Hope Talks

Building a Resilient Life with Rebekah Lyons

Rebekah Lyons shares her powerful hope story of navigating a difficult childbirth and learning that her firstborn son had Down syndrome. In that tender, uncertain season, she discovered what it truly meant to surrender control and trust God with her whole heart. 
Together, we explore how adversity can strengthen our faith, why risk is an essential part of spiritual growth, and how resilience helps us face both courageously. Rebekah also shares five practical principles from her book Building a Resilient Life, offering encouragement and wisdom for anyone learning to walk boldly with God through life’s hardest moments.
Subscribe to the podcast and tune in each week as Haley and Dustin share with you what the Bible says about real-life issues with compassion, warmth, and wit.
 
So you have every reason for hope, for every challenge in life. Because hope means everything.
 
Hope Talks is a podcast of the ministry of Hope for the Heart.
 
Listen in to learn more 
[0:00] Let Go of Life’s Blueprint—Embrace the Journey You Didn’t Plan
[0:27] Hope Isn’t Optional—It’s Everything
[5:00] When Life is Interrupted—Discovering Purpose in the Unexpected
[9:33] Grieving Dreams, Gaining Joy—The Unexpected Gifts of Special Needs Parenting
[10:00] Risk as Rescue—How Taking Leaps Builds Unshakeable Resilience
 
Rebekah Lyons Resources 
Learn more about Rebekah Lyons, her books, and her ministry – https://www.rebekahlyons.com/ 
 
Hope for the Heart resources
Order our newest resource, The Care and Counsel Handbook, providing biblical guidance  100 real-life issues: https://resource.hopefortheheart.org/care-and-counsel-handbook
 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hopefortheheart  
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hopefortheheart 
 
Want to talk with June Hunt on Hope in the Night about a difficult life issue? Schedule a time here: https://resource.hopefortheheart.org/talk-with-june-hope-in-the-night
 
God’s plan for you: https://www.hopefortheheart.org/gods-plan-for-you/
 
Give to the ministry of Hope for the Heart: https://raisedonors.com/hopefortheheart/givehope?sc=HTPDON 

Finding Treasures in the Dark with Katherine Wolf

Katherine Wolf shares her remarkable story of surviving a life-changing stroke and later navigating a high-risk pregnancy that resulted in the miraculous birth of her second son. With honesty and grace, she reflects on the “collateral blessings” God has brought from what once felt like only loss, and the unexpected ways He has redeemed her suffering. Katherine also shares how these experiences shaped her ministry, Hope Heals, and her heart to serve and advocate for the disabled community. 
This deeply meaningful conversation explores the reality of suffering, how to maintain hope, and see God’s goodness in every season.
Subscribe to the podcast and tune in each week as Haley and Dustin share with you what the Bible says about real-life issues with compassion, warmth, and wit.
 
So you have every reason for hope, for every challenge in life. Because hope means everything.
 
Hope Talks is a podcast of the ministry of Hope for the Heart.
 
Listen in to learn more 
[0:03:01] The Miracle of Her Second Child
[0:06:59] Building Hope Heals Ministry Through Crisis
[0:14:40] Redefining “Good” and the Practice of Hope
[0:27:01] Gratitude and Praise as a Response to Suffering
 
Katherine Wolf Resources 
Learn more about Katherine Wolf and her ministry, Hope Heals – https://hopeheals.com/
 
Hope for the Heart resources
Order our newest resource, The Care and Counsel Handbook, providing biblical guidance  100 real-life issues: https://resource.hopefortheheart.org/care-and-counsel-handbook
 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hopefortheheart  
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hopefortheheart 
 
Want to talk with June Hunt on Hope in the Night about a difficult life issue? Schedule a time here: https://resource.hopefortheheart.org/talk-with-june-hope-in-the-night
 
God’s plan for you: https://www.hopefortheheart.org/gods-plan-for-you/
Give to the ministry of Hope for the Heart:https://raisedonors.com/hopefortheheart/givehope?sc=HTPDON  

Into the Deep: Growing Closer to God with Bethany Murdock

When Bethany Murdock learned she and her husband wouldn’t be able to have children, her world felt shattered. Yet in that deep place of pain, God invited her into an even deeper relationship with Him.
In this encouraging conversation, Bethany—Christian Life Coach, author, and trainer with ICCI—shares her story of hope, healing, and spiritual growth. Drawing from her book Into the Deep, she unpacks what it means to truly know Jesus, overcome fear, and grow deeper in faith even when life doesn’t go as planned.
If you’re longing to take the next step in your walk with God, this episode will stir your heart to trust Him—no matter what season you’re in.
Subscribe to the podcast and tune in each week as Haley and Dustin share with you what the Bible says about real-life issues with compassion, warmth, and wit.
 
