On today's episode of the Defender Podcast, Rick Morton sits down with Ann Maura Hinton, Director of Bridge Educational Services, to discuss how families can move from frustration to hope when it comes to their children's learning challenges. Ann Maura shares insights from her years of experience in education and cognitive development therapy, providing practical steps for parents who may feel stuck in the complexities of navigating their children's academic and emotional growth. Together, they explore the impact of trauma on learning and how Bridge Educational Services is supporting kids to reach their full potential. Tune in to discover how families can find hope in the midst of challenging situations.

GUEST

Ann Maura serves as the Director of Bridge Educational Services at Lifeline Children's Services, joining the team in August 2017. With over 25 years of teaching experience across diverse settings and disabilities, she is dedicated to facilitating positive outcomes for families in need. Certified as a Cognitive Developmental Therapist, Ann Maura holds both a master's and undergraduate degree in Special Education from the University of Tennessee. Her passion for learning drives her constant exploration of innovative approaches to support individuals facing challenges, striving to bridge the gap from frustration to hope. Residing in Madisonville, TN, Ann Maura is a devoted wife and mother of three, cherishing quality time spent with her family.

HOST

Herbie Newell is the President & Executive Director of Lifeline Children’s Services and its ministry arms.

CO-HOST

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

BRIDGE EDUCATIONAL SERVICES

Bridge Educational Services is a program at Lifeline that supports kids from hard places who are struggling in school—whether they’re in public, private, or homeschool settings.

Bridge offers one-on-one tutoring, educational therapy, and consulting to help kids reach their full potential, not just academically but emotionally and cognitively too. If you want to learn more, head over to LifelineChild.org/Bridge.

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 special episode of The Defender Podcast, host Herbie Newell and Dr. Rick Morton are joined by Pastor Chris Johnson, Lifeline’s Senior Director of Church Partnerships and External Advocacy. Pastor Chris shares the inspiring story behind Orphan Sunday, a movement that started in Zambia and has become a global call for the church to care for orphans and vulnerable children. Discover how your church can engage in this important cause, using resources and tools from Lifeline Children’s Services, and learn why caring for the vulnerable is not just a one-day event but an essential part of our discipleship journey.

GUEST

Chris joined Lifeline in March 2020 as the Sr. Director of Church Partnerships & External Advocacy. With 24 years as a pastor and experience as the Executive Director of the Kentucky Governor’s Office of Faith and Community-Based Initiatives, Chris has spoken widely about caring for vulnerable children and families. He holds a B.A. in Church Ministries from Trinity Baptist College and an M.Ed. in Educational Leadership from Regent University. Chris and his wife, Alicia, have 10 children (7 adopted) and 6 grandchildren, and have fostered over 40 children. He enjoys family time, reading, and cheering on the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets.

HOST

Herbie Newell is the President & Executive Director of Lifeline Children’s Services and its ministry arms.

CO-HOST

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

Orphan Sunday

Orphan Sunday is a powerful opportunity for your church to raise awareness and take action on behalf of the fatherless. Lifeline Children’s Services is here to help you speak up for the voiceless, providing everything you need to equip your church. From videos and slides to prayer cards, sermon guides, and small group materials, Lifeline’s resource page is packed with tools to help your congregation respond to the plight of the 140 million orphaned and vulnerable children around the world.

We invite you to partner with us this Orphan Sunday. And if you'd like a speaker to share this message at your church, Lifeline’s leaders—including Herbie Newell, Chris Johnson, and Dr. Rick Morton —are available to inspire your congregation to defend the vulnerable and respond to God’s call.

Visit LifelineChild.org/orphan to access these resources and learn more about how you can get involved.

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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The Defender Podcast: Subscribe on iTunes | Transistor | Spotify

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In this episode of The Defender Podcast, Dr. Rick Morton and Angela Mains, Lifeline's Director of Clinical Services, dive into the complex issue of bullying. With the school year underway, families are facing challenges as their children navigate difficult social interactions. Angela and Rick clarify what truly constitutes bullying, distinguishing it from normal peer conflict. They explore how bullying has evolved with social media, the subtle power imbalances, and its lasting impact, especially on vulnerable children. Parents will gain insight into addressing bullying, fostering resilience, and building healthy relationships for their children.

GUEST

Angela Mains, MA, LPC-S, TBRI® Practitioner, and Registered Play Therapist, joined Lifeline in December 2012. She holds degrees in Psychology from Anderson University and Licensed Professional Counseling from Liberty University, with a Play Therapy certificate from Capella University. Specializing in attachment and trauma, Angela works with children, adolescents, and adults on issues like anxiety, grief, depression, and parenting support. She is certified in Theraplay®, TF-CBT, TBRI®, and EMDR, and also serves as a Prepare/Enrich Facilitator and Theraplay® Trainer. Angela trained in Corrective Attachment Therapy under Dr. Terry Levy.

