Hosted by Karlos Dillard — author, speaker, and outspoken foster care advocate — this powerful podcast pulls back the curtain on the hidden realities of the foster care and adoption systems. Each week, Karlos sits down with former foster youth and adoptees to share raw, unfiltered stories of resilience, survival, and truth. With his background in entertainment and production, Karlos brings a unique blend of depth, authenticity, and unexpected humor to each episode. Expect real conversations that are eye-opening, moving, and even laugh-out-loud at times.<br /><br />If you would like to share your lived experience, fill out this <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeZwdv6RQrI49p0kqtzBblV5eQIGAE81dV3Ey3ZQRgmWOeS1A/viewform?usp=preview" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">form </a>

Wards of the State
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Podcast Overview
Hosted by Karlos Dillard — author, speaker, and outspoken foster care advocate — this powerful podcast pulls back the curtain on the hidden realities of the foster care and adoption systems. Each week, Karlos sits down with former foster youth and adoptees to share raw, unfiltered stories of resilience, survival, and truth. With his background in entertainment and production, Karlos brings a unique blend of depth, authenticity, and unexpected humor to each episode. Expect real conversations that are eye-opening, moving, and even laugh-out-loud at times.<br /><br />If you would like to share your lived experience, fill out this <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeZwdv6RQrI49p0kqtzBblV5eQIGAE81dV3Ey3ZQRgmWOeS1A/viewform?usp=preview" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">form </a>
Language
🇺🇲
Publishing Since
7/9/2021
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Recent Episodes

November 20, 2025
Ep: 87 "Jeanette"
In this episode of the podcast, Karlos Dillard speaks with Jeanette Yoffe, a psychotherapist and advocate in the field of foster care and adoption. Jeanette shares her personal journey through the foster care system, her experiences with adoption, and the complexities of identity and attachment. They discuss the historical context of adoption, the impact of mental health on family dynamics, and the importance of therapeutic parenting. Jeanette emphasizes the need for understanding and compassion for those who have experienced trauma, and she offers valuable advice for youth navigating similar challenges.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.youtube.com/@KarlosDillard" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Watch</a> the Video Podcast! <br /><br />If you would like to be on the show, please fill out the<a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeZwdv6RQrI49p0kqtzBblV5eQIGAE81dV3Ey3ZQRgmWOeS1A/viewform?usp=preview" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> form here </a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.jeanetteyoffe.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">www.JeanetteYoffe.com</a><br /><br /><a href="https://www.youtube.com/c/JeanetteYoffeFosterCareAdoptionTherapy" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">YouTube Channel:</a> <br />Jeanette-ically Speaking About <br />Foster Care Adoption and Mental Health<br /><br />If you are experiencing a mental health crisis/emergency, <br />please contact the 24 hour-7 day a week, crisis line:<b> <br /></b><b>LA COUNTY ACCESS at 1-800-854-7771</b><br /><b></b><br /><b>NEW CHILDREN’S BOOKS: </b><br /><b><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1087989485/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1087989485&linkCode=as2&tag=jeanetteyoffe-20&linkId=1f1ec08b69c13e814606ed62bc97722b" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">What is Adoption? for Kids</a></b><br /><b><a href="https://amzn.to/3wfgqei" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">What is Foster Care? For Kids</a></b>

November 5, 2025
Ep: 86 "Brittany"
In this episode of Wards of the State, host Karlos Dillard introduces Brittany, a guest with a profound story of being a foster youth and an adoptee. Brittany shares her early life in foster care, the challenges she faced in her adoptive family, and her eventual reunion with her biological family. The conversation delves into the complexities of identity, the impact of trauma, and the resilience required to navigate life as an adoptee. Brittany emphasizes the importance of asking questions about one's origins and encourages others to seek their truth. The episode concludes with reflections on the importance of love, support, and the journey of healing.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.youtube.com/@KarlosDillard" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Watch</a> the Video Podcast!<br /><br /><br />If you would like to be on the show, please fill out the <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeZwdv6RQrI49p0kqtzBblV5eQIGAE81dV3Ey3ZQRgmWOeS1A/viewform?usp=preview" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">form here </a>

October 27, 2025
Ep: 85 "Shanae"
In this episode of Wards of the State, host Karlos Dillard engages with Shanae who shares her profound journey through the child welfare system. Shanae recounts her early experiences with trauma, her struggles with mental health, and the challenges of motherhood. The conversation delves into the complexities of child welfare involvement, including the emotional toll of court proceedings and the importance of support services. Shanae emphasizes the need for accountability and the value of seeking help, offering insights and advice for parents navigating similar challenges. This episode serves as a powerful reminder of resilience and the importance of community support in overcoming adversity.
98 total episodes available
Recent guests on Wards of the State
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Diana Colon
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Shantel
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Shana
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MGD
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Frequently asked questions
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- What is Wards of the State?
- How often does this podcast release new episodes?
This podcast updates weekly.
- Where can I listen to this podcast?
This podcast is available on 9 platforms including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and more. You can also use the RSS feed directly.
- Does this podcast accept guests?
Yes, this podcast regularly features guests.
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