Episode 133

full
Published on:

16th Jul 2026

S3:E03 - Rita Soronen (CEO) - Dave Thomas Foundation For Adoption.

What happens to kids who never get adopted?

In this episode of Fathernetics, Rita Soronen, president and CEO of the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption, breaks down the real state of foster care in the U.S. This conversation goes beyond headlines—into what aging out actually means, why older children are often overlooked, and how programs like Wendy’s Wonderful Kids are changing outcomes.

We talk about the legacy of Dave Thomas, the responsibility communities carry, and what prospective parents—especially LGBTQ+ dads—should know before stepping into foster care or adoption. This is not about politics. It’s about people, kids, and what it takes to show up for them in a complicated world.

If you’ve ever thought about fostering, adopting, or just want to understand the system better, this one matters.

Follow and subscribe to hear more real stories from modern dads navigating adoption, surrogacy, and fatherhood.

#fathernetics #fostercare #adoptionjourney #lgbtqdads #adoptionawareness

Support Fathernetics

A huge thank you to our supporters, it means a lot that you support our podcast.

If you like the podcast and want to support it, too, you can leave us a tip using the button below. We really appreciate it and it only takes a moment!
Support Fathernetics
A
We haven’t had any Tips yet :( Maybe you could be the first!
Show artwork for Fathernetics

About the Podcast

Fathernetics
Dad Hero Stories
Fathernetics | Dad Hero Stories

Real stories from the men who chose fatherhood and everything it took to get there.

From adoption and fostering to IVF and surrogacy, Fathernetics explores the journeys behind modern dads, who they were before, what they faced, and who they became along the way. Centered on LGBTQ+ men, with occasional perspectives from women reflecting on their own fathers, these are honest, unfiltered conversations about identity, resilience, relationships, and the realities of building a family.

Because becoming a dad isn’t simple and it’s never one-size-fits-all.

🎙️ Hosted by Jameel Mayers
📲 YouTube & Instagram: @fathernetics
📢 New episodes every Thursday
Support This Show