Ignite Podcast

Foster care and adoption are beautiful callings—but they're also marked by heartbreak, hope, and holy surrender. In this deeply moving conversation, Elly Marroquin sits down with Dr. Allen & Rhonda Tennison to talk about what it truly means to love children for a season and trust God for their future.

Dr. Tennison, who serves as the Theological Counsel for the Assemblies of God, and his wife Rhonda draw from years of ministry and personal experience as they open up about their journey through respite care, fostering, miscarriage, and failed adoptions—sharing how loss became the doorway to compassion and purpose. They unpack the differences between fostering, fostering to adopt, adoption, the vital role of the local church in supporting families in crisis, and the spiritual and emotional preparation needed to open your home—and heart—to a child.

Whether you're exploring foster care, adoption, or simply want to better support those who do, this episode will remind you that every act of love plants seeds of healing that God will grow in His time.

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TIME STAMPS:

00:00:00 Welcome & Meet Allen & Rhonda

00:03:42 How Loss Opened the Door to Foster Care

00:04:40 Discovering Together for Good and the Power of Respite Care

00:06:40 Fostering vs. Adoption: Understanding the Difference

00:08:46 Why the Church Should Be at the Center of Foster Care

00:13:40 When Adoption Plans Fall Through

00:18:53 Healing After Heartbreak & Finding Hope Again

00:24:40 The Cost of Loving Deeply: "Parenting Is Choosing Heartbreak"

0027:05 Trusting God When You Have to Let Go

00:31:22 Saying Goodbye: The Bittersweet Side of Reunification

00:37:10 Preparing Spiritually and Emotionally to Foster

00:42:43 Partnership in Marriage: Knowing Each Other's Strengths

00:45:53 Preparing with Intentionality & Creating Moments of Connection

00:52:53 The Church's Call to Step Into the Gap

00:54:36 Closing Prayer for Families & Future Foster Parents

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Website | www.tfgood.org

Conflict happens—in our workplaces, our homes, and even in our churches. But how we handle it makes all the difference. In this insightful conversation, host Elly Marroquin welcomes back Brenda, a high school student navigator and longtime behavioral specialist, and Troy Renter, a lead pastor, licensed therapist, and network KidMin director. Together, they unpack what healthy and unhealthy conflict looks like, why some disagreements feel "real" to one person and not the other, and how bitterness can quietly take root when conflict goes unresolved.

Drawing from their experiences in Ministry, therapy, and working with at-risk youth, Brenda and Troy share practical wisdom on navigating hard conversations, breaking unhealthy cycles, and teaching our children how to manage emotions with grace. This episode will remind you that healthy conflict isn't about who's right—I's about choosing understanding, forgiveness, and love that heals instead of wounds.

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TIME STAMPS:

00:00:00 Welcome & Meet Troy & Brenda Renter

00:04:54 Defining Conflict: What It Is and What It Isn't

00:08:35 Understanding Emotional Detachment

00:12:20 Hitting Pause: How to Step Back Before You React

00:15:29 Handling Conflict the Biblical Way (Matthew 18)

00:16:56 When Conflict Is Just a Misunderstanding

00:17:43 "Slow and Low": A Healthier Approach to Conflict Resolution

00:20:45 Teaching Age-Appropriate Conflict Resolution

00:28:10 Using Restorative Circles to Build Understanding

00:30:27 The Healing Power of Forgiveness

00:43:18 Final Takeaways & Gold Nuggets

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What every child longs for is to be seen, heard, and valued. Troy and Brenda Renter know this firsthand—Brenda as a high school student navigator and longtime behavioral specialist, and Troy as a lead pastor, licensed therapist, and district KidMin director. In their conversation with Elly Marroquin, they share how parents can build lasting trust and attachment with their kids by slowing down, listening deeply, and being present. From reframing "wild" as "energetic" to creating simple moments of connection, the Renters remind us that it's not about perfection or quantity of time, but the quality of presence that helps children of every age feel secure, understood, and loved.

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TIME STAMPS:

00:00:00 Welcome & Meet Troy & Brenda Renter

00:07:52 Why Connection Matters Most in Parenting

00:10:57 How Parents Can Validate and Affirm Their Kids

00:18:56 Finding Time to Connect as a Single Parent

00:19:58 Sunshine Circles: Simple Activities to Build Stronger Bonds

00:25:58 Biblical Examples of Connection and Relationship

00:28:20 Parenting Priorities: "Jesus and Java Are My Joy"

00:33:35 Staying Connected with Adult Children

00:39:17 The Power of Encouraging Notes and Handwritten Cards

00:40:31 Final Words of Wisdom for Deeper Connectio

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Prayer is powerful—but sometimes, it can feel overwhelming to know where to begin. In this episode, Elly Marroquin sits down with Nonda Houston, National Director of AG Women, to talk about what it really looks like to be a praying mom in everyday life.

