Advertise on podcast: Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant Loss

In this heartfelt episode, Ashley welcomes James Shove to share the story behind his powerful song, Jealous That Heaven's Your Home. James' wife, Emily, was previously on our podcast on Episode 61, but in this conversation, James offers a unique perspective as a grieving father navigating the loss of their son, Phoenix. Together, Ashley and James discuss the excitement of expecting a baby, the heartbreak of miscarriage, and the often-overlooked grief experienced by fathers. James vulnerably shares his struggles with depression, anxiety, emotional expression, and how poetry, music, and prayer became a pathway for processing his grief. Through the writing of this song, he wrestled with questions about Heaven, longing for his son, and the hope found in Christ's promises. This episode is an honest conversation about pain, healing, fatherhood, and eternity. It reminds grieving parents that while loss leaves an ache that remains, we can hold onto the hope that our children are safe with Jesus and that Heaven is ultimately our Hhome too. In this episode, we discussed: James and Emily's journey of expecting their son Phoenix and the heartbreak of miscarriageThe unique grief fathers experience and the pressure many dads feel to stay strong during lossAllowing yourself to feel grief while also supporting your spouse through sufferingJames's personal struggles with depression, anxiety, and expressing difficult emotionsWrestling with the biblical question of whether babies are in Heaven and finding hope in ScriptureThe inspiration behind the song Jealous That Heaven's Your HomeHow songwriting became one of the most healing experiences in James's grief journeyWhy James hopes the song serves as a stepping stone toward healing for grieving familiesJames's experience attending Wave of Light and how remembrance events can help grieving parents process lossHolding both sorrow and hope at the same time as we wait for eternity with our childrenIf you have ever wrestled with questions about Heaven, struggled to express your grief, or felt the ache of missing your child while longing for eternity, this episode will resonate deeply. Through James's story and song, listeners are reminded that grief and hope can coexist—and that because of Jesus, our separation from our children is temporary, our hope is secure, and Heaven truly is our Home. GET THE BOOK! Cradled in Hope is sold on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Target, Christianbook, and Baker Bookhouse.[www.bridgetscradles.com/book] EPISODE SHOW NOTES & FULL TRANSCRIPT:[www.bridgetscradles.com/post/episode72] • CRADLED IN HOPE PODCAST WEBSITE:Sign up here to receive email updates and hope-filled resources[www.bridgetscradles.com/podcast] • CRADLED IN HOPE FACEBOOK COMMUNITY FOR GRIEVING MOMS:[www.facebook.com/groups/cradledinhope] • FOLLOW BRIDGET'S CRADLES[www.facebook.com/bridgetscradles][www.instagram.com/bridgetscradles][www.pinterest.com/bridgetscradles] • CONNECT WITH THE HOST | ASHLEY OPLIGER[www.ashleyopliger.com][www.facebook.com/ashleyopliger][www.instagram.com/ashleyopliger] #cradledinhope #cradledinhopepodcast #bridgetscradles ★ Support this podcast ★

In this hope-filled episode, Ashley welcomes author, speaker, and fellow Bethany House author Lisa Appelo to discuss her new devotional, God of Comfort. After losing her husband unexpectedly and later walking alongside her son and daughter-in-law through the stillbirth of their baby, Lisa shares how grief transformed her faith, priorities, and understanding of God's presence in suffering. Together, Ashley and Lisa explore the unique challenges of devastating loss, the lies grief often whispers to hurting hearts, and the biblical practice of bringing our deepest questions, fears, and emotions directly to God. Through personal stories, Scripture, and honest reflection, they discuss surrender, God's sovereignty, the hope of Heaven, and the comfort available to every grieving heart through Christ. This conversation offers encouragement that God is not intimidated by your questions, your tears, or your pain. He invites you to bring it all to Him and discover that the pathway through grief is not a formula or a set of stages—but the God of all comfort Himself. In this episode, we discussed: Lisa's story of unexpectedly losing her husband, Dan, overnight, and becoming a widow with seven childrenWalking through the recent stillbirth of her grandson and supporting her grieving son and daughter-in-lawHow grandparents experience a unique "double grief" when a grandchild diesPractical ways to support grieving families without inserting your own story or taking controlThe lies grief often whispers, including fears that joy will never returnRegret, guilt, and the "what if" questions that frequently accompany lossLearning to surrender control and trust God's sovereignty when life does not make senseLetting go of the life you expected and embracing the life God has given youThe sanctifying work God accomplishes through suffering and griefWhy grief is not a tidy process and cannot be reduced to a series of stagesWrestling with the question "Why?" and learning to trust God's character even without answersHow suffering deepens our longing for Heaven and reshapes our earthly prioritiesThe gifts that can emerge from grief, including compassion, intimacy with God, and eternal perspectiveLisa's devotional God of Comfort and how it helps grieving people encounter God's character through Scripture, prayer, journaling, and reflectionFinding hope in the truth that God comforts us so we can comfort others with the same comfort we have received from HimThis conversation is a beautiful reminder that grief may change us, but it does not have the final word. As Lisa shares, the way through grief is not found in a method, a timeline, or a set of steps—it is found in a Person. If you are carrying sorrow, wrestling with unanswered questions, or wondering if joy will ever return, this episode will encourage you to bring your broken heart to the God of Comfort, who sees you, loves you, and promises to walk with you every step of the journey. GET THE BOOK! Cradled in Hope is sold on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Target, Christianbook, and Baker Bookhouse.