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Host Sandra Flach is a mom of 8 children, 5 through adoption—one kinship and 4 international. Her youngest 2 are teens diagnosed with a Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD). With over 30 years of parenting experience and 20 plus years as an adoptive and kinship parent, she’s made mountains of mistakes and learned loads of lessons. She understands the difficult road of parenting children with trauma histories—and she is still in the trenches! The Adoption & Foster Care Journey is a podcast ...
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A Podcast for Biological, Adoptive, & Foster Moms. No experts. No topics. Just real talk from real moms about real life.
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The Defender Podcast is a ministry of Lifeline Children's Services where we seek to equip the body of Christ to manifest the gospel to vulnerable children and families. We hope this podcast will provide encouragement, inspiration, and ways to connect with others who have a heart for the orphan.
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Episode 482 - A Father’s Perspective with Christopher Johnson
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"I thank him who has given me strength, Christ Jesus our Lord, because he judged me faithful, appointing me to his service…" -Timothy 1:12 Welcome to The Adoption & Foster Care Journey—a podcast to encourage, educate and equip you as you care for children in crisis through adoption, foster care and kinship care. On this episode, host Sandra Flach f…
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Episode 481 - Foster Care with Dr. John DeGarmo
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55:42
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“For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you have me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me.” -Matthew 25:35 Welcome to The Adoption & Foster Care Journey—a podcast to encourage, educate and equip you as you care for children in crisis through adoption, foster care and kinship care. On this episode, host Sandra Flach completes…
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Episode 480 - Healing Trauma Through Connection with Bethany Hall
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44:01
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"The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is on me, Because the LORD has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, To proclaim freedom for the captives and Release from darkness for the prisoners,…" -Isaiah 61:1 Welcome to The Adoption & Foster Care Journey—a podcast to encourage, educate and equip you as y…
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Episode 479 - Love Does Not Conquer All with Peter Mutabazi
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50:05
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“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” -Jeremiah 29:11 Welcome to The Adoption & Foster Care Journey—a podcast to encourage, educate and equip you as you care for children in crisis through adoption, foster care and kinship care. On this episode, hos…
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Episode 478 - Foster the Family with Jamie Finn
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"For from him and through him and for him are all things. To him be the glory forever! Amen." -Romans 11:36 Welcome to The Adoption & Foster Care Journey—a podcast to encourage, educate and equip you as you care for children in crisis through adoption, foster care and kinship care. On this episode, host Sandra Flach kicks off Foster Care Awareness …
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Episode 477 - Adulting & FASD with CJ Lutke
1:32:01
1:32:01
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"May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." -Romans 15:13 Welcome to The Adoption & Foster Care Journey—a podcast to encourage, educate and equip you as you care for children in crisis through adoption, foster care and kinship care. On this episode, h…
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Episode 476 - Nourish with Connection with Madison Tyler
1:03:36
1:03:36
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"Trust in the Lord and do good; Dwell in the land and cultivate faithfulness. Delight yourself in the Lord; And He will give you the desires of your heart. -Psalm 37:3-4 Welcome to The Adoption & Foster Care Journey—a podcast to encourage, educate and equip you as you care for children in crisis through adoption, foster care and kinship care. On th…
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Episode 475 - When Self-Care is a Dirty Word with Angie Proctor
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“He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” -Psalm 147:3 Welcome to The Adoption & Foster Care Journey—a podcast to encourage, educate and equip you as you care for children in crisis through adoption, foster care and kinship care. On this episode, host Sandra Flach talks with Angela Proctor, PhD. Angie currently serves as the Director …
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Episode 474 - The Fruit (Psalm 1:2-3) with Sandra Flach
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"But they delight in doing everything the LORD wants; Day and night they think about (meditate on) his law (His Word). They are like trees planted along the riverbank, bearing fruit each season without fail. Their leaves never wither, and in all they do, they prosper." -Psalm 1:2-3 Welcome to The Adoption & Foster Care Journey—a podcast to encourag…
