Explore every episode of the podcast Raising Fatherless Kids
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 154. Growth in Grief | 05 Mar 2025 | 00:18:16 | |
Grief is like a workout—it is painful, exhausting, and requires endurance. But just like time in the gym builds strength, grief can lead to growth when we embrace the process. As we navigate grief, let us trust that growth is happening, even when we cannot see it. Spring is coming, and with it, hope and renewal. In this episode, Lori Apon shares key lessons from her gym experience that parallel the journey of grief. Through personal stories and biblical encouragement, she reminds us that while suffering is hard, it is not wasted. God is present, shaping us and our children through every season of pain. Key Takeaways:
Join the Conversation: Have you seen growth through your grief journey? Connect with us at Perspective Ministries. | |||
| 153. Healing Hearts: How to Support Children Who Experience the Fear of Abandonment | 26 Feb 2025 | 00:34:19 | |
Father loss—through death, divorce, or desertion—can lead children to struggle with fears of abandonment. The absence of a father can open the door to fears of rejection and insecurity, impacting children emotionally, spiritually, and even physically. In this episode of Raising Fatherless Kids, Lori shares biblical encouragement that God promises to be a father to the fatherless (Psalm 68:5).
Encouragement for Moms:The enemy wants children to believe they are abandoned, but God’s truth says otherwise. He is near, faithful, and working all things for good. Look for Him, trust Him, and guide your children toward His unfailing love. Other Resources: The Importance of Mentors and How to Ask Finding Male Role Models for My Fatherless Girl Podcast Episode 22 When You Feel Left Behind Podcast Episode 112 💛 Subscribe & Share – If this episode encouraged you, please leave a review and share with others. May God bless you and your children with His peace and presence! Key Takeaways: | |||
| 144. REPLAY 91 Jesus, Our Prince of Peace | 25 Dec 2024 | 00:14:21 | |
We are all desperately longing for peace. You may be in a season of suffering but able to proclaim that you are experiencing a peace that surpasses understanding, or you may be crying out for peace amidst the turmoil. No matter where you find yourself today, you have access to Jesus, the Prince of Peace. The prophet Isaiah gives four titles for Jesus, “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon His shoulder, and His name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6, ESV). In this episode, Lori talks about:
Have you experienced Christ as your Prince of Peace? Listen in and be drawn closer to your savior. Other Resources His Name shall be called Wonderful Counselor Podcast Episode 88 with Lori Apon He will be called Mighty God Podcast Episode 89 with Lori Apon Knowing God as Everlasting Father Podcast Episode 90 with Lori Apon Mom, you are not alone! Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries. | |||
| 54. How to Plan a Blessing Party for your Child | 05 Apr 2023 | 00:15:18 | |
This is such a special episode because it's the first birthday of the Help! I’m Raising Fatherless Kids podcast! Moms, thank you for taking the time to listen when you have so much demanding your attention. One of the most important celebrations that I had with my children was the “Blessing Party” at the beginning of their teenage season. This is a time to guide your child in putting away childish things and transitioning them to adulthood. In this episode, Lori discusses the following:
Other resources: The Blessing by John Trent, Gary Smalley, and Kari Trent Stageberg The letter of blessing that was written and then spoken over my child at the Blessing Party included some of the following:
Mom, you are not alone! Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
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| 53. Celebrating Easter with Kids | 29 Mar 2023 | 00:29:40 | |
As a mom, one of the greatest responsibilities and joys is telling her children the story of Jesus and the good news of the Gospel. In today’s episode, Lori talks about Easter including:
Other resources: Advent: Count Down to the Coming of Christ Easter Music Christ the Lord is Risen Today Scripture 1 Corinthians 15:55-57 Hebrews 9:12 John 3:16 Matthew 28:1-6 Romans 3:23 Romans 6:23 1 John 1:9 Romans 10:9 Romans 10:13 If you prayed with me the prayer of salvation, or have a prayer request, please email lori@perspectiveministries.org to share the good news!
