November is National Adoption Month, a time to shine a light on the critical need for adoptive families and to celebrate those who have welcomed children into their homes.

In this episode, we share our personal journeys, having both adopted three children from foster care and discuss the unique challenges adoptive families often face.

We also dive into important resources and tips for families navigating life after adoption, focusing on building strong, supportive environments. Join us as we bring awareness to the needs of the adoption community and offer practical insights to help families thrive post-adoption.

Save the Date! We’re excited to announce the Mobilize Ohio Conference, happening on March 15th! This event is for foster, adoptive, and kinship families, as well as advocates, and centers around the theme of "Belonging." With impactful breakout sessions and incredible speakers, this conference is designed to equip and inspire.

Tune in to learn more, celebrate the families making a difference, and mark your calendars for an event you won’t want to miss!

Episode Highlights:

• National Adoption Month
• The Need for More Support for Adoptive Families
• The Challenges Adoptive Families Face
• Post Adoptive Resources
• Save the Date for the Mobilize OH Conference on March 15th!

Find More on Hope Bridge:

• Get Connected to a Support Group
• Get Connected by Filling out a Family Registration Form
• Visit Our Website
• Follow us on Instagram
• Follow us on Facebook
• Foster Our Community Instagram

This show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.

In this episode, we dive into the unique challenges the holiday season brings for foster and adoptive families.

For children from hard places, the holidays can be an especially sensitive time, filled with triggers and memories that may bring up grief or trauma. We discuss practical tips for navigating this season with empathy and care, including strategies for managing routines that often go awry and the added emotional toll that holiday gatherings can bring.

Join us as we explore ways to support our kids—and ourselves—during this special yet complex time of year.

Episode Highlights:

• What’s Your Favorite Christmas Carol?
• Navigating Relationships with Bio Parents During the Holidays
• Setting Boundaries During the Holidays
• Trauma & Triggers
• Navigating Tough Conversations

Find More on Hope Bridge:

• Visit Our Website
• Follow us on Instagram
• Follow us on Facebook
• Foster Our Community Instagram

This show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.

In this episode, we are joined by Johnna Stein, Vice President of Training at Promise686. As affiliates of Promise686 here at Hope Bridge, we share a common mission to support vulnerable children and families. Promise686’s vision is rooted in God’s promise "to set the lonely in families," and they are dedicated to mobilizing church communities to care for children in need.

In addition to her role at Promise686, Johnna is the author of Untangling Hope, a contemporary Middle-Grade novel that offers an honest, grace-filled portrayal of foster care. This coming-of-age story captures the themes of loss, resilience, and healing, bringing awareness to the foster care experience in a relatable way for younger readers.

Tune in to learn more about the vital work being done by Promise686 and Johnna’s inspiring journey in advocating for children and families.

Episode Highlights:

• Johnna’s Background Story
• Promise 686
• Johnna’s Book - Untangling Hope

Find more on Guest:

• Learn more about Johnna
• Promise 686
• Johnna’s Book- Untangling Hope

Find More on Hope Bridge:

• Visit Our Website
• Follow us on Instagram
• Follow us on Facebook
• Foster Our Community Instagram

This show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.