Have you ever wonder if what you say really makes a difference?  

In today's episode, Mark Nelson, Executive Director of Exchange Ministries, joins Melinda and shares an awe-inspiring testimony of God's powerful intervention in his life.  

Mark's testimony is fuls of Holy Spirit inspired moments that leave you wanting to know more. 

Listine in to discover:

*how words spoken over Mark made a life changing difference for him

*ways that we can speak life over our loved ones

Connect with Mark: 

Exchange Ministries

Next Week: Tune in as we Mark shares Part 2 of his transformation story. 

Thank you for listening to The Bridge Between Us! Remember, God has entrusted this journey to you, as you engage with Him He will equip you for each next step.

Please share this episode with others. 

If you haven’t left a review for The Bridge Between Us Podcast, please take 1-3 minutes to do so.  This helps other parents to know if this is the right podcast for them.

Welcome to The Bridge Between Us Podcast, where we navigate the challenges and opportunities of walking alongside LGBTQ-identified loved ones from a Biblical perspective. Hosted by Melinda Patrick, today’s solo episode is all about being your own advocate as you build a support team for your personal journey.

In Today’s Episode, You’ll Hear About:

• The importance of a support system and how Jesus’ story of raising Lazarus teaches us that no one walks the journey alone.
• The need for Godly counsel and guidance in your healing process.
• Signs to look for that indicate you might need professional help, including counselors or therapists, to aid you through grief or trauma.
• How to interview a counselor to ensure they align with your Biblical convictions and are a good fit for your needs.
• Practical questions you should ask potential counselors to be your own advocate.
• The role of trusting in God’s process and finding freedom not just for your loved one, but for yourself too.

Key Scriptures Discussed:

• John 11:44 – The story of Lazarus: Jesus doesn’t expect us to walk alone.
• Galatians 6:2 – Carry one another's burdens and fulfill the law of Christ.
• Romans 8:28-29 – God works all things for our good and transforms us into the image of His Son.
• Proverbs 11:14, 20:5, 24:6 – The wisdom and safety found in seeking godly counsel.

Key Takeaways:

• Building a support team of friends, prayer warriors, counselors, and more is essential to emotional and spiritual healing.
• A biblical counselor can provide guidance and a fresh perspective when you're stuck in grief or difficult circumstances.
• As a self-advocate, you have the right to interview and find the right counselor who aligns with your values.
• Healing and freedom aren’t just for your loved one—they’re for YOU too. Your journey is just as much about your own transformation.

Red Flags: Signs You May Need Help

Melinda shares some red flags to watch for to determine if you might be struggling with grief or trauma:

1. Difficulty remembering the last time you laughed or enjoyed time with loved ones.
2. Struggling to engage in activities you once loved.
3. Feeling emotionally drained by everyday tasks.
4. Avoiding people or conversations.
5. Trouble celebrating others’ successes.
6. Feeling overwhelmed by bitterness, guilt, or sadness.

Questions to Ask Your Counselor:

• How does your Christian faith influence your approach to therapy?
• What’s your view on marriage and gender?
• What do you believe about homosexuality, and how does that affect your counseling approach?
• Do you see the Bible as the final authority in your practice?

These questions will help you determine if a counselor aligns with your faith and values before diving deeper into the therapeutic process.

Resources Mentioned:

• Restored Hope Network
• Helpful previous TBBU episodes:  Eps 89, Eps 41

Want to Connect? Melinda loves to hear from listeners! If you’re navigating your own journey, need encouragement, or want to share your story, feel free to email Melinda at [email protected].

Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who might need it.

Until next time, remember: God has entrusted this journey to you. As you engage with Him, He will equip you for each next step.

*Disclaimer: The opinions and advice shared on this podcast are intended for informational purposes and are not a substitute for professional counseling. Always seek appropriate guidance and support for your personal needs.

God hasn't called us to walk through life alone. In today’s episode, Melinda takes us through what it looks like to set yourself up for success when facing a daunting challenge, and how the team around you plays a crucial role in getting you to the finish line.

