In this episode, we dive into the unique challenges the holiday season brings for foster and adoptive families.

For children from hard places, the holidays can be an especially sensitive time, filled with triggers and memories that may bring up grief or trauma. We discuss practical tips for navigating this season with empathy and care, including strategies for managing routines that often go awry and the added emotional toll that holiday gatherings can bring.

Join us as we explore ways to support our kids—and ourselves—during this special yet complex time of year.

Episode Highlights:

• What’s Your Favorite Christmas Carol?
• Navigating Relationships with Bio Parents During the Holidays
• Setting Boundaries During the Holidays
• Trauma & Triggers
• Navigating Tough Conversations

Find More on Hope Bridge:

• Visit Our Website
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• Follow us on Facebook
• Foster Our Community Instagram

This show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.

In this episode, we are joined by Johnna Stein, Vice President of Training at Promise686. As affiliates of Promise686 here at Hope Bridge, we share a common mission to support vulnerable children and families. Promise686’s vision is rooted in God’s promise "to set the lonely in families," and they are dedicated to mobilizing church communities to care for children in need.

In addition to her role at Promise686, Johnna is the author of Untangling Hope, a contemporary Middle-Grade novel that offers an honest, grace-filled portrayal of foster care. This coming-of-age story captures the themes of loss, resilience, and healing, bringing awareness to the foster care experience in a relatable way for younger readers.

Tune in to learn more about the vital work being done by Promise686 and Johnna’s inspiring journey in advocating for children and families.

Episode Highlights:

• Johnna’s Background Story
• Promise 686
• Johnna’s Book - Untangling Hope

Find more on Guest:

• Learn more about Johnna
• Promise 686
• Johnna’s Book- Untangling Hope

Find More on Hope Bridge:

• Visit Our Website
• Follow us on Instagram
• Follow us on Facebook
• Foster Our Community Instagram

This show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.

October is National Pastor Appreciation Month, and in this episode, we reflect on the often-overlooked work pastors do every day.

Pastors don't just preach on Sundays; they are present with us during life’s most significant moments—both the joyful milestones and the heartbreaking challenges. Whether it’s celebrating a new chapter, grieving a loss, or walking through illness, pastors are always there, often behind the scenes, carrying the emotional and spiritual burdens of those they serve.

In the context of the child welfare system, pastors play an especially important role. Their support can be life-changing for foster families and children in care. In this episode, we highlight Brian’s personal story of how his pastor and church community have been by his side, providing crucial support during his foster care journey and even during his battle with cancer.

Join us as we explore the vital role pastors play in our lives and the foster care system and why their work deserves our gratitude not just this month but all year round.

Episode Highlights:

• October is National Pastor Appreciation Month
• Pastors do more than preach on Sundays
• Pastors carry heavy emotional and spiritual burdens
• The critical role Pastors play in the child welfare system
• Brian & Nicole’s Experience with Pastoral Support

Find More on Hope Bridge:

• Visit Our Website
• Follow us on Instagram
• Follow us on Facebook
• Foster Our Community Instagram

This show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.