Shows
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant Loss64 | Two Losses, One Marriage: Holding On to Faith Through Grief | Tim and Yolanda ThomasAshley welcomes longtime friends Tim and Yolanda Thomas to the Cradled in Hope podcast to share their journey through back-to-back pregnancy losses and the long road of grief, healing, and hope that followed.Tim and Yolanda share the stories of their daughters, Abundynce and Joyana, and speak candidly about what it was like to walk through compounded loss, unanswered questions, and seasons of deep darkness—both individually and as a married couple. With humility and grace, they reflect on how grief tested their faith, strained communication, and reshaped their understanding of suffering, while also drawing them into a...
2026-02-0147 min
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant Loss63 | Held in His Presence: Healing Rest for the Grieving Heart | Becky ThompsonIn this profoundly powerful episode, Ashley welcomes national bestselling author and Midnight Mom Devotional founder Becky Thompson back to the podcast to talk about her newest book, Healing Rest. Together, they share an unforgettable conversation about rest for the weary, peace for the anxious, and the healing presence of Jesus for grieving hearts.What begins as an interview soon becomes a Spirit-led encounter with God’s tender presence. Becky invites listeners into the “closet” of vulnerability and surrender—the safe place where we meet Jesus, fall apart in His arms, and find the rest our souls ar...
2026-01-0158 min
The Nothing Is Wasted PodcastEpisode 409 - Cradled in Hope with Ashley OpligerHow do you hold onto hope while processing new losses after past ones? How do you reconcile the deep suffering you experience in life with the goodness of God?Ashley Opliger knows these questions well. After losing her daughter, Bridget, to stillbirth, she couldn’t imagine a greater pain. Years later, when her father was killed by a drunk driver, she found herself navigating a new wave of grief layered over the old. Yet, in the midst of heartbreak, Ashley discovered hope and purpose through Bridget’s Cradles, the nonprofit she founded to support families grieving the loss of a...
2025-12-251h 17
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant Loss16 | Cradled in Hope Book Club | Parting Words | Ashley OpligerIn this final episode of the Cradled in Hope Book Club, Ashley reflects on the sacred journey of walking chapter by chapter through grief and healing alongside grieving moms from across the country. She offers heartfelt thanks to every listener who showed up, shared their tears, and let Jesus meet them in the midst of sorrow.Reading a section from the final pages of the book, Ashley compares this closing moment to a “Midwest goodbye”—the kind where no one really wants to leave. With tenderness, she reminds grieving moms that this is not goodbye, but see you la...
2025-12-2218 min
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant Loss15 | Cradled in Hope Book Club | Ch 14 | Ashley OpligerIn this episode, Ashley walks through Chapter 14 of Cradled in Hope, “Our Future Forever: When You Long for Your Heavenly Home.” She invites grieving moms to set their eyes on eternity and live with urgency, hope, and peace in the promise that Jesus is coming back—and that we will be reunited with our babies in Heaven.Ashley shares vivid memories of the day Bridget was born and went to Heaven, and how the fleeting nature of time shaped her longing for eternity. Through Scripture and personal reflections, she explains the biblical truth of the Resurr...
2025-12-1544 min
Hope After Child & Sibling Loss/the empty chair endeavorAshley Opliger, Bridget’s Mom & Founder of Bridget’s CradlesIn this heartfelt conversation, Ashley Opliger shares her journey of grief after the stillbirth of her daughter, Bridget, and how it led to the creation of Bridget's Cradles, a ministry that provides cradles for families experiencing loss. Ashley discusses the emotional, physical, and spiritual aspects of grief, the importance of communication in relationships, and how grief evolves over time. She emphasizes the significance of honoring our children, navigating holidays, and the impact of loss on parenting. Through her experiences, Ashley offers hope and encouragement to others, highlighting the importance of remembering and talking about loss, as well as...
2025-12-0944 min
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant Loss14 | Cradled in Hope Book Club | Ch 13 | Ashley OpligerIn this episode, Ashley walks through Chapter 13 of Cradled in Hope, “With the Same Comfort: When You Want to Use Your Grief for Good.” She reflects on how God can use our heartbreak to minister to others and reminds grieving moms that purpose flows from a transformed heart—not from striving or pressure to “make meaning” out of tragedy.Ashley shares a powerful story about the day of Bridget’s funeral and how their procession unknowingly passed by the future headquarters of Bridget’s Cradles—a building not yet built, but already known to God. This moment, yea...