Mom, you are not alone! Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom
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| 52. The Investment of a Mentor with Eric Helms and Brandon Apon | 22 Mar 2023 | 00:43:42 | |
God will often use mentors as a vessel for His fathering. One of the most important investments a single mom can make in the life of her children, especially her sons, is providing a mentor. A man who will come alongside to help navigate the path of a boy from childhood to manhood, from teaching simple skills of a handshake to pursuing a wife, and everything in between. Single moms will need to release a lot of their preconceived ideas of what family looks like and consider that it will take a village to help raise their children. A fatherless child is not likely to stay on the right path without the strong support of somebody guiding them along the way. Eric Helms is the founder of Driven to Encourage Ministries and the territory servant leader for Atlanta Metro and travels to many locations sharing the life-changing message of Jesus Christ. He does this through a variety of topics including his own radical testimony. He wants others to understand how much the Savior loves them, desires personal relationships with them, and how Jesus wants us to be obedient to Him. Eric and his wife, Michele, live in north Georgia. Brandon Apon, the oldest son of Lori Apon, went to Liberty University where he graduated with a degree in Business Marketing. Upon walking on to the football team, Brandon earned team captain honors, a full scholarship, and was named a Hammer Strength All-American as well as 1st Team All-State and All-Conference. It was at Liberty where Brandon met his wife, Brittany. They moved to Atlanta after graduation and have enjoyed building both a family and a career in Georgia. Brandon started selling cars for the Hendrick Automotive Group as his first job after college. At 27, he was promoted to General Manager of Mall of Georgia Mazda in Buford, GA, one of the youngest in the organization. He was recently named Automotive News 40 Under 40, highlighting the top leaders in the industry. Brandon and Brittany are celebrating their 10-year wedding anniversary, and are blessed with two boys, Brantley (4) and Barrett (2). In this episode, Eric and Brandon discuss the following:
Additional Resources: The Importance of Mentors and How to Ask The Importance of a Mentor Part One The Value of a Mentor Part Two Mom, you are not alone! | |||
| 51. Processing Dad Loss with Zach Garza Pt. 2 | 15 Mar 2023 | 00:20:49 | |
Last week our guest, Zach Garza, shared his fatherless journey and the impact mentors had on his life. As we continue the conversation, Zach shares insight and wisdom on what moms should anticipate as their children, especially boys, process the loss of an earthy father. Zach Garza, the founder of Forerunner Mentoring and Vice President of Expansion for the Mentoring Alliance, which equips and encourages mentors to build relationships with kids who have experienced adverse circumstances. In this episode, Zach talks about the five stages for processing dad loss:
Additional Resources: The Importance of a Mentor Part One The Importance of Mentors and How to Ask You Can Mentor by Zach Garza You Can Mentor Podcast with Zach Garza Mom, you are not alone! Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries. | |||
| 50. The Impact of a Mentor with Zach Garza Pt. 1 | 08 Mar 2023 | 00:25:41 | |
The loss of an earthly dad deeply impacts the life of a child, although it’s not always realized in childhood. Children can often grow into grief and not deal with dad loss until their adult years. Many times a positive mentoring relationship is the tool that God will use to remove an infected emotional splinter and bring about healing. Zach Garza, the founder of Forerunner Mentoring and Vice President of Expansion for the Mentoring Alliance, equips and encourages mentors to build relationships with kids who have experienced adverse circumstances. In this episode Zach talks about:
Additional Resources: You Can Mentor by Zach Garza You Can Mentor Podcast with Zach Garza The Importance of a Mentor Part One The Importance of Mentors and How to Ask Mom, you are not alone! Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries. | |||
| 49. Mentoring Part 2: The value of a mentor for fatherless sons with Dave Inabnit and Evan Apon | 01 Mar 2023 | 00:40:56 | |
Mentoring plays a valuable role in the life of a fatherless young man. A young man needs to be challenged in ways beyond what a mom can offer. When a boy does not have an earthly dad, he needs a mentor who will make a practical, emotional, and spiritual investment in his life. Although this important relationship will look different for everyone, the benefits are often the same - God uses men as His vessel for fathering. Affirmation, guidance, and prayer join together with hands-on teaching of skills men need to learn in life. Mentors help boys turn into men. Today’s guests, Dave Inabnit and Evan Apon, discuss the following:
Additional Resources: The Importance of a Mentor Part One The Importance of Mentors and How to Ask Mom, you are not alone! Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries. | |||
| 48. The Importance of a Mentor Part One | 22 Feb 2023 | 00:24:08 | |
Inserting mentors into the lives of your children is crucial during those child-raising years even if there are two parents in the home but especially if you are raising children without a dad. Mentoring for a fatherless family provides not only a vessel of God’s tangible fathering for children who do not have an earthly dad but also guidance for the single mom. Being intentional about asking men and women to mentor our family was one of the “Pillars of Grace” that God used in the life of my family. In this episode Lori shares her experience with mentors discussing the following:
Additional Resources: The Importance of Mentors and How to Ask Mom, you are not alone! Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries. | |||
| 47. The Battle of Pornography and Promiscuity for our Daughters with Mo Isom | 15 Feb 2023 | 01:04:02 | |
