In this episode of The Foster Effect, hosts John Widrick and Jennifer Gallahar tackle the essential questions every family should ask before fostering. They share practical insights on understanding medical and behavioral needs, family capacity, and the importance of unity and communication. Discover strategies to prepare your home and heart for fostering, ensuring a stable and loving environment for children. Perfect for prospective and current foster families, this episode offers the clarity and confidence needed to make a lasting impact.

In this conversation, Adam Johnson, regional manager for Care Portal, discusses the platform's role in connecting local communities to children and families in crisis. He emphasizes the importance of building relationships, the practicalities of engaging churches and businesses, and shares real-life stories of impact. The discussion also touches on personal experiences that shape leadership, the motivation behind service, and how families can get involved in meaningful ways.

In this episode, I sit down with Mr. Lance Villio from the Governor’s Faith-Based Community Initiatives for an incredible conversation on leadership, collaboration, and impact. Lance shares insights into some of the huge initiatives happening across the state of Tennessee and how he’s been able to bring the faith-based community together to tackle some of our most pressing challenges. From fostering dialogue to building real relationships, Lance shows how the power of connection can spark meaningful change.

You’ll definitely want to check this one out—it’s a conversation full of wisdom, inspiration, and practical takeaways for leaders in every space.

In this episode of Live One for One, join Pastor Todd Griggs as he delves into the pressing issue of anxiety among today's youth. Discover practical strategies for empowering young people to overcome challenges, develop resilience, and thrive in an ever-changing world. Through insightful conversations and personal anecdotes, Pastor Todd shares his journey and offers guidance for parents, educators, and leaders seeking to support the next generation. Tune in to learn how to foster a mindset of growth and courage in the face of anxiety.

In this episode, we sit down with Ella Bat-Ami, a fierce advocate for foster youth who aged out of Tennessee’s foster care system at 18. Ella’s journey didn’t stop there — she has become a powerful voice for change, successfully writing and passing the Foster Youth Bill of Rights and continuing to push for systemic protections for kids in state custody.While her legislative accomplishments are impressive, Ella reminds us that her most important title is “big sister.” With five younger foster siblings looking up to her, Ella’s passion for foster care reform is personal and unwavering.Now a freshman at Belmont University with her sights set on law school, Ella is determined to become a public defender and keep fighting for those without a voice. Her story is one of resilience, courage, and hope for the future.

At just 42, Wayne Foreman risked it all—maxing out credit cards and draining his retirement—to launch what he thought was a small door business. Today, CDF Doors employs over 139 people and serves clients nationwide. But what sets Wayne apart isn’t just the size of his success—it’s how he leads. In this episode, we dive into what it means to run a healthy business, the power of generosity in leadership, and how giving back has been baked into Wayne’s business model from day one. As a father, husband, entrepreneur, and philanthropist, Wayne shares candid insights into the costs, the wins, and the lessons that built more than a company—it built a movement.

In this episode we sit down with Pastor Devin Webb of Connect Church in Mount Juliet, Tennessee. Devin and his wife Ashley have been faithfully pastoring in the Wilson County area for years, cultivating a thriving church culture. This longer episode is packed with practical wisdom and leadership gold—whether you’re leading a family, a business, a ministry, or an organization, there’s something here for you. Don’t miss the gems Pastor Devin drops throughout—this one will bless you BIG time.

In this episode of the Tennessee Ministry Network Podcast, host Pastor Nick from Full Life Church sits down with Pastor John Widrick, Foster Care Director of Tennessee Ministry Network and CEO of The Bridge House. Together, they discuss the current state of foster care in Tennessee, the urgent need for churches to engage with the state, and why Pastor John believes that every church has a role to play—whether through direct involvement, support, or advocacy.

Join us for an insightful and inspiring conversation on how the local church can be a solution to one of the greatest needs in our communities today. If you’re a pastor, leader, or someone passionate about making a difference, this episode is for you!

🔹 Why foster care is a pressing issue in Tennessee

🔹 How churches can engage with the state to support vulnerable children

🔹 Practical steps for every church to take action

Don’t miss this opportunity to learn how your church can step into the mission field of foster care and be part of the solution!

Listen now and share with your church leaders!

In this episode, Destin Frost shares his journey from a music-loving youth to a dedicated youth pastor at Connect Church. He discusses his transition into ministry, the importance of community and feedback in personal growth, and the challenges he faced stepping into leadership at a young age. He also shares his decision to foster a teenager, highlighting the impact of community support and the importance of values in both family and leadership.

In this conversation, Rhonda Paulson shares her journey of founding the Isaiah 117 House, a nonprofit organization aimed at reducing trauma for children entering the foster care system. She discusses the challenges faced in the foster care system, the importance of community support, and the organization's rapid growth across multiple states. Rhonda emphasizes the need for self-care and boundaries in leadership roles, while also highlighting the impact of faith and community in driving the mission forward.