As the new school year begins, many parents feel overwhelmed by changes and new routines. In this episode of The Defender Podcast, we welcome Lynne Jackson, co-founder of Connected Families and a seasoned pediatric occupational therapist with over 25 years of experience. Lynne shares how the Connected Families Framework can help parents navigate the back-to-school transition more effectively. We explore common challenges parents may face, such as academic stress and social anxieties, and discuss trauma-sensitive approaches for families with children who have experienced trauma or have insecure attachments. Lynne also offers practical advice for being more intentional in parenting and explains how parent coaching can assist families in managing the complexities of the school year.

GUEST

Lynne Jackson​ has over 25 years of experience as a pediatric occupational therapist. As a speaker, certified life coach, podcaster, and author, Lynne has helped thousands of parents learn to be peaceful, purposeful, and confident. In 2002, she and her husband, Jim founded Connected Families, a ministry that helps parents learn to embody God’s grace in the midst of family life.

HOST

Dr. Rick Morton is the Vice President of Engagement at Lifeline Children's Services.

Parent Coaching

Are you facing parenting challenges and looking for effective strategies to create positive change?

Lifeline’s Parent Coaching program offers personalized, relationship-focused guidance for any family, whether you're an adoptive, foster, or biological parent. Our sessions, based on Trust-Based Relational Intervention and the Connected Families framework, provide proven tools to help strengthen your connection with your child. Sessions are 45 to 60 minutes long and can be conducted via telehealth. To learn more and schedule your first session today visit our LifelineChild.org/coaching.

LIFELINE CHILDREN'S SERVICES

The mission of Lifeline Children’s Services is to equip the Body of Christ to manifest the gospel to vulnerable children. Our vision is for vulnerable children and their communities to be transformed by the gospel and to make disciples.

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In this episode of The Defender Podcast, we welcome Sandra Flach, a devoted mom of eight, including five adopted children—one through kinship and four internationally. With over 30 years of parenting experience, Sandra shares her journey of raising children with trauma histories, particularly her two youngest who have Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD). As the co-founder of Justice For Orphans and host of the Adoption & Foster Care Journey podcast, Sandra offers valuable insights into the challenges of FASD, the importance of awareness, and practical strategies for parents and caregivers. Tune in to hear Sandra's story of faith, resilience, and her mission to support vulnerable children and families.

GUEST
Sandra Flach is a mom of eight, with five adopted children—one through kinship and four internationally. With over 30 years of parenting experience, she understands the challenges of raising children with trauma histories, especially her two youngest who have Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD).

In 2011, Sandra co-founded Justice For Orphans, a nonprofit ministry supporting orphans and foster children. She hosts the Adoption & Foster Care Journey podcast, offering encouragement and insights to foster and adoptive parents.

Her book, Orphans No More—A Journey Back to the Father, shares her family's story and her spiritual journey as an adoptive parent. Sandra lives in upstate New York with her husband, Wayne, where they continue to parent their teenage sons and enjoy time with their grandchildren.

HOST

Dr. Rick Morton is the Vice President of Engagement at Lifeline Children's Services.

LIFELINE CHILDREN'S SERVICES

The mission of Lifeline Children’s Services is to equip the Body of Christ to manifest the gospel to vulnerable children. Our vision is for vulnerable children and their communities to be transformed by the gospel and to make disciples.

FOLLOW US

Facebook, Instagram, Twitter

The Defender Podcast: Subscribe on iTunes | Transistor | Spotify

The Defender Bible Study: Subscribe on iTunes | Transistor | Spotify

Join us on this episode of The Defender Podcast as we dive into Lifeline Children Services' annual event, the R(un) for One. Host Rick Morton is joined by special guests Heather Olivett and Donte' Hardy from The Ōnin Group, a longtime partner in this impactful event. They share the story behind Onin’s involvement and commitment to raising awareness and support for global orphan care. Whether you're running in Birmingham or joining virtually from anywhere in the world, the R(un) for One is an opportunity to unite and make a difference in the lives of vulnerable children. Learn more about how you can participate, the spirit of the event, and the powerful community partnerships that make it all possible.

GUESTS

Heather Olivet is a devoted wife and mother to five amazing children, ranging in age from 16 to 27, and a proud mother-in-law to one wonderful daughter-in-law. She serves as the Executive Assistant to the CEO and a partner at The Ōnin Group, which she considers the best company in Alabama. In her free time, Heather is an avid traveler, often exploring the world and following her favorite band on tour.

Donte’ Hardy is a man of faith, a proud husband, and a father. He balances multiple roles in life, including being a mentor, business owner, and serving Ōninites and their families as the Manager of Total Rewards at The Ōnin Group. A passionate sports fan, Donte' supports Alabama’s Crimson Tide, Dallas Cowboys and Troy Trojans. He has been married for almost eight years to his wife Erika, a fellow former collegiate athlete, coach, and educator. Together, they have a vibrant 6-year-old daughter, Brooklynn. Through life's ups and downs, Donte' remains committed to growth and learning, always seeking to inspire others while embracing new ways to thrive and lead.

HOST

Dr. Rick Morton is the Vice President of Engagement at Lifeline Children's Services.

R(UN) FOR ONE

Join us on Saturday, September 7th for the R(un) for One 5K, whether you're in Birmingham or anywhere else. By participating, you'll be supporting vulnerable children around the world, ensuring they receive the love, care, and education they deserve through Lifeline's (un)adopted® ministry.

Can't make it to Birmingham? No worries! Sign up for our virtual run, and we'll send you a race t-shirt by mail. Gather your friends and family to run in your local park, neighborhood, or even at your church. Run where you are and be part of this incredible cause!

LIFELINE CHILDREN'S SERVICES

The mission of Lifeline Children’s Services is to equip the Body of Christ to manifest the gospel to vulnerable children. Our vision is for vulnerable children and their communities to be transformed by the gospel and to make disciples.

FOLLOW US

Facebook, Instagram, Twitter

The Defender Podcast: Subscribe on iTunes | Transistor | Spotify

The Defender Bible Study: Subscribe on iTunes | Transistor | Spotify