[www.bridgetscradles.com/book] EPISODE SHOW NOTES & FULL TRANSCRIPT:[www.bridgetscradles.com/post/episode71] • CRADLED IN HOPE PODCAST WEBSITE:Sign up here to receive email updates and hope-filled resources[www.bridgetscradles.com/podcast] • CRADLED IN HOPE FACEBOOK COMMUNITY FOR GRIEVING MOMS:[www.facebook.com/groups/cradledinhope] • FOLLOW BRIDGET'S CRADLES[www.facebook.com/bridgetscradles][www.instagram.com/bridgetscradles][www.pinterest.com/bridgetscradles] • CONNECT WITH THE HOST | ASHLEY OPLIGER[www.ashleyopliger.com][www.facebook.com/ashleyopliger][www.instagram.com/ashleyopliger] #cradledinhope #cradledinhopepodcast #bridgetscradles ★ Support this podcast ★

In this moving episode, Ashley welcomes her friend Aubrey Pavlacka to share the story of her daughter, Timber Kai. What began as a joyful babymoon in Kauai quickly became a devastating journey through premature labor, ten days of hospitalization, and the heartbreaking loss of a much-loved baby girl at 22 weeks. With remarkable honesty, Aubrey recounts the days she spent fighting to keep Timber alive, the faith that sustained her through unimaginable uncertainty, and the grief that followed after returning home without her daughter. Together, Ashley and Aubrey explore difficult questions about suffering, unanswered prayers, pregnancy after loss, and the tension of holding both deep sorrow and deep hope at the same time. Throughout the conversation, they reflect on God's faithfulness in grief, the promise of Heaven, and the ways a baby's life can continue to impact others. This episode is a powerful reminder that while loss changes us forever, our hope in Christ remains secure. In this episode, we discussed: Aubrey's pregnancy with Timber and the unexpected complications that began during a trip to KauaiGiving birth to Timber at 22 weeks and the precious hours Aubrey and Justin spent with herReturning home after loss and navigating the early days of griefHow Exodus 14:14 ("The Lord will fight for you; you need only be still") became an anchor during the crisisWrestling with unanswered prayers while continuing to trust God's characterThe impact Timber's life had on others and how God continues to use her storyPregnancy after loss, cervical insufficiency, and the anxiety of carrying another babyHonest conversations about "what ifs," regrets, and the realities of being a grieving motherRaising children with an awareness of Heaven and helping siblings know and remember their sisterHow grief reshaped priorities, family life, and Aubrey's perspective on what matters mostFinding hope in the promise of reunion and eternity with our children in HeavenIf you are grieving a baby, struggling with unanswered questions, navigating pregnancy after loss, or longing for reassurance that your child's life mattered, this conversation will encourage your heart. Aubrey's story is a beautiful testimony of faith in the midst of heartbreak, reminding us that while we may not understand every part of our suffering, we can trust the God who walks with us through it—and cling to the hope that one day we will be reunited with our children in Heaven. GET THE BOOK! Cradled in Hope is sold on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Target, Christianbook, and Baker Bookhouse.[www.bridgetscradles.com/book] EPISODE SHOW NOTES & FULL TRANSCRIPT:[www.bridgetscradles.com/post/episode70] • CRADLED IN HOPE PODCAST WEBSITE:Sign up here to receive email updates and hope-filled resources[www.bridgetscradles.com/podcast] • CRADLED IN HOPE FACEBOOK COMMUNITY FOR GRIEVING MOMS:[www.facebook.com/groups/cradledinhope] • FOLLOW BRIDGET'S CRADLES[www.facebook.com/bridgetscradles][www.instagram.com/bridgetscradles][www.pinterest.com/bridgetscradles] • CONNECT WITH THE HOST | ASHLEY OPLIGER[www.ashleyopliger.com][www.facebook.com/ashleyopliger][www.instagram.com/ashleyopliger] #cradledinhope #cradledinhopepodcast #bridgetscradles ★ Support this podcast ★

In this deeply vulnerable and spiritually honest episode, Ashley welcomes Lisa Rowell—host of the Silent Footprints Podcast and founder of Julianna Grace Ministry—for a conversation that moves beyond advocacy into the raw realities of grief, mental health, spiritual warfare, and identity in Christ. Lisa has become a powerful voice for families impacted by pregnancy and infant loss—providing grief boxes worldwide, helping pass the Stillbirth Prevention Act in Louisiana, advocating for the Shine for Autumn Act, and funding cooling cots for hospitals. Together, Ashley and Lisa speak candidly about the mental health struggles that can follow loss, including seasons of despair and even suicidal thoughts. They discuss how grief can open the door to spiritual warfare, lies from the enemy, and distorted views of God—especially when father wounds shape how we interpret suffering. They explore the tension between faith and works, the temptation to strive for healing through doing, and what it means to transform heartbreak into holy purpose. In this episode, we discussed: Lisa’s story and the founding of Julianna Grace MinistryHow grief boxes provide tangible comfort and remind parents they are not aloneThe mental health impact of grief, including suicidal