Fresh Hope For Mental Health

Andy is a youth and marriage ministry pastor, he is an advocate for mental health awareness.  He is the author of "When Words Don’t Come Easy”, a message of hope, freedom, redemption and purpose. In this podcast, he opens up about his personal journey with depression, and he is married to Tiffany. Their firstborn daughter was diagnosed with only 10% brain function when she was an infant. While Andy was gazing at shattered seashells on the beach, he received a divine message from God: "There is beauty in the broken." We encourage you to share this podcast with your friends via your social media connections. After listening to this podcast, we encourage you to email us at info@FreshHope.us with a comment or question we will share on our next podcast.   If you are listening to this podcast on iTunes, we encourage you to comment on the podcast. Or you can leave a voice message for us on the site:  www.FreshHope4MentalHealth.com. Pastor Brad Hoefs is an ordained Pastor and Member of the Association of Free Luthera

In this inspiring interview, Pastor Brent (Care Ministry Pastor in Woodmen Valley Chapel) shares how he found Fresh Hope and how it has significantly benefited his church. They've taken their commitment to the next level by embedding Hope Coaching into their ministry, and now, all their staff are equipped with the training to help and minister to others. Don't miss out on this heartfelt discussion that sheds light on the power of faith, hope, and community in navigating mental health challenges. It's a story of healing, support, and resilience that you won't want to miss. Need to speak with a Hope Coach? Click on this link to be contacted by one of our Hope Coaches  We encourage you to share this podcast with your friends via your social media connections. After listening to this podcast, we encourage you to email us at info@FreshHope.us with a comment or question we will share on our next podcast.   If you are listening to this podcast on iTunes, we encourage you to comment on the podcast. Or you can leave

Listen to the Fresh Hope podcast in collaboration with Catherine Boyle from Key Ministry. If you have a child with special needs or a mental health challenge, this podcast is for you. You're not alone. Learn more about the  new group to Support the Mental Health Needs of Families with Disabilities, starting on November 2nd. Register here: https://freshhope.us/groups-for-families-with-disabilities/contact/  

With almost 20 years in leadership within social work and ministry, author and recovery advocate Caroline Beidler, MSW, aims to answer this question while encouraging women in or seeking recovery to connect with their purpose and connect in community with each other. Her new book (releasing in March 2023): Downstairs Church: Finding Hope in the Grit of Addiction and Trauma Recovery is a gritty and grace-filled story about the miracles that happen in the basement of the recovery community. Caroline brings a vulnerability and hope that is needed in today’s addiction and trauma-saturated world. Caroline is looking for opportunities to share her own story of addiction, mental health and trauma recovery and bring her professional expertise to discuss the question: how can we support women searching for transformation and healing? We encourage you to share this podcast with your friends via your social media connections. After listening to this podcast, we encourage you to email us at info@FreshHope.us with a comme

Karen Reynolds is a former teacher, coach, mentor, and a mental health thriver! She has worked with teens in a variety of settings from the classroom to the orphanage. Her travels to work with teens have taken her to Russia, Africa, and Haiti, however, she has spent most of her adult life with teens in the school setting. In those 40 plus years Karen has observed the decline in teens both emotionally and mentally. Many classroom students have become challenged to build healthy relationships and manage stress. Establishing a mental health diagnosis is often the road to recovery for teens. Yet, without a change of certain daily patterns, emotional health struggles continue. Karen’s passion continues to help teens grow the healthy habits that foster life-giving relationships and mature coping skills.   We encourage you to share this podcast with your friends via your social media connections. After listening to this podcast, we encourage you to email us at info@FreshHope.us with a comment or question we will sha

Criticism can be tough, but Pastor Brad has some valuable insights on how to handle it with grace and grow from it. We encourage you to share this podcast with your friends via your social media connections. After listening to this podcast, we encourage you to email us at info@FreshHope.us with a comment or question we will share on our next podcast.   If you are listening to this podcast on iTunes, we encourage you to comment on the podcast. Or you can leave a voice message for us on the site:  www.FreshHope4MentalHealth.com. Pastor Brad Hoefs is an ordained Pastor and Member of the Association of Free Lutheran Congregations. He has been pastoring since 1985, and he is currently the pastor of Anchor of Hope Church in Omaha, Nebraska (since 1995). The church has seen over 110% growth in the 18 months after Fresh Hope started meeting. Pastor Brad is the Executive Director of WorshipOutlet.com. He founded Fresh Hope in 2009.  He is a State-certified Intentional Peer Support Specialist and was appointed by Gover

Jeremy was a USMC Infantry Officer in Iraq, has received a Veteran Navy Commendation Medal with “V” for Combat Valor, is a former pastor, and Co-Founder of Mighty Oaks Foundation (https://www.mightyoaksprograms.org). He founded Mighty Oaks in order to help veterans adjust back to civilian life and deal with PTSD from a Christian perspective. Here are some possible ideas for discussion with Jeremy: Roadmap for overcoming trauma and PTSD through the Gospel Using Jeremy’s experiences in war to explain how to move forward when you don’t know what to do How we can find purpose and redeem messy situations We encourage you to share this podcast with your friends via your social media connections. After listening to this podcast, we encourage you to email us at info@FreshHope.us with a comment or question we will share on our next podcast.   If you are listening to this podcast on iTunes, we encourage you to comment on the podcast. Or you can leave a voice message for us on the site:  www.FreshHope4MentalHealth.com

In this inspiring episode, Pastor Brad reminds us that life is made up of little things: being present in the moment, loving the people we're with, and truly caring about them. These small acts can make a significant impact on our journey towards progress.

