Episode Title: "It Only Takes One Adult to Make a Difference."

Season 3, Episode 41

In this powerful episode of Resilient Voices & Beyond Podcast, host Michael D. Davis-Thomas welcomes Jacob Holley, a Certified Trauma-Informed Trainer, Lived Experience Leader, and passionate foster care advocate. With firsthand experience navigating 27 different placements within Arizona’s foster care system, Jacob shares his deeply personal journey of resilience, advocacy, and the impact of trauma-informed care.

Jacob opens up about his challenging upbringing in foster care, including his struggles in group homes, being written up for crying, and the lack of support from caseworkers—until one case manager, Rebecca, changed his life. Her guidance helped Jacob excel academically and in extracurricular activities, proving that just one caring adult can make all the difference.

Now a youth board member at Fostering Advocates Arizona and certified trauma trainer with the Arizona ACEs Consortium, Jacob works tirelessly to promote trauma-informed policies, extended foster care programs, and better resources for older foster youth. He discusses his role in shaping policy, training nonprofits, and collaborating with organizations like Free Arts of Arizona to bring systemic change.

In this deeply insightful conversation, Michael and Jacob discuss:

• The impact of cycling through 27 foster care placements
• Why trauma-informed care is essential in child welfare
• How one caseworker changed Jacob’s life and led him to advocacy
• Misconceptions about foster care and the stigma youth face
• Balancing personal healing while advocating for others
• The power of community, mentorship, and giving foster youth a voice

Jacob’s story is a testament to resilience, hope, and the power of just one caring adult to change the trajectory of a young person’s life. Whether you’re a foster care professional, advocate, or someone seeking to better understand the foster care system, this episode provides invaluable insights into the realities of foster youth and the changes needed to support them.

Ways to Connect with Jacob Holley:

• Instagram: @cajuncowboy99
• Facebook: Jacob Holley
• LinkedIn: Jacob Holley