We can’t believe it; this is the 100th episode of the Restoried podcast! To celebrate, we’re switching things up with another “hot seat” episode, where we put each other on the spot with some of the most hilarious, outrageous, and unexpected questions yet. This episode is lighthearted, full of laughs, and the perfect chance to really get to know the people behind the mic. We’re beyond grateful for YOU, our listeners, who have walked with us through 100 episodes of stories, hope, a...
Every July, our team takes a step back to look at where we’ve been and where we’re headed. This year, that meeting didn’t quite go the way we expected. We realized something important; our growth and referrals were outpacing what our staff could realistically handle. That made us stop and ask: How can we invite more people to come alongside us in this work. That’s where The Bridge comes in. It’s a new software we’re launching that makes it super simple to get connected. Think ...
In this Spiritual Formation episode, we’re talking about how technology shapes our daily lives and what it looks like to set some healthy boundaries around it. With phones, TVs, and social media always at our fingertips, it’s so easy to get distracted and miss out on the moments that really matter. This month, we challenged ourselves to try a few simple shifts, like no phones at the table, not scrolling before spending time with God or right before bed, and setting time limits on apps. ...
In this episode, we’re talking with Kim Meeder: author, speaker, and co-founder of Crystal Peaks Youth Ranch in Bend, Oregon. Kim’s story is full of redemption and purpose. After walking through her own childhood trauma, she created a space where broken kids and rescued horses could heal together. At Crystal Peaks, every session is one-on-one: one child, one horse, one leader. It’s completely free for kids ages 6–18 and tailored to meet each child right where they are; whether that’s th...
We’re back with another episode in our Spiritual Formation series, and this time we’re exploring the quiet, but powerful, practice of solitude. In a culture that celebrates busyness and constant activity, solitude can feel counter-cultural, even uncomfortable. But solitude isn’t simply about stepping away from noise or slowing down our schedules. It’s about intentionally stepping toward God, making space to be fully present with Him. In this episode, we talk about what it means to...
In today’s episode, we’re talking about how foster care has impacted our families: the hard parts and the really good ones. Foster care is mission work, and like anything meaningful, it comes with its share of challenges and rewards. If you’re curious about foster care or are already in it and looking for people who truly understand, this conversation is for you. We share how this journey has stretched us, grown our faith, and pushed us to rely on God more than ever. It’s been refining in all...
This week, we’re talking with Sandra Flach, mom of 8 (5 through adoption), advocate for foster and adoptive families, and someone who knows firsthand what it’s like to parent kids with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD). Two of Sandra’s children are diagnosed with FASD, and she’s passionate about helping other parents understand and navigate this journey. Sandra shares her own parenting story, why so many kids are misdiagnosed, and the surprising fact that 1 in 20 school-aged children are...
Today, we're wrapping up our July Replay Series with an episode that continues to inspire and uplift. We're thrilled to revisit our conversation with Jamie Finn—bestselling author, founder and President of Foster the Family, host of the Real Mom podcast, and owner of Goods and Better. Jamie is a trusted voice in the foster and adoptive community, known for her authenticity, wisdom, and heart. As a mom of seven through foster care, adoption, and birth, Jamie shares both personal stories and pr...
This July, we’re revisiting some of the most powerful and moving episodes of The ReStoried Podcast in our Replay Series. These stories have left a lasting impact—and we believe they’re worth hearing again. In this replay episode, we revisit the unforgettable story of Stacey, a devoted foster and adoptive mom, and Asia, a courageous biological mom whose journey through addiction and mental health struggles led to her losing custody of her children. Stacey’s path crossed with Asia’s when she be...
This episode is part of our special July Replay Series, where we're revisiting some of our most meaningful and impactful conversations. In this episode, we dive into the crucial role foster families play in the reunification process. Our discussion aims to encourage foster families to embrace their part in the team effort required for successful reunification. We'll provide an overview of foster care, emphasizing why reunification is the primary goal despite common misconceptions. Ma...