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Episode 473 - The Seasons (Psalm 1:2-3) with Sandra Flach
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"But they delight in doing everything the LORD wants; Day and night they think about (meditate on) his law (His Word). They are like trees planted along the riverbank, bearing fruit each season without fail. Their leaves never wither, and in all they do, they prosper." -Psalm 1:2-3 Welcome to The Adoption & Foster Care Journey—a podcast to encourag…
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Episode 472 - The River Bank (Psalm 1:1-3) with Sandra Flach
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"Oh, the joys of those who do not follow the advice of the wicked, or stand around with sinners, or join in with scoffers. But they delight in doing everything the LORD wants; Day and night they think about (meditate on) his law (His Word). They are like trees planted along the riverbank, bearing fruit each season without fail. Their leaves never w…
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Episode 471 - Root & Revive Wellness with Adoptive Mom, Jessica Johnson
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50:55
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“I will give you the treasures of darkness, and riches from secret places, so that you may know that I am the Lord. I am the God of Israel who calls you by name.” -Isaiah 45:3 Welcome to The Adoption & Foster Care Journey—a podcast to encourage, educate and equip you as you care for children in crisis through adoption, foster care and kinship care.…
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Episode 470 - Harrison’s Hope with Mary Byrnes
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1:04:36
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“Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.” -Romans 12:12 Welcome to The Adoption & Foster Care Journey—a podcast to encourage, educate and equip you as you care for children in crisis through adoption, foster care and kinship care. On this episode, host Sandra Flach talks with adoptive mom, Mary Byrnes. Mary is the Co-Founder &…
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Episode 469 - FASD Diagnostic Clinics with David Deere
1:22:40
1:22:40
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“Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.” -Proverbs 31:8-9 Welcome to The Adoption & Foster Care Journey—a podcast to encourage, educate and equip you as you care for children in crisis through adoption, foster care and kinship c…
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After eight incredible years, the Defender Podcast is taking a short sabbatical. In this episode, Herbie Newell and Dr. Rick Morton reflect on the journey so far, share exciting plans for the future, and discuss how the podcast will continue to equip and encourage the body of Christ in orphan care and adoption. Tune in to hear what’s ahead, when to…
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Episode 468 - Walking the Trail with Adoptive Families—Meredith Shuman
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49:33
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“For by Him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him.” -Colossians 1:17 Welcome to The Adoption & Foster Care Journey—a podcast to encourage, educate and equip you as you care for children in crisis through adoption, …
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In this episode of The Defender Podcast, we welcome Kirti Pickard—adoptee, advocate, and podcast host—who shares her powerful adoption journey and how it fuels her passion for serving vulnerable children. Adopted from India at the age of four, Kirti has a deep, firsthand understanding of the lifelong impact of adoption. She discusses the challenges…
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Episode 467 - Boundless Hope for Every Child with Kim Botto
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1:10:50
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“For I know the plans I have for you,” declare the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” -Jeremiah 29:11 Welcome to The Adoption & Foster Care Journey—a podcast to encourage, educate and equip you as you care for children in crisis through adoption, foster care and kinship care. On this episode, host…
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Episode 466 - Fostering Wellness with Nicole Barlow
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"God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them.” -Hebrews 6:10 Welcome to The Adoption & Foster Care Journey—a podcast to encourage, educate and equip you as you care for children in crisis through adoption, foster care and kinship care. On this episode, host …
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Faith, Family, and Foster Care with Jamie Finn
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44:42
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🎙️In this episode of The Defender Podcast, we welcome Jamie Finn—author, nonprofit leader, and advocate for vulnerable children. As a foster and adoptive mom, she shares her journey, the biggest challenges foster families face, and how the Church can offer meaningful support. Jamie and her husband, Alan, have been foster parents for over 11 years, …
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Episode 465 - A Foster Brother’s Story with Michelle Snyder & Ben Snyder Jr.
