Best Jason And Whitney Small Podcasts (2025)

1
28th September 2025 - We sit down with the outgoing 53rd Commanding Officer of Subase New London, Captain Ken Curtin 29:28

Play Pause

2h ago29:28

29:28

In this podcast episode ... It's all change at the top at Subase New London as they hold a change of command ceremony. And we sit down with Captain Ken Curtin the outgoing base commander about his four years in charge. Plus we take a look at other stories from across the region.By Brian Scott-Smith

1
Episode 19 - Our Forever Yes: Saying Yes to Foster Care in the Middle of Cancer and Chaos 30:34

1d ago30:34

30:34

In Episode 19 of the Dream Small Podcast, Jason and Whitney open up about one of the most defining moments of their foster care journey — the return of their “always yes” child. Years earlier, this little girl had entered their home as a scared toddler, quickly bonding with their family. But in a painful and unexpected turn, the foster care system …

1
Paige Ludwig and Matt Jacobs: Leiter's Fine Catering 17:58

1d ago17:58

17:58

Our host, Jay Heich discusses Leiters Fine Catering with their Event Coordinator, Paige Ludwig, and Head Chef, Matt Jacobs. Serving the area for over 40 years, Leiters offers an elevated level of service and cuisine. From weddings, bridal showers, baby showers, to corporate events and even golf packages, they ensure their clients receive exactly wh…

1
21st September 2025 - Who are the Yankee National Party? We talk with three members to find out 28:26

5d ago28:26

28:26

In this podcast episode ... It's called the Yankee National Party and says it upholds the values of New Englanders and beyond. We talk to three local party members who live in the state and are part of the Connecticut chapter to find out more. Plus we take a look at other stories from across the region.…

1
Episode 18 - God's Provision in Foster Care: How Community Confirmed Our Yes to a New Baby 32:18

8d ago32:18

32:18

In this episode of the Dream Small Podcast, Jason and Whitney share the incredible story of how God worked through friends, neighbors, and their church community to prepare their family for a brand-new foster placement — a five-week-old baby. After wrestling with the decision for months and wondering if they were “too old for babies,” Jason and Whi…

1
14th September 2025 - What are the challenges facing rural health care? We find out 29:25

12d ago29:25

29:25

In this podcast episode ... Hospitals and health care are under increasing pressure in the state and in the nation. We talk to Kyle Kramer, CEO of Day Kimball Health about how those pressures are even greater for our rural health care providers. Plus we take a look at other stories from across the region.…

1
Episode 17 - From Foster Sibling of 54 kids to Nanny for a Foster Family: Clara's Story 43:16

19d ago43:16

43:16

In this episode of Dream Small, Jason and Whitney sit down with Clara — their former nanny and long-time family friend — to share a unique perspective that often goes unheard: what it’s like to grow up as a foster sibling. Clara was only in second grade when her parents became foster parents, and over the years their home welcomed more than 50 chil…

1
7th September 2025 - Talking home building and ownership with Habitat for Humanity of Eastern Connecticut 29:03

21d ago29:03

29:03

In this podcast episode ... They’re part of a world-wide network helping people become homeowners and building their own homes. We talk to Habitat for Humanity of Eastern Connecticut about how they’re helping our region. Plus we take a look at other stories from across the region.By Brian Scott-Smith

1
Episode 16 - A Week in the Life of a Foster Parent: Visitors, Appointments and Therapies 35:53

26d ago35:53

35:53

Ever wondered what daily life really looks like for a foster family? In this episode of Dream Small, Jason and Whitney pull back the curtain and share the organized chaos of their home—where visitors include case managers, therapists, guardians ad litem, and more. A Foster Home is a busy place - where multiple visitors come into your home. This epi…

1
31st August 2025 - Misinformation around the drug Fentanyl, we talk about the myths around Fentanyl exposure 28:29

27d ago28:29

28:29

In this podcast episode ... August 31st is International Overdose Awareness Day. And we talk to McCall Behavioral Health Network about their work and why they released a video recently called The Truth About Fentanyl Exposure. Plus we take a look at other stories from across the region.By Brian Scott-Smith

