Family Is The Answer

Colen was a teenager when she was adopted from the Philippines and began her new life in the United States. In this episode, she shares her story of adjusting to a completely new environment and how the people around her helped her find her place. Through every season, her faith in God has remained a big part of her journey as He continues to set her free.Host: Karissa ValdesGuest: Colen Truelove Video Editor: Riego TamanioStudio Partner: Sage Studios Manila

God can break generational trauma and cycles when someone says yes.

In this episode, we learn about the different struggles and experiences of women in crisis and what someone’s “YES” can do to create a generational impact in a family’s life. 

Host: Karissa Valdes

Guest: Hannah Heil

Video Editor: Riego Tamanio

Studio Partner: Sage Studios Manila

In this episode, Shivani Schulz shares her story of being abandoned as a child, being welcomed home, and walking through healing and redemption. Her life is a testament of how adoption ushers in redemption for vulnerable children.

Follow Shivani Schulz on social media: @shiv_schulz

Guest: Shivani Schulz

Host & Producer: Karissa Valdes

Video Editor: Riego Tamanio

Studio Partner: Sage Studios Manila

On this episode, we get up close and personal as we hear from our partners at Day One. Learn the heart of their ministry and the mission behind our collaboration.Host: Jasmine BuenGuests: Austin and Hannah HeilProducer: Karissa ValdesVideo Editor: Riego TamanioStudio Partner: Sage Studios Manila

On this episode of the Family is the Answer podcast, we learn more about The Send, a movement that “exists to gather and mobilize a generation into their missional calling.” This year, on June 12, 2026 it is taking place right here in Manila, Philippines.

We believe now is the time to rise up in unity and be sent to make a generational impact in every mission field God sends us to. This year, we are expectant to see a great revival in our nation. It’s time for the Philippines. Will you respond?

Register NOW! https://events-form.thesend.ph/.../ticket.../thesend2026

Host: Chrina HensonGuests: Austin Heil and Jam BuenProducer: Karissa ValdesVideo Editor: Riego TamanioStudio Partner: Sage Studios Manila

For this special episode on the Family is the Answer podcast, Alex Mendelson shares his unique journey of accepting the reality of being adopted, his history, his journey with his adoptive parents, and both the struggles and breakthroughs he encountered to rediscover who he truly is. 

Host/s: Karissa Valdes and Jonathan Henson

Guest: Alex Mendelson

Producer: Karissa Valdes

Video Editor: Riego Tamanio

Studio Partner: Sage Studios Manila

This Women’s Month we hear from a single woman’s adoption journey, what led her to choosing adoption and what it has been like being an adoptive mom.

Being a single adoptive mom or dad is not the most common choice, but it is a uniquely meaningful choice many make. 

Host: Chrina Henson

Guest: Esther Suson

Producer: Karissa Valdes

Video Editor: Riego Tamanio

Studio Partner: Sage Studios Manila

On this episode, our advocacy team shares real stories of how advocacy can change culture and lives. Advocacy plays an important role in preventing orphanhood and contributing to ending the orphan crisis.

Host: Karissa Valdes

Guests: Tina Templa, Esther Suson, and Jasmine Buen

Producer: Karissa Valdes

Editor: Riego Tamanio

As we welcome 2026, we remember all the breakthroughs and milestones that we as a community witnessed in 2025! On this episode, we share twelve gifts we received this past year. We witnessed so many things happen but these are a few highlights we wanted to celebrate with all of you.

Hosts: Chrina Henson and Jasmine Buen

Producer: Karissa Valdes

Editor: Riego Tamanio

November is World Adoption Month!

On this episode, we learn the significant role of the church in responding to the orphan crisis. When the church rises up for generations, we can make meaningful and lasting impact.

Hosts: Karissa Valdes

Guests: Chrina Henson, Jasmine Buen

Producer: Karissa Valdes

Editor: Riego Tamanio

Studio Partner: Sage Studios Manila