So you have every reason for hope, for every challenge in life. Because hope means everything.
 
Hope Talks is a podcast of the ministry of Hope for the Heart.
 
Listen in to learn more 
[05:02]: Hope Through Infertility and Disappointment
[10:09]: The Role of Community, Honesty, and Reframing Expectations
[20:02]: Metaphors of Depth and Fire for Relationship with God
[40:05]: Barriers to Deeper Relationship and the Cost of Discipleship
 
Bethany Murdock Resources 
Learn more about Bethany Murdock, her book Into the Deep, and her coaching practice: http://www.bethanylentzmurdock.com/ 
 
Hope for the Heart resources
Order our newest resource, The Care and Counsel Handbook, providing biblical guidance  100 real-life issues: https://resource.hopefortheheart.org/care-and-counsel-handbook
 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hopefortheheart  
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hopefortheheart 
 
Want to talk with June Hunt on Hope in the Night about a difficult life issue? Schedule a time here: https://resource.hopefortheheart.org/talk-with-june-hope-in-the-night
 
God’s plan for you: https://www.hopefortheheart.org/gods-plan-for-you/
 
Give to the ministry of Hope for the Heart: https://raisedonors.com/hopefortheheart/givehope?sc=HTPDON 

How to Change Your Mindset and Accomplish Your Goals with Cynthia Baker

Happy New Year!
In this episode, Haley and Dustin sit down with Cynthia Baker, life coach and author of Still Stuck. They discuss why we often get stuck accomplishing our goals — and how we can experience real, lasting change. 
Cynthia opens with her hope story of overcoming an eating disorder in seminary and how changing her mindset became the turning point toward healing. She walks through four key principles of changing your mindset, offering biblical wisdom and practical tools to help you approach goals and resolutions with clarity and hope. This is biblically-rich, encouraging conversation to start the New Year with fresh perspective and hope.
Subscribe to the podcast and tune in each week as Haley and Dustin share with you what the Bible says about real-life issues with compassion, warmth, and wit.
 
So you have every reason for hope, for every challenge in life. Because hope means
everything.
 
Hope Talks is a podcast of the ministry of Hope for the Heart.
 
Listen in to learn more 
 
(02:53) Digging Deeper—Mindset Change Over Behavior Change
(16:48) The Power of Small, Consistent Steps—Not All or Nothing
(21:35) Identify and Rewire Limiting Beliefs
(41:35) Four Principles to Getting Unstuck and the Role of Action
 
Cynthia Baker Resources 
Learn more about Cynthia Baker and her life coaching resources: https://cynthiabaker.com/ 
 
Hope for the Heart resources
Blog: When God’s Truth Silences the Enemy’s Lies – https://www.hopefortheheart.org/explore/blog/i-dont-even-remember
 
Blog: How to Control Anxious Thoughts - An Exercise from Philippians 4:8 – https://www.hopefortheheart.org/explore/blog/8-ways-to-control-anxious-thoughts 
 
Order our newest resource, The Care and Counsel Handbook, providing biblical guidance  100 real-life issues: https://resource.hopefortheheart.org/care-and-counsel-handbook
 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hopefortheheart  
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hopefortheheart 
 
Want to talk with June Hunt on Hope in the Night about a difficult life issue? Schedule a time here: https://resource.hopefortheheart.org/talk-with-june-hope-in-the-night
 
God’s plan for you: https://www.hopefortheheart.org/gods-plan-for-you/
 
Give to the ministry of Hope for the Heart: https://raisedonors.com/hopefortheheart/givehope?sc=HTPDON 
 
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Bible verses mentioned in this episode
 
Lamentations 3:40 – “Let us examine our ways and test them, and let us return to the LORD.”
 
Romans 12:2 – “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”
 
2 Corinthians 10:5 – “We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.”
 
Galatians 6:7 – “Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.”
Philippians 4:8-9 – Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.

Jesus: Is He God? (Reflections on Christmas)

Merry Christmas!
In this special Christmas episode, Haley and Dustin fix their eyes on Jesus – the hope of the world. They explore solid historical and biblical evidence for His deity, reflect on His titles (Good Shepherd, Prince of Peace, Emmanuel, and more), and conclude with reflection questions to stir your heart to worship the Savior this Christmas season.
Subscribe to the podcast and tune in each week as Haley and Dustin share with you what the Bible says about real-life issues with compassion, warmth, and wit.
 