The average age of exposure to pornography is 9 years old. Any child can stumble onto this perversion whether they are looking for it or not. Pornography is a subject that is often uncomfortable for moms to discuss with their children, but it is an important conversation. Moms must be proactive against this battle that many fight against, even Christians. In the conversation today Mo Isom Aiken candidly talks about:
Additional Resources: The Realities of Suicide Go Beyond Mental Health by Mo Isom Wreck My Life: The Journey from Broken to Bold by Mo Isom Sex, Jesus, and the Conversations the Church Forgot by Mo Isom Fully Known by Mo Aiken Pornography, More than a Battle with Joe Rigney Mo (Isom) Aiken is a New York Times bestselling author, a nationally sought-after speaker, and a powerful voice rising up for her generation. In her younger years, she was an All-American goalkeeper for the LSU Women’s Soccer team and the first female to train with and try out for an SEC men’s football team. Her life was riddled with great personal tragedy – including battling an eating disorder, overcoming the suicide of her father, struggling with promiscuity, and surviving a horrific car accident. But by the grace of God, alone, she encountered the love and mercy of Jesus – the Great Deliverer and the One who makes all things new. Mom, you are not alone! Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries. | |||
| 46. Pornography, More Than a Battle with Joe Rigney | 08 Feb 2023 | 01:03:50 | |
There are many conversations that moms must have with their fatherless children including talking about purity, pornography, and the enemy's plan to work against our children and moms in this area. Even though these conversations might be awkward they should not be avoided. God created us as sexual beings therefore we must teach our children about the gift of sex with its delights and dangers. Dr. Joe Rigney, the author of the book More than a Battle, joins us today to provide wisdom and practical guidance for moms as she navigates this territory with their sons. In this episode Dr. Joe Rigney provides helpful insights including the following:
Helpful Resources
Lori’s story: My Greatest Fear Becomes Reality Dr. Joe Rigney served as the President and Professor of Theology and Literature at Bethlehem College and Seminary. He is also the pastor at City Church in St. Paul, MN, and serves as a teacher at Desiring God. Mom, you are not alone! Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries. | |||
| 45. Celebrating Valentine’s Day as a Single Parent | 01 Feb 2023 | 00:11:06 | |
Valentine's Day brings with it many memories and emotions - exchanging cards with friends, chocolate, roses, and romance. Single moms get to decide how to celebrate the day by showing love to others instead of waiting for someone to show love to them. Even though it's hard, we can push into the tender and hard emotions, and instead of focusing on what we don't have, we choose to make new memories. Today’s episode offers a practical idea for celebrating Valentine’s Day as a single parent with these considerations:
Mom, you are not alone! Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries. | |||
| 143. REPLAY 89 He will be called Mighty God | 18 Dec 2024 | 00:18:29 | |
Each advent season calls us to ponder the promise of Isaiah 9:6, “For a child will be born to us. A son will be given, and the government will rest on his shoulders, and He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of peace.” Scripture uses many names to describe the members of the Trinity, but these names were given in anticipation of Jesus Christ, our Messiah, the King of all kings, and Savior. You may be able to recite these familiar titles from memory, but have you taken time this season to treasure their meaning? In this episode, Lori talks about Jesus, “Mighty God”
Advent is the time of looking forward to the coming of Jesus, who came as the Lamb of God to take away the sins of the world. Mom, you are in a safe and secure place with Jesus as your Mighty God. “I am the Alpha and the Omega says the Lord God, the One who is who was and who is to come the Almighty” (Revelation 1:8, NASB). Other Resources: Wonderful Counselor Podcast episode 88 with Lori Apon Help for the Holidays Podcast episode 85 with Lisa Appelo, Clarissa Moll, and Tara Dickson. Mom, you are not alone! Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom | |||
| 44. Dadvice from one Deserted by Dad with Rob Kenney “YouTube’s Dad” | 25 Jan 2023 | 00:53:57 | |
A big fear moms have when raising fatherless boys is that they will not learn some of the valuable skills needed in life. Who's going to teach them how to change a tire or tie a tie (the basic things that they might learn just by watching Dad)? Fatherless boys themselves often fear that they will walk with that limp in life. Rob Kenney grew up fatherless and dispels this and many other fears. Two years ago Rob started a YouTube channel called Dad How Do I? and thought he was going to help 30-40 people learn a few basic skills, and in just a month and a half, his channel went viral, growing to over 1,000,000 subscribers. Two years later, he has over 4,000,000 subscribers and he's known as “YouTube’s Dad”. Rob candidly shares his Dadvice on the importance of:
Additional resources: Dad, How Do I?: Practical "Dadvice" for Everyday Tasks and Successful Living God is my Dad: Hope for Fatherless Families Mom, you are not alone! Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries. | |||
| 43. Raising Fatherless Toddlers w Amy Carroll | 18 Jan 2023 | 00:45:15 | |
The beautiful thing about toddlers and little ones is they package grief in a way that we all want to - really quickly. A toddler's ability to understand loss will increase as they grow, but in the beginning, they are unable to truly grieve. Toddlers will grieve, but they don't grieve in the same way that older children and that adults grieve. Moms will grieve that loss for them, and eventually with them. In a lot of ways, a toddler’s slow processing of grief is a gift allowing the mom to focus on her own grief. In this open conversation Lori and her daughter candidly talk about the following:
Additional Resources: How to Show Empathy to Hurting Children with Lisa Peck With Hope by Steven Curtis Chapman Finding Male Role Models for your Fatherless Girls Who Will Walk Me Down the Aisle Mom, you are not alone! Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries. | |||