We’re bringing back this episode because it’s especially fitting for summer. Maybe this season has felt heavy—hard to juggle new rhythms, tiring for your biological family, or filled with questions about whether foster care is still good for your home. This conversation is a timely reminder: foster care can be good for your family. It’s not about dragging them through it, but leading them well—anchored in purpose and grace. What is the difference between dragging your biological family thro...
We’re continuing our Spiritual Formation Series here at Hope Bridge, and this month, we focused on an especially timely theme: Experiencing God’s gift in nature. Whether it’s a walk in the woods, sitting on your porch, or just paying attention to the sky—it all counts. Nature has a way of slowing us down and pointing us back to our Creator. And guess what? Science backs it up. Spending time outside is good for our spiritual, mental, and emotional health—it’s not just a nice idea, it’s truly l...
At Hope Bridge, two of our biggest priorities are supporting single moms and engaging the local church. But bringing those two things together isn’t always simple. In this episode, we’re discussing a sensitive but important topic: church hurt—specifically, how it affects single moms. This conversation is not meant to overgeneralize or place blame. We are incredibly grateful for the many churches we partner with that do amazing work to support families. At the same time, we also want t...
In this episode, we’re focusing on the heart behind our Single Moms Program at Hope Bridge. If you’re a single mom, we want you to hear this clearly: you are not failing, and you are not alone. There’s a whole community of women who want to walk alongside you, encourage you, and support you through whatever season you’re in. We talk about the support groups, resources, and connection opportunities available to help you feel seen, strengthened, and surrounded. And if you’re not a single mom ...
On today’s episode, we’re joined by Carly Souza, the director of Fostering Hope in Las Vegas. Fostering Hope is an organization that supports foster families, children in foster care, and biological parents by creating pathways for reconciliation and full restoration. Fostering Hope builds care communities and offers support groups that surround and uplift those impacted by foster care—meeting practical needs while fostering lasting relationships. She also opens up about her and her husband...
We’re back with another episode in our Spiritual Formation series, and today we’re focusing on the practice of scripture memory. This conversation is all about what it means to tuck God’s Word into our hearts—setting our minds on truth and learning to depend on Him in our everyday lives. We talk about the many benefits of memorizing scripture, including how it strengthens our faith, renews our minds, and anchors us in God’s promises. Whether you’re brand new to this practice or lookin...
In this episode, Trisha White Priebe—an adult adoptee, writer, and speaker—joins the show to talk about something we don’t always think about: how families who aren’t part of the adoption or foster care world can still help their kids understand it. There are plenty of resources out there for adoptive families, but what about the parents whose kids have classmates or friends who are adopted or in foster care? How do those families start the conversation? Trisha shares practical, thoughtful wa...
In this episode of The ReStoried Podcast, we sit down with Vince Smith, former foster parent and director of Keystone Family Alliance, an organization committed to educating, motivating, and equipping churches across Pennsylvania to care for vulnerable children both locally and globally. Vince shares his journey as a foster parent to 35 children and the heart behind his work with Keystone Family Alliance. He opens up about the alarming needs in the child welfare system and how the church can—...
In honor of Foster Care Awareness Month, we're sharing a replay of a powerful and important conversation with Brannon Marshall and Judy McClintock as they share practical ways to empower churches to support foster families. In this episode, we're joined by Brannon Marshall, the pastor of North Canton Chapel, and Judy, the director of family life. Their perspectives provide valuable insights into the churches' role in supporting foster families. Brannon’s deep involvement in our community offe...
May is Foster Care Month, and we're kicking it off with an incredible conversation with Billie Jo Muckley. Billie Jo has been a foster mom for over 21 years. In this episode, she shares the heart behind her long journey in foster care and how her faith in God gives her the strength to keep going, even when things get hard. Billie Jo also opens up about how she and her husband stay strong as a couple while navigating the challenges of foster parenting. She reminds us that foster care is someth...