The Defender Podcast

Lifeline Children's Services
  • 4.8 (110)
  • CHRISTIANITY
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

The Defender Podcast collection is a ministry of Lifeline Children's Services where we seek to equip the body of Christ to manifest the gospel to vulnerable children and families. We hope this collection will provide encouragement, inspiration, and ways to connect with others who have a heart for the orphan.

  1. Foster Care's Biggest Problem Isn't What You Think

    3D AGO

    Foster Care's Biggest Problem Isn't What You Think

    In this episode of The Table, Rick Morton is joined by Chelsea Sobolik and Emily Richards to discuss the nuanced and often messy realities of child welfare, foster care, reunification, and community engagement. They explore how relational poverty and community connections impact vulnerable children and families, emphasizing the importance of humility, creativity, and long-term thinking for the church and advocates. Key topics covered: The emotional and trauma-related complexities of reunification after foster care The gap in formalizing respite care and kinship connections at the systemic level The importance of community involvement and church engagement in supporting child welfare How relational poverty contributes to family instability and the power of positive community bonds The role of faith and the church in fostering relational healing and providing long-term support Practical ways to mobilize local communities, including micro-nurturing hope and forming intervention networks The danger of systems and policies that focus only on immediate needs versus long-term relationship building The significance of long-term, ongoing relationships and the power of small, consistent acts of kindness The ongoing tension between hope in the gospel and the brokenness of the human systems in place Encouragement for believers to embrace hard, relational work as part of living out their faith Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction: The importance of community and relational solutions in child welfare 02:21 - Challenges around formal respite care and systemic gaps 04:50 - The messiness of reunification and attachment trauma 09:02 - The power of positive interactions and community connections 15:00 - The church's role in fostering relational flourishing 20:00 - Long-term perspective in foster care and the importance of community over projects 25:00 - Handling trauma post-adoption and systemic barriers 33:00 - The significance of long obedience and faithfulness in the work of child welfare 38:00 - The church as the long-term community sustaining vulnerable families 43:00 - The importance of honesty about the brokenness and reliance on God's grace 48:00 - Inviting action: How everyday believers can make a differenceResources & Links: This episode challenges believers and child welfare advocates alike to consider how they can leverage relational work, systemic humility, and faithfulness to transform broken systems and seed long-lasting hope in their communities.

    42 min
  2. Every Child Made in God's Image: Why This Changes Everything in Adoption

    MAY 8

    Every Child Made in God's Image: Why This Changes Everything in Adoption

    Most conversations about transracial and transcultural adoption miss one vital piece: the heart of every child is made in God's image—and that's where the true starting point lies. If you’ve ever wrestled with questions about whether to adopt across cultures or felt overwhelmed by the complexity of identity and ethnicity, this episode is for you. Join host Rick Morton as he tackles the difficult, often polarizing issues surrounding international adoption, family support, family dynamics, blending personal stories, biblical truth, and expert insights. Chelsea Sobolik shares her journey growing up being adopted internationally, adopting from India herself, and her commitment to seeing every child’s worth through God's eyes. Herbie Newell reflects on the importance of loving children well amid the brokenness of our world, emphasizing that love does not mean acceptance at the expense of truth, but rather a willingness to grow, learn, and serve with humility. You'll discover practical wisdom on preparing your heart and home for trans cultural adoption, the danger of elevating cultural differences above biblical unity, and how to foster a love that respects every child's dignity. We break down the importance of understanding trauma-informed care, embracing diversity as a reflection of God's creative intent, and creating a safe, loving environment where children can thrive—including those who will never be adopted but are deeply loved by the Father. This episode matters because overlooking the complexity risks parenting out of fear or cultural distortion, rather than biblical truth. The opportunity is vast—families can reflect Christ’s love more fully when they approach adoption with humility, wisdom, and gospel-centered love. For Christian parents, mentors, or anyone caring for children, this conversation is an essential guide to navigating the tensions without losing sight of God's sovereignty and grace. Whether you’re considering adoption or simply want to better love children from every tribe and tongue, this episode offers encouragement, challenge, and hope. Pull up a seat at the table—you’ll leave with your heart and mind better equipped to love like Jesus. [00:00:07] - Welcome & Introduction to Transcultural Adoption[00:01:45] - Chelsea's Story: Adopted from Romania, Now Adopting from India[00:04:10] - International Adoption at an All-Time Low: What Changed[00:06:30] - Every Child Made in God's Image: The Biblical Starting Point[00:09:15] - Have Christians Elevated Race & Culture Too Much?[00:12:00] - The Pendulum Has Swung Too Far: Finding the Truth in the Middle[00:14:30] - Trauma-Informed Care: What Parents Didn't Have 30 Years Ago[00:17:45] - Raising Transcultural Kids: Be Approachable, Not Just Available[00:21:00] - Love Does Not Equal Acceptance: Parenting Through Hard Conversations[00:25:30] - Chelsea: Being a Christian Supersedes Every Other Part of My Story[00:30:15] - Rick's Daughter & the Moon Landing: A Transcultural Moment[00:33:45] - Parenting With the Holy Spirit: Praying for Wisdom Daily[00:36:00] - Herby's Challenge: Prepare, Stay Humble, Keep Learning

