Advertise on podcast: ReStoried

Foster care doesn’t just enter a home; it enters a marriage. With Valentine’s Day approaching, this episode of Restoried opens an honest conversation about how foster care changes marriage when court dates, therapy, and survival replace date nights and quiet conversations.  Lisa is joined by her husband JJ as they reflect on eight years as licensed foster parents and over a decade supporting children and families in foster care. They share how foster care changed their marriage, from communication and emotional connection to dividing responsibilities and making decisions together.  They discuss real challenges, including exhaustion, grief, spiritual warfare, and times of being out of sync. They explore how spouses carry weight differently and how tension can arise if not addressed.  The conversation also covers practical realities, including managing responsibilities, navigating caseworker roles, and checking in regularly to avoid resentment.  At the heart of the episode is hope. Lisa and JJ share how God used the hardest seasons to strengthen their marriage. Through prayer, shared heartbreak, and choosing each other daily, their marriage grew deeper and anchored in Christ.    Episode Highlights:   Foster care impacts marriage Balancing grief and logistics Communication is key Shared hardships strengthen love Relying on God Intentional connection matters Practical tips for parents  Find More on Hope Bridge:  Visit Our Website  Follow us on Instagram Follow us on Facebook  Register for Mobilize Ohio 2026 

In this episode of Restoried, we sit down with Ryan North of One Big Happy Home for a real and encouraging conversation about foster care, adoption, connected parenting, and staying faithful in hard seasons. With more than 30 foster placements and years of lived experience, Ryan shares what he and his wife, Kayla, have learned about building strong relationships with kids impacted by trauma.  Ryan talks about why connection matters more than predictions or diagnoses, how creativity and flexibility can make a huge difference, and what it looks like to keep showing up even when things feel overwhelming. He also shares honestly about marriage, self-care, and how caregivers can support one another so they don’t burn out along the way.  This episode is full of practical wisdom, hope, and reminders to celebrate progress — even the small wins. If you’re in the thick of foster care, adoption, or kinship parenting, this conversation will encourage you to keep going and remember that the work you’re doing truly matters.  Don’t miss hearing Ryan speak in person at Mobilize Ohio 2026! Register using the link below.    Episode Highlights:   Connection over outcomes Creativity and flexibility Staying faithful long-term Marriage under pressure Celebrating small wins   Find more on Guest:  One Big Happy Home  One Big Happy Home on Social  The Empowered Parent Podcast  Follow Ryan on Instagram    Find More on Hope Bridge:  Visit Our Website  Follow us on Instagram Follow us on Facebook  Register for Mobilize Ohio 2026 

Today, we’re continuing our spiritual formation series by talking about the discipline of generosity. Jesus has so much to say about generosity in the Bible, and we’re reminded that it truly is more blessed to give than to receive.  We discuss how generosity isn’t just a spiritual concept; it also has real mental and physical benefits, backed by science.  We’re also joined by Lewis Yoder, Executive Director of the Christ Foundation, who shares how their organization lives out generosity by funding nonprofits through grants to help them make a bigger impact in their communities.  And we talk about how generosity isn’t only about money. It can look like giving your time, using your gifts, showing up for someone, or simply being kind and intentional in everyday life.  This episode is all about rethinking generosity and how it can become a natural part of how we live and love others.  Episode Highlights:   Spiritual Discipline of Generosity The Science of Giving Stewardship Faith in Action    Find More on Hope Bridge:  Pastor & Ministry Leader Brunch  Mobilize Ohio Visit Our Website  Follow us on Instagram Follow us on Facebook  Register for Mobilize Ohio 2026 

Today on Restoried, we’re joined by Kim Bezek, one of our breakout speakers for Mobilize Ohio. Kim is a children’s ministry director at a local church and a mom of five, parenting kids with a wide range of abilities, including Down syndrome and ADHD.  Kim shares honestly about what it’s like to embrace a life that doesn’t look the way you originally imagined, and how that experience connects so deeply with foster and adoptive parenting. She talks about raising kids who don’t fit the “mold” and how that journey has stretched her, shaped her perspective, and deepened her faith along the way.  We also discuss into the importance of advocating well for your kids, and learning how to extend grace while still speaking up with confidence and authority. Kim reminds us that whether you’re parenting kids with different needs or kids who’ve experienced trauma, advocacy starts with education.  This is a conversation full of honesty, encouragement, and practical wisdom. It is one you won’t want to miss!    Episode Highlights:   Meet Kim Bezek  Parenting Differently Abled Children  Releasing Control  Advocating for your children Mobilize Ohio 2026   Find more on Guest/Links mentioned in this episode:  The Adapted Way Key Ministry Raising Autistic Disciples on Instagram How to Advocate and Stay Christian Book     Find More on Hope Bridge:  Register for Mobilize Ohio 2026 Visit Our Website  Follow us on Instagram Follow us on Facebook  Register for Mobilize Ohio 2026 