1
Episode 15 - Saying Yes to the Hard: Michelle’s Journey Through Fostering and Adoption 57:53

1M ago57:53

57:53

In this episode of Dream Small, Jason and Whitney welcome their first non-family guest, Michelle, to share her powerful story of fostering and adoption. Michelle and her husband fostered for 13 years, ultimately adopting five children. Her foster journey began with a surprise call late one night about twins—and what followed was a whirlwind of fait…

1
24th August 2025 - Jason Arico of Field Engineer Farm talks about life as a small farmer in Connecticut after serving in the US Navy 29:28

1M ago29:28

29:28

In this podcast episode ... He served his country in the US Navy and now he’s still serving his local community. We talk with Navy veteran Jason Arico of Field Engineer Farm in Columbia about his life serving as a farmer. Plus we take a look at other stories from across the region.By Brian Scott-Smith

1
Episode 14 - Back to School and Foster Care: Helping Kids Thrive in the Classroom 36:14

1M ago36:14

36:14

Back-to-school season can be stressful for any family—but for foster and adoptive parents, navigating school can feel especially overwhelming. In this episode of Dream Small, Jason and Whitney share their lived experiences of sending foster kiddos to school and offer practical advice for making the transition smoother. From choosing the right schoo…

1
17th August 2025 - We talk with experts about Connecticut's unique Hydrilla problem 29:24

1M ago29:24

29:24

In this podcast episode ... It’s choking the Connecticut River and other state waterways, the invasive aquatic plant Hydrilla. And recently is caused a firestorm of debate about how to get rid of it, we talk to the experts. Plus we take a look at other stories from across the region.By Brian Scott-Smith

1
Episode 13 - God’s Perfect Timing: Foster Care Stories of Provision and Providence 37:28

2M ago37:28

37:28

In this heartwarming and faith-filled episode of the Dream Small Podcast, Jason and Whitney share a week full of unexpected bird-watching, laughter, and incredible “only God” stories from their seven-year foster care journey. From green heron drama in the front yard to miraculous provisions of strollers, bedrooms, and cribs, each story showcases ho…

1
10th August 2025 - Celebrating 100 Years of aircraft engine manufacturer, Pratt & Whitney of Connecticut 29:24

2M ago29:24

29:24

In this podcast episode ... They’ve been building aircraft engines in Connecticut for 100 years. We join the celebration by Pratt & Whitney as they go back to where it all started on Capitol Avenue in Hartford Plus we take a look at other stories from across the region.By Brian Scott-Smith

1
Episode 12 - Ready or Not: How to Prepare for Your First Foster Placement 32:34

2M ago32:34

32:34

In this episode of Dream Small, Jason and Whitney pull back the curtain on what it's really like to prepare for a new foster care placement. Whether you're a brand-new foster parent or just curious about the process, this episode offers a real, relatable, and faith-rooted look into the emotional, mental, and physical preparations that come before t…

1
3rd August 2025 - Author Ron Farina talks about his new book 'In sha Allah' - If God wills it about an Afghan military interpreter 29:31

2M ago29:31

29:31

In this podcast episode ... He’s an award-winning Connecticut author and Vietnam veteran whose books tell the stories of veterans, caregivers and their families. Now Ron Farina has set his sights on telling the stories of those who helped the US military in Afghanistan. Plus we take a look at other stories from across the region.…

1
Episode 11 - Why Foster Parents Need Respite: Rest, Renewal & the Ministry of Foster Care 38:38

2M ago38:38

38:38

This week, we’re talking about something that took us over seven years of foster parenting to embrace: respite care. We dive into what respite care is, why it’s essential (not selfish!), and how it can actually strengthen your calling as a foster parent. You’ll hear: Why having “just four kids” felt like a vacation The emotional and spiritual cost …

1
Judah Claxton - Streamline IT Solutions 17:24

2M ago17:24

17:24

With 20 years of IT experience, Judah Claxton of Streamline IT Solutions joins Jay to discuss their client-focused approach. As a fast-growing, full-service IT provider, the Streamline team is eager to share their expertise to help your business operate more efficiently.