From school drama and family challenges to the weight of injustice and discouragement, Nonda shares honest stories and practical ways to lift our children up in prayer. Together, they explore the beauty of praying Scripture, the importance of standing in the gap, and the strength that comes from pray groups and community.

If you've ever wondered if your prayer matters, this conversation is a reminder that even small beginnings can leave a lasting legacy.

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TIME STAMPS:

00:00:00 Welcome & Guest Intro

00:01:06 Meet Nonda

00:03:02 Why Matters

00:04:05 Conversations with God

00:04:44 Praying Scripture Over Our Kids

00:07:40 Knocking on Heaven's Door

00:09:07 Praying through School Drama

00:13:07 Standing in the Gap

00:18:05 What Does a Praying Mom Look Like?

00:20:56 Conquering False Expectations

00:24:55 Finding Strength in Prayer Groups & Partners

00:28:49 When You Feel Defeated or Discouraged

00:34:15 Teaching the Next Generation to Pray

00:37:37 Small Beginnings, Lasting Legacy

00:42:15 Closing

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Website | www.women.ag.org

Parents and grandparents, your influence can shape faith for generations to come. In this uplifting episode, host Elly Marroquin sits down with Bob Cook—who, together with his wife Sherilyn, leads Senior Adult Ministries for the Assemblies of God (Springfield, MO). With honesty and heart, Bob shares the biblical calling of grandparents, why staying spiritually strong matters, and how to stay engaged with both children and grandchildren. Through stories that will make you smile and moments that may move you to tears, you'll be reminded of the lasting impact of love, connection, and faith. Whether you live close or far from family, this conversation will encourage you to leave a legacy that truly matters.

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TIME STAMPS:

00:00:00 Welcome & Guest Intro

00:05:16 Biblical Role of Grandparents

00:09:25 Grandparent Responsibilities in Faith

00:17:39 Leaving a Lasting Legacy

00:23:05 Connecting Across Distance

00:28:21 Sharing Your Faith Story

00:34:22 Loving Across Generations

00:38:21 Highlight from Bob's Journey

00:43:38 Final Thoughts and Closing

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Website | www.igniteparenting.com

The first day of school—especially in a brand-new setting—can bring a swirl of emotions. In this encouraging episode, Elly Marroquin sits down with educator Laura Mooney to talk through how to approach the back-to-school season with calm, confidence, and faith. You'll hear practical tips for easing transitions, creating a peaceful rhythm at home, and helping your child feel seen and supported. No matter if you're sending off a kindergartener or a high school senior, this conversation is a gentle reminder that you're not alone—and that your presence matters more than you know.

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TIME STAMPS:

00:00:00 Welcome & Guest Intro

00:02:11 Preparing for the First Day of School

00:07:46 Back-to-School Transitions

00:12:18 Senior Year Parenting Tips

00:18:33 Supporting School Success at Home

00:24:08 Timing Tough Talks Thoughtfully

00:28:54 Starting Day with Blessings

00:37:41 Empowering Children in Faith

00:39:49 Biblical Truths for Parenting

00:47:46 Final Thoughts and Closing

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Website | www.igniteparenting.com

Single parenting can feel like a heavy load—but you don't have to carry it alone. In this heartfelt episode, Elly Marroquin sits down with Ashley Grant with Compact Family Services, to talk about the honest, everyday struggles solo parents face—many of which often go unseen.

From custody exchanges and emotional overwhelm to self-care and boundary-setting. Ashley offers practical advice rooted in grace and faith. If you're walking this road, this conversation is a reminder that God sees you, love you, and is with you every step of the way.

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TIME STAMPS:

00:00:00 Welcome & Guest Intro

00:03:57 Adjusting to Parenting Alone

00:05:48 Realities of Parenting Alone

00:08:32 Finding Time for You

00:10:40 Pushing through the Hard Moments

00:12:46 Managing Child Custody with Grace

00:15:24 Speaking Wisely About Co-Parent

00:17:29 Supporting Children Through Disappointment

00:20:32 Finding Healing for the Single Parent

00:22:51 When the Co-Parent Moves On

00:25:15 Avoiding Child Co-Dependency

00:30:30 Final Thoughts and Closing

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Website | www.igniteparenting.com

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Instagram | @CompactFamilyServices

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Website | https://compact.family

Ever catch yourself snapping, shutting down, or spiraling—and wonder where did that come from? You're not alone.