This week, we’re replaying one of our favorite conversations with Trisha White Priebe, an adult adoptee, writer, and speaker, and a mainstage speaker at Mobilize Ohio 2026. As we lead up to Mobilize Ohio, this week we’re replaying a powerful conversation with one of our mainstage speakers, and next week we’ll be sharing a brand-new episode featuring another Mobilize Ohio mainstage speaker. These conversations are meant to help prepare our hearts and minds for what’s ahead and highlight the voices shaping this year’s mainstage. In this episode, Trisha joins the show to talk about something we don’t always think about: how families outside of the adoption or foster care world can help their children understand it. While many resources exist for adoptive and foster families, what about parents whose kids have classmates or friends who are adopted or in foster care? How do those families begin the conversation? Trisha shares practical, thoughtful ways to help children build empathy and engage in respectful, age-appropriate conversations about adoption and foster care. She believes every child benefits from learning how to talk about different kinds of families—and that small, intentional conversations can make a big difference. With honesty and compassion, Trisha brings her lived experience as an adoptee to the table, offering encouragement and hope to adoptees, birth families, and adoptive families alike. Her mission is simple: to help more people feel seen, supported, and understood. Episode Highlights:  Meet Trisha White PriebeFoster Care & Adoption Giving Children the Language to Talk about Adoption  Find more on Guest: Trisha’s Website Find Trisha on FacebookFind Trisha on InstagramLife Song  Find More on Hope Bridge: Register for Mobilize Ohio 2026Visit Our Website Follow us on InstagramFollow us on Facebook Register for Mobilize Ohio 2026 

On this episode, we sit down with Reuben Watson, one of the breakout speakers for Mobilize Ohio, to hear his incredible story of faith, resilience, and redemption. Reuben grew up in foster care, facing abuse and neglect, and even attempted suicide at just eight years old. Adopted as a teenager, he found hope and healing through Jesus, who carried him through every dark season and gave him a new purpose.  Today, Reuben serves as Director of Unity in Action at the Lexington Leadership Foundation, helping people of faith partner with the state to address the child welfare crisis. Drawing from his own experiences in foster care, crisis units, and mental health challenges, he’s passionate about mentoring and empowering others while sharing the hope he found in Christ.  In this episode, he shares how God turned his pain into purpose and how Jesus can bring hope and transformation even in the toughest seasons of life.    Episode Highlights:   Reuben’s Testimony  Childhood trauma Teenage adoption Faith in Jesus Healing & redemption Mentorship & outreach   Find more on Guest:  Follow Reuben on Instagram Follow Reuben on Facebook Lexington Leadership Foundation   Find More on Hope Bridge:  Register for Mobilize Ohio 2026 Visit Our Website  Follow us on Instagram Follow us on Facebook  Register for Mobilize Ohio 2026 

In our annual December end-of-year update episode, we take time to reflect on all the incredible ways God has been moving through Hope Bridge over the past year. This season has brought so much growth and blessing, like settling into our new home at the Compassion Center, launching new support groups, introducing The Bridge to help meet practical needs, and celebrating our first mom graduating from our single mom program. We’ve been able to host more gatherings and events, expand our team, and deepen our commitment to keeping Jesus at the center by incorporating intentional spiritual formation practices. As we look ahead with anticipation, we’re excited to see how God will continue to work through Hope Bridge in the coming year. Stay tuned because there is so much more ahead!    Episode Highlights:   God’s work through Hope Bridge this year New home at the Compassion Center New support groups and The Bridge First mom graduates single mom program Staff growth and spiritual formation Exciting plans for the year ahead  Find More on Hope Bridge:  Join the Bridge! Get Involved in Our Work  Subscribe to Receive Hope Bridge Newsletters Join our Prayer Network  Visit Our Website  Follow us on Instagram Follow us on Facebook Register for Mobilize Ohio 2026 

