This week’s interview was the easiest one I’ve ever published. Why? Because our subject (and former student of mine) Madilyne Harmston wrote it entirely without any input or editing from me. Not only is Maddi an outstanding writer, but she also has a life story that is truly inspirational. After you’re finished reading it, you’ll know what I mean….
Friday night lights. That’s what I remember most about high school. There was something special about being in a small town, bundled up in the stands, surrounded by familiar faces, all cheering for the same team. It wasn’t just about football, it was about community, belonging, and those simple moments that felt bigger than they were at the time.
Even back then, I had a sense of direction. Since third grade, I knew I wanted to be a social worker. While a lot of things in life felt uncertain, that never really did. After graduating in 2011, I followed that calling to the University of Wisconsin–River Falls, where I earned my degree in social work. Not long after, I took a leap that would shape so much of who I am today, I moved to California on my own and joined AmeriCorps.
Leaving everything familiar behind was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done, but also one of the most rewarding. California stretched me. It grew me. It forced me to become independent in ways I hadn’t experienced before. During my time there, I continued my education and earned my Master of Social Work from the University of Southern California.
Eventually, I felt called back to the Midwest. I returned with more clarity, more experience, and a deeper understanding of both people and myself. I completed my licensure and became a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. Today, I live in Hopkins, Minnesota, where I own a private psychotherapy practice. I also work within the child welfare system, doing consulting and advocacy work, something that is deeply personal to me as someone who has experienced foster care and adoption firsthand.
But my life after high school hasn’t just been about degrees and career milestones. In between all of that has been a lot of real life—figuring things out, healing, navigating hard seasons, and learning who I am. I think there can be so much pressure to have everything mapped out right after graduation, but that wasn’t my story. And honestly, I’m grateful for that. Growth doesn’t happen in straight lines.
High school was a time when I was still trying to understand myself. Looking back now, there’s so much I would want to tell that younger version of me: to love herself, to face her pain, and to do the work of healing. Because even if what you’ve been through isn’t your fault, it is your responsibility to heal. You deserve a life that is more than just survival. You deserve abundance, peace, and purpose.
Where am I now?
Today, I can honestly say I’m walking in purpose. I use both my professional training and my lived experience to create spaces where people feel seen, heard, and not alone. Through my private practice, I work with individuals navigating trauma, anxiety, depression, and major life transitions. I also facilitate workshops and speak to groups, helping others understand the power of their story and how healing can lead to leadership.
Beyond my clinical work, I’ve helped build community initiatives like The Human Collective Outreach, where the focus is simple but powerful: showing up for people, building relationships, and reminding individuals, especially those who are often overlooked, that they matter. Whether it’s through outreach events in Minneapolis, public speaking, or everyday conversations, my heart is to create spaces where people feel safe enough to be real.
If there’s one thing I would leave with anyone reading this, it’s this: don’t be afraid of the process. Healing is not easy, but it’s worth it. Learn to love yourself, give yourself grace as you grow, and don’t settle for just getting by. There is more for your life.
For me, that “more” has been found in faith, in purpose, and in choosing every day to turn what I’ve been through into something that helps others.
There is nothing more for me to say. Maddi has shown us who she is—beautiful inside and out. Her story is hopeful and uplifting for all of us. Although I had no hand in her growth, I am so very proud of her!
Judy Foust is a retired longtime 7th Grade Reading Specialist at Menomonie Middle School. To submit info to her or to request an interview she may be contacted at [email protected]
