Episode Details

What does it really take to lead a foster care agency, and what makes all the challenges worthwhile?

In this episode of The Kingswell Conversations, Richard Kingswell takes us behind the scenes of running Extra Special Parents and FosterVA in Virginia, sharing an honest look at the people, responsibilities and decisions involved in supporting vulnerable children and families.

From building a strong team and supporting social workers to helping prospective foster parents navigate the approval process, Richard explains why the success of any foster care organisation depends on the people behind it. He also talks about the importance of balancing ambition with staff wellbeing, particularly in a profession where the emotional demands can be considerable.

But perhaps the most personal moment comes when Richard reflects on his own journey. Growing up with dyslexia and spending his school years in special education, he never imagined becoming a CEO. He shares how those experiences shaped his confidence, determination and approach to leadership.

And when asked what makes everything worthwhile, his answer is simple: seeing children find stability and a permanent home, whether that means returning safely to their birth families or finding a new family through adoption.

In this episode, we explore:

• The challenges of leading a foster care agency.
• Why staff support and strong clinical leadership matter.
• What happens behind the scenes when someone decides to become a foster parent.
• The importance of reunification, adoption and permanency.
• Richard's personal experience of dyslexia and becoming a CEO.
• Why the greatest rewards in child welfare often take years to see.

A thoughtful conversation about leadership, resilience and remembering what foster care is really about: children and families.

Continue the Conversation

📘 FREE DOWNLOAD | The Comprehensive Guide to Foster Care and Adoption

Looking to deepen your understanding of foster care and adoption? Richard Kingswell's free 45-page comprehensive guide is a valuable resource for anyone wanting to learn more about the children, families and systems at the heart of child welfare.

Download your free copy here: https://www.fosterva.org/

Connect with Richard Kingswell

With more than 30 years of experience in child welfare, Richard is passionate about sharing knowledge, challenging assumptions and encouraging better conversations about how we support children and families.

Connect with Richard on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardkingswell/

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