| 42. Disciplines that Shape You | 11 Jan 2023 | 00:23:39 | |
When we think about what God uses to shape us, people, books, and practices play an important role. The apostle Paul encouraged Timothy to “discipline yourself for the purpose of godliness” (2 Peter 3:18). It’s that time of year when discipline becomes a priority in our lives. What comes to mind when you think of the word discipline? Physical exercise, training children, or personal habits that help you grow spiritually? Psalm 84:7 says we will go from strength to strength. So let's start where you are. Maybe this is your first day in the spiritual gym and you can only do one push-up. You might be able to take one of these disciplines and add them to your life. Listen as Lori shares 5 Spiritual Disciplines that she has grown into over the years:
Suggested Resources mentioned in this episode What Happens When Women Pray by Evelyn Christensen Disciplines of a Beautiful Woman by Anne Ortlund Life Can Be Good Again by Lisa Appelo Beyond the Darkness by Clarissa Moll The One-Line-a Day Five Year Memory Book 7 Feasts: Finding Christ in the Sacred Celebrations of the Old Testament by Erin Davis Elijah: Faith and Fire by Priscilla Shirer He’s Where the Joy is - Bible Study book - Getting to Know the Captivating God of the Trinity by Tara-Leigh Cobble Mom, you are not alone! Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries. | |||
| 41. Best of 2022 | 04 Jan 2023 | 00:06:14 | |
Last year was very exciting for Perspective Ministries! One of last year’s highlights of the ministry and for me personally was launching this podcast, offering help for moms who are raising kids without an earthly dad because of death, divorce, or desertion. Check out these favorite and most listened-to episodes! Let’s Talk About Grief
For Fatherless Girls
For Fatherless Guys
Special Topics
Mom, you are not alone! Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries. | |||
| 40. Treasuring the Year at a Glance | 28 Dec 2022 | 00:16:06 | |
The end of the year brings us to a point of reflection. Scripture records two occasions when Mary, the mother of Jesus, treasured and reflected. Both times of treasuring came after she had experienced something that was beyond her understanding and her imagination. Setting aside intentional time to reflect on the past year is an important habit. In this episode, Lori discusses the following:
Mom, you are not alone! Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries. | |||
| 39. The Lamb of God a sign for you | 21 Dec 2022 | 00:32:07 | |
We all have a story, and God weaves together our stories with lots of pieces, just like a puzzle. He does the same in Scripture concealing Jesus in the Old Testament and revealing Him in the New Testament at just the right time and place. When we stop to recall the Christmas story, many characters come to mind – Mary and Joseph, shepherds, angels, wise men, animals, and of course, baby Jesus. Other famous components join together to highlight the beauty and majesty of this great narrative: a star, a manger, and the sign. “This will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” Luke 2:12 comes to life as Lori shares the story behind this clue God gave the shepherds when Jesus was born. In this episode, Lori highlights and gives an understanding to the following:
Resources: Add link to Lamb of God blog Wrap this One Up by Christy Nockels Works Cited: The Birth Revisited by Harold Smith Jesus’ Birth, The Case for Migdal Edar Jesus’ Birth: The Significance of Migdal Edar Mom, you are not alone! Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries. | |||
| 38. Advent: Count Down to the Coming of Christ Part Two | 14 Dec 2022 | 00:31:02 | |
Holidays are celebrated in the Bible but not in the traditional ways of Easter and Christmas we are now familiar with. Leviticus outlines seven feasts (holy convocations) that God instructed His people to remember. Although Christians are not required to observe these feasts, there is much to glean from these insightful times. Advent not only counts down to the arrival of Jesus Christ as a baby in the manger but also the anticipation of His return - the Second Coming. In this episode, Lori discusses the holidays that God ordained and Jesus observed including:
Resources: Leviticus 23 Counting Down to the Coming of Christ Part One Home for the Holidays Podcast Series: Home for the Holidays Part One After Death: How to Make Christmas Sparkle Again Home for the Holidays Part 2 with Lisa Appelo Flourishing During Difficult Holiday Seasons Home for the Holidays Pt. 3 with Clarissa Moll Creating Moments of Beauty During the Holidays Home for Holidays Part 4 with Tara Dickson Works Cited: https://www.wycliffe.org/feast/7-feasts-that-point-to-christ A Family Guide to the Biblical Holidays Mom, you are not alone! Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries. | |||
| 37. Advent: Countdown to the Coming of Christ Part One | 07 Dec 2022 | 00:28:01 | |
We all experience countdown seasons in our lives. A child counts the days until their birthday, an expectant mom counts down to the birth of her baby, and a bride numbers the days to her wedding day. Advent is just that! Counting down to the birth of Jesus Christ as well as counting down to His return. In this episode, Lori discusses ideas that help guide the Advent seasons, including:
Resources: Home for the Holidays Podcast Series: Home for the Holidays Part One After Death: How to Make Christmas Sparkle Again Home for the Holidays Part 2 with Lisa Appelo Flourishing During Difficult Holiday Seasons Home for the Holidays Pt. 3 with Clarissa Moll Creating Moments of Beauty During the Holidays Home for Holidays Part 4 with Tara Dickson Mom, you are not alone! Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries. | |||
| 36. Deserted by Dad yet Not Forsaken by Father God with Guest: Antonio Gandy-Golden | 30 Nov 2022 | 00:40:41 | |
Rejection, betrayal, and abandonment are excruciating, especially when dad is still living life in this world. When abandoned by his dad, Antonio Gandy-Golden confidently testifies that God did not forsake him. Antonio is a former American football wide receiver. He played college football at Liberty University and then the Washington Commanders drafted him in 2020 during the NFL Draft. In this episode, Antonio candidly talks about the following:
Other Fatherless Stories:
Mom, you are not alone! Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries. | |||
| 35. Remembering God’s Faithfulness with your Children | 23 Nov 2022 | 00:28:44 | |
When Thanksgiving rolled around a few months after my husband died, I was in a fog, full of emotions, and I didn't feel thankful. I knew I should be able to find something to be thankful for, but during those early days, the holidays were not the most wonderful time of the year. And neither were the other grief-filled days, weeks, and months. Life was hard and I was sad. But, I found that practicing thankfulness and trusting God's heart would be our lifeline for the holiday season and for the rest of our lives. In this episode Lori talks about:
Suggested resources: Thanksgiving and Dining at the King’s Table Mom, you are not alone! Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries. | |||
| 142. REPLAY 88 His Name shall be Wonderful Counselor | 11 Dec 2024 | 00:23:09 | |
There are over 100 names for God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit throughout the Bible. Each name describes His character and gives believers encouragement. When we think of the names of God at Christmas, four titles for the Messiah from Isaian 9:6 give us hope: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace. At some point in all our lives we will need counsel, leading us to Jesus, our Wonderful Counselor! In this episode, Lori talks about:
When children need counsel, moms should not discount the value of her own counsel in the lives of her children. God has entrusted them to you and He will shepherd you as you shepherd them. Other Resources Help for the Holidays podcast Episode 85 with Lisa Appelo, Clarissa Moll, and Tara Dickson Christ, Our Wonderful Counselor Sermon by Pastor Ben Whittinghill, Rivertown Church Mom, you are not alone! Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom | |||
| 34. Thanksgiving and Dining at the King’s Table The Story of Mephibosheth from 2 Samuel 9 with Evan Apon | 16 Nov 2022 | 00:24:05 | |
Thanksgiving is a time to be thankful, and yet when suffering, it is easy to ask the question, “why me?” When fatherlessness plays a role in this pain, it is encouraging to look to God’s Word for hope. Nestled in the Old Testament is the true story of a young, fatherless man who was granted the unmerited, honor of an invitation to dine regularly at the king’s table. Not only is this a rich story, but it’s also a picture of God's invitation to each of us. He wants us to experience Jesus, the bread of life, and regularly feast at His table. Evan Apon beautifully tells the story of the gain only God can bring through father loss. In this episode Evan talks about:
Mom, you are not alone! Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries. | |||
| 33. Creating Moments of Beauty During the Holidays Home for Holidays Part 4 with Tara Dickson | 09 Nov 2022 | 00:46:00 | |
Christmas looks different when our loved one is gone and the feeling of loss upon loss is often experienced. Tara Dickson found this to be true after the death of her husband. But despite the pain, new memories were made and lessons were learned, becoming powerful turning points in the life of her family. Her stories of how she felt held and seen by God offer hope. In this episode, Tara talks about:
Tara Dickson is the host of the Seek and Savor podcast. Related Resources: Mom, you are not alone! Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries. | |||
| 32. Flourishing During Difficult Holiday Seasons Home for the Holidays Pt. 3 with Clarissa Moll | 02 Nov 2022 | 00:42:00 | |
After Clarissa’s husband died in a hiking accident on their family vacation leaving her to raise four small children, the holidays were different and grief became their companion. You won’t want to miss Clarissa talking about:
Also be encouraged by her book, Beyond the Darkness: A Gentle Guide for Living with Grief and Thriving after Loss. Other helpful resources: When Going to Church is Hard:https://perspectiveministries.org/2021/04/12/when-going-to-church-is-hard/ Anticipating the Remembrance Day:https://perspectiveministries.org/2020/10/12/pre-memory-syndrome-anticipating-the-remembrance-day/ Mom, you are not alone! Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries. | |||
| 31. After Death: How to Make Christmas Sparkle Again Home for the Holidays Part 2 with Lisa Appelo | 26 Oct 2022 | 00:36:41 | |
The holidays can be daunting at your house when you are trying to “make Christmas good” as a single mom. As the special days approach, you might want to run for your life because of the hurt you feel from grieving the loss of your husband and knowing your children miss their daddy. Lisa Appelo, widow and mother of seven, shares insightful wisdom and inspiration on how to recreate the holidays. In this episode she talks about:
You will also be encouraged by her book, Life Can Be Good Again: Putting Your World Back Together After It All Falls Apart. Read more from Lisa by visiting LisaAppelo.com/HopeInGrief. Mom, you are not alone! Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries. | |||
| 30. Home for the Holidays Part One | 19 Oct 2022 | 00:40:19 | |
Just because the holidays are hard and heavy doesn’t mean they can’t be happy. This episode is the kick-off to a mini-series on how to handle the holidays as a solo mom. Seasoned moms will join us in this series to talk about how the Lord led them over the years. In this episode Lori discusses:
Mom, you are not alone! Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries. | |||
| 29. God is my Dad - Overcoming the Statistics of Fatherlessness with Sean Teis | 12 Oct 2022 | 00:50:25 | |
There is nothing that captures our attention more than a tragic story that ends in triumph! Sean Teis shares his riveting story of abuse and becoming fatherless as a baby, but the story doesn’t end there. Sean testifies that God intervened, fulfilling His promise to be a Father to the fatherless. Time and time again, God’s hand was on his life protecting and preparing him for the mission he feels called to now. You won’t want to miss his testimony! In this episode, helpful advice is given to both single moms and fatherless young men on