So you have every reason for hope, for every challenge in life, because hope means everything.
 
Hope Talks is a podcast of the ministry of Hope for the Heart.
 
Listen in to learn more 
(02:00) : Christmas Is About Jesus—Past, Present, and Future(07:30) : Jesus Is the Source of Real Hope (21:00) : Faith Is Grounded in History, Not Blind Belief(42:00) : Your Personal Testimony Matters as Much as the Evidence(1:07:00) : Jesus Is Still Present and Active Today 
Hope for the Heart resources :
Order our newest resource, The Care and Counsel Handbook, providing biblical guidance  100 real-life issues: https://resource.hopefortheheart.org/care-and-counsel-handbook
 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hopefortheheart  
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hopefortheheart 
 
Want to talk with June Hunt on Hope in the Night about a difficult life issue? Schedule a time here: https://resource.hopefortheheart.org/talk-with-june-hope-in-the-night
 
God’s plan for you: https://www.hopefortheheart.org/gods-plan-for-you/
 
Give to the ministry of Hope for the Heart: https://raisedonors.com/hopefortheheart/givehope?sc=HTPDON 
 
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Bible verses mentioned in this episode
 
Matthew 12:18-21 – after healing a man’s hand on the Sabbath … “Here is my servant whom I have chosen, the one I love, in whom I delight; I will put my Spirit on him, and he will proclaim justice to the nations. He will not quarrel or cry out; no one will hear his voice in the streets. A bruised reed he will not break, and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out, till he has brought justice through to victory. In his name the nations will put their hope.”
John 14:6 – “Jesus answered, 'I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”
 
Luke 24:40-43 – When he had said this, he showed them his hands and feet. And while they still did not believe it because of joy and amazement, he asked them, “Do you have anything here to eat?” They gave him a piece of broiled fish, and he took it and ate it in their presence.
 
1 Timothy 1:1 – Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the command of God our Savior and of Christ Jesus our hope.
 
Titus 2:11-13 – For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, while we wait for the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ.
 
 

Mark Lowry on Hope, Humor & the Story Behind “Mary, Did You Know?”

This week on Hope Talks, we welcome singer, songwriter, comedian, and storyteller Mark Lowry—best known for writing the beloved Christmas song “Mary, Did You Know?” and for his years with the Gaither Vocal Band. 
In this warm and funny Christmas conversation, Mark shares his hope story, beginning with a devastating car accident that left him with multiple broken bones and unexpectedly launched his journey as a songwriter. Forced into stillness, he encountered God’s presence in a fresh way.
Mark reflects on how he stepped into music and comedy, how “Mary, Did You Know?” was born, and why joy and humor matter so deeply in the Christian life. He also tells the stories behind several songs on his latest album, There Is Hope, offering an encouraging reminder that God is near, faithful, and working even when life feels broken. 
Subscribe to the podcast and tune in each week as Haley and Dustin share with you what the Bible says about real-life issues with compassion, warmth, and wit.
 
So you have every reason for hope, for every challenge in life. Because hope means everything.
 
Hope Talks is a podcast of the ministry of Hope for the Heart.
 
Listen in to learn more:
(10:30): Joy Isn’t the Absence of Pain—It’s the Presence of Jesus(17:45): You Don’t Have to Understand the “Mortgage” to Belong in God’s House(32:40): Humor Opens Hearts: If They’re Laughing, They’re Listening(1:24:30): Stuck This Christmas? Serve Someone—It’ll Pull You Out of the Funk
 
Mark Lowry Resources
Learn more about Mark Lowry, his music and ministry: https://marklowry.com/
 
Check out his latest album, There is Hope: https://marklowry.myshopify.com/products/there-is-hope-cd-mark-lowry 
 
Hope for the Heart resources
Order our newest resource, The Care and Counsel Handbook, providing biblical guidance  100 real-life issues: https://resource.hopefortheheart.org/care-and-counsel-handbook
 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hopefortheheart  
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hopefortheheart 
 
Want to talk with June Hunt on Hope in the Night about a difficult life issue? Schedule a time here: https://resource.hopefortheheart.org/talk-with-june-hope-in-the-night
 
God’s plan for you: https://www.hopefortheheart.org/gods-plan-for-you/
 
Give to the ministry of Hope for the Heart: https://raisedonors.com/hopefortheheart/givehope?sc=HTPDON 

Confessions of a Christian Alcoholic with Jon Seidl (Part 2)

