Why does the Bible sometimes feel difficult to connect with—and how can it become real and meaningful in everyday life? This week on Upstream, Joy sits down with John Thomason of Buckeye Christian Church to talk about practical ways to engage with Scripture, grow deeper in faith, and experience God’s Word in a fresh way. Whether you’ve read the Bible for years or are just getting started, this conversation will encourage you to see the Bible not as a chore, but as a living message that still speaks today.

A devotional podcast for parents on the go! Encouragement, Scripture, & prayer in just 7 minutes. Join the journey!

Why does suffering happen—and how do we keep our faith when life hurts? On this episode of Upstream, Joy sits down with Joannie DeBrito from Focus on the Family to talk about the many forms suffering can take, from grief and loss to anxiety, disappointment, and seasons of uncertainty. Together, they explore practical ways to navigate pain, how faith can shape our response in difficult moments, and why hope is still possible even when life feels overwhelming. If you or someone you love is walking through a hard season, this conversation offers encouragement, perspective, and reminders that you are not alone.

A devotional podcast for parents on the go! Encouragement, Scripture, & prayer in just 7 minutes. Join the journey!

Navigating a parent’s cancer diagnosis is one of the most difficult journeys a family can face—especially when that parent is your mom.

In this episode of the Upstream Podcast, Joy talks with Ashley Chickerella from Take Heart Cancer Community about her personal experience walking through her mom’s cancer journey. Ashley shares what it was like from diagnosis to treatment, the emotional highs and lows, and how faith, support, and community played a crucial role along the way.

To connect with a River Chaplain - https://riverradio.com/chaplains/

A devotional podcast for parents on the go! Encouragement, Scripture, & prayer in just 7 minutes. Join the journey!