explores ways to better support foster parents. Adoptive parent and former foster parent Dr. Vivian Mills shares preliminary findings from the Institute’s first foster parent survey and implications for supporting foster parent partners. Dr. Taylor Dowdy-Hazlett discusses findings from her research regarding foster parent retention.

A new partnership between Florida universities is helping child welfare professionals enhance services for mothers with substance use disorders. In this episode, experts Ellen Piekalkiewicz and Dr. Heather Howard share insights from their work with mothers with substance use disorders, including data-driven best practice recommendations for supporting these mothers.

Parents for Parents (P4P) is an innovative parent support program in the Southwest region. In this episode, GROW Center Advisory Committee member Nathan Scott explains more about the program, and Dr. Kathy Moore shares the approach to evaluation and how it can inform the next steps for the program.

During the 2022 Florida Legislative Session, the Florida Department of Children and Families was tasked with contracting for the development and implementation of the Responsible Fatherhood Initiative. Specifically, Florida Statute 409.1464 reads, in part, “The initiative must provide an opportunity for every father in the state to be able to obtain information and inspiration that will motivate and enable him to enhance his abilities as a father, recognizing that some fathers have greater challenges than others and would benefit from greater support.” In this episode, Secretary Shevaun Harris discusses the Department’s recent and planned efforts to support fathers.

In this episode, Drs. Melissa Radey and Lenore McWey discuss their research project Power of Parents in Child Protection, including the impetus for the study, the challenges encountered, and the joys of collaborating with parents on policy-driven research. Devin Coleman, fatherhood support advocate, also shares his perspective as a member of the study’s advisory committee.

Youth participatory action research is one way in which child welfare scholars can engage youth with lived experience throughout the research process. In this episode, Dr. Lisa Magruder talks to a team that used Photovoice methodology and performance art to collect, analyze, and disseminate findings related to youths’ perspectives on the transition to independent living. Learn about the Institute-funded study, its findings, and lessons learned from the research team about meaningfully engage youth with lived experience.

HOPE Court (HOPE stands for Helping Older Teens Powerfully Engage) brings restorative justice-based court hearings and circles to youth in foster care throughout the year leading up to their 18th birthday and beyond, resulting in more community connection and increased hopefulness for our youth as they become adults. The Florida Institute for Child Welfare is currently funding an evaluation of HOPE Court in Broward County. In this episode, to Listen to Dr. Magruder discuss the exciting work with the evaluation team.

For a teen in care, turning 18 can be daunting, especially when they don’t feel adequately prepared for adulthood on their own. Caregivers and child welfare professionals are meant to support youth in developing independent life skills needed for success in adulthood. As part of SB80 in 2021, the Insitute was mandated to evaluate Florida’s approach to life skills development for youth in care. . In this episode, Dr. Lisa Magruder interviews the two lead evaluators, as well as an evaluation team member with lived experience turning 18 in care.

For youth in the foster care system, especially transition-age youth, establishing relational permanency can support youth beyond their time in care. The Selfless Love Foundation is currently piloting a relational permanency initiative, Follow the Love (FTL), with support from the Institute In this episode, Dr. Lisa Magruder interviews the FTL pilot evaluators, as well as a child welfare professional participating in the pilot in Northeast Florida.

Although Maternity homes are a small fraction of the child welfare system, they are vitally important to young mothers in care, or with nowhere else to turn. In this episode, Dr. Lisa Magruder interviews the researchers leading the Institute-funded Maternity Homes research study, a professional in the maternity homes system, and a young mother with lived experience in maternity homes.

A cornerstone of child welfare research is including the lived experience perspective, but there are many factors to consider when collaborating with those sharing their experiences. In this episode, Dr. Lisa Magruder, the Associate Director of Research at the Institute, speaks with child welfare research experts, as well as a mother with lived expertise, to learn about ways to engage, respect, and properly value those willing to share in research studies.

High turnover in child welfare has been called a “national crisis,” with many leaving the industry because training did not prepare them for reality of the difficult work. Using state-of the-art virtual reality trainings based on real case scenarios, Accenture, an information technology services company, provides realistic training opportunities to better prepare child welfare professionals to work with families in need. In this episode of Season 5, hear from Accenture’s Child Welfare Industry Lead, Molly Tierney, on the inner workings of these innovations, as well as Kellee Hicks’s firsthand experience with the software utilized in Mecklenburg County.

In child welfare, collaboration among all involved parties is required, and time is of the essence. Delays in communication can be disastrous for families and workers in the child welfare system. In this episode of Season 5, hear about Stabilify - a software company working to improve efficiency in child welfare. We spoke with the President of Stabilify, Jackie Gonzalez, about their streamlining efforts. We also interviewed Esther Jacobo of Children’s Home Society, a recent partner with Stabilify, about the impact this technology has on the workforce.

Working in child welfare can be challenging, especially when up to 80% of case managers’ time is spent on paperwork and other office tasks. This takes away valuable time from the children and families in need. Listen to hear about a new time saving innovation - the CaseAIM app. In this episode of Season 5, hear from Morgan Ryan and Brianna Kobayashi of Children’s Home Society about the positive impact of this new technology.