You can learn more about Sean’s ministry and resources here: Mom, you are not alone! Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries. | |||
| 28. How to Help Children Who Have Experienced Trauma | 05 Oct 2022 | 00:36:33 | |
Today's discussion was prompted by a question from a mom. How do we help our children who have experienced trauma? Trauma, defined as a “deeply distressing or disturbing experience,” prompts questions that have been asked from the beginning of time. Why does God allow suffering? If God is good, why do bad things happen? And these are really good questions. But often with no satisfactory answers this side of heaven. We will not always understand God's ways. We want to avoid pain at all costs. Even Jesus, God in the flesh, asked for another way when He was going to the cross. Lori suggests that our first response in leading our children out of a traumatic experience should be to go to God and His Word. It is helpful to look at how He has worked in the past in a variety of traumatic situations. Lori offers practical tips for moms on guiding children in processing trauma :
Mom, you are not alone! Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries. | |||
| 27. Living with Hope when Hope is Gone with Mary-Kate Burson | 28 Sep 2022 | 00:51:30 | |
Grab your fatherless daughters and bring them in to listen to this episode today, because I feel confident they will be encouraged, even though in a journey they never wanted and that God has ordained. They will see that He is working it all out for our good. Mary-Kate Burson is a true trophy of grace, one who grew up fatherless and testifies to God’s faithfulness. In this episode she talks about:
Mom, you are not alone! Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries. | |||
| 26. Preventing Burnout | 21 Sep 2022 | 00:22:50 | |
Seven helpful tips that worked in my life as I was navigating parenting alone. In this episode Lori gives insight from her own days as a single mother with steps to consider to prevent burnout:
Mom, you are not alone! Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: http://www.bit.ly/WidowMom For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries. | |||
| 25. Honest Answers for Hard Questions on Suicide | 14 Sep 2022 | 00:47:37 | |
Suicide brings to the table tormenting questions that add extra layers of grief. If you have lost a loved one or your children have lost a dad to suicide, today’s episode will discuss some of the topics you may be wrestling with:
If you would like to receive the Solace for Suicide booklet, please email info@perspectiveministries.org and put “Solace” in the subject line. Listen to Micah’s story of growing up fatherless as mentioned in this episode. Dear Mama, please know that you are not alone! Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: http://www.bit.ly/WidowMom For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries. | |||
| 141. Why Did Jesus Come to Die? | 04 Dec 2024 | 00:20:06 | |
Christmas is the time we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. He became Immanuel, God with us. Jesus came to die for our sins—He was born to die. This episode will discuss two questions: Why did Jesus come to die, and why did He need to die? This episode answers those questions by discussing the following:
Verses to Reflect On: Other resources: Hope Gathering: Helping widows find help and healing in Christ-centered communities | |||
| 24. Grieving Loss by Suicide with Krissie Garland | 07 Sep 2022 | 01:07:08 | |
Suicide Awareness Week is September 4-10, 2022, and so it is fitting to have Krissie Garland share her story. Krissie Garland, the author of the book Open Letters to our Fellow Fighters, shares transparently how God has been walking her through the journey of losing her husband to suicide. She helps widows know that they didn’t fail their husbands or children because they could not fix their problems. We discuss several hard topics with transparency, ones the church often does not know how to handle:
If you are interested in Solace for Suicide, please email info@perspectiveministries.org and put “Suicide” in the subject line. Dear Mama, please know that you are not alone! Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: http://www.bit.ly/WidowMom For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries. | |||
| 23. When a Fatherless Boy Becomes a Father with Anthony Knight | 31 Aug 2022 | 00:47:49 | |
When a boy loses his dad, he not only grieves his absence, but he grieves the tools that dad would have put in his life “toolbox” along the way. Actions often speak louder than words and parents model so much for their children as they go through life. God designed parenting to happen in this way according to Deuteronomy 6:7, “You shall teach them diligently to your sons and shall talk of them when you sit in your house and when you walk by the way and when you lie down and when you rise up.” Anthony Knight is a Trophy of Grace. His testimony of God’s protection from bitterness after the passing of his dad is inspiring. Listen as Anthony offers practical encouragement for moms raising boys without a dad:
And, Anthony challenges fatherless guys:
Dear Mama, please know that you are not alone! Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: http://www.bit.ly/WidowMom For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries | |||
| 22. Finding Male Role Models for my Fatherless Girl | 24 Aug 2022 | 00:45:08 | |
Moms raising fatherless kids have questions, good questions, regarding bringing up their children without the important role of a dad in their life. Today’s question comes from a mom raising a young daughter concerned about her girl's potential quest to fill the void in the wrong way. “How do I set boundaries for my daughter and respect her inner need for a male figure in her life?” Today four fatherless women share their “Trophies of Grace” stories of God’s protection and provision of male figures in their lives. In this episode they talk about:
Dear Mama, please know that you are not alone! Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: http://www.bit.ly/WidowMom For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries. | |||