1
27th July 2025 - How will President Trumps One Big Beautiful Bill Act affect Connecticut? We talk with the State Comptroller 29:20

2M ago29:20

29:20

In this podcast episode ... President Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill Act is now law, but what does it mean for individuals and businesses here in Connecticut? We talk to State Comptroller Sean Scanlon, whose office has analyzed it. Plus we take a look at other stories from across the region.By Brian Scott-Smith

1
Episode 10 - Foster Care Favorites: Stories That Fill Our Hearts 33:12

2M ago33:12

33:12

In this episode of Dream Small, Jason and Whitney take a trip down memory lane, sharing some of their most meaningful, funny, and heartwarming moments from their foster care journey. From unforgettable smiles to unexpected friendships, this episode is a celebration of how God shows up in the small things. You’ll hear: The moment a gummy baby smile …

1
20th July 2025 - Talking with former teacher John Grande, disciplined for his DEI comments and discriminated against by his union 28:39

2M ago28:39

28:39

In this podcast episode ... He’s a former teacher in the state of Connecticut who spoke up about DEI training and was disciplined for his comments. We talk to John Grande about his fight with his school union who refused to help him and the state. Plus we take a look at other stories from across the region.…

1
Episode 9 - You Said What to a Foster Parent? – Real Reactions & Better Alternatives 31:17

3M ago31:17

31:17

Let’s be real — fostering and adoption come with a unique set of challenges… and sometimes, even more challenging conversations. In this episode, we share the top awkward, cringey, or unintentionally hurtful things people have said to us as foster and adoptive parents — and we unpack why those comments can be difficult, and how to say something mor…

1
13th July 2025 - Shooting hoops with the Connecticut Senior Women's Basketball Club 29:38

3M ago29:38

29:38

In this podcast episode ... If you think basketball is only for the young, then you’d better think again. We talk with the Connecticut Senior Women's Basketball Club who are shooting hoops and playing competitively in their 50’s and up to their nineties. Plus we take a look at other stories from across the region.…

1
Jason McGill - Eliza's House 11:52

3M ago11:52

11:52

Eliza's House is a non-profit promoting the healing of marginalized individuals. A nurturing, supportive space for women with breast cancer, and younger people who are unhoused. Their main office is a book store and apothecary. Jason's journey took him across the country, gaining experience running non-profits. He heard a call to serve our area.…

1
Episode 8 - Loving Bio Parents: A Foster Family's Honest Journey 25:54

3M ago25:54

25:54

In this real-life conversation about foster care and faith, Jason and Whitney share what it’s looked like for them to love biological parents through their years of foster care. From fear and tension to empathy and friendship, they walk through the emotional and spiritual journey of learning to honor the first families of the children in their care…

1
6th July 2025 - How healthy is your well water? You need to get it tested 29:29

3M ago29:29

29:29

In this podcast episode ... We all need it to survive and to stay healthy, that’s water. But if you get your water from a well, when did you last have it checked to make sure its not doing you more harm than good. Plus other stories from across the region.By Brian Scott-Smith

1
Whitney Hall - A Table Above 11:04

3M ago11:04

11:04

On this episode, Whitney Hall, owner of A Table Above discusses her passion for catering events with Jay. She touches on her personalized charcuterie boards, defines table grazing, and introduces their bartending service with signature cocktails and mocktails. What started as a hobby has turned into a business. Hear Whitney dive into her journey wi…

1
Episode 7 - Adoption Through Foster Care: The Complexity of Emotions 21:58

3M ago21:58

21:58

In this heartfelt episode of Dream Small, Jason and Whitney open up about one of the most emotionally complex topics in their lives: adoption. With vulnerability and honesty, they reflect on the bittersweet layers of adopting their daughter, in honor of her recent gotcha day anniversary—a celebration marking four years since she officially became p…