2025-12-0134 min
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant Loss13 | Cradled in Hope Book Club | Ch 12 | Ashley OpligerIn this episode, Ashley walks through Chapter 12 of Cradled in Hope, “More Than Gold: When You Allow God to Transform You,” and reflects on how her faith has been shaped through trials—even before losing Bridget. She shares how past hardships prepared her to walk through grief with Jesus and how those earlier seasons of suffering laid a foundation of trust in God's goodness.Ashley explains that transformation doesn’t mean moving on from grief—it’s about sanctification: becoming more like Christ through the pain. Rooted in 1 Peter 1:6–7, she talks about how God can use the fi...
2025-11-2236 min
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant Loss12 | Cradled in Hope Book Club | Ch 11 | Ashley OpligerIn this episode, Ashley shares a deeply personal story of how grief resurfaced during her third pregnancy, years after the loss of her daughter Bridget. Centered on Chapter 11 of Cradled in Hope, “Holding Both: When You Experience Both Joy and Sorrow,” she reflects on how conflicting emotions—gratitude and grief, joy and sadness—can coexist and create confusion, guilt, and shame for grieving moms.Through honest storytelling and gentle encouragement, Ashley invites listeners to reframe “either/or” thinking into “both/and” truth. With grace, she reminds moms that it’s possible to feel immense love for one child while still...
2025-11-1540 min
The Daily Grace PodcastReal Hope For Your Broken Heart with Ashley OpligerHow do you find hope when your heart is broken by the loss of a child? In this episode, Shelby is joined by author Ashley Opliger to talk about her book, Cradled in Hope: A 40-Day Devotional for Pregnancy Loss Mothers. Ashley shares how the Lord met her in her grief and how His Word offers comfort and healing to hurting moms. This conversation gently points listeners to the hope of the gospel and reminds us that Jesus is near to the brokenhearted.
Connect with Ashley:
Website | Cradled in Hope
...
2025-11-1137 minKFM On DemandThe Daily Grace Podcast - Real Hope For Your Broken Heart with Ashley OpligerHow do you find hope when your heart is broken by the loss of a child? In this episode, Shelby is joined by author Ashley Opliger to talk about her book, Cradled in Hope: A 40-Day Devotional for Pregnancy Loss Mothers. Ashley shares how the Lord met her in her grief and how His Word offers comfort and healing to hurting moms. This conversation gently points listeners to the hope of the gospel and reminds us that Jesus is near to the brokenhearted.
Connect with Ashley:
Website | Cradled in Hope
...
2025-11-1137 min
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant Loss11 | Cradled in Hope Book Club | Ch 10 | Ashley OpligerIn this episode, Ashley walks through the many ways grief after losing a baby can trigger anxiety, panic, and overwhelm in daily life. Centered on Chapter 10 of Cradled in Hope, she shares real examples of past, present, and future (anticipatory) triggers and how they impact grieving moms emotionally and physically. Drawing from personal experiences and biblical wisdom, Ashley offers practical tools for navigating triggers and renewing your mind through Christ.Ashley shared:The difference between past, present, and future triggers—and examples of each from real life (like birth trauma, seeing baby items in stores, or dr...
2025-11-0130 min
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant LossBonus Ep | Wave of Light 2025This special bonus episode highlights the program from the Wave of Light 2025 event that Bridget’s Cradles hosted in Wichita, Kansas, on October 15, 2025, Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day. In this episode, we shared: The full program from the 2025 Wave of Light candlelight vigil at Beech Lake, including worship, messages of hope, and the reading of babies’ names in HeavenOpening remarks by emcee Scott Evans and an opening prayer by Pastor John Carney of Central Community ChurchA message from Christ Church Pastor Doug Hodgens, representing this year’s Presenting Sponsor, sharing their mission of compassion and faith i...
2025-10-311h 10
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant Loss10 | Cradled in Hope Book Club | Ch 9 | Ashley OpligerIn this episode, Ashley vulnerably shares how spiritual warfare often intensifies in the wake of pregnancy and infant loss. Centered on Chapter 9 of Cradled in Hope, “The Good Fight: When You Encounter the Enemy’s Attacks,” she recounts her own season of darkness on bedrest with Bridget—and the moment she voiced aloud, “Nothing good will ever come from this.” In that valley of isolation, fear, and pain, Ashley came to understand how the enemy targets grieving moms with lies meant to destroy their hope and faith.Through personal testimony and biblical truth, Ashley exposes the enemy’s...