    34 min
  3. When Family Ties Conflict With a Child's Safety: What the System Gets Wrong

    MAY 1

    When Family Ties Conflict With a Child's Safety: What the System Gets Wrong

    We're glad you are joining our discussion on the hidden complexities of kinship care and discover how faith, community, and wisdom can transform the way we care for children through the foster care system. We're exploring critical aspects family support in complex situations involving kinship care including the pressures on CPS, the need for equipping kinship caregivers to care for kids from hard places. As child welfare systems evolve, so do the tensions between maintaining biological bonds and seeking the best for the child's safety and well-being. Herbie Newell, Chelsea Sobolik, and Rick Morton delve into the realities of kinship care—uncovering the heartbreaking stories of children caught in systemic challenges, while emphasizing the importance of preparation, humility, and the church’s role in restoring hope. You'll discover how courts are rethinking placement priorities, the importance of culturally sensitive parenting, and how community and faith-based solutions can fill critical gaps. We break down practical ways to support kinship families—from resource provision to advocating for policies that prioritize the child’s best interest. You'll gain insight into the moral and biblical foundations that compel us to see every child as made in God's image and to foster a church that advocates and cares across cultural and racial lines. This episode reveals why common sense, prayer, and active compassion are the most powerful tools in transforming child welfare from the inside out. Whether you're a foster parent, church leader, policymaker, or concerned citizen, this conversation challenges you to examine your role in transforming a broken system into a network of love, support, and justice. If you believe every child deserves a safe, loving family—and that the Church has a vital part to play—then this episode is a must-listen. Join us around the table as we explore the intersections of faith, policy, and compassion in fostering resilient, healthy families. Because caring for vulnerable children isn’t just a system—it’s a calling. 00:00 - Welcome & Introduction to Kinship Care02:09 - How Faith Shapes Our View of Family & Child Welfare03:30 - Defining Family: Truth, Flourishing, and Broken Systems05:08 - Why One-Size-Fits-All Policy Fails Vulnerable Children08:29 - The Preparation Gap in Kinship vs. Foster Care09:32 - How the Church Can Resource Kinship Families10:40 - Real Story: When Kinship Care Goes Wrong14:18 - Policy Perspective: Best Interest of the Child16:30 - HHS "A Home for Every Child" Initiative Explained19:29 - Why the Church Reaches Where Government Cannot21:42 - NY Appeals Court Case: Kinship Placement Rights24:46 - Foster Care vs. Kinship: A False Either/Or Choice27:51 - Closing Takeaway: Prayer as the First Response30:21 - 3 Practical Ways to Advocate for Kids in Care32:47 - Final Challenge: Open Your Eyes to Families Around You