Exciting Podcast Alert!  Hey everyone! I wanted to share an incredible podcast episode that touched my heart and shed light on an important topic. In this episode, Cristobal Krusen, the talented writer, director, and performer of the powerful movie "Let Me Have My Son," opens up about his personal journey as a filmmaker and how his son's battle with schizophrenia inspired him to create this moving film.  "Let Me Have My Son" takes us on a gripping exploration of the challenges faced by individuals with mental illness and their families, providing a thought-provoking and dramatic perspective on their experiences. It's a must-watch for anyone interested in understanding the human side of mental health struggles.  What makes this film even more special is Chris's son's excitement and hope that it can reach people for Jesus. The movie has received recognition and awards at both secular and Christian film festivals, highlighting its universal impact. Throughout the podcast, Chris emphasizes the presence of love, b

Join us as we dive into the inspiring story of Tim Fall, a judge who faced the challenges of running for elections for judge, receiving a mental health diagnosis, battling suicidal thoughts, and caring for his ill father. Tim's journey is a testament to the fact that it's okay to admit when we have a mental health diagnosis. It doesn't diminish our worth as individuals, Christians, or children of God. We all need help, and seeking support doesn't make us weak; it shows strength and a willingness to grow. Having the support of medical professionals, friends, and a Christian community is essential on the path to managing our mental health. You can learn more about Tim's incredible journey by reading his book, "Running for Judge." In it, he shares his experiences, insights, and lessons learned along the way. You can find the book on Amazon at the following link: https://www.amazon.com/Running-Judge-Tim-Fall/dp/1725260867 Remember, you are not alone in this journey. Reach out for help and surround yourself with p

New Podcast Alert: Protecting Our Children and Supporting Survivors The alarming number of men in jail for sexual abuse calls for our attention. It's crucial to understand that there are underlying factors and trauma behind these actions. We are excited to share a powerful podcast episode by Dr. Kelley, specifically aimed at parents. In this episode, she delves into effective ways to protect our children from sexual harassers and identify potential red flags. It's an essential resource for every parent to ensure the safety and well-being of their children. If you have experienced sexual harassment, please know that you are not alone. Seeking help is a vital step towards healing. This podcast also offers valuable insights for individuals struggling with their experiences. Remember, there is hope, and there is always a way out of your struggle. Tune in to the podcast now and let's work together to create a safer environment for our children and survivors. Dr. Kelli Palfy began her professional career working in

Hello everyone! I want to invite you to this inspiring podcast in which Pastor Brad interviews K.T. Griffiths, who talks about her book "Shhh...Mental Illness, The Silent Disease: A Mother's Heart," and her experience as a mother of a daughter with mental health issues. K.T. invites all of us parents to spend time with our children and, above all, to believe in them from an early age and to be attentive to the silent signals they may be transmitting. How we communicate with them is important and let them know that we are listening and believing in their words. This is a lifelong responsibility, but hope is always the answer, and God is the answer. K. T. Griffiths offers her first book, a memoir, to all those who faced the realities of life and parenting. As a mother of 6 children, she has been tried and tested in so many ways that this book became a necessity. People know her for her wisdom, honesty, and authentic empathy for the plight of others. It is exactly this trait that has equipped her in this book to

Friends, We had an incredible podcast interview with Dr. Lubberstedt, where he discusses the rise in cases of depression, stress, and suicide among adolescents after the COVID-19 pandemic. Prevention, emotional regulation, and stress management are key measures to prevent mental health crises. Self-care is important for a healthy mind and body, as is creating a comfortable environment. Parents play an important role in the mental health of their teenagers, and Dr. Lubberstedt emphasizes the importance of listening to them. The church and Christian leaders can play a powerful role in helping young people feel heard and not silenced by their emotions. It's okay to not be okay, and our youth need to be listened to. Dr. Lubberstedt began studies at the University of Nebraska Medical Center after completing college at Nebraska Wesleyan University in 1999. While initially drawn to primary care, he soon realized a preference for a slower pace than family practice. As his fascination with the workings of the mind gre

Friends, We had an amazing podcast interview with Jay Lowder, where he shared his personal story of how God saved him from suicide in an unexpected way. Jay's roommate was the instrument that God used to prevent his suicide due to severe depression, and this event greatly marked his life, leading him to form Jay Lowder Harvest Ministries. During their conversation, Jay talked about his journey through depression and how difficult it was for him to share it with others. He also spoke about the stigma experienced by Christians and society as a whole towards mental health problems, and the need for churches to support and listen to people who have mental health problems. It's time for us to leave behind the idea that mental health problems are a result of a lack of prayer or not being close enough to God. We must acknowledge that it is a real problem, and there are many teenagers and adults struggling with the idea of suicide. Jay also shared some warning signs that we can look out for in people who are going th

