Join Chad the Cougar as he takes you through the

Forest of Feelings

Chad the Cougar is more than just a storybook character. He’s a compassionate companion designed to help children navigate big emotions, build resilience and understand themselves better. Rooted in the science of attachment and trauma, this engaging book supports emotional literacy and connection in ways that are both meaningful and fun.

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Tools You Can Trust,

Stories Kids will Love

At Chaddock, we believe stories have the power to heal, connect and transform. Through Chad the Cougar and the Forest of Feelings, we offer tools that spark conversations, open hearts and foster trust. This story is grounded in over 170 years of experience working with children and families impacted by trauma and are crafted to support deeper emotional insight and relational safety.

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Meet the Storymakers

This story was written and developed by a team of clinicians, educators and creative professionals who understand the real challenges children face and the impact of stories that meet them right where they are. Together, they have woven clinical insight into a relatable, heart-centered story for kids everywhere.

Sarah Goodapple

Chaddock Family Coach Sarah Goodapple has always been on a mission to make the world a better place — one relationship at a time. From entertaining children in underserved neighborhoods as a teen, to serving families as a Family Coach at Chaddock today, Sarah’s passion for connection and care runs deep. After time abroad as a missionary in Vienna and years in ministry leadership, Sarah returned to her hometown of Quincy, Illinois, where she joined the Chaddock team. With her heart for children in foster care and her gift for storytelling, Sarah brings warmth, compassion, and purpose to everything she does — especially Chad the Cougar. She lives in Quincy with her husband Erik and their daughter, Hazel.

Ron Kinscherf

Ron Kinscherf spent over 30 years in IT consulting before trading code for creativity. At the urging of his daughter-in-law — who witnessed his talent for spinning imaginative tales for his grandkids — Ron began writing children’s books. Inspired by real-life moments and curious questions (like how ants feel about their hills being stomped), Ron launched The Baker’s Patio series and never looked back. With a style that engages both kids and adults, Ron blends humor, heart, and memorable dialogue in every story. A seasoned communicator and former talk radio host, Ron is also a Hall of Fame basketball play-by-play announcer. He lives in Illinois with his wife Mary, and they have two children and five grandchildren.

Media Inquiries

Interested in interviewing the authors or featuring Chad the Cougar? Complete our media inquiry form and a member of our team will be in touch.

Download the Press Kit

Looking for more background on the book, authors and Chaddock? Download our official press kit below.

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Chaddock - Every Child Deserves a Chance

Chaddock Family of Organizations

Chaddock is an internationally recognized leader in serving children, teens and families impacted by trauma, attachment and behavioral health challenges. For over 170 years, we’ve provided hope and healing through innovative residential, community based, foster care and professional development programs.

At the heart of our work is our Developmental Trauma and Attachment Program (DTAP), where we combine the science of healing with the power of relationships. Chad the Cougar is one more way we’re sharing our knowledge, so every child has the chance to feel seen, safe and supported.

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