In this compassionate episode, Elly sits down with Dr. Vanessa Snyder, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, for an honest conversation about how our own unhealed wounds and emotional blind spots can shape the way we show up as parents. Together, they unpack what it means to be "The Person of the Helper"—and how to carry that role with wisdom, humility, and growth.

Whether you're parenting toddlers or learning to release adult children, you'll find practical guidance on emotional regulation, power vs. control, and how to parent with grace even in the messy middle. This episode is a gentle reminder that healing isn't just for us—it's how we love our kids better, too.

Dr. Vanessa Snyder is a licensed marriage and family therapist, licensed professional counselor, certified sex therapist, master traumatologist, an AAMFT approved supervisor, and approved clinical supervisor from Georgia.

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TIME STAMPS:

00:00:00 Welcome & Guest Intro

00:02:34 Understanding "Person of the Helper"

00:08:42 Recognizing Our Parenting Blind Spot

00:11:28 Mastering Your Emotional Response

00:21:57 Past Wounds, Present Parenting

00:24:21 Parents Using Power Tactics

00:30:15 Parenting When Children Become Adults

00:32:16 Final Thoughts & Closing

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Foster parenting often involves stepping into a child's story mid-chapter — one that may include wounds of sexual trauma or confusing, sexualized behaviors. In this compassionate grace-filled conversation, Elly welcomes back Dr. Vanessa Snyder, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, to help foster parents navigate these deeply sensitive moments with wisdom, grace, and clarity.

Together, they explore God's design for sexuality, the significance of safe and respectful body language, and how to build a home where trust can flourish. Dr. Snyder unpacks common behaviors—like self-stimulation, sexting, or exposure to pornography—and shares how these may be linked to natural curiosity, development stages, or past wounds.

You'll walk away with practical tools to: respond calmly and with discernment, protect and support every child in your care, reinforce healthy boundaries and body safety, and stay grounded when navigating digital exposure and tough conversations.

This episode reminds foster parents that while the road may be complex you are never alone. Healing is possible—and your care can be the start of a new story rooted in trust, safety, and restoration.

Dr. Vanessa Snyder is a licensed marriage and family therapist, licensed professional counselor, certified sex therapist, master traumatologist, an AAMFT approved supervisor, and approved clinical supervisor from Georgia.

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TIME STAMPS:

00:00:00 Welcome & Guest Intro

00:04:17 Understandings God's Design for Sexuality

00:06:19 Body Vocabulary Builds Safety

00:08:23 Acknowledging Trauma-Driven Behavior

00:11:03 Caring for Sexual Trauma Survivors

00:13:56 Responding Calmly to Behavior

00:17:35 Creating Safety and Trust

00:23:37 Projecting Pain Through Behavior

00:27:12 Protecting Siblings Amid Challenges

00:32:19 Addressing Self-Stimulation in Children

00:35:15 Managing Digital Sexual Exposure

00:38:51 Final Thoughts and Closing

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Website | www.igniteparenting.com

Raising kids in today's hypersexualized culture can feel daunting—but you don't have to do it alone. In this insightful and compassionate episode, Elly is joined by Licensed Marriage Family Therapist Dr. Vanessa Snyder for an honest conversation about childhood sexuality and how parents can respond with calm, confidence, and care.

Together, they break down what healthy sexuality looks like, how to use correct body terminology, and when to spot red flags. From talking about pornography and sexting to navigating self-stimulation, Dr. Snyder shares trauma-informed advice to help you build trust, safety, and open communication in your home.

If you're a parent looking for clarity and tools—not fear or shame—this episode offers the guidance and encouragement you need.

Dr. Vanessa Snyder is a licensed marriage and family therapist, licensed professional counselor, certified sex therapist, master traumatologist, an AAMFT approved supervisor, and approved clinical supervisor from Georgia.

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TIME STAMPS:

00:00:00 Welcome & Guest Intro

00:03:03 Understanding Healthy Sexuality

00:10:56 Teaching Accurate Body Terminology

00:12:56 Spotting Red Flags & Responding

00:22:07 Responding Calmly with Care

00:26:46 Addressing A Child's Sexual Behavior

00:30:44 Managing Child's Pornography Exposure

00:39:57 Teaching Healthy Physical Boundaries

00:46:06 Knowing When to Seek Help

00:49:12 Addressing Sexting with Your Child

00:53:01 Final Thoughts and Closing

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Follow Ignite Parenting

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Website | www.igniteparenting.com