Listen in to hear the four key people you need on your team and why.

As Melinda challenges listeners, it’s important to recognize and appreciate those who walk with you on your journey. A simple note, call, or text to show gratitude can make a huge difference. The support system you build along the way doesn’t just help you reach the finish line—it transforms you as you walk together.

Next Week: Tune in as we explore the important role of counselors in our lives. Melinda will share insights on finding the right counselor and how professional support complements the support of loved ones.

Thank you for listening to The Bridge Between Us! Remember, you’re never alone on your journey—keep building your team, and keep walking forward. God has entrusted this journey to you, and He will equip you for each next step.

If you’ve enjoyed today’s episode, please consider leaving a review or sharing it with a friend who might benefit from hearing about the power of a strong support system.

For many parents, when their child shares with them they experience same-sex attraction or gender disphoria, one thing they will also hear is: "I have prayed and prayed and asked God to take it away but He hasn't."

As parents, many of us have done the same thing: we have prayed and prayed and God doesn't appear to be answering.

In today's episode, Nate Oyloe - ministry leader of Agape First Ministries, joins Melinda Patrick.  Nate shares a portion of his own healing journey, but he also share how parents can respond when their child doesn't feel as though God is answering their prayers. 

In this powerful episode, listeners will hear:

*how to respond to your child's disspointment in God seemingly not answering his/her prayer

*one thing that can disempower parents

*God's desing for healing within the family

Connect with Nate Oyloe: Agape First Ministries

Other mentions:

Restored Hope Network

Living Waters

Other TBBU episodes mentioned:

Dean Greer - Part One

Dean Greer - Part Two

Please share this episode with others. 

If you haven't left a review for The Bridge Between Us Podcast, please take 1-3 minutes to do so.  This helps other parents to know if this is the right podcast for them. 

For Christian parents whose children have embraced an LGBTQ+ identity, the world is full of confusion, manipulation, and emotional pain. Watching your child go through gender confusion and irreversible medical procedures is heart-wrenching. Navigating this world feels isolating and often spiritually and emotionally draining. There’s a need for truth, empathy, and a support system that isn’t afraid to stand firm in God’s design for humanity.

In this episode, Brandon Showalter, a passionate advocate for truth and a journalist for the Christian Post, is joining Melinda on The Bridge Between Us Podcast. With years of experience and a personal commitment to truth, Brandon offers both emotional support and practical advice. 

Listen is to discover: 

1. The Deception of Language One of the most insidious aspects of gender ideology is the manipulation of language. Brandon highlights how changing the meaning of basic words, like “gender” and “sex,” sows confusion and disrupts the ability to speak truthfully about the human body and identity.
2. Spiritual Warfare and the Church’s Role In this battle against gender ideologies, Brandon discusses how the church must not only engage in policy change but also engage spiritually. The importance of persistent prayer and maintaining vigilance is underscored. The need for the church to stand firm against this deception is crucial in reclaiming the truth of God's design for humanity.
3. The Role of the Church in the Battle As society grapples with this issue, the church is called to be a place of healing and truth. The need to accept and minister to those who are struggling with gender identity is vital, but it requires both compassion and the courage to speak the truth.
4. Parents on the Frontlines Parents are urged to be proactive in protecting their children from harmful ideologies and pseudoscience. Despite the cultural push for tolerance, Brandon explains that compassion and kindness should not require compromising truth.

We are in the midst of a spiritual battle, but as believers, we are equipped with the truth of God’s word and the power of prayer. Let’s stay vigilant, stand firm, and continue to share the love of Christ with a world in desperate need of His transformative hope.

Connect with Brand Showalter: 

Exposing The Gender Lie: How To Protect Children and Teens From the Trangender Industry's False Ideology

The Christian Post

Hey friends, welcome back to The Bridge Between Us Podcast! 