thoughts and despairSpiritual warfare and the enemy’s lies during vulnerable seasonsThe importance of cooling cots and giving families time and dignity to say goodbyeLegislative advocacy surrounding stillbirth and infant loss, including the Stillbirth Prevention Act and the Shine for Autumn ActWhat it means to carry your baby’s legacy forward through actionAdvocacy as a form of love, remembrance, and honoring our childrenThe spiritual tension between faith and works—serving from love vs. striving for worthHow grief can expose deeper wounds, including father wounds that affect how we see GodThe sacred responsibility of stewarding our babies’ legaciesThis episode is both tender and empowering—a reminder that while we never would have chosen this path, God can use even our deepest sorrow to bring comfort, awareness, and change. Whether you are newly grieving or years into your journey, this episode offers encouragement that your baby’s life matters—and your voice does too. GET THE BOOK! Cradled in Hope is sold on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Target, Christianbook, and Baker Bookhouse.[www.bridgetscradles.com/book] EPISODE SHOW NOTES & FULL TRANSCRIPT:[www.bridgetscradles.com/post/episode69] • CRADLED IN HOPE PODCAST WEBSITE:Sign up here to receive email updates and hope-filled resources[www.bridgetscradles.com/podcast] • CRADLED IN HOPE FACEBOOK COMMUNITY FOR GRIEVING MOMS:[www.facebook.com/groups/cradledinhope] • FOLLOW BRIDGET'S CRADLES[www.facebook.com/bridgetscradles][www.instagram.com/bridgetscradles][www.pinterest.com/bridgetscradles] • CONNECT WITH THE HOST | ASHLEY OPLIGER[www.ashleyopliger.com][www.facebook.com/ashleyopliger][www.instagram.com/ashleyopliger] #cradledinhope #cradledinhopepodcast #bridgetscradles ★ Support this podcast ★

In this heartfelt and powerful Father’s Day episode, Ashley welcomes back her friend and returning guest, Eric Schumacher. Eric is a pastor, biblical counselor, husband, and father of nine children—five on earth and four in Heaven. Through his own journey of miscarriage and grief, Eric has become a compassionate voice for grieving dads, and today he joins us to share about his newest book: Dads Hurt Too: A Father’s Memoir of Miscarriage. Together, Ashley and Eric have an honest, gospel-centered conversation about the often-overlooked grief of fathers who have lost a baby. Eric vulnerably shares the raw emotions he experienced during each of his family’s four miscarriages—and the spiritual battle he faced with what he calls the “little foxes” of comparison, shame, culture, and loneliness. Through Scripture, story, and deep theology, Eric offers dads a pathway to healing: not by hiding their pain, but by bringing it into the light of Christ. Whether you are a grieving father, a wife who wants to better understand her husband’s grief, or a ministry leader supporting families through loss—this episode will give you language for the ache, truth for the lies, and hope rooted in the character of God. In this episode, we discussed: Why Eric wrote Dads Hurt Too and the story behind its humble beginningsWhy men often grieve miscarriage in silence and how shame or comparison can silence their sorrowThe “four foxes” that threaten our healing: comparison, shame, culture, and lonelinessWhat it means to abide in Christ when grief feels isolating and unspokenHow Jesus’ own grief, sorrow, and physical weakness give men permission to feel and express emotionThe danger of believing false gospels in the midst of suffering—and how right theology leads to deeper healingThe importance of spiritual community and safe spaces where dads can be honest about their painHow the culture’s devaluation of life impacts grieving parents, and how Scripture restores the dignity of every baby lostThe true gospel of Jesus: that He meets us in our sorrow, carries our burdens, and will return to make all things newThis episode is an invitation for every dad to know: Your grief matters. You are not alone. And Jesus sees you. He is the perfect Father who draws near to the brokenhearted—and He promises to one day restore what has been lost. GET THE BOOK! Cradled in Hope is sold on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Target, Christianbook, and Baker Bookhouse.[www.bridgetscradles.com/book] EPISODE SHOW NOTES & FULL TRANSCRIPT:[www.bridgetscradles.com/post/episode68] • CRADLED IN HOPE PODCAST WEBSITE:Sign up here to receive email updates and hope-filled resources[www.bridgetscradles.com/podcast] • CRADLED IN HOPE FACEBOOK COMMUNITY FOR GRIEVING MOMS:[www.facebook.com/groups/cradledinhope] • FOLLOW BRIDGET'S CRADLES[www.facebook.com/bridgetscradles][www.instagram.com/bridgetscradles][www.pinterest.com/bridgetscradles] • CONNECT WITH THE HOST | ASHLEY OPLIGER[www.ashleyopliger.com][www.facebook.com/ashleyopliger][www.instagram.com/ashleyopliger] #cradledinhope #cradledinhopepodcast #bridgetscradles ★ Support this podcast ★