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"Jesus said, 'For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me'… Then the righteous will answer him, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed …
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In this episode of The Defender Podcast, Herbie Newell is joined by Karla Thrasher, Lifeline’s Senior Director of International Adoption, to discuss the heartbreaking impact of China’s five-year suspension of international adoptions, which left 400 children—many with special needs—waiting for families. Recent developments, including China’s Septemb…
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Episode 464 - Embracing Life with FASD with Jodee Kulp
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1:47:25
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"Jesus said, 'The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.'” -John 10:10 Welcome to The Adoption & Foster Care Journey—a podcast to encourage, educate and equip you as you care for children in crisis through adoption, foster care and kinship care. On this episode, host Sandra Flac…
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Adoption Counseling Redefined: A New Resource from Lifeline
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24:24
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In this episode of The Defender Podcast, Christy Mack Segars, Vice President of Domestic Services at Lifeline Children’s Services, introduces the new Design Adoption Counseling Certificate, a free online resource created in partnership with Stand For Life. This course equips counselors, church leaders, and pregnancy center staff to compassionately …
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Episode 463 - Connected Parenting with Will & CarrieAnn Standfest
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"And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him." -Colossians 3:17 Welcome to The Adoption & Foster Care Journey—a podcast to encourage, educate and equip you as you care for children in crisis through adoption, foster care and kinship care. On this episode, host Sandra…
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Sarah Gable Seifert on Faith, Entrepreneurship, and EveryLife
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34:57
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In today's episode of The Defender Podcast, Rick Morton welcomes Sarah Gable Seifert, co-founder of EveryLife—the first pro-life diaper and wipe company in America. Sarah shares her journey from life-changing experiences at JH Ranch to pivotal roles at Public Square and a pregnancy resource center in San Clemente. She reveals how her faith and pass…
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Episode 462 - What Scripture & Science Say About Resilience with Dr. Nicole Wilke, PhD
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"In all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us." -Romans 8:37 Welcome to The Adoption & Foster Care Journey—a podcast to encourage, educate and equip you as you care for children in crisis through adoption, foster care and kinship care. On this episode, host Sandra Flach talks with Dr. Nicole Wilke, PhD. Nicole is a resea…
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The Changing Landscape of the Pro-Life Movement: A Conversation with Jor-El Godsey
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In this episode of The Defender Podcast, Herbie Newell is joined by Jor-El Godsey, president of Heartbeat International, to discuss the evolving landscape of the pro-life movement. Heartbeat International is at the forefront of supporting pregnancy help centers, maternity homes, and adoption services worldwide. Jor-El shares his insights on how the…
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Episode 461 - New Year, New Season with Sandra Flach
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"Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked. Or stand in the way that sinners take Or sit in the company of mockers, But whose delight is in the law of the LORD, And who meditates on his law day and night. That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, Which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither—whatev…
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In this first episode of 2025, Herbie Newell is joined by Pastor Chris Johnson, Lifeline Children's Services' Senior Director of Church Partnerships, to discuss the significance of Sanctity of Human Life Month. Pastor Chris, a seasoned pastor and adoptive father of seven, shares how valuing and protecting life is central to Lifeline’s mission. Toge…
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Episode 460 - The Dangers of Energy Drinks with Dr. Jerrod Brown
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49:19
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"He gives strength to the weary, And increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, And young men stumble and fall; But those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; They will run and not grow weary, They will walk and not be faint." -Isaiah 40:29-31 Welcome to The Adoption & Foster C…
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Episode 459 - Advent—God’s Gift of Love with Sandra Flach
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"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." -John 3:16 Welcome to The Adoption & Foster Care Journey—a podcast to encourage, educate and equip you as you care for children in crisis through adoption, foster care and kinship care. This episode is the 4th and fin…
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Love: Advent Week 4 – Reflecting Christ's Sacrificial Love
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In this final episode of our Advent series, Herbie Newell reflects on the greatest gift of Christmas—God’s love. He shares a powerful story from Lifeline Children's Services that beautifully exemplifies sacrificial love and the transformation it can bring. Exploring the scriptures from Luke and Mark, Herbie highlights how God's love is active, rela…
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The Waiting Season: Lessons from Advent and Adoption
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In this special Christmas episode of The Defender Podcast, Herbie Newell and Dr. Rick Morton reflect on the profound lessons of Advent and their parallels to adoption and foster care. Together, they discuss the challenges and joys of waiting—whether for the fulfillment of God's promises, the arrival of a new family member, or the hope of ultimate r…
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Episode 458 - Advent—Finding True Joy with Sandra Flach
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"You make known to me the path of life; You will fill me with joy in your presence; With eternal pleasures at your right hand." -Psalm 16:11 Welcome to The Adoption & Foster Care Journey—a podcast to encourage, educate and equip you as you care for children in crisis through adoption, foster care and kinship care. This episode is the 3rd in our ann…
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Joy: Advent Week 3 – The Shepherd's Song of Praise