1
29th June 2025 - Talking PFAS contamination at Preston Farm in Connecticut 29:39

3M ago29:39

29:39

In this podcast episode ... His farm has never used biosolids and very few pesticides. So why does farm owner Jerry Grabarek’s blood contain high levels of PFAS the forever chemical? He tells us what he thinks is causing it. Plus we take a look at other stories from around the region.By Brian Scott-Smith

1
Episode 6 - Foster Care Objections (Part 2): The Real Talk Continues 39:07

3M ago39:07

39:07

In Part 2 of our deep dive into the most common objections to foster care, Jason and Whitney bring humor, truth, and lived experience to the table—literally. From “What if it costs too much?” to “What if the child is a different race than me?” they tackle the fears, the practical barriers, and the misconceptions many people wrestle with when consid…

1
22nd June 2025 - Talking agriculture and farming at the 2025 NEASDA meeting in Connecticut 29:08

3M ago29:08

29:08

In this podcast episode ... Connecticut’s agricultural industry is bigger than many people think. We talk to Commissioners of Agriculture from Connecticut, New York, Maine and Massachusetts as they visit the state for the annual NEASDA meeting. Plus we take a look at other stories from around the region.…

1
Episode 5 - The Real Reasons People Say No to Foster Care (And What We've Learned) 29:46

3M ago29:46

29:46

In this powerful episode of Dream Small, Jason and Whitney dive into the top hesitations people have about foster care. From concerns about their biological children to the fear of getting too attached, they unpack each objection with personal stories, biblical encouragement, and a dose of humor. If you've ever whispered "maybe we could foster…" bu…

1
Episode 4 - Turning Pain into Purpose: The Birth of Laney’s Love 15:11

4M ago15:11

15:11

In this courageous episode of Dream Small, Jason and Whitney welcome a very special guest — their oldest daughter, Delaney “Bug” Small. What starts as a casual, laughter-filled chat in their brand-new “luxury” basement studio quickly blossoms into a deeply moving story of resilience, purpose, and the power of small dreams. Laney shares how a terrif…

1
15th June 2025 - We catch up with the Connecticut Cannabis Ombudsman - One year on 29:38

4M ago29:38

29:38

In this podcast episode ... She’s the first Cannabis Ombudsman in Connecticut and the nation. We talk with Erin Gorman Kirk about her first full year in office and her thoughts on Connecticut’s cannabis industry. Plus we take a look at other stories from around the region.By Brian Scott-Smith

1
Maureen Kolb - HCC Incubator 16:19

3M ago16:19

16:19

In this episode, Maureen discusses the importance of helping local entreprenuers flourish when it comes down to business. She touches on the history and purpose of the HCC Business Incubator, the services and resources the program provides, and benefits tenants can take advantage of - including Chamber membership!…

1
Episode 3 - He Dreamed Small: Remembering a Life that Mattered 13:31

4M ago13:31

13:31

In this reflective Father's Day episode of Dream Small, Jason and Whitney honor the life and legacy of Jason's dad, who passed away in December 2024. Through simple, consistent acts of love and service—like driving an elderly woman to church for over a decade and faithfully visiting a paralyzed Marine—he modeled what it means to "dream small" and l…

1
8th June 2025 - Talking with Bree Shirvell, author of - Parenting in a Climate Crisis 28:50

4M ago28:50

28:50

In this podcast episode ... The world around us can be a confusing and complicated place, especially if you’re a child. We talk to Bree Shirvell, journalist and author about her new book Parenting in a climate crisis. Plus we take a look at other stories from around the region.By Brian Scott-Smith

1
Episode 2 - 2353 Days of Yes: The Start of Our Foster Care Story 21:46

4M ago21:46

21:46

In this heartfelt episode, Jason and Whitney open up about the moment that changed everything: their decision to step into foster care. After a heartbreaking miscarriage in 2016, they found themselves searching for purpose in the pain—and chose to say “yes” to the call of fostering. With honesty and vulnerability, they share the highs and lows of t…