2025-10-2222 min
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant Loss9 | Cradled in Hope Book Club | Ch 8 | Ashley OpligerIn this episode, Ashley speaks to the deep wounds that can come from others’ words—or their silence—after the loss of a baby. Centered on Chapter 8 of Cradled in Hope, “They Know Not What They Do: When You Are Hurt by Others,” she gently walks alongside grieving moms who have experienced secondary pain in the wake of their primary loss. Whether through insensitive comments or heartbreaking absence, Ashley shares how Jesus understands—and how He calls us to respond with grace.Through personal stories, biblical wisdom, and practical tools, Ashley invites listeners to process their relati...
2025-10-1529 min
Everything Made Beautiful with Shannon ScottEMB EP51 | Beauty From Ashes with Ashley OpligerToday's conversation is one I've been looking forward to having... a conversation about profound loss, tangible hope, and the ministry of presence in the darkest moments.My guest is Ashley Opliger, author of Cradled in Hope: Trusting Jesus to Heal Your Heart as He Holds Your Baby in Heaven and founder of Bridget's Cradles, a ministry that has now placed over 30,000 cradles in 1,600 hospitals across all 50 states.Ashley's story is marked by deep loss, but what struck me most in our conversation wasn't just what she's walked through, but how she's chosen to steward her...
2025-10-1352 min
Glamour Farms The Podcast - Christian Motherhood, Faith Based Encouragement, Stay at Home Mom, Home & Garden Advice, + Girl Talk Fashion151: Trusting Jesus in Your Grief with Ashley OpligerTW: Miscarriage, stillbirth, + infant loss
Ashley Opliger is on The Podcast this week chatting about her new book: Cradled In Hope:
Trusting Jesus To Heal Your Heart As He Holds Your Baby In Heaven. Ashley has experienced deep pain and grief through the loss of loved ones - including her baby girl Bridget. While her heart aches for Heaven, she has decided to make the absolute most of her time here on Earth. She is the founder of Bridget’s Cradles, an author, and podcaster. In today’s episode, Ashley chats about finding joy and peac...
2025-10-0742 min
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant Loss8 | Cradled in Hope Book Club | Ch 7 | Ashley OpligerIn this episode, Ashley walks alongside grieving moms who are struggling with guilt, shame, or regret after the loss of their baby. Centered on Chapter 7 of Cradled in Hope, “Grace Upon Grace: When You Can’t Forgive Yourself,” she offers compassionate truth for the mom who wonders if she could have or should have done something differently. With tender honesty and biblical reassurance, Ashley shares how grace—not guilt—is the way forward.Ashley shares her personal struggle with shame and how she once believed her body had failed her daughter. With real-life stories, scriptural encouragem...
2025-10-0124 min
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant Loss7 | Cradled in Hope Book Club | Ch 6 | Ashley OpligerIn this episode, Ashley walks tenderly through one of the hardest struggles grieving mothers face: trusting that God is still good, even after the loss of a baby. In Chapter 6 of Cradled in Hope, “For He is Good: When You Question Who God Is,” she unpacks the emotional, theological, and spiritual wrestlings that come when prayers go unanswered—and babies die.To help grieving hearts rebuild trust in God’s character, Ashley shares five biblical attributes that anchor our faith in who God is, even in the most devastating times of life. This chapter is structur...
2025-09-2232 min
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant Loss6 | Cradled in Hope Book Club | Ch 5 | Ashley OpligerIn this episode, Ashley takes us on a hope-filled journey into the wonder of Heaven. In Chapter 5 of Cradled in Hope, “Heaven on Earth: When You Wonder Where Your Baby Is,” she helps grieving moms find peace in knowing where their babies are now (the current Heaven)—and where they will one day be (the New Heaven). Drawing from Scripture and trusted theological resources, Ashley paints a biblically rooted picture of Heaven, offering comfort and confidence that our children are safe in the arms of Jesus.Ashley invites listeners to imagine the most beautiful place they’ve ever see...