In this deeply moving episode, Ashley welcomes Emily Curtis—author, poet, and founder of Hope in the Mourning—to share her story of layered grief, enduring faith, and Gospel-centered hope. What unfolds is a sacred conversation about sorrow upon sorrow: multiple pregnancy losses and the death of her beloved father. Emily invites listeners into the holy space of lament. Through poetry, Scripture, testimony, and raw honesty, this episode creates room for sorrow to be named, carried, and surrendered before a God who sees every tear and remains steadfastly good. This conversation is both tender and theologically rich, offering comfort to grieving mothers while equipping the Church to love better. Whether you are walking through miscarriage, compounded grief, or supporting someone who is, this episode offers language for pain, permission to lament, and hope rooted firmly in Christ. In this episode, we discussed: Navigating compound grief—when sorrow stacks upon sorrowWrestling honestly with God when grief feels unfair or overwhelmingWhy lament is biblical (and how to lament, based on the pattern of the Psalms)Naming babies in Heaven and the healing power of honoring their livesWhat not to say to grieving parents and why Christian platitudes aren't helpfulThe ministry and mission behind Hope in the Mourning Poetry as a form of lament, worship, and hopeGET THE BOOK! Cradled in Hope is sold on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Target, Christianbook, and Baker Bookhouse.[www.bridgetscradles.com/book] EPISODE SHOW NOTES & FULL TRANSCRIPT:[www.bridgetscradles.com/post/episode67] • CRADLED IN HOPE PODCAST WEBSITE:Sign up here to receive email updates and hope-filled resources[www.bridgetscradles.com/podcast] • CRADLED IN HOPE FACEBOOK COMMUNITY FOR GRIEVING MOMS:[www.facebook.com/groups/cradledinhope] • FOLLOW BRIDGET'S CRADLES[www.facebook.com/bridgetscradles][www.instagram.com/bridgetscradles][www.pinterest.com/bridgetscradles] • CONNECT WITH THE HOST | ASHLEY OPLIGER[www.ashleyopliger.com][www.facebook.com/ashleyopliger][www.instagram.com/ashleyopliger] #cradledinhope #cradledinhopepodcast #bridgetscradles ★ Support this podcast ★

In this very special episode, Ashley welcomes her longtime friend and behind-the-scenes podcast team member, Maria Childs, to the microphone. Maria has faithfully served Cradled in Hope since its launch in 2021, designing the beautiful graphics and quote carousels that listeners see each week. But in this sacred conversation, Maria steps out from behind the screen to share her deeply personal story of grief, faith, and healing. Maria opens her heart about the stillbirth of her daughter, Taylor Ann, at 39 weeks, and the early miscarriage she experienced just six months later. She shares how her grief led her to Bridget’s Cradles through a sticker giveaway (yes—really!), and how God used a Facebook post to begin a redemptive story of connection, service, and purpose. Together, Ashley and Maria reflect on the power of community, the healing that comes through telling your story, and how serving grieving moms has helped Maria honor her babies in Heaven while encouraging others through their pain. This episode is a beautiful testimony of how God brings purpose from heartbreak and knits friendships together through shared sorrow and eternal hope. In this episode, we discussed: The traumatic experience of arriving at the hospital expecting to meet her baby—only to hear the words no parent should ever hearThe shock and confusion of receiving no medical explanation for Taylor’s passing, and the miscarriage that followed six months laterHow God led Maria to Cradled in Hope through a social media giveaway, and how she messaged Ashley after Episode 1, saying, “I want to come to the little blue barn.”The journey of moving from silent sorrow to openly sharing her story—and how each Bridget's Cradles event and connection helped her find the courage to speak her daughter’s nameMaria’s work as a graphic designer, and how using her gifts for the podcast became a healing outlet and purposeful way to honor her babiesThe Facebook group ministry and how Maria lovingly welcomes grieving moms through personal messages and prayerful connectionWhy answering the question, “How many children do you have?” is hard—and how Maria learned to confidently include her babies in HeavenHer bold step of faith in speaking at Manhattan, Kansas’ Pregnancy & Infant Loss event, and how Bridget’s Cradles resources helped other families that dayThe importance of walking with moms in fresh grief while also pointing them toward the hope of healing and the promise of HeavenMaria’s favorite chapter from Ashley's book, Cradled in Hope, and how she rereads it when grief resurfacesHow Cradled in Hope and the podcast offer gospel truth in a variety of voices and stories—all pointing to the same eternal hopeMaria’s favorite verse, Matthew 6:34, and how God has gently led her to take each day as it comes Whether you’re in the crashing waves of fresh grief or standing on the shore years later, this episode reminds us that community, compassion, and Christ-centered truth are essential to healing. Maria’s story is a beautiful testimony of pain transformed into purpose—and of a mom who continues to serve, create, and share in memory of the babies she will one day hold again. GET THE BOOK! Cradled in Hope is sold on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Target, Christianbook, and Baker Bookhouse.[www.bridgetscradles.com/book] EPISODE SHOW NOTES & FULL TRANSCRIPT:[www.bridgetscradles.com/post/episode66] • CRADLED IN HOPE PODCAST WEBSITE:Sign up here to receive email updates and hope-filled resources[www.bridgetscradles.com/podcast] • CRADLED IN HOPE FACEBOOK COMMUNITY FOR GRIEVING MOMS:[www.facebook.com/groups/cradledinhope] • FOLLOW BRIDGET'S CRADLES[www.facebook.com/bridgetscradles][www.instagram.com/bridgetscradles][www.pinterest.com/bridgetscradles] • CONNECT WITH THE HOST | ASHLEY OPLIGER[www.ashleyopliger.com][www.facebook.com/ashleyopliger][www.instagram.com/ashleyopliger] #cradledinhope #cradledinhopepodcast #bridgetscradles ★ Support this podcast ★