Best-selling author, speaker, and storyteller Jon Seidl joins us again—this time post-launch of his new book, Confessions of a Christian Alcoholic. Jon shares the encouragement he’s received from the book, how he stays grounded in what truly matters, and why recovery must aim at Jesus rather than simply staying sober. 
He walks us through the four key steps that shaped his journey: abiding in Christ, finding true identity, practicing radical vulnerability, and obeying God’s leading. If you or someone you love is battling addiction or stuck in shame, this conversation offers clarity, compassion, and real hope.
Subscribe to the podcast and tune in each week as Haley and Dustin share with you what the Bible says about real-life issues with compassion, warmth, and wit.
 
So you have every reason for hope, for every challenge in life. Because hope means everything.
 
Hope Talks is a podcast of the ministry of Hope for the Heart.
 
Listen in to learn more 
(04:10) - Hope in Christ, Not Book Success(12:45) - Jesus, Not Just Sobriety(21:30) - Mountaintops vs. Valleys in Spiritual Growth(36:05) - Four Steps: Abide, Identity, Vulnerability, Obedience(49:20) - Freedom Beyond Programs and Performance
 
Jon Seidl Resources 
Learn more about Jon Seidl: https://www.jonseidl.com/
 
Get Jon’s book, Confessions of a Christian Alcoholic – https://www.jonseidl.com/confessions-of-a-christian-alcoholic-book 
 
Check out Jon’s blog, The Veritas Daily: https://jonseidl.substack.com/
 
Get Jon’s book, Finding Rest: A Survivor’s Guide to Navigating the Valleys of Anxiety, Faith, and Life -- https://www.jonseidl.com/finding-rest-book
 
Connect with Jon on social:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jonathonseidl
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jonseidl/
 
Hope for the Heart resources
Order our newest resource, The Care and Counsel Handbook, providing biblical guidance  100 real-life issues: https://resource.hopefortheheart.org/care-and-counsel-handbook
 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hopefortheheart  
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hopefortheheart 
 
Want to talk with June Hunt on Hope in the Night about a difficult life issue? Schedule a time here: https://resource.hopefortheheart.org/talk-with-june-hope-in-the-night
 
God’s plan for you: https://www.hopefortheheart.org/gods-plan-for-you/
 
Give to the ministry of Hope for the Heart: https://raisedonors.com/hopefortheheart/givehope?sc=HTPDON 

The Jesus Approach to Trauma Recovery with David Tharp & Scott Meador

In this special episode recorded at the 2025 Hope Together Conference, Haley and Dustin are joined by Air Force Lt. Col. David Tharp and Army veteran Scott Meador. Together, they share how God met them in the darkest moments—through suicidal despair, physical pain, and the lasting impact of war. Their personal stories of hope led them to create UpArmor, a Christ-centered trauma recovery training designed to help veterans, coaches, and caregivers bring biblical healing to wounded hearts.
Together, we talk about the reality of trauma, the obstacles to recovery, and how Jesus is at the center of lasting healing. Whether you’ve faced trauma yourself or want to help others, this episode will remind you that hope and restoration are possible through Christ.
Subscribe to the podcast and tune in each week as Haley and Dustin share with you what the Bible says about real-life issues with compassion, warmth, and wit.
 
So you have every reason for hope, for every challenge in life. Because hope means everything.
 
Hope Talks is a podcast of the ministry of Hope for the Heart.
 
Resources from David & Scott 
Learn more about Project Healing Heroes – https://www.projecthealingheroes.org/
 
Learn more about UpArmor trauma coaching – https://iccicoaching.com/product/up-armor-training-coaching-foundations-and-basic-training/ 
 
Hope for the Heart resources
Order our newest resource, The Care and Counsel Handbook, providing biblical guidance  100 real-life issues: https://resource.hopefortheheart.org/care-and-counsel-handbook
 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hopefortheheart  
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hopefortheheart 
 
Want to talk with June Hunt on Hope in the Night about a difficult life issue? Schedule a time here: https://resource.hopefortheheart.org/talk-with-june-hope-in-the-night
 
God’s plan for you: https://www.hopefortheheart.org/gods-plan-for-you/
 
Give to the ministry of Hope for the Heart: https://raisedonors.com/hopefortheheart/givehope?sc=HTPDON 

Developing an Attitude of Gratitude (Replay)

In this replay episode, we’re revisiting one of our favorite conversations on gratitude.
Haley kicks things off with a special Thanksgiving song, and together we reflect on what the Bible says about being thankful – even when it’s not easy. We explore some roadblocks that make gratitude difficult at times and share some practical ways to grow in gratitude and give thanks to the Lord in all things.
Subscribe to the podcast and tune in each week as Haley and Dustin share with you what the Bible says about real-life issues with compassion, warmth, and wit.
 