2025-09-1526 min
Restoring the Soul with Michael John CusickEpisode 365 - Ashley Opliger, "Cradled in Hope: Trusting Jesus Through Infant Loss"Welcome back to Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick. In today’s episode, Michael sits down with Ashley Opliger, author of the new book Cradled in Hope: Trusting Jesus to Heal Your Heart as He Holds Your Baby in Heaven. This deeply moving conversation explores Ashley’s personal journey through the heartbreak of miscarriage and infant loss, and how her grief led to unexpected hope and purpose.Ashley shares the story of her daughter, Bridget Faith, whose brief life inspired not only her book but also the founding of Bridget’s Cradles—a ministry bringing comfort to thous...
2025-09-1541 min
While We're Waiting® - Hope After Child Loss272 | Tiny Cradle, Eternal Impact (Part Two) with Ashley Opliger"The cradle is a temporary comfort—but the eternal comfort comes from the hope of the gospel.” ~Ashley OpligerIn this second half of my conversation with Ashley Opliger, she takes us back to the day of Bridget’s birth and describes the tender moments she and her family shared with their tiny daughter, who weighed just 13 ounces. Ashley shares how her mother’s handmade cradle gave Bridget dignity and allowed their family precious time to hold, cherish, and photograph her.What began as one simple cradle has now grown into Bridget’s Cradles, a ministry th...
2025-09-1027 min
Author's Corner: Interviews about the Latest Christian BooksCradled in Hope, by Ashley OpligerToday, Roberta talks to Ashley Opliger about her new book Cradled in Hope: Trusting Jesus to Heal Your Heart as He Holds Your Baby in Heaven – A Biblical Guide for Grieving Miscarriage, Stillbirth, and Infant Loss, available from Bethany House publishers.Real Hope for Your Broken Hearto A safe space to grieve your baby--where tears, questions, and raw emotions are welcomeo Honest encouragement and biblical wisdom from a mom who lost her baby and found healing in Jesuso Gentle guidance through sorrow--from heartbreak to healing, and pain to purposeo...
2025-09-0615 min
While We're Waiting® - Hope After Child Loss271 | Tiny Cradle, Eternal Impact (Part One) with Ashley Opliger “Lament is slowing down to sit in the sadness and bring it to God.” ~Ashley OpligerThe importance of lament is just one of the topics I discussed with Ashley Opliger on the podcast this week. Ashley is a wife, mom, author, speaker, and the founder of Bridget’s Cradles, a nonprofit ministry she started in memory of her daughter, Bridget. In this first half of our conversation, Ashley shares her daughter Bridget’s story—the gift of her pregnancy, the joy of preparing for her arrival, and her heartbreaking loss at 24 weeks gestation. We talk about th...
2025-09-0332 min
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant Loss5 | Cradled in Hope Book Club | Ch 4 | Ashley OpligerIn this episode, Ashley addresses one of the most common and vulnerable aspects of grief and faith: doubt. In Chapter 4 of Cradled in Hope, “A Firm Foundation: When You Wrestle with Doubts,” she shares why it’s vital to know what you believe about Jesus and why. With honesty and conviction, Ashley lays out the case for Christ’s identity as the risen Savior and explains why our hope of seeing our babies again rests entirely on the truth of the Gospel.This chapter provides a gentle introduction to apologetics and helps grieving moms wrestle through the hard que...
2025-09-0127 min
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant Loss4 | Cradled in Hope Book Club | Ch 3 | Ashley OpligerIn this episode, Ashley shares the heart of the Christian faith and the unshakable hope grieving moms have in Jesus. In Chapter 3 of Cradled in Hope, “The Gospel Changes Everything: When You Are Desperate for Hope,” Ashley walks through the full Gospel message—from creation to restoration—and shows how it directly speaks to the pain of being separated from our babies. In our grief, the Gospel isn’t just comforting—it’s everything. It’s the only hope strong enough to anchor us when we’re desperate for answers, for meaning, and for reunion.With theological c...
2025-08-2223 min
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant Loss3 | Cradled in Hope Book Club | Ch 2 | Ashley OpligerIn this episode, Ashley explores one of the most tender and difficult aspects of grief: the feeling of abandonment by God. In Chapter 2, "Broken and Bleeding: When You Feel Abandoned by God," Ashley shares her personal wrestling with faith during her pregnancy with Bridget and the raw questions that arose when her prayers went unanswered. With profound honesty and biblical truth, she unpacks how to grieve in the tension between what our hearts feel and what our heads know to be true.This chapter is an invitation to examine your core beliefs about God, especially...