In this episode, Melinda Patrick and her guest, Alex McFarland, dive deep into how we, as parents and individuals, can continue to hold firm to the truth amidst the changing culture and differing values between us and our children.

Parents today are facing a culture that challenges traditional beliefs, especially around sexuality, identity, and values. Their children are growing up in a world where those beliefs often conflict with their own, and it can feel overwhelming and heartbreaking. How can parents stand firm in their faith and share truth with love in a way that doesn’t compromise their beliefs but also doesn’t drive a wedge between them and their children?

Today’s guest is Alex McFarland, an expert in apologetics and a passionate advocate for truth. Alex has spent years counseling, teaching, and engaging in tough conversations with people who are struggling with cultural shifts in their beliefs. He brings years of wisdom to the table as he helps us navigate how to hold fast to God’s truth, love others well, and parent with courage.

Listen in and discover how to: 

1. Stand firm in the truth of God’s Word.
2. Love others unconditionally, even when you don’t agree with their choices.
3. Be patient and trust in God’s timing as you continue to pray and walk alongside your loved ones.

Thank You For Listening! Thank you for joining us today on The Bridge Between Us Podcast. If you found this episode helpful, please share it with your friends and family. Let’s continue to walk in truth and love together. Subscribe to the podcast to never miss an episode!

Mentions:

Restored Hope Network

The Truth Network - Alex McFarland Show with Melinda Patrick

Mike Manzie, executive director of Fresno New Creation Ministries is joining Melinda on The Bridge Between Us podcast.  In this episode, Mike and Melinda discuss the importance of processing pain and healing through a spiritual lens.

Using the SHAPE journaling method, parents can take intentional steps toward healing and understanding, inviting the Lord into their emotional journey. This episode provides valuable guidance for parents navigating complex feelings while supporting their children in love and truth.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Why time alone doesn't heal wounds – the importance of intentional processing
• How to invite the Lord into the process of emotional healing
• Practical tips for journaling through pain and seeking clarity
• The importance of addressing unresolved emotions before they resurface

SHAPE Journaling Method Explained:

Scripture

Hearing

Application

Purpose

Edify

Mike's testimony: Listen Here>>>

Connect with Mike: 

Welcome to the TBBU Podcast, hosted by Melinda Patrick. In today’s episode, we’re diving into an essential topic for Christian parents with LGBTQ-identified children: caring for your heart as you navigate this journey.

With February being 'heart month,' we’ll talk about the importance of nurturing your own well-being. We'll explore the red flags that signal when you’re not taking care of your heart, why it’s vital to guard and care for it, and practical steps you can take to protect your emotional and spiritual health.

As we walk through this, we’ll discuss how you can overflow with joy, peace, and hope, even during challenging seasons. Plus, we’ll talk about how to support your child or spouse, even when they might not be ready to care for their own heart.

Join me for this heart-centered episode that offers grace, encouragement, and a challenge to care for yourself so that you can love your child well.

Scripture Reference:

• Proverbs 4:23 (NIV) – Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.
• Romans 15:13 (NIV) – May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
• John 10:10 (NIV) – The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.

Resources Mentioned in the Episode:

• The Bridge Newsletter – Subscribe for updates and exclusive content
• Episode with Tony & Alisa on prayer in marriage 
• Episode on decluttering hearts
• Email Melinda – Share your heart and steps you're taking for self-care

2-Week Challenge: Starting today, take just 15 minutes each day to do something that gives you life. Here are some ideas:

• Take a nap
• Sit in silence
• Go for a walk
• Take time off social media
• Breathe deeply and relax

Connect with Us:

• Subscribe to The Bridge newsletter for exclusive content and updates on upcoming launches.
• Share this podcast with fellow parents and ministry leaders who might benefit from this message.
• If you’re struggling with grief or emotional burnout, reach out for support—whether through prayer or a counselor. You don’t have to walk this journey alone.