So you have every reason for hope, for every challenge in life. Because hope means everything.
 
Hope Talks is a podcast of the ministry of Hope for the Heart.
 
Listen in to learn more :
(05:11) Gratitude in All Circumstances 
(12:27) Balancing Emotion and Gratitude 
(13:56) Gratitude and Gift Giver 
(27:05) Expressing Gratitude for Everyday Items 
(33:02) Practicing Gratitude Beyond Comparisons 
(42:30) Practicing Thanksgiving With Whole Heart 
(48:43) Gratitude and Thankfulness
 
Hope for the Heart resources
Free Thanksgiving Devotional: https://tinyurl.com/yu52zw6z 
 
Order our newest resource, The Care and Counsel Handbook, providing biblical guidance on 100 real-life issues: https://resource.hopefortheheart.org/care-and-counsel-handbook
 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hopefortheheart  
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hopefortheheart 
 
Want to talk with June Hunt on Hope in the Night about a difficult life issue? Schedule a time here: https://resource.hopefortheheart.org/talk-with-june-hope-in-the-night
 
God’s plan for you: https://www.hopefortheheart.org/gods-plan-for-you/
 
Give to the ministry of Hope for the Heart: https://raisedonors.com/hopefortheheart/givehope?sc=HTPDON 
 
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Bible verses mentioned in this episode:
 
Psalm 9:1 – “I will give thanks to you, Lord, with all my heart; I will tell of all your wonderful deeds.”
 
Psalm 136:1 – “Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.”
 
Matthew 26:26-27 – “While they were eating, Jesus took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to his disciples, saying, “Take and eat; this is my body.” Then he took a cup, and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them, saying, “Drink from it, all of you.”
 
Luke 17:15-19 – “One of them, when he saw he was healed, came back, praising God in a loud voice. He threw himself at Jesus’ feet and thanked him—and he was a Samaritan. Jesus asked, “Were not all ten cleansed? Where are the other nine?  Has no one returned to give praise to God except this foreigner?” Then he said to him, “Rise and go; your faith has made you well.”
Colossians 3:17 – “Whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”
 
1 Thessalonians 5:18 – “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
 
James 1:17 – “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights...”
 
Hebrews 13:15 – “Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise—the fruit of lips that openly profess his name.”
 

Navigating Family Dysfunction and Holiday Stress

The holidays can bring joy – but also remind us of old family patterns that still hurt. In this episode, Dustin and Haley talk about what family dysfunction means … and what it doesn’t mean.
Through stories of biblical families marked by dysfunction, we see how God still works through imperfect people and messy relationships. Together, we explore “unspoken rules” that often define family systems and share reflection questions to help you make sense of your past, deal with present tensions, and build new habits for the future.
If you’re feeling pressure heading into the holidays, this conversation will help you take a deep breath and find hope in the middle of family chaos.
Subscribe to the podcast and tune in each week as Haley and Dustin share with you what the Bible says about real-life issues with compassion, warmth, and wit.
 
So you have every reason for hope, for every challenge in life. Because hope means everything.
 
Hope Talks is a podcast of the ministry of Hope for the Heart.
 
Listen in to learn more 
(03:17) Holiday Devotional Reflections 
(05:29) Navigating Family Expectations During the Holidays 
(10:07) Understanding Dysfunction in Family Relationships 
(17:30) Navigating Family Boundaries During the Holidays
(26:17) Staying Safe in Family Conflicts 
(33:04) Generational Faith in Biblical Lineage
(42:59) Setting Boundaries in Family Relationships
(54:58) Reorienting With Grace and Perspective
 
Hope for the Heart resources
Order our newest resource, The Care and Counsel Handbook, providing biblical guidance  100 real-life issues: https://resource.hopefortheheart.org/care-and-counsel-handbook
 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hopefortheheart  
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hopefortheheart 
 
Want to talk with June Hunt on Hope in the Night about a difficult life issue? Schedule a time here: https://resource.hopefortheheart.org/talk-with-june-hope-in-the-night
 
God’s plan for you: https://www.hopefortheheart.org/gods-plan-for-you/
 
Give to the ministry of Hope for the Heart: https://raisedonors.com/hopefortheheart/givehope?sc=HTPDON