2025-08-1526 min
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant Loss2 | Cradled in Hope Book Club | Ch 1 | Ashley OpligerIn this episode, Ashley reflects on the raw emotions that come in the early days of grief after pregnancy or infant loss. Centered on Chapter 1 of Cradled in Hope, “Sitting with Jesus | When You Are Overwhelmed with Sadness,” she invites grieving moms to slow down, feel the weight of their sorrow, and meet Jesus in their pain. Ashley explains how grief is not just sadness—it’s love. She encourages moms to express that love in healthy, meaningful ways that honor their baby in Heaven. With personal stories, biblical wisdom, and practical survival tips, this chapter i...
2025-08-0127 min
Hope Mommies Podcast - Gospel Hope for Grieving MomsEpisode 48: Cradled in Hope - second trimester loss, God's nearness in grief, and the importance of sound theology with Ashley OpligerHost Kristin Hernandez welcomes Ashley Opliger—founder and executive director of Bridget's Cradles—to share how God lovingly draws near in our grief, cradling us in hope as He cradles our babies in heaven. Ashley tells the story of her daughter Bridget, who was stillborn in 2014, and how her loss became the catalyst for a ministry that now provides handmade cradles to bereaved families across the country. Together, Kristin and Ashley talk about bringing our raw emotions to Jesus, the danger of letting feelings define our view of God, and the vital need for sound theology in sorr...
2025-07-2350 min
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant Loss1 | Cradled in Hope Book Club | Intro | Ashley OpligerJoin us for a sacred conversation as Ashley Opliger kicks off the Cradled in Hope Book Club on launch day, July 22nd. In this heartfelt introduction episode, Ashley shares the powerful story behind the book, from the long road to publication to the sudden loss of her father just after submitting her manuscript. With raw vulnerability and deep faith, she explains how this book became even more personal in the wake of fresh grief.Ashley unpacks the unique structure of Cradled in Hope and shares her prayer for how it will minister to moms who...
2025-07-2236 min
Get Lost In The Full Audiobook That Keeps Thriller Fans Hooked.Cradled in Hope by Ashley OpligerPlease visithttps://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/2/audible/227406to listen full audiobooks.
Title: Cradled in Hope
Author: Ashley Opliger
Narrator: Ashley Opliger
Format: mp3
Length: 7 hrs and 28 mins
Release date: 07-22-25
Ratings: Not rated yet
Genres: Death & Grief
Publisher's Summary:
A mother's heart is shattered and forever changed when she loses a precious baby. The sorrow runs deep, the questions feel unanswerable, and the emptiness is overwhelming. Cradled in Hope is a Christ-centered book for grieving moms that offers real comfort, biblical truth, and compassionate guidance through the heartbreak of pregnancy and infant loss. Ashley Opliger, host of the Cradled in...
2025-07-227h 28
Anchored by the SwordCradled in Hope: Finding God’s Goodness in Grief with Ashley Opliger!In this powerful and deeply moving episode, I sit down with Ashley Opliger—author, speaker, and founder of Bridget’s Cradles—as she shares her story of grief, hope, and the redemptive love of Jesus. Ashley opens up about the heartbreaking stillbirth of her daughter, Bridget, and how God birthed a nationwide ministry through her loss. She also vulnerably shares about the sudden and tragic death of her father and how she continues to cling to the hope of heaven.We talk about what it means to walk through unimaginable grief while still trusting in God...
2025-07-2235 min
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant Loss62 Pt 2 | The Story Behind Cradled in Hope: An Interview with Author Ashley Opliger by Kristin HernandezIn this second part of a deeply heartfelt conversation, Ashley continues her discussion with dear friend and fellow grieving mom, Kristin Hernandez, as they dive deeper into the story behind Cradled in Hope. With warmth, vulnerability, and unwavering faith, Ashley shares how the book was born out of her ministry work, her personal healing journey following the loss of her daughter, Bridget, and her longing to walk alongside grieving mothers with truth and compassion.They explore how the book was shaped by years of support group ministry at Bridget’s Cradles, Ashley’s own story of l...
2025-07-1541 min
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant Loss62 Pt 1 | The Story Behind Cradled in Hope: An Interview with Author Ashley Opliger by Kristin HernandezIn this tender and powerful episode, Ashley welcomes her dear friend Kristin Hernandez back to the Cradled in Hope Podcast—this time, not as the guest, but as the one asking the questions. Kristin, a longtime ministry partner, fellow grieving mom, and author of Sunlight in December, turns the microphone around to interview Ashley about her upcoming book, Cradled in Hope.Together, they share a sacred and heartfelt conversation about grief, faith, and the story behind the book. Ashley opens up about the writing process, the spiritual and emotional depths she revisited to bring comfort to...
