Finding Family in Unexpected Places: The Inspiring Story of Foster Care Alum Liz Sutherland

In this episode of the Foster Friendly Podcast, host Courtney Williams and co-host Travis Vangsnes welcome Liz Sutherland, a former foster youth and author. Liz shares her journey through foster care, the challenges of aging out, and the importance of resilience and support.

She discusses her experiences of finding family in unexpected places, the power of education, and the impact of her memoir, 'No Ordinary Liz.' Liz also highlights the need for kindness and unconditional love for children in foster care, and her hopes for her children's book, 'The Extraordinary Story of No Ordinary Liz,' to foster understanding and compassion.

Checkout her books:

The Extraordinary Story of No Ordinary Liz

No Ordinary Liz: Surviving and Thriving After Foster Care

Takeaways

• Liz Sutherland is a former foster youth and author.
• She entered foster care at age 13 after an abusive home life.
• Aging out of foster care means turning 18 and becoming independent.
• Support from strangers was crucial for Liz during her transition to adulthood.
• Education became a key focus for Liz to build a better future.
• Liz found a sense of family and belonging while working at Walmart.
• Reuniting with her siblings was a pivotal moment in Liz's life.
• Writing her memoir was a therapeutic process for Liz.
• Liz aims to inspire others through her story and advocacy.
• Unconditional love is essential for children in foster care.