1
Episode 69 - Saying Hello to Summer with Jess Connolly 41:55

4M ago41:55

41:55

In this delightful end to season four (season four! huzzah!), I am joined by my friend Jess Connolly to talk about friendship, legacy, heartbreak, joy, and just for a plot twist, Jess’s current obsession with an obscure but very useful Amazon product. I’m saying we hit it all, and I loved it all. This ep is the perfect way to cap off a season, so l…

1
1st June 2025 - We meet Allyson Angelini, Connecticut's Outstanding Young Farmer of 2025 29:19

4M ago29:19

29:19

In this podcast episode ... She’s been named Connecticut’s Outstanding Young Farmer of 2025 We talk with Allyson Angelini and visit her to see what’s she’s doing at Full Heart Farm in Ledyard, CT Plus we take a look at other stories from around the region.By Brian Scott-Smith

1
Episode 1 - Welcome to Dream Small! 8:52

4M ago8:52

8:52

In a world that tells you to chase big dreams, we dare you to dream small. In our very first episode, we (Jason and Whitney) introduce ourselves, our family of eight, and the heart behind starting this podcast. As foster and adoptive parents who’ve welcomed 12 children into our home, we’ve learned that God does some of His best work through the sma…

1
25th May 2025 - Honoring Memorial Day Weekend with Walter Schuppe of Faces Of Freedom 28:46

4M ago28:46

28:46

In this podcast episode ... This Memorial Day Weekend edition - They are the men and women of the US military and they’re telling their stories. We talk with Walter Schuppe about his website - Faces of Freedom and his efforts to keep these stories alive for the history books. Plus we take a look at other stories from around the region.…

1
Episode 68 - Organize First, Decorate Second with Whitney English 44:10

4M ago44:10

44:10

Whitney English is a designer, author, entrepreneur, and someone who can help us both declutter and beautify without turning to strong drink. Huzzah! Whitney’s new book is called Organize First, Decorate Second, and I think you’ll love hearing about how she can help you bring order and beauty from nuttiness. I read Whitney’s book on a series of fli…

1
18th May 2025 - Burning down Connecticut - we go on a prescribed burn with CT DEEP's Forestry Division 28:53

5M ago28:53

28:53

In this podcast episode ... They’ve been setting parts of Connecticut on fire on purpose for years. We join CT DEEPS Forestry Division as they conduct prescribed burns across the state and our region to reduce the risk of brush fires. Plus we take a look at other stories from around the region.By Brian Scott-Smith

1
11th May 2025 - When it's time to have that talk about giving up driving 27:43

5M ago27:43

27:43

In this podcast episode ... It’s happening on our roads more and more, wrong way driving. So when and how do you tell your family member it’s time to stop driving and turn in their license? Plus we take a look at other stories from around the region.By Brian Scott-Smith

1
Bonus Episode - Celebrating Star for Jesus and Other Jobs I Quit! 46:25

5M ago46:25

46:25

I’m so stoked to share this bonus episode! We are celebrating the paperback release of my book, Star For Jesus and Other Jobs I Quit. This book was a long time in the living and the writing, so when it released in hardcover a year ago, I was nervous and thrilled. Nervous because this book is personal (yowza, is it personal!). Thrilled because it’s …

1
4th May 2025 - Celebrating 10 years of The Pink Eggs and Glam Drag Brunch with Sky Casper 29:16

5M ago29:16

29:16

In this podcast episode ... It’s become a staple of New London and beyond for the last 10 years, The Pink Eggs and Glam Drag Brunch. We talk to Sky Casper and the team behind this phenomenon that’s entertaining everyone straight and gay. Plus we take a look at other stories from around the region.By Brian Scott-Smith

1
Misty Allen - Comcast Business 10:16

5M ago10:16

10:16

In this episode, Misty covers the presence Comcast Business currently has in Washington County as well as their expansion into Hagerstown that should be complete by 2027. She hits on local business solutions and other ways Comcast Business is investing in Washington County through various programs, donations, and grants.…