2025-07-0139 min
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant Loss61 | Beauty from Ashes: Miscarriage, Addiction, Recovery, and New Life in Christ | Emily ShoveIn this deeply vulnerable and hope-filled episode, Ashley welcomes her friend Emily Shove to share her powerful testimony of miscarriage, addiction recovery, and transformation through Jesus. Emily shares the story of her son, Phoenix, and the emotional and physical trauma of her miscarriage. She also bravely opens up about her past struggles with alcohol, the temptation to relapse in the depths of grief, and how God used community, recovery, and His Word to bring healing. With raw honesty, Emily talks about sobriety, naming her baby, the beauty of support groups, and the unshakable hope of Heaven. This episode is...
2025-06-0159 min
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant Loss60 | Holy Ground Retreats for Grieving Moms | Moria RooneyIn this heartfelt and Spirit-led episode, Ashley welcomes returning guest Moria Rooney to share the God-breathed vision behind her new ministry, Holy Ground Retreats. A follow-up to Episode 21, this conversation continues Moria’s story of grief, healing, and purpose after the loss of her son, Noah. Moria opens up about her calling to step away from her first ministry, Mother of Wilde, and follow God into the unknown of hosting biblically based retreats for grieving moms. This powerful conversation will encourage you to pursue deep healing in the presence of Jesus, step into authentic community, and recognize the beauty of...
2025-05-0147 min
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant Loss59 | My Shepherd in the Valley: Psalm 23 | Ashley OpligerIn this solo episode, host Ashley Opliger shares a heartfelt message inspired by Psalm 23, offering hope and encouragement to grieving moms walking through the valley of loss. Reflecting on her personal grief journey—including the death of her daughter, Bridget, and her father—Ashley reminds listeners that Jesus, our Good Shepherd, walks with us through suffering and sorrow. She also announces exciting ministry updates, including the upcoming release of her book Cradled in Hope, a new website filled with resources for grieving families, and shares songs and tools that have brought comfort during seasons of grief. With deep...
2025-04-0141 min
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant Loss57 | Finding Healing in Community and Christ’s Comfort After Losing a Baby | Jennie ParksJoin us for a hope-filled conversation with Jennie Parks, the Executive Director of Hope Mommies, a nonprofit dedicated to providing support and hope for grieving mothers who have experienced miscarriage, stillbirth, or infant loss. Jennie shares her personal story of losing her daughter, Paige, and how her profound loss inspired her to help others through their grief.Ashley and Jennie discuss the complexities of navigating grief, the importance of community, and the comfort found in God's promises. Grieving moms will be encouraged by Jennie's testimony and her reflection on love, loss, and hope. Lastly, Jennie shares about...
2025-02-0158 min
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant LossBonus Ep | Wave of Light 2024This is a special bonus episode highlighting the program from the Wave of Light event that Bridget's Cradles hosted in Wichita, Kansas on October 15, 2024, Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day. In this episode, we shared: The program and announcements from our Wave of Light 2024 eventEmcee Scott Evans and Pastor John Carney's remarks and Ashley Opliger's speech from the eventA thank you to our generous corporate and memorial sponsorsA special guitar solo by Steve Golik, Ashley’s Dad, titled “Bridget’s Ballad” played in his honorJosh Sander’s musical performance at Wave of LightReading of Names of Babies in Hea...
2024-11-131h 09
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant Loss53 | Leelynd's Story | NBC's The Voice Josh Sanders and His Wife, KendraJoin us for a hope-filled conversation with NBC's The Voice contestant Josh Sanders and his wife, Kendra. Josh was the runner-up on Season 25 of The Voice on Team Reba McEntire. On national television, Josh shared his story of losing his precious son, Leelynd, in 2020 on his own birthday. When his story aired, NBC showed a photo of him and Kendra holding Leelynd in a Bridget's cradle. Ashley [Bridget's Cradles founder + Cradled in Hope podcast host] and Kendra connected and formed a friendship. In this episode, you'll hear Josh and Kendra share Leelynd's story and how they navigated...
