Welcome to the Called to Love Podcast! 

In this episode, I am joined by Tanner Olson. Tanner said when he went to college he knew he was picking a major where he would end up poor and it was a matter of how. He bounced around until finally landing on spoken word poetry and writing. Today, he performs his spoken word poetry with friends who play music, in an effort to communicate God’s heart to the listening ears. Tanner is also the proud father of his adopted son, Judah. 

Together, we explore grief, adoption, and the power of prayer. Tanner shares his personal journey through infertility, leading to the adoption of his son. They discuss the importance of storytelling and how words can heal, as well as the significance of teaching children to pray. Tanner introduces his new children's book, 'All the Things I Say to God,' which aims to help families facilitate conversations about prayer and faith. Our discussion emphasizes the complexities of emotions in the face of grief and the beauty of trusting in God's timing. 

Here are a few takeaways: 

• Prayer can be a simple, honest conversation with God.
• Grief can be a powerful teacher in faith.
• Children can learn to pray anytime, anywhere.
• Storytelling can heal and connect us.
• Adoption brings both joy and challenges.
• It's okay to hold multiple emotions at once.
• God's timing is perfect, even when it feels late.

Get your copy of “All the Things I Say to God” https://www.amazon.com/All-Things-Say-God-Learning/dp/0310165954 

Tanner’s website https://www.writtentospeak.com/ 

Follow him on Instagram @writtentospeak 

Christian Parenting’s Faith Centered Gift Guide: https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/gifts/ 

You can email me your questions about adoption and foster care at [email protected]. I'd love to connect with you on Instagram or send you my monthly newsletter with free resources and first access to episodes and more!