    35 min
  4. When Protection Becomes the Problem

    APR 24

    When Protection Becomes the Problem

    Welcome back to The Table! In this second episode, Rick Morton gathers with Emily Richards and Herbie Newell to continue our vital discussions on child welfare. We explore various aspects of the child protection system and the critical role of family support in these complex situations. Join us as we dive deeper into the world of foster care and adoption.  In this episode, the group discusses the complexities of the child welfare system, the role of faith-based organizations, and the importance of community engagement. They explore the challenges faced by vulnerable children and families, the need for hope and transformation, and the church's responsibility to advocate for change. The conversation also touches on the legacy of Ben Sasse and the call to live purposefully in a chaotic world. Takeaways: The child welfare system faces significant challenges that require community engagement. Microdosing hope can make a difference in the lives of vulnerable families. The church has a vital role in advocating for children and families in need. Navigating the tension between children's rights and parental rights is crucial. Engaging with policy can help shape a better future for child welfare. Ben Sasse's legacy serves as a reminder to live purposefully and engage in public life. Every interaction with a vulnerable child is an opportunity for transformation. The church must not retreat in the face of societal challenges. Finding community and support is essential in the work of child welfare. Living with intention and purpose is vital in today's chaotic culture.

    38 min
  5. Can the Church Really Change Child Welfare? These Leaders Say Yes

    APR 20

    Can the Church Really Change Child Welfare? These Leaders Say Yes

    Child Welfare is broken worldwide. Is there hope? We say yes, and it's found right in our communities in the form of the Church of the Lord Jesus Christ In this inaugural episode of The Table, host Rick Morton (SVP of Engagement, Lifeline Children's Services) gathers three of the most respected voices in Christian child welfare for a conversation that's honest, warm, and theologically grounded.Guests: Emily Richards — Ambassador & Advisor for Show Hope (founded by Mary Beth & Steven Curtis Chapman); foster parent, adoptive sibling, and master's-level theologian Chelsea Sobolik — Child welfare policy expert, Capitol Hill veteran, adult adoptee from Romania, and adoptive mom Herbie Newell — President & CEO, Lifeline Children's Services (23 years); author and advocate for a whole-life pro-life ethic In this episode:How the Church is uniquely called to care for vulnerable children and families Why James 1:27 is more than a memory verse — it's a mandate The intersection of adoption theology and public policy What a "whole-life pro-life" ethic looks like in practice Trinitarian theology and what it means for how we engage orphan care Why community and relationship are at the core of this work — and why isolation is the enemy Whether you're a pastor, adoptive parent, foster parent, social worker, policymaker, or anyone who cares about vulnerable children — pull up a chair.🔔 Subscribe for new episodes and email podcast@lifelinechild.org with topics you want us to cover.

    35 min
  6. A Season of Change: Defender Podcast Update

    02/26/2025

    A Season of Change: Defender Podcast Update

    After eight incredible years, the Defender Podcast is taking a short sabbatical. In this episode, Herbie Newell and Dr. Rick Morton reflect on the journey so far, share exciting plans for the future, and discuss how the podcast will continue to equip and encourage the body of Christ in orphan care and adoption. Tune in to hear what’s ahead, when to expect new episodes, and how you can stay engaged during the break! 📲 Follow Lifeline: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter

    7 min
  7. Adoption & Advocacy with Kirti Pickard

    02/19/2025

    Adoption & Advocacy with Kirti Pickard

    In this episode of The Defender Podcast, we welcome Kirti Pickard—adoptee, advocate, and podcast host—who shares her powerful adoption journey and how it fuels her passion for serving vulnerable children. Adopted from India at the age of four, Kirti has a deep, firsthand understanding of the lifelong impact of adoption. She discusses the challenges adoptees face, how faith shapes her work, and the importance of churches and communities walking alongside adoptive families. Through her podcast, When I Grow Up, and her leadership of Mission 143, she is dedicated to sharing stories of God’s faithfulness and raising support for children in need. 🎧 Tune in to hear:✅ Kirti’s personal adoption story and how it shaped her faith✅ The unseen challenges adoptees often experience✅ How adoptive families can help children navigate identity and belonging✅ Practical ways churches and communities can support adoptees✅ How Mission 143 is making a tangible impact Guest: Kirti PickardKirti Pickard was born in India and adopted at the age of four, giving her a deep understanding of the profound impact of adoption. She is the host of When I Grow Up, a podcast sharing extraordinary stories of everyday people. Kirti also leads Mission 143, a fundraiser that donates 100% of its proceeds to Lifeline Children’s Services, helping to support vulnerable children and families. 🔗 Follow Kirti:Website | Instagram | Facebook Host: Dr. Rick MortonDr. Rick Morton is the Vice President of Engagement at Lifeline Children’s Services. Resources & Next Steps:💙 Support Adoption & AdvocacyAt Lifeline Children’s Services, we equip families with gospel-centered training and resources to care for vulnerable children. If you’re considering adoption or looking for ways to support adoptive families, we are here to help. 🔗 Learn more: LifelineChild.org/Adoption 🛍️ Shop & Support:Mission 143 donates 100% of its proceeds to Lifeline Children’s Services. Every purchase helps support adoption and orphan care.🔗 Shop Mission 143: Mission143Store.com 📖 About Lifeline Children’s Services:Our mission is to equip the Body of Christ to manifest the gospel to vulnerable children. Our vision is for children and communities to be transformed by the gospel and to make disciples. 📲 Follow Lifeline: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter🎙️ Listen & Subscribe to The Defender Podcast:Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Transistor📖 Join The Defender Bible Study:Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Transistor

    43 min
  8. Faith, Family, and Foster Care with Jamie Finn

    02/07/2025

    Faith, Family, and Foster Care with Jamie Finn

    🎙️In this episode of The Defender Podcast, we welcome Jamie Finn—author, nonprofit leader, and advocate for vulnerable children. As a foster and adoptive mom, she shares her journey, the biggest challenges foster families face, and how the Church can offer meaningful support. Jamie and her husband, Alan, have been foster parents for over 11 years, welcoming more than 30 children into their home while parenting seven children through birth, adoption, and foster care. She discusses how faith sustains her, the heart behind her work, and how she equips and encourages families through writing, speaking, and ministry. 🎧 Tune in to hear:✅ Jamie’s personal fostering journey & challenges✅ The biggest needs of foster families today✅ How churches can truly support foster parents✅ How faith sustains families through the highs and lows of fostering Guest: Jamie Finn Jamie is the author of Foster the Family, founder and president of Foster the Family, host of The Real Mom Podcast, and owner of Goods & Better. She is a sought-after speaker for foster and adoptive parent events and offers encouragement through her popular social media accounts. Jamie and her husband, Alan, live in New Jersey with their seven children. 🔗 Follow Jamie:Website | Instagram | Facebook Host: Dr. Rick Morton Dr. Rick Morton is the Vice President of Engagement at Lifeline Children’s Services. Resources & Next Steps:  💙 Interested in Foster Care? At Lifeline Children’s Services, we equip families with gospel-centered training to make a lasting impact in the foster care system. Whether you're considering fostering or supporting foster families, we have resources, training, and support to guide you. 🔗 Learn more: LifelineChild.org/Foster 📖 About Lifeline Children’s Services:Our mission is to equip the Body of Christ to manifest the gospel to vulnerable children. Our vision is for children and communities to be transformed by the gospel and to make disciples. Follow & Subscribe 📲 Follow Lifeline: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter 🎙️ Listen & Subscribe to The Defender Podcast:Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Transistor 📖 Join The Defender Bible Study:Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Transistor

    45 min
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4.8
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About

The Defender Podcast collection is a ministry of Lifeline Children's Services where we seek to equip the body of Christ to manifest the gospel to vulnerable children and families. We hope this collection will provide encouragement, inspiration, and ways to connect with others who have a heart for the orphan.

Information

  • Creator
    Lifeline Children's Services
  • Years Active
    2017 - 2026
  • Episodes
    574
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Lifeline Children's Services
  • Show Website
    The Defender Podcast

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