HOST

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

Bringing Gospel Hope to Vulnerable Children through Family Support

Lifeline's Education & Counseling Team is here to help adoptive, foster, and other families nurture, heal, and grow. We offer counseling, parent coaching, and educational support to empower families through every stage—from placement to permanency. With a biblical worldview and cutting-edge techniques, we are committed to providing lifelong support to strengthen families and help children flourish.

Key Services:

1. Specialized counseling for adoption and foster care
2. Parent coaching to apply therapeutic parenting principles
3. Online educational courses for family support

Learn more about how we can serve you and your child today!

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

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In this heartfelt episode of The Defender Podcast, host Dr. Rick Morton sits down with his longtime friend, Dr. Casey Williams, pastor of North Trenholm Baptist Church in Columbia, South Carolina. Together, they recount Casey’s incredible adoption journey, from initial financial concerns to stepping out in faith for international adoption. Casey shares how a challenge from a friend pushed him to trust God for a bigger plan — one that led his family to Ukraine. Through twists and turns, moments of doubt, and the unexpected joys of parenthood, Casey’s story highlights the refining power of trials, the importance of community, and the faithfulness of God in the adoption process. Tune in to hear a powerful testament of God’s providence and the unbreakable bond formed through adoption.

GUEST: In June of 2017, Casey Williams began serving as the Senior Pastor of North Trenholm Baptist Church. Casey is passionate about boldly and faithfully preaching The Word of God, equipping believers to make disciples, and empowering the Church to engage the world through Gospel missions. Casey has been married to Kate since 2005, and they are blessed with four amazing kids: Ayla, Chandler, Caden, and Bear. The Williams Family are devoted advocates for orphan care and consistently open their home to foster unaccompanied children, demonstrating their commitment to their faith through everyday life. Casey has earned a bachelor’s in religion from William Carey College, a Master of Divinity from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary, and a Doctorate in Intercultural Studies from Western Seminary.

HOST

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

RESOURCE

As we discuss the journey of adoption today, it’s important to highlight Lifeline’s International Adoption program. We’ve witnessed the incredible impact of bringing vulnerable children into loving families. Currently, there are more than 153 million children worldwide longing for a family and the support they need to thrive.

At Lifeline, we view adoption as a faith journey, and just like our guest today did, it’s about listening to God’s call. We’re committed to walking alongside families, from initial prayers and informational meetings to ongoing support after the adoption is complete. If you feel inspired to explore international adoption or want to learn more, I encourage you to visit us at LifelineChild.org/adoption.

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

In today's episode of The Defender Podcast, Herbie Newell is joined by Karla Thrasher, Lifeline's Senior Director of International Adoption, to discuss a devastating announcement from the People's Republic of China regarding the suspension of intercountry adoptions. Together, they explore the profound impact this news has on hundreds of waiting children and families, some of whom have been in the process for over five years. Herbie and Karla reflect on the heartbreak for families who have built relationships with these children, and the advocacy efforts Lifeline is undertaking in response. This episode sheds light on the complexities and challenges of international adoption, offering insights into how the adoption community can continue to fight for vulnerable children in the midst of such difficult circumstances.

GUEST: Karla Thrasher is a graduate of the University of Alabama at Birmingham and a licensed social worker. She is also a TBRI® Practitioner, certified by the TCU Karen Purvis Institute of Child Development. Karla has been on staff at Lifeline since 2001 and currently serves as the Director of International Adoption. In her role, Karla is privileged to manage the day to day of Lifeline’s International Department and provide leadership to the international team. She coordinates with other Lifeline departments and outside ministry partners to better serve waiting children and families. Some of the specific focuses in Karla’s role at Lifeline are government compliance, customer service and quality assurance. She considers it a great honor to share the gospel through the gift of adoption! Karla lives in Birmingham, AL with her husband Jamie. They have three adult children. Karla’s family are her biggest cheerleaders in her ministry at Lifeline.

HOST

Herbie Newell is the President & Executive Director of Lifeline Children’s Services and its ministry arms.

INTERNATIONAL ADOPTION

The global orphan crisis impacts over 140 million vulnerable children, many of whom lack a family or safe home. While adoption is one way God brings children into forever families, less than 0.5% of these children will ever be adopted. Lifeline has served nearly 4,000 families and placed over 3,000 children through international adoption. With partnerships in 18 countries, we support families every step of the way—from discerning God’s call to post-adoption resources.

If you feel called to learn more or start your adoption journey, we invite you to apply today or contact our team to explore how you can make a difference.

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

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.

FOLLOW US

Facebook, Instagram, Twitter

The Defender Podcast: Subscribe on iTunes | Transistor | Spotify

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

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