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
• Follow us on Instagram
• 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.

In this episode, we explore the impact of living in the community and how it plays a powerful role in foster care recruitment. We share our personal foster care stories and experiences and reflect on how our journeys began by being surrounded by people who were obedient to their calling as foster parents.

While formal recruitment efforts are important, we explore how simply living out our day-to-day lives with purpose can serve as the most significant form of recruitment. By living on mission for God, we naturally create spaces where others are inspired and supported to step into foster care.

Tune in to hear how community can change lives and make a lasting difference in the foster care system.

Episode Highlights:

• Importance of community in foster care.
• Personal stories of starting our foster journeys.
• Everyday life as a form of recruitment.
• Obedience to the call of fostering.
• Building a support system through community.
• Intentional living can lead others to foster.

Find More on Hope Bridge:

• Sign Up For Our Foster Family Recruitment Email List
• Find a Support Group
• Visit Our Website
• Follow us on Instagram
• Follow us on Facebook
• Foster Our Community Instagram

This show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.

Did you know this week is National Hospitality Week?

In this episode, we’ll explore the significance of this meaningful initiative, which began in 2021 and is observed during the week of October 14th. We’ll also highlight the immense challenges child welfare workers face, including long, inconsistent hours, low pay, and the resulting burnout and emotional exhaustion.

National Hospitality Week is our chance to celebrate and appreciate these dedicated caseworkers, recognize their tireless efforts, and remind them that they are valued members of the team. It’s time to show up, support them, and let them know that the critical work they do truly matters.

Episode Highlights:

• What is National Hospitality Week?
• Case Worker Burnout
• Small acts of appreciation make a big difference.
• How you can support a social worker

Links Mentioned in this Episode:

• National Hospitality Week
• Promise 686
• CAFO

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.

In this heartfelt episode, we dive into the meaning of holiday traditions and how they create lasting memories with family. However, for some, like teens and alumni of the foster care system, the holidays can be a difficult reminder of lost connections. That's why events like Thanksgiving Together are so important.

We’re shining a light on ACTION Ohio's annual Thanksgiving dinners for foster teens and alumni. Since 2007, these early Thanksgiving celebrations have offered a place for those with foster care experience to feel the warmth of family and community.

This year, Hope Bridge is hosting Thanksgiving Together in Northeast Ohio on November 16th from 1-3 PM at North Canton Chapel, and we couldn't be more excited! Join us for an unforgettable afternoon of fun, including a photo booth, raffles, party favors, and a delicious Thanksgiving feast. Tune in to learn more about this special event and how we're bringing together those who need it most this holiday season.

Episode Highlights:

• What is Thanksgiving Together?
• How to Support Thanksgiving Together
• Volunteer opportunities

Links From This Episode:

• Thanksgiving Together Details/RSVP for Thanksgiving Together
• Amazon Wish List for Thanksgiving Together
• Give Butter Link for Donation
• Sponsorship Flyer
• Volunteer at Thanksgiving Together

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.

In this episode of ReStoried, we're diving deep into the common myths and misconceptions surrounding foster parenting. Whether you've been considering becoming a foster parent or you're simply curious about the process, this episode is designed to provide clarity and comfort.

We know that taking the first step toward fostering can be overwhelming, and the myths out there can make it even more daunting. Our goal is to set the record straight, answer the questions that might be holding you back, and empower you to move forward with confidence.

Episode Highlights:

• Foster Family Recruitment
• Common Myths about Becoming a Foster Parent
• Debunking Myths

Links From This Episode:

• Stark County Foster Care Info Session
• Book a Coffee Chat with a Hope Bridge Staff Member
• Questions to Ask Agencies PDF

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.

In this inspiring episode, we explore a powerful story of redemption through an interview with Bethany, a dedicated foster mom, and Jaliyah, the biological mother of Bethany's former foster children. Their journey has been marked by many challenges, but their unwavering commitment to each other has led to a heartwarming reunion.

Jaliyah worked incredibly hard to regain custody of her children, showing immense dedication and perseverance throughout the process. Bethany's intentional effort to maintain a supportive relationship with Jaliyah played a crucial role in this family’s story. Her consistent presence and encouragement were vital in helping Jaliyah achieve her goal of reuniting with all her children.

This episode underscores the significant impact that positive relationships between foster and biological families can have on the well-being of children. Tune in to hear how Bethany and Jaliyah’s shared dedication has paved the way for healing and togetherness, and learn why maintaining these connections, when safe, can be so beneficial for everyone involved.

Episode Highlights:

• How Bethany Got Started in Foster Care
• Jaliyah’s Childhood & Upbringing
• Forming Relationships with Biological Families
• Going against the grain
• Reunification & Redemption

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.