Even though it’s December, we’re jumping ahead to spring to talk about Mobilize Ohio 2026 on March 21st! In this episode, we’re talking into this year’s theme, “Surrounded,” what to expect, and how the conference has grown over the years.  We’ll revisit the very first Mobilize and the story behind Hope Bridge, then share how this year we’re focusing on foster and adoptive families. You’ll hear from Ryan and Kayla North, who speak and coach in the foster care and adoption space, and Trisha Priebe, an adoptee and advocate from LifeSong for Orphans, who brings incredible wisdom in this space!  We’ll also hear from Sandra Flach, Reuben Watson, and some of our local leaders leading breakout sessions, giving practical ways to step into the work of caring for kids and families.  The theme, Surrounded, is a powerful reminder that even when challenges feel overwhelming, we are never alone. We’re surrounded by God’s love and a community of believers ready to support kids and families in need.   Tune in to hear all about what makes this year’s Mobilize so special!  Episode Highlights:   Mobilize Ohio 2026 Who is Mobilize for?  The History  of Mobilize Ohio What to expect this year Theme: Surrounded     Find More on Hope Bridge:  Register for Mobilize Ohio 2026! Visit Our Website  Follow us on Instagram Follow us on Facebook  Register for Mobilize Ohio 2026 

In this episode, we are discussing our next spiritual formation discipline: Pruning & Simplicity.  Pruning is about cutting back so we can grow more fruitfully. It’s recognizing the areas of our lives that are chaotic or distracting and making intentional choices to remove them. As we prune, we create space for God to work in us and in those around us.  Simplicity goes hand-in-hand with pruning. It’s about streamlining our lives so we can focus on who God is and what He wants for us. It’s a reminder that busyness does not equal productivity, and that true spiritual growth often comes from removing the unnecessary.  We’ll challenge you to ask: What is God calling you to prune in your life? and explore how simplicity can lead to a deeper connection with Him.  Episode Highlights:   Spiritual Formation Pruning Simplicity  Slowing Down to the Pace of God    Find More on Hope Bridge:  Visit Our Website  Follow us on Instagram Follow us on Facebook  Join our Prayer Network! Join The Bridge  Register for Mobilize Ohio 2026 

We’re bringing back this episode because it’s the perfect one to revisit as we head into Thanksgiving and Christmas. The holidays can be really special, but they can also be a lot, especially for foster and adoptive families.  In this replay, we chat about why this season can feel extra sensitive for kids from hard places, how old memories and big feelings can pop up, and why all the schedule changes and family gatherings can make things harder than usual. We also share simple, practical ways to support your kids (and yourself!) through the chaos and emotions of the holidays.  Whether this is your first holiday season in foster care/adoption or you’ve been doing this for a while, we hope this episode gives you some encouragement, peace, and a few helpful ideas as you head into the next few weeks.  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 Register for Mobilize Ohio 2026 

November is National Adoption Month, and we’re taking some time to talk about the real, everyday side of adoption, from one adoptive mom to another.  We’re sitting down as two adoptive mamas, one a little more seasoned, one still new to the journey, to talk honestly about what life looks like after adoption. Because let’s be real… once the paperwork is done, everyone tends to assume everything’s smooth sailing. But adoption day isn’t the finish line, it’s just another chapter in a story that keeps unfolding.  We’re sharing some of the things we’ve learned along the way, the challenges that don’t always get talked about, and practical ways to find the support you need. We also get into mental health, post-adoption depression, and the importance of finding a community that truly understands.  If you’re in that post-adoption season, or walking alongside someone who is, this episode is for you.  Episode Highlights:   Post Adoption Resources  How Hope Bridge Supports Adoptive Families Support Groups Post Adoption Depression    Find More on Hope Bridge/Links Mentioned in this Episode:  Episode with Lisa Qualls on Blocked Care Get Coffee with Mel! Email Mel at [email protected] OhioKAN Website Find a Support Group  Akron’s Childrens Adoptive Health Services OhioRISE Program OCWTP Free Educational Trainings Ohio Education Training Voucher FAFSA Financial Aid for Adopted and Foster Care Students College Adoption Grant  PASSS Funding Ohio Adoption Grant Program Ohio Adoption Tax Credit   Visit Our Website  Follow us on Instagram Follow us on Facebook  Foster Our Community Instagram  Register for Mobilize Ohio 2026 