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In this Advent edition of The Defender Podcast, host Herbie Newell reflects on the joy found in the true meaning of Christmas. As we approach the third week of Advent, we examine the shepherds’ joy at the birth of Jesus—not a happiness tied to circumstances, but a deep, eternal joy rooted in God’s presence. Herbie shares a personal story of unexpec…
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Best of 2024: Opening Hearts and Homes – The Hart Family's Foster Care Journey
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In this special Best of 2024 episode, originally aired on May 15, 2024, we revisit a heartfelt conversation with Matthew and Makyna Hart, ministry leaders from Movement Church in Madison, Alabama. Together for 13 years and serving as Worship Pastor and Family Pastor, respectively, the Harts are biological, adoptive, and foster parents. Their passio…
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Episode 457 - Advent—Peace in Surrender with Sandra Flach
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32:15
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“And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” -Philippians 4:7 Welcome to The Adoption & Foster Care Journey—a podcast to encourage, educate and equip you as you care for children in crisis through adoption, foster care and kinship care. On this episode is the 2nd in our annual Decembe…
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Preparing the Way: Advent Week 2 – Making Space for Jesus
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In this second week of our Advent series, Herbie Newell reflects on the theme of preparation. As we enter the busy holiday season, he challenges us to pause amidst the chaos and make room in our hearts for the coming of Christ. Drawing from the example of Mary and the humble circumstances of Jesus’ birth, Herbie explores how we can prepare spiritua…
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Best of 2024: Heartbreaking News: The Future of China Adoptions
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In this rebroadcast of one of the best episodes from 2024, The Defender Podcast revisits a powerful conversation between Herbie Newell and Karla Thrasher, Lifeline's Senior Director of International Adoption, about the devastating announcement from the People's Republic of China regarding the suspension of intercountry adoptions. In this episode, H…
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Episode 456 - Advent—Hope for the Holidays with Sandra Flach
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27:23
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"Yes, my soul, find rest in God; My hope comes from Him. Truly He is my rock and my salvation; He is my fortress, I will not be shaken." -Psalm 62:5-6 Welcome to The Adoption & Foster Care Journey—a podcast to encourage, educate and equip you as you care for children in crisis through adoption, foster care and kinship care. We’re kicking off Decemb…
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Waiting in Hope: Advent Week 1 – Trusting in God’s Promises
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In this special Advent edition of The Defender Podcast, Herbie Newell explores the theme of waiting as we prepare our hearts for the coming of Christ. Reflecting on the promises of God throughout scripture—from the Israelites' longing for deliverance to the fulfillment of prophecy in Jesus—this episode reminds us that waiting is not passive but an …
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A Heart of Thanksgiving: Reflecting on God’s Goodness Through All Seasons
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As 2024 draws to a close, Herbie Newell and Dr. Rick Morton reflect on the significance of cultivating gratitude, even amidst life’s challenges. Drawing from Scripture, they explore themes of God’s enduring goodness, the joy of community, and the peace that comes from Christ. Join this heartfelt conversation as they discuss how thankfulness can tra…
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Episode 455 - Thanksgiving Prayers with Sandra Flach
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"Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever." -Psalm 118:1 Welcome to The Adoption & Foster Care Journey—a podcast to encourage, educate and equip you as you care for children in crisis through adoption, foster care and kinship care. This week we close out National Adoption Awareness Month with host Sandra Flach as she shares…
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Episode 454 - Healing for Every Heart in Adoption with Jodi Jackson Tucker & Lisa Qualls
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52:41
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“I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” -Jeremiah 29:11 Welcome to The Adoption & Foster Care Journey—a podcast to encourage, educate and equip you as you care for children in crisis through adoption, foster care and kinship care. This week host Sandra Fl…
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Empowering Churches to Care: A Conversation with Andy Cook of Promise 686
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In this episode of The Defender Podcast, Herbie Newell and Dr. Rick Morton welcome Andy Cook, President and CEO of Promise 686, a ministry dedicated to equipping churches to serve vulnerable children and families. Andy shares his journey of starting Promise 686, rooted in the biblical mandate of Psalm 68:6, and the organization’s model, Family Advo…
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Episode 453 - FASD & Addictive Behaviors with Dr. Jerrod Brown
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54:36
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"The LORD is my strength and shield. I trust Him with all my heart. He helps me, and my heart is filled with joy." -Psalm 28:7 Welcome to The Adoption & Foster Care Journey—a podcast to encourage, educate and equip you as you care for children in crisis through adoption, foster care and kinship care. This week we welcome back returning guest, Dr. J…
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Embracing the Call of Adoption During National Adoption Month
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Join Herbie Newell and Karla Thrasher on this special National Adoption Month episode of The Defender Podcast as they explore the profound impact of adoption on vulnerable children around the world. Karla, Lifeline's Senior Director of International Programs, shares insights on the evolving landscape of international adoption, including the unique …
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Episode 452 - Accommodating Kids with Brain Differences
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“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.” -Jeremiah 1:5 Welcome to The Adoption & Foster Care Journey—a podcast to encourage, educate and equip you as you care for children in crisis through adoption, foster care and kinship care. As we kick off National Adoption…
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In this episode of The Defender Podcast, co-host Dr. Rick Morton sits down with David E. Prince at this year’s 2024 Southern Baptist Convention to discuss the importance of staying grounded in faith by reflecting God's love through action. Together, they explore the call to care for vulnerable children, underscoring how living out the gospel means …
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