In this honest and powerful episode, Ashley welcomes Anne Cockrell—wife, mom, and cohost of Hannah’s Heart on American Family Radio—to share her remarkable story of faith, surrender, loss, and hope. Anne vulnerably walks us through her journey of infertility, miscarriage, foster care, adoption, and the heartbreaking loss of her baby boy, John-Micah, who lived 27 precious minutes on earth before entering eternity. With wisdom and a tender spirit, Anne shares how God met her in the moments of deepest grief—from chemical pregnancies and delayed diagnoses to a traumatic emergency C-section and saying goodbye far too soon. She also beautifully shares how God brought life and redemption through the births of her daughters, the adoption of her son, and the sacred calling of foster care. This episode is a gentle reminder that love is always worth the risk—and that Jesus is faithful to meet us in every part of our story. Whether you’re walking through infertility, pregnancy after loss, or discerning your next step in growing your family, Anne’s story will comfort and encourage your heart. In this episode, we discussed: Anne and her husband's unexpected road through infertility and lossThe heartbreak of multiple early miscarriages and the confusing grief of chemical pregnanciesTheir decision to pursue foster care and how loving children in crisis shaped their hearts and faithThe bittersweet beauty of adoption and the complex emotions that come with itThe power of surrender—Anne’s pivotal moment at the washing machine when she fully gave her motherhood journey to GodHow God surprised them with two miracle pregnancies after surrendering fertility treatments and plansThe story of Anne’s son, John-Micah, and the devastating day she delivered him via emergency C-section at 26 weeksHow it felt to hold her son after his passing, and the powerful peace of God's presence in the hospital roomWhy Anne would do it all again—just to hold her son one more timeHow God led Anne to cohost Hannah’s Heart on American Family Radio, and how the ministry now supports families walking through infertility, miscarriage, and lossThe inspiration behind the name Hannah’s Heart and what it means to offer your answered prayers back to God If you’re facing an uncertain path, longing for motherhood, or grieving a baby you never got to raise, this episode will speak directly to your heart. Through every twist and turn, God is writing a redemptive story—and He is holding both you and your baby in His love. GET THE BOOK! Cradled in Hope is sold on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Target, Christianbook, and Baker Bookhouse.[www.bridgetscradles.com/book] EPISODE SHOW NOTES & FULL TRANSCRIPT:[www.bridgetscradles.com/post/episode65] • CRADLED IN HOPE PODCAST WEBSITE:Sign up here to receive email updates and hope-filled resources[www.bridgetscradles.com/podcast] • CRADLED IN HOPE FACEBOOK COMMUNITY FOR GRIEVING MOMS:[www.facebook.com/groups/cradledinhope] • FOLLOW BRIDGET'S CRADLES[www.facebook.com/bridgetscradles][www.instagram.com/bridgetscradles][www.pinterest.com/bridgetscradles] • CONNECT WITH THE HOST | ASHLEY OPLIGER[www.ashleyopliger.com][www.facebook.com/ashleyopliger][www.instagram.com/ashleyopliger] #cradledinhope #cradledinhopepodcast #bridgetscradles ★ Support this podcast ★

Ashley welcomes longtime friends Tim and Yolanda Thomas to the Cradled in Hope podcast to share their journey through back-to-back pregnancy losses and the long road of grief, healing, and hope that followed. Tim and Yolanda share the stories of their daughters, Abundynce and Joyana, and speak candidly about what it was like to walk through compounded loss, unanswered questions, and seasons of deep darkness—both individually and as a married couple. With humility and grace, they reflect on how grief tested their faith, strained communication, and reshaped their understanding of suffering, while also drawing them into a deeper dependence on the sovereignty of God. This episode offers a rare and compassionate look at grief from both a mother’s and a father’s perspective, addressing the realities of grieving differently in marriage, navigating church hurt, and learning how to honor the lives of babies in Heaven while still allowing joy to return. In this episode, we discussed: Walking through compounded grief after back-to-back losses and the weight of unanswered questions Grieving differently as husband and wife—and learning to honor each other’s timelines How pregnancy and infant loss impact marriage, parenting, and family life Wrestling with God’s sovereignty and finding rest when answers don’t come The pain of church hurt, Christian clichés, and feeling unseen in grief Why “weeping with those who weep” matters more than fixing or explaining suffering Releasing guilt around “moving forward” and understanding that joy does not erase love or remembrance The eternal perspective: trusting that our babies are safely held in the arms of JesusWhether you are newly grieving, walking through loss as a couple, or seeking to better support someone who is suffering, this episode offers reassurance that healing is possible, that joy can return, and that God remains faithful even in the darkest seasons. GET THE BOOK! Cradled in Hope is sold on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Target, Christianbook, and Baker Bookhouse.[www.bridgetscradles.com/book] EPISODE SHOW NOTES & FULL TRANSCRIPT:[www.bridgetscradles.com/post/episode64] • CRADLED IN HOPE PODCAST WEBSITE:Sign up here to receive email updates and hope-filled resources[www.bridgetscradles.com/podcast] • CRADLED IN HOPE FACEBOOK COMMUNITY FOR GRIEVING MOMS:[www.facebook.com/groups/cradledinhope] • FOLLOW BRIDGET'S CRADLES[www.facebook.com/bridgetscradles][www.instagram.com/bridgetscradles][www.pinterest.com/bridgetscradles] • CONNECT WITH THE HOST | ASHLEY OPLIGER[www.ashleyopliger.com][www.facebook.com/ashleyopliger][www.instagram.com/ashleyopliger] #cradledinhope #cradledinhopepodcast #bridgetscradles ★ Support this podcast ★