Listen to this episode of the Get Plugged In series to gain wisdom and insight on accessing healthcare services so that former foster youth are better equipped to maintain their physical and emotional well-being. Diamond Whitley, OVI’s Youth Engagement Specialist, and Jenn Edgson, Healthcare Consultant with Community Based Care Integrated Health, share some tips. https://ficw.fsu.edu/

All young people with lived foster care experience and child welfare professionals listen up! This episode of the Getting Plugged In series is one you don’t want to miss. Get tips on getting food assistance through ACCESS Florida from Rayla James, President of the Brevard Youth Leadership Council, and Patti Grogan, Director of Policy and Programs with the Office of Economic Self-Sufficiency.

That’s right! Young people with lived foster care experience may be eligible to have their postsecondary education tuition covered. Listen to this episode of the Get Plugged In to learn how to access this incredible benefit available to former foster youth. Get the facts from Dina Santos, a member of Passport to Leadership Youth Advisory Board and sophomore at Florida State College at Jacksonville, and Lisa Jackson, Senior Program Director of Academic Support & Engagement at Florida State University.

You gotta’ know about the resources available through Florida’s independent living programs before you turn 18. Listen to this episode of the Get Plugged In series to learn about Extended Foster Care (EFC) and Postsecondary Education Services and Support (PESS). Get the scoop on how remaining in foster care after 18 and taking advantage of PESS can assist young adults in reaching their transition goals, preparing for self-sufficiency. Hear from Demarco Mott, Chair of the Citrus FCN Youth Advocacy Council, and Keri Flynn, Embrace Families’ Director of Youth Services.

Psst…if you haven’t already heard, young people can cash in on the Division X Chafee federal funds. These funds were made available to states to help with the pandemic relief efforts. Hear from John Watson, Youth Council Specialist with OVI, and Brandie McCabe, Director of Youth Initiatives with Selfless Love Foundation, on the educational incentive money and additional financial assistance available to eligible former foster youth.

If you are a young person with lived foster care experience on the journey to becoming a self-sufficient adult, get the low down on why Life Skills Reimagined is the most innovative curriculum and should be available to all transition-age foster youth. In this episode of Getting Plugged In, hear what Kaitlynn Hanson, a member of Camelot’s Tampa Bay Youth Empowerment Board, and Stephanie Savely, Founder of LYFT Learning, have to say about this easily accessible and very engaging online platform.

This episode explores the Kinship Caregiving and Kinship Navigator Programs. Michelle Mongeluzzo and Dr. Anna Yelick discuss the Kinship Navigator Program at Kids Central, Inc., a community-based care lead agency in Florida and the evaluative work the Florida Institute for Child Welfare has been contracted to complete. Hear the guests discuss the importance of collaboration in this type of research work, specifically, the buy-in needed from the agency-level and the support the research team needs from agency leadership.

Join us as we discuss recent federal and state child welfare policies and their implications for the future of residential group care. We will exam the FFPSA and how it affects the availability of federal dollars to specific residential care settings and places limits on placement timeframes. Dr. Pryce will speak with Dr. Shamra Boel-Studt and Ms. Zandra Odum to learn about Florida's efforts to implement the FFPSA and the new mandated accountability system.

Listen to Chris Groeber and David DeStefano discuss how the FFPSA will change the way frontline staff will work and how the Act will ultimately improve outcomes for families.

Listen to a lively discussion with child welfare expert Morgan Ryan from the Florida Children’s Home Society. You will hear about the groundbreaking case management software and system called CaseAIM. In this podcast, we discuss how CaseAIM is blazing a new path for child welfare workers across Florida.

Tune in to this episode to learn how technology is impacting the child welfare system. Dr. Randolph explains how social media advances are changing social work dynamics and empowering caseworkers to communicate more effectively with parents and youth on their terms.

Join us as we take a deeper look into Community Participatory Action Research (CPAR). In this episode, Dr. Campbell and Tiffany Csonka share the groundbreaking work they are doing in Broward County. This episode provides a rare view of how parents are treated in and affected by the child welfare system in Florida.

Join us as we have an in depth discussion about how the Assessment Response Team uses strategies to give case managers more time to provide direct service to children and families in need. Our guest Miranda Slaughter, Senior Child Protective Investigator for DCF, discusses how ART helps caseworkers reduce the red tape in order to focus efforts on those families in crisis.

This episode explores the impact of cutting-edge technology on the child welfare system. Join us as we have a riveting discussion with Leah Dienger about the new technological advances she and her company, IBM, have developed to assist social workers in the field. Leah's work is groundbreaking and has the potential to impact children's lives throughout Florida and globally.

Hear Terri’s wise offerings of advice based on her experiences as a teenager currently in the system. Her suggestions seem simple and logical, but all too often are infrequently used in our interactions with children and youth with whom we work.

When helping hurts. The emotional and psychological risks associated with providing direct social work services to vulnerable populations are real. But they are referred to by so many different labels. What’s the difference between burnout, compassion fatigue, and having vicarious trauma? April Lott explains the correct terminology and provides suggestions on how to protect yourself and heal.

Listen to a victim advocate and researcher discuss the co-occurrence of child maltreatment and intimate partner violence and provide concrete recommendations on ways you can improve your collaborations with other community professionals on cases that involve both.

Join Kim Purinton and Dr. Pryce as they discuss how maternal depression can affect a mother’s relationship with her child. You will also learn the different behaviors that may indicate that the parent is struggling with depression.