In this podcast, Pastor Brad interviews Alastair Sterne about his book "Rhythms of Life and Spiritual Practices for what God made you to be." The book emphasizes the importance of taking time to discover our identity, gifts, and purpose at a gracious speed, much like how Jesus walked on Earth. The formation that happens in that gracious walking with Christ can help us in our journey of personal growth and spiritual development. The second half of the book explores various spiritual practices that can aid in this journey. Towards the end of the podcast, Alastair shares his personal experience living with a mental health challenge and stresses the importance of language and acceptance in mental health discussions within the church community. He emphasizes the need for individuals to feel heard and accepted in their own mental health experiences, and the crucial role that church pastors can play in addressing mental health challenges. Overall, the podcast highlights the importance of taking time for personal gro

  Loneliness is part of the human experience, but it has increased even more since the pandemic. Men may find it more difficult to connect with others because of prejudice or fear. In this episode Pastor Brad has Rob Jackson, counselor at Focus on the Family, as a guest to discuss this topic. Together they explore statistics and practical tools to reach the level of connection God intends for everyone. They also offer advice for women who want to help their loved one who is suffering from loneliness and isolation. “   Rob Jackson is a licensed counselor with Focus on the Family’s Counseling Services department specializing in calls related to sexuality, marriage and parenting. Jackson has provided counseling services through his private practice since 1991 with an emphasis on helping individuals recover from sex addiction through integrated care that helps people mature and heal spiritually, psychologically, and behaviorally.  In addition to speaking at churches and national conferences and events on

Mike Jacquart is married and lives in a small town in Wisconsin. He has a bachelor's degree in journalism and has worked as a reporter, writer, editor, and author. He edited a newsletter and magazine for employee assistance professionals, many of whom work in behavioral health. A lot of books on mental health discuss the characteristics of various disorders but lack the perspective of someone who has experienced mental illness. In his new book, Climbing out of Darkness: A Personal Journey into Mental Wellness (with Marina London LCSW), Mike fills a gap in revealing the impact that mental health challenges can have on one’s daily life. We encourage you to share this podcast with your friends via your social media connections. After listening to this podcast, we encourage you to email us at info@FreshHope.us with a comment or question we will share on our next podcast.   If you are listening to this podcast on iTunes, we encourage you to comment on the podcast. Or you can leave a voice message for us on the sit

Steve Kramer is a walking miracle. He was born two-and-a half months premature with Cerebral Palsy. The doctors did not have much hope for him…but God had other plans. Steve has seen God’s faithfulness as he has been a radio disc jockey, TV news anchor/reporter, pastor, missionary and motivational speaker.   We encourage you to share this podcast with your friends via your social media connections. After listening to this podcast, we encourage you to email us at info@FreshHope.us with a comment or question we will share on our next podcast.   If you are listening to this podcast on iTunes, we encourage you to comment on the podcast. Or you can leave a voice message for us on the site:  www.FreshHope4MentalHealth.com. Pastor Brad Hoefs, the host of Fresh Hope for Mental Health, founded Fresh Hope Ministries, a network of Christian mental health support groups for those with a diagnosis and their loved ones. In other words, Fresh Hope is a Christian mental health support group.  Brad was diagnosed with bipo

Kay Warren, co-founder of Saddleback Church will be one of the 35 speakers at Fresh Hope's upcoming Voices of Hope Conference.  In this episode, Kay talks about her topic for the conference.  She also talks with Pastor Brad about Rick, her recent retirement from Saddleback, and what she is doing now through her retreat ministry called Breath.    In this interview, you can hear Kay's heart and passion for those who love a child with a mental illness, as she knows this all too well.  She gives some honest and helpful insights to parents who love a child with mental health challenges. You don't want to miss listening to this interview! We encourage you to share this podcast with your friends via your social media connections. After listening to this podcast, we encourage you to email us at info@FreshHope.us with a comment or question we will share on our next podcast.   If you are listening to this podcast on iTunes, we encourage you to comment on the podcast. Or you can leave a voice message for us on the site:

As a trauma-informed, faith-based mental health professional, Janell sits with clients every day, listening to their hearts and catching their tears. After publishing her first book, Rock-Solid Families: Transforming an Ordinary Home into a Fortress of Faith (AMG Publishers), she completed her Master of Arts in Human Services Counseling with a Marriage and Family Specialization and her Board Certification in Advanced Christian Life Coaching (Marriage and Family Specialization). To further help her clients with trauma-related issues, she became a Certified Practitioner in Aroma Freedom Technique with Dr. Benjamin Perkus. As host of “Today’s Heartlift with Janell,” she is hoping to bridge the gap between faith and mental health. Connect with Janell at www.heartliftcentral.com.   We encourage you to share this podcast with your friends via your social media connections. After listening to this podcast, we encourage you to email us at info@FreshHope.us with a comment or question that we will share on our nex