Closing Prayer: "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." (Romans 15:13)

When we discover that our child has embraced an LGBTQ identity, it can feel like a tidal wave that shakes the very foundation of our family dynamics. It’s easy to overlook the other important relationships in our lives—especially our marriage. 

In this powerful episode, Tony and Alisa DiLorenzo join host Melinda Patrick to discuss the crucial steps couples can take to preserve their relationship with each other while navigating this difficult season.

One of the most impactful takeaways from this episode is the reminder that "If couples don't take care of their marriage, then there will need to be two rescues: not just the rescue of the child, but the rescue of the couple." This quote serves as a powerful warning to couples that the well-being of their marriage is just as important as their child's emotional health.

In this episode, you’ll learn how to:

• Maintain closeness and connection with your spouse
• Take actionable steps forward if you feel stuck in your relationships
• Honor your spouse during seasons of grief
• Pray together as a couple in times of uncertainty
• Lighten the heaviness of difficult circumstances and rediscover joy

Whether you're navigating changes in your family or simply seeking ways to strengthen your relationship, this episode offers valuable insights on maintaining balance and emotional well-being during challenging times.

Resources Mentioned: The 6 Pillars of Intimacy by Alisa and Tony DiLorenzo

Dave Ramsey

The Daring Rescue by Melinda Patrick

Join the conversation: We’d love to hear how you’ve navigated difficult family transitions. Share your thoughts and experiences with us on social media or via email.

Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast!

​The shownotes contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I will make a commission at no extra cost to you.​

In today’s episode, The Bridge Between Us host Melinda Patrick answers a heartfelt question from a listener:

How do I support my transgender niece without endorsing or condoning their choices?

If you’ve ever struggled with how to show love to a LGBTQ-identified family member while holding onto your personal beliefs, this episode is for you.

Melinda dives into the balance of loving well while staying true to your values, sharing practical and spiritual steps to help you show up for your loved ones without compromising your convictions.

Key Topics Covered:

• Acknowledging the Hurt Without Endorsing the Path: Melinda addresses the delicate tension between showing love and acceptance, without affirming a lifestyle that goes against your faith.

• The Importance of Loving Like Jesus: We discuss the significance of loving others in a way that reflects God’s love—sacrificial, unconditional, and without compromise. Melinda also shares a powerful scripture, 1 John 4:19, reminding us that we love because God first loved us.

• Practical Ways to Support:

  1. See the Person Beyond the Label: Pray for God to help you see your loved one as He does.
  2. Engage in Their Life: Make an intentional effort to connect and be involved.
  3. Understand Their Love Language: Show love in ways that are meaningful to them.
  4. Be a Listening Ear: Listening isn’t agreement—it’s a sign that you see them, hear them, and care for them deeply.

• Spiritual Support Through Prayer: Melinda encourages prayer as a vital part of loving well. Drawing from Oswald Chambers' insights on true intercession, we learn that prayer isn’t just about sympathizing—it’s about seeking God’s heart and perspective on the situation.

Closing Thoughts: Loving a transgender family member with non-endorsing support doesn’t mean withdrawing—it means showing up with love, prayer, and a heart that seeks God’s truth and grace.

Call to Action:

• Share this episode with someone who might need this encouragement.
• If you haven’t left a review for The Bridge Between Us, please consider doing so to help us reach more people.
• If you’ve read The Daring Rescue: Joining Jesus Christ In His Pursuit Of Your LGBYQ-identified Child's Heart, Melinda’s book, please leave a review on Amazon, Focus on the Family, or Goodreads. Each review helps families in need of guidance find the book.

Thank you for listening and supporting The Bridge Between Us podcast!

Restored Hope Network HOPE 2025 VIRTUAL conference:

https://www.restoredhopenetwork.org/hopeconf

Use code: EBHOPE2025 for the early bird discount by February 1.

Speakers:

Dr. Andrew Rodriguez- TBBU episode 45 with Andrew

                                      TBBU episode 33 with Andrew

Dr. Julie Hamilton

Dr. Anne Gillies

Jonathan Daugherty