| 21. Defender of the Widow | 17 Aug 2022 | 00:19:37 | |
Death often comes like a thief in the night, and along with that, fear enters in. It’s easy for death to make us feel robbed, invaded, and exposed. New locks are installed on our homes, we update our passwords on our computers, and we install alarm systems because we want to make sure we are protected from further loss. We're often left afraid and want to know that we are protected. The good news for any woman who's been left alone is that Almighty God protects us. He is our Defender. Today, Lori talks about the powerful truth that God protects women who have been left alone, discussing these important truths:
Mom, you are not alone! Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: http://www.bit.ly/WidowMom | |||
| 20. How to Show Empathy to Hurting Children with Lisa Peck | 10 Aug 2022 | 00:43:06 | |
Lisa Peck shares how God used growing up in a home filled with pain, trauma, and alcoholism to bring her to a pivotal crisis of faith in college. Join us as she recounts how the Lord used her challenging family background to change her life forever and to give her a mission and passion to care for individuals and families who have also experienced trauma. Lisa is the creator of Revive, and she is committed to helping others experience “relational revival” to become healthier personally, spiritually, and relationally. She loves showing you how to grow, even in the midst of trials, through laughter and meaningful conversations with yourself, God, and others. In this episode we talk about:
For more information on Lisa’s services or resources, check out her website: www.ReviveWithLisaPeck.com Dear Mama, please know that you are not alone! Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: http://www.bit.ly/WidowMom For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries. | |||
| 19. Tips for Setting Up Fatherless Children for Success in School | 03 Aug 2022 | 00:42:13 | |
There are many factors to consider when making the decision of where your children will go to school. There’s so much more than education happening at school. Belief systems are formed, identity is challenged, temptations knock, and choices are made that impact the direction of life. Moms need to understand that the foundation of their children’s lives is being built day by day, moment-by-moment with every word spoken and action modeled. On today’s episode, Lori uses the acrostic for S.C.H.O.O.L. to discuss tips for setting fatherless children up for success as they head back to school: Send them off in peace Call on others for support Help them succeed Observe and overlook mistakes Open the door for conversation Live with an eternal perspective Christian Education was one of the five “Pillars of Grace” that God used in the lives of the Apon family https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oIcHWTiovBA Mom, you are not alone! Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: http://www.bit.ly/WidowMom For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries. Piano music by Denys Kyshchuk from Pixabay | |||
| 18. Who Will Walk Me Down the Aisle? Part 3/3 | 27 Jul 2022 | 00:55:50 | |
Singleness is not for everyone and most girls pray that this is not the call of God for their lives. But waiting is often part of the story, at least that was a huge part of Christieanna’s story. A lot took place during that time of waiting as God prepared her for marriage. Fatherless girls often wonder, who will walk me down the aisle? This question may trigger an array of emotions or just curiosity about what that special day will look like without a dad. Christieanna concludes the mini-series with Lori and her four fatherless daughters, sharing their stories of anticipating their wedding day, meeting their husbands, and who walked them down the aisle. In this episode Christieanna shares:
Mom, you are not alone! Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: http://www.bit.ly/WidowMom For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries. | |||
| 17. Who Will Walk Me Down the Aisle? Part 2/3 | 20 Jul 2022 | 00:57:10 | |
Little girls dream of meeting their “Prince Charming” and anticipate their own fairytale wedding day. This special season in the life of a fatherless girl comes with an array of emotions including the big question, who will walk me down the aisle? Kayla Apon Whittinghill and Amy Apon Carroll join the mini-series with Lori Apon and her four fatherless daughters, sharing their stories of anticipating their wedding day, meeting their husbands, and who walked them down the aisle. Each one testified that God was there, even though daddy was not. In this episode each bride shares:
Mom, you are not alone! Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: http://www.bit.ly/WidowMom For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries. | |||
| 16. Who Will Walk Me Down the Aisle? Part One. | 13 Jul 2022 | 00:42:10 | |
Everyone enjoys a good love story! And every fatherless girl anticipates her wedding day with a big question tucked inside her heart, “Who will walk me down the aisle?” Abi Fasciano kicks off a mini-series with Lori Apon’s four fatherless daughters sharing their stories of anticipating their wedding day, meeting their husbands, and who walked them down the aisle. Each one testified God was there, even though daddy was not. Diane Tuttle joins the conversation by sharing her involvement when she responded to God’s invitation to plan their weddings. In this episode Abi shares:
Scripture: The Parable of the Ten Virgins (Matthew 25:1-13) Fatherless Fathers with Christ Tuttle The Bride By: Abigail Apon A young girl gently smoothes her dress. A prayer to God she does confess. And taking up her flowers red she goes to meet him for more, or less. Her father gone and dead, never kept the promise he said. She swiftly brushes away a tear and makes ready to leave the life she led. Then, tucking stray hair behind her ear, a new problem does appear. Who will walk her down the aisle? Then a little voice she does hear. God will walk her down the aisle. He will walk her down the aisle. Forever and ever down the aisle. He'll walk her down the aisle. Then gingerly she holds her dress and with both hands, cradles her flowers red. Hopefully expecting the best, she waits for words to be said. Then joyfully the song is played. The doors open to let her in, And the little girl she once portrayed waits for a new life to begin. A young man awaits her at the front smiling, yet shy. She smiles at her love, there at the front, but inside wants to cry. The white veil hides her waiting face. She's nervous as a bird. She thinks of God's Amazing Grace, and thinks of something she once heard. God will walk her down the aisle. God will walk her down the aisle, and guide her with His loving care. The veil is removed from her face. She smiles an honest smile. Covered in white, dainty lace, God had walked her down the aisle. The whole time she was standing there, Her Father never left her side. His everlasting care. His presence did not hide. Then her Father put her hands in His. His hands so scarred and bruised. The cross that stood in the crowd amiss. The rusty nail they used. Then, wrapping His arm around her shaking one, He led her back up the aisle. She was wrapped in the arms of the Son. His smile shone for miles. Then He ever carefully, gently, truly asked her to be the bride of Christ. Then softly whispered in her ear "come follow me" She was the bride of Christ. Mom, you are not alone! Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: http://www.bit.ly/WidowMom For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries. | |||
| 15: Accepted not Abandoned Trophy of Grace: Tami Glasco | 06 Jul 2022 | 00:44:36 | |
Although Tami Glasco had five dads, she never viewed God through the lens of an earthly father. At the age of eight, she learned that God was her true father. This truth calmed her and stuck with her. During the turmoil of great rejection and abandonment, when afraid, she found comfort by singing “Jesus Loves Me this I know.” “Even if my father and mother abandon me, the Lord cares for me” (Psalm 27:10). Tami shares with us how God can redeem broken stories and how the broken pieces of her story have shaped her into who she is today. She shares that we must let go of the life we thought we would have in order to live the life that God's given us. In today’s episode, Tami will share:
Tami has six children—3 daughters by birth and 3 sons by marriage and 11 grandchildren—10 live in Brenham, Texas, and one lives with Jesus and her husband in Heaven. She is the founder of Hope Gathering with the purpose of sharing the promise of HOPE with hurting widows. Mom, you are not alone! Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: http://www.bit.ly/WidowMom For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries. | |||
| 140. Giving Thanks in Hard Seasons | 27 Nov 2024 | 00:14:41 | |
Thanksgiving can be challenging, especially when you are hurting. In the early stages of loss, it can be difficult to embrace the positive growth that grief will eventually bring. Even though it is hard, finding one small thing to be thankful for is important. In this episode, Lori talks about navigating the pain and expectations of others on her first Thanksgiving, along with:
Upcoming Event: Christmas Hope Other Resources: Giving Thanks is a Choice Worth Making
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| 14. Kia Stephens - Healing from father wounds | 29 Jun 2022 | 00:45:26 | |
Kia Stephen’s story begins in college when a friend casually mentions building a bookcase with her dad, an experience Kia never had with her own father. Kia is passionate about helping women to know God as a father. God is still good even when He allows bad things to happen in our lives. And God is sovereign and has a purpose and plan for our lives, even when life doesn't make sense. In this episode we talk about:
Kia created The Father Swap Blog to help women exchange their father wounds for the love of God the Father. She is also the founder of Entrusted Women, created to equip Christian women communicators of color. In addition to these ministries, Kia faithfully serves in Bible Study Fellowship and her local church in Atlanta, Georgia. And she will be releasing her first book, Overcoming Father Wounds, on March 7, 2023. https://www.kiastephens.com/ The Forgiveness Dare is a five-day plan mentioned in the podcast. Kia will walk you through forgiving anyone for anything, including helping daughters walk through the process of forgiving their fathers. https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/29133-the-forgiveness-dare Dear Mama, please know that you are not alone! Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: http://www.bit.ly/WidowMom For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries. | |||
| 13. Navigating Summer with Children | 22 Jun 2022 | 00:30:02 | |
Summer is approximately 42 days, and when you count it in days, it just doesn’t feel that long. It can quickly escalate stress levels, making it more of a sanctifying season instead of relaxing. But, your preparation and perspective for summer can make a big difference. On today’s episode, Lori shares some practical tips to help mom survive and thrive through the summer months. In the podcasts she discusses,
Mom, you are not alone! Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: http://www.bit.ly/WidowMom For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries. | |||
| 12: Fatherless Fathers with Guest Chris Tuttle | 15 Jun 2022 | 00:47:47 | |
We conclude the Father’s Day mini-series with an honest and hope-filled conversation with Chris Tuttle, a true “Trophy of Grace,” who has been fatherless for fifty years! Chris accepted Jesus into his life as Savior and Father at the age of 19 and from that time on, God began a work of deep healing. He believes that fatherlessness is a process – a lifelong journey that God will use for good. Chris Tuttle’s story begins with the sting of a bitter divorce and desertion. In this episode Chris discusses:
Chris also defines the goal of manhood: 1. Reject Passivity 2. Accept Responsibility 3. Live Courageously 4. Wait on God's Reward 5. Discipline children in love 6. Keep your focus on the family before yourself Dear Mama, please know that you are not alone! Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: http://www.bit.ly/WidowMom For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries. | |||