In this profoundly powerful episode, Ashley welcomes national bestselling author and Midnight Mom Devotional founder Becky Thompson back to the podcast to talk about her newest book, Healing Rest. Together, they share an unforgettable conversation about rest for the weary, peace for the anxious, and the healing presence of Jesus for grieving hearts. What begins as an interview soon becomes a Spirit-led encounter with God’s tender presence. Becky invites listeners into the “closet” of vulnerability and surrender—the safe place where we meet Jesus, fall apart in His arms, and find the rest our souls are desperately craving. Through stories, Scripture, prayer, and Holy Spirit-led moments of pause, this episode offers more than just words—it offers sacred space to be held by the One who knows your pain and never leaves your side. Whether you are overwhelmed by grief, carrying the weight of trauma, or longing for peace in the midst of chaos, this episode is a gentle invitation to experience healing rest in the arms of Jesus. In this episode, we discussed: Becky's inspiration for writing Healing Rest and how it builds upon her previous book PeaceWhy grief reveals the world isn’t safe—and how we can still rest in the safety of Jesus’ presence The “closet moment”: where we break down, cry, surrender, and are tenderly met by the Comforter The difference between pushing through and truly surrendering what we carry What it means to be safely held, even in a broken world A Spirit-led, guided invitation to closet time with Jesus—including a real-time prayer experience Practical steps for slowing down, calming a dysregulated nervous system, and finding rest for your body, mind, and soul The importance of reading God’s Word as a place to encounter His presence, not just gain knowledge Healing from trauma and grief by asking Jesus where He was in your story The eternal perspective: what it means to be held by the same arms that cradle your baby in HeavenThis is not just an episode to listen to—it’s one to experience. A holy moment to sit still, breathe deep, and let Jesus meet you right where you are. If your heart is heavy, come and find rest. If your soul is weary, let Him hold you. You are safely held. You are deeply loved. And you are cradled in hope. GET THE BOOK! Cradled in Hope is sold on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Target, Christianbook, and Baker Bookhouse.[www.bridgetscradles.com/book] EPISODE SHOW NOTES & FULL TRANSCRIPT:[www.bridgetscradles.com/post/episode63] • CRADLED IN HOPE PODCAST WEBSITE:Sign up here to receive email updates and hope-filled resources[www.bridgetscradles.com/podcast] • CRADLED IN HOPE FACEBOOK COMMUNITY FOR GRIEVING MOMS:[www.facebook.com/groups/cradledinhope] • FOLLOW BRIDGET'S CRADLES[www.facebook.com/bridgetscradles][www.instagram.com/bridgetscradles][www.pinterest.com/bridgetscradles] • CONNECT WITH THE HOST | ASHLEY OPLIGER[www.ashleyopliger.com][www.facebook.com/ashleyopliger][www.instagram.com/ashleyopliger] #cradledinhope #cradledinhopepodcast #bridgetscradles ★ Support this podcast ★

In this final episode of the Cradled in Hope Book Club, Ashley reflects on the sacred journey of walking chapter by chapter through grief and healing alongside grieving moms from across the country. She offers heartfelt thanks to every listener who showed up, shared their tears, and let Jesus meet them in the midst of sorrow. Reading a section from the final pages of the book, Ashley compares this closing moment to a “Midwest goodbye”—the kind where no one really wants to leave. With tenderness, she reminds grieving moms that this is not goodbye, but see you later. The journey doesn't end here, and Jesus has more to show you. Ashley shares how you can continue your healing: Cradled in Hope Guided Journal – Available on Amazon or as a free download, the journal provides guided prompts, Scripture reflections, and sacred space to continue processing your grief with Jesus. YouVersion 7-Day Devotional – A short and powerful series drawn from the book to help you stay grounded in God’s Word when you need a quick dose of truth. Support Groups – Both in-person (Kansas) and virtual (Hope Online), Bridget’s Cradles offers Christ-centered community for grieving moms. Free eBooks – Practical and compassionate resources for every stage of the grief journey, from preparing to meet your baby to navigating holidays and anniversaries. Re-read the Book + Journal Together – With time, new truths will stand out. Healing is not linear, and God reveals new layers as we walk with Him. Share Hope – Gift a copy of the book to a grieving friend, hospital, or church to help others find comfort and hope in their darkest days. Keep Listening to the Podcast – With over 60 episodes and more coming in 2026 (including a powerful message from Becky Thompson on January 1), the Cradled in Hope podcast will continue walking with you in your journey. Ashley also reads several moving Amazon reviews from readers, expressing deep gratitude for how God has used the book to speak healing into broken hearts. She encourages listeners to leave a review as a way of helping more grieving moms discover this hope-filled resource. As the episode closes, Ashley reminds every mom: Your baby’s life has eternal value.Your grief is sacred to God.The hope of Heaven is sure.Jesus is holding you and your baby close. Until we are reunited, He is faithful to carry you every step of the way. GET THE BOOK! Cradled in Hope is sold on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Target, Christianbook, and Baker Bookhouse.[www.bridgetscradles.com/book] EPISODE SHOW NOTES & FULL TRANSCRIPT:[www.bridgetscradles.com/post/bookclub16] • CRADLED IN HOPE PODCAST WEBSITE:Sign up here to receive email updates and hope-filled resources[www.bridgetscradles.com/podcast] • CRADLED IN HOPE FACEBOOK COMMUNITY FOR GRIEVING MOMS:[www.facebook.com/groups/cradledinhope] • FOLLOW BRIDGET'S CRADLES[www.facebook.com/bridgetscradles][www.instagram.com/bridgetscradles][www.pinterest.com/bridgetscradles] • CONNECT WITH THE HOST | ASHLEY OPLIGER[www.ashleyopliger.com][www.facebook.com/ashleyopliger][www.instagram.com/ashleyopliger] #cradledinhope #cradledinhopepodcast #bridgetscradles ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode, Ashley walks through Chapter 14 of Cradled in Hope, “Our Future Forever: When You Long for Your Heavenly Home.” She invites grieving moms to set their eyes on eternity and live with urgency, hope, and peace in the promise that Jesus is coming back—and that we will be reunited with our babies in Heaven. Ashley shares vivid memories of the day Bridget was born and went to Heaven, and how the fleeting nature of time shaped her longing for eternity. Through Scripture and personal reflections, she explains the biblical truth of the Resurrection, why she believes it is coming soon, and how we are called to live as we wait for Jesus’ return. In this episode, Ashley shared: Why she ended the book by focusing on eternity and the return of Jesus A powerful visual using a skein of yarn to represent how brief our time on earth is compared to eternity Scriptural truths about the Resurrection, glorified bodies, and our Heavenly citizenship The comfort of knowing her daughter Bridget is already part of her eternal family Reflections on her own mortality and how the sudden loss of her dad deepened her desire to live with intention The difference between the Rapture and Second Coming, and why Ashley believes Jesus could return in our lifetime How Christians are called to “keep their lamps burning” and shine the light of Jesus as they wait A fresh perspective on the story of Lazarus and how it mirrors our hope in Jesus’ Resurrection power The word “Maranatha” and how it shaped the closing of this chapter and the entire book—He is coming soon! Ashley encourages listeners to live every day with the mindset of “one day closer,” believing that suffering has an expiration date and that joy is coming forever. No matter how heavy the grief, there is a future full of glory and reunion ahead. GET THE BOOK! Cradled in Hope is sold on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Target, Christianbook, and Baker Bookhouse.[www.bridgetscradles.com/book] EPISODE SHOW NOTES & FULL TRANSCRIPT:[www.bridgetscradles.com/post/bookclub15] • CRADLED IN HOPE PODCAST WEBSITE:Sign up here to receive email updates and hope-filled resources[www.bridgetscradles.com/podcast] • CRADLED IN HOPE FACEBOOK COMMUNITY FOR GRIEVING MOMS:[www.facebook.com/groups/cradledinhope] • FOLLOW BRIDGET'S CRADLES[www.facebook.com/bridgetscradles][www.instagram.com/bridgetscradles][www.pinterest.com/bridgetscradles] • CONNECT WITH THE HOST | ASHLEY OPLIGER[www.ashleyopliger.com][www.facebook.com/ashleyopliger][www.instagram.com/ashleyopliger] #cradledinhope #cradledinhopepodcast #bridgetscradles ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode, Ashley walks through Chapter 13 of Cradled in Hope, “With the Same Comfort: When You Want to Use Your Grief for Good.” She reflects on how God can use our heartbreak to minister to others and reminds grieving moms that purpose flows from a transformed heart—not from striving or pressure to “make meaning” out of tragedy. Ashley shares a powerful story about the day of Bridget’s funeral and how their procession unknowingly passed by the future headquarters of Bridget’s Cradles—a building not yet built, but already known to God. This moment, years later, became a testimony to His faithfulness and sovereign plan. In this episode, Ashley shared: The story of Bridget’s funeral day and the moment sunbeams broke through the clouds over the cemetery Why grief feels unbearable at first and how Ashley once told God, “Nothing good will ever come from this” How years of walking through loss, including her dad’s death, revealed that God could redeem her pain for good A reflection on 2 Corinthians 1:3–4 and how we’re called to comfort others with the same comfort we’ve received from God Why moms don’t need to strive to honor their babies—their value is inherent, and they are already honored in Heaven The distinction between serving God from love and gratitude vs. striving to earn worth or validation How Bridget’s Cradles is not just a grief project but a ministry rooted in obedience and the Great Commission Encouragement that everyone’s calling will look different—and why obedience in small acts is where impact begins How her ministry started with a single cradle in Bridget’s nursery, and grew through thousands of small, unseen yeses An explanation of the difference between purpose (which is always to serve Jesus) and calling (which is specific to each woman) Testimonies of grieving moms who’ve found unique ways to serve others and share the hope of Christ A reminder that we may never see the fruit of our obedience here on earth—but God sees every seed planted An encouragement to keep serving, keep shining, and keep running your race until the day you hear, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” Ashley reminds us that we are called to serve the one who sees us—Jesus—and to love the one in front of us, even in small ways. We don’t have to do something grand. We just have to begin. GET THE BOOK! Cradled in Hope is sold on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Target, Christianbook, and Baker Bookhouse.[www.bridgetscradles.com/book] EPISODE SHOW NOTES & FULL TRANSCRIPT:[www.bridgetscradles.com/post/bookclub14] • CRADLED IN HOPE PODCAST WEBSITE:Sign up here to receive email updates and hope-filled resources[www.bridgetscradles.com/podcast] • CRADLED IN HOPE FACEBOOK COMMUNITY FOR GRIEVING MOMS:[www.facebook.com/groups/cradledinhope] • FOLLOW BRIDGET'S CRADLES[www.facebook.com/bridgetscradles][www.instagram.com/bridgetscradles][www.pinterest.com/bridgetscradles] • CONNECT WITH THE HOST | ASHLEY OPLIGER[www.ashleyopliger.com][www.facebook.com/ashleyopliger][www.instagram.com/ashleyopliger] #cradledinhope #cradledinhopepodcast #bridgetscradles ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode, Ashley walks through Chapter 12 of Cradled in Hope, “More Than Gold: When You Allow God to Transform You,” and reflects on how her faith has been shaped through trials—even before losing Bridget. She shares how past hardships prepared her to walk through grief with Jesus and how those earlier seasons of suffering laid a foundation of trust in God's goodness. Ashley explains that transformation doesn’t mean moving on from grief—it’s about sanctification: becoming more like Christ through the pain. Rooted in 1 Peter 1:6–7, she talks about how God can use the fire of loss to refine our faith. With honesty and hope, she encourages grieving moms to surrender their broken hearts to Jesus and to consider how He might be working in them—even in the midst of deep sorrow. In this episode, Ashley shared: How suffering is often the way Jesus molds and refines us through trials The biblical meaning behind the title “More Than Gold” from 1 Peter 1:6–7 Her personal story of walking through many painful trials—including a divorce due to adultery, Bridget’s death, her son Brenner’s medical crisis, and her father’s tragic death A chart she includes in the book illustrating that in life, we are always either about to enter, in the middle of, or coming out of a trial How her questions to God have shifted over time—from “Why me?” to “What do You want to teach me through this?” Why pruning is part of the process of bearing more fruit for God’s Kingdom (John 15) How our desperation in grief leads us into deeper dependence on Jesus Scriptural promises that link suffering with future glory and purpose The urgency to live for eternity, invest in Heavenly treasure, and serve God out of gratitude—not obligationAshley gently reminds moms that God never wastes our pain. If we allow Him, He will take the ashes of grief and turn them into something more beautiful and eternal than we could ever imagine—faith that is more precious than gold. GET THE BOOK! Cradled in Hope is sold on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Target, Christianbook, and Baker Bookhouse.[www.bridgetscradles.com/book] EPISODE SHOW NOTES & FULL TRANSCRIPT:[www.bridgetscradles.com/post/bookclub13] • CRADLED IN HOPE PODCAST WEBSITE:Sign up here to receive email updates and hope-filled resources[www.bridgetscradles.com/podcast] • CRADLED IN HOPE FACEBOOK COMMUNITY FOR GRIEVING MOMS:[www.facebook.com/groups/cradledinhope] • FOLLOW BRIDGET'S CRADLES[www.facebook.com/bridgetscradles][www.instagram.com/bridgetscradles][www.pinterest.com/bridgetscradles] • CONNECT WITH THE HOST | ASHLEY OPLIGER[www.ashleyopliger.com][www.facebook.com/ashleyopliger][www.instagram.com/ashleyopliger] #cradledinhope #cradledinhopepodcast #bridgetscradles ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode, Ashley shares a deeply personal story of how grief resurfaced during her third pregnancy, years after the loss of her daughter Bridget. Centered on Chapter 11 of Cradled in Hope, “Holding Both: When You Experience Both Joy and Sorrow,” she reflects on how conflicting emotions—gratitude and grief, joy and sadness—can coexist and create confusion, guilt, and shame for grieving moms. Through honest storytelling and gentle encouragement, Ashley invites listeners to reframe “either/or” thinking into “both/and” truth. With grace, she reminds moms that it’s possible to feel immense love for one child while still mourning another, and that sorrow and joy can live side-by-side in the sacred space of a grieving mother’s heart. In this episode, Ashley shared: The emotional experience of finding out her third child was a boy, and the waves of unexpected grief that followed The phrase “holding both” and how her counselor introduced it as a healing framework for complex emotions How expectations versus reality can lead to disappointment—and how the enemy uses that gap to plant lies Real-life examples of “both/and” experiences in grief (e.g., being thankful and heartbroken, smiling while missing your baby) Why joy does not cancel out sorrow, and laughter is not a betrayal of your grief The temptation to tie grief up with a “rainbow baby” happy ending—and why only Jesus can be our redemption How rainbow babies can bring joy, but should never bear the burden of being our hope or healing Encouragement to trust God’s sovereignty even when your story doesn’t go the way you plannedAshley reminds grieving moms that time alone does not heal all wounds—but Jesus does. And though we live in the tension now, one day in Heaven, we will no longer have to hold both—because we’ll be holding our babies again. GET THE BOOK! Cradled in Hope is sold on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Target, Christianbook, and Baker Bookhouse.[www.bridgetscradles.com/book] EPISODE SHOW NOTES & FULL TRANSCRIPT:[www.bridgetscradles.com/post/bookclub12] • CRADLED IN HOPE PODCAST WEBSITE:Sign up here to receive email updates and hope-filled resources[www.bridgetscradles.com/podcast] • CRADLED IN HOPE FACEBOOK COMMUNITY FOR GRIEVING MOMS:[www.facebook.com/groups/cradledinhope] • FOLLOW BRIDGET'S CRADLES[www.facebook.com/bridgetscradles][www.instagram.com/bridgetscradles][www.pinterest.com/bridgetscradles] • CONNECT WITH THE HOST | ASHLEY OPLIGER[www.ashleyopliger.com][www.facebook.com/ashleyopliger][www.instagram.com/ashleyopliger] #cradledinhope #cradledinhopepodcast #bridgetscradles ★ Support this podcast ★