In today’s episode, we’re jumping back into our spiritual formation series and talking all about spending intentional time with God. This isn’t about following a strict formula or checking off a spiritual to-do list. It’s about genuinely connecting with Him in ways that feel natural and meaningful to you. Whether it’s through prayer, Scripture, stillness, or simply being aware of His presence during everyday moments, God delights in pouring into us and refreshing our souls. We want to become more like Christ, and being anchored in God’s presence is a key part of that journey. Tune in as we share some practical, down-to-earth tips for making time with God a more intentional and life-giving part of your day.    Episode Highlights:   Spiritual Formation  Time with God  Practical ways to be more intentional with God  Creating Habits   Find More on Hope Bridge:  Subscribe to our Prayer Newsletter The Power of Habit Book Visit Our Website  Follow us on Instagram Follow us on Facebook  Foster Our Community Instagram  Register for Mobilize Ohio 2026 

This November, in honor of Adoption Awareness Month, we’re sharing real stories on the Restoried Podcast about foster care and adoption. Adoption isn’t just paperwork. It’s a journey of faith, trust, and transformation. In this episode, some of our Hope Bridge staff share their own adoption experiences, showing both the challenges they’ve faced and the incredible joys that have shaped their families.  Through honest conversation and reflection, you’ll hear what it really means to trust God’s plan and step into the calling He has for your life. These stories aren’t about logistics. They’re about God’s heart, His love for every child, and the beautiful ways He brings families together.  Whether you’re a foster or adoptive parent, thinking about saying “yes” to this calling, or just want to understand the heart behind this ministry, this episode will inspire you to see the world, and children, through God’s eyes. It’s a reminder that while the journey has its challenges, it’s also full of joy, hope, and life-changing moments.    Episode Highlights:   Adoption Awareness Month  Sharing our adoption stories  Adoption vs. Fostering to Adopt  Community Involvement    Find More on Hope Bridge:  Connect with a staff member! Get Involved  Visit Our Website  Follow us on Instagram Follow us on Facebook  Foster Our Community Instagram  Register for Mobilize Ohio 2026 

We’re wrapping up our Aged-Out Youth Series with an important and practical conversation about how you can make a difference. In this episode, we’re sharing tangible ways to step in and support aged-out youth—one of the most vulnerable demographics in our community.  You’ll learn:  Practical steps for getting involved with Hope Bridge How to use your time, talents, and treasures to make an impact Simple, meaningful ways to support aged-out youth right where you are Join us as we close out this series with hope, action, and opportunities to be part of the story God is writing through Hope Bridge.    Episode Highlights:   Wrapping Up our AOY Series Practical Ways You Can Step in and Help Today  Join the Prayer Network Join the Bridge Volunteers/Mentors    Find More on Hope Bridge:  Join our Prayer Network  Volunteer Application Join The Bridge  Visit Our Website  Follow us on Instagram Follow us on Facebook  Foster Our Community Instagram  Register for Mobilize Ohio 2026 

This October, for our series highlighting former foster youth, we’re talking with Ariana Rodriguez, Miss Kentucky and an incredible advocate for foster youth.  Ariana grew up bouncing between kinship placements and foster homes. After aging out of the system, she even experienced homelessness, living out of her car. Looking for ways to pay for college, she entered the pageant world, and everything changed. She became the first former foster youth to win the title of Miss Kentucky and went on to place in the Top 11 at Miss America.  Now, Ariana uses her platform to lift up other foster youth. She hosts The Lucky Ones podcast, where she shares stories from foster alumni and highlights the challenges of the foster care system. She also started The Lucky Ones nonprofit to provide resources and support for foster youth, helping them thrive and feel seen.  Tune in to hear Ariana’s story of resilience, hope, and how she’s making a difference for the next generation of foster youth.  Episode Highlights:   Meet Ariana Rodriguez  Miss Kentucky  Former Foster Youth  The Lucky Ones Podcast & Non-Profit  Advocating for FFY     Find more on Guest:  The Lucky One | Miss Kentucky 2025 Ariana Rodriguez The Lucky One Non-Profit Find Ariana on Instagram   Find Ariana on Facebook The Lucky Ones Podcast    Find More on Hope Bridge:  Elev8:28 Support Group Visit Our Website  Follow us on Instagram Follow us on Facebook  Foster Our Community Instagram  Register for Mobilize Ohio 2026