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

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

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 melanie@hopebridgeohio.org
• 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