2024-10-011h 13
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant Loss46 | I Used to Be Pregnant | Chuck + Ashley ElliottJoin us for a hope-filled conversation with Chuck and Ashley Elliott about navigating the relational aspects of loss. Drawing from their own loss experience and their background as counselors, Chuck and Ashley share helpful advice on how to face the complexities of grief. After experiencing recurrent miscarriage, Chuck and Ashley felt called to write a book called I Used to Be which provides biblical and mental health techniques to develop healthy ways to see yourself, your life, and your loved ones. We discuss these techniques and the intricacies of handling the hurt others may c...
2024-02-0151 min
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant Loss44 | Finding Faith to Face Infertility + Miscarriage | Abigail SikmaJoin us for a hope-filled conversation with Abigail Sikma, bereaved mom and founder of the ministry Something to Hold. After experiencing two early miscarriages, Abigail was confronted with the choice to either run from or turn to the faith she was raised with. For the first time in her life, she turned to her faith as her own and clung to the promises of God to get her through several years of infertility and miscarriage.In this episode, we discussed:Clinging to the faith you were brought up inTrusting God over GooglePerspective to...
2023-12-0139 min
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant LossBonus Ep | Wave of Light 2023This is a special bonus episode highlighting the program from the Wave of Light event that Bridget's Cradles hosted in Wichita, Kansas on October 15, 2023, Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day. In this episode, we shared: The program and announcements from our Wave of Light 2023 eventPastor John Carney's remarks and Ashley Opliger's speech and prayer from eventA thank you to our generous corporate and memorial sponsorsThe Shine Their Light Award Winners' speech (Brandon and Sara Horton, parents to Charlie, Cooper, and Camden in Heaven)Reading of Names of Babies in Heaven (for families that registered/attended or spo...
2023-11-1343 min
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant Loss43 | Living Waters for Deep Waves of Grief | Lianna DavisJoin us for a conversation with Lianna Davis, bereaved mom, and author of Made for a Different Land. Lianna shares her story of losing her daughter, Noelle, at 42 weeks in her first pregnancy. Trusting in God's sovereignty, Lianna found hope in the living waters of Jesus as she navigated the deep waves of grief. In this episode, we discussed:Wanting to go to Heaven to be with your childAsking theological questions after losing a baby like, "How could a good God allow my baby to die?"God's original plan for babies and why si...
2023-11-0148 min
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant Loss42 | Radical Life Change after Stillbirth | Matt and Haley PhillipsJoin us for a conversation with Matt and Haley Phillips about how God radically changed their lives after the loss of their baby boy, Fletcher. From quitting a job to downsizing their house to starting a nonprofit, the Lord shifted their lives in a huge way. Matt and Haley started a nonprofit in their son's name called The Fletcher Foundation. Their mission is to walk alongside families who have experienced miscarriage or stillbirth, particularly by providing financial assistance for medical bills related to their loss.In this episode, we discussed:Being young in marriage and experiencing...
2023-10-011h 02
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant Loss41 | Facing a Life-Limiting Diagnosis in Pregnancy with Hope and Grace | KC TregoningKC Tregoning is a bereaved mom who found out about Bridget’s Cradles after receiving a tiny knit heart in the delivery room. KC attended her first Hope Online support group with us just one month after Alan had passed.KC lives in Northern Virginia with her husband, Matt, and their three fur babies. She is the proud mom of Alan who reigns in Heaven. After a turbulent pregnancy, KC and Matt found out at their 31-week appointment that their son, Alan, had a condition that was not compatible with life.KC...
2023-09-1551 min
Everyday Miracles Podcast126. Divinely Inspired Gift Sparks Comfort & Healing for Thousands - with Ashley Opliger Ashley developed complications in her second trimester of pregnancy. As her mother prepared to visit her in the hospital, she was led by the Holy Spirit to crochet a small cradle (hoping it would not be needed). Little did she know how God was going to use this gift to inspire comfort and healing not just for Ashley, but for thousands of bereaved parents in fifty states. In this episode Ashley shares: The excitement of being pregnant with Bridget, her first child Experiencing the heartache of grief and loss and choosing to trust God
2023-09-0730 min
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant Loss40 | Q&A | Ashley + KristinJoin us for the final episode of our 3-part summer series called "Conversations of Hope with Ashley and Kristin." Ashley Opliger and Kristin Hernandez are both bereaved moms who desire to point other grieving moms to the hope they've found in Jesus. This month's episode is a Q&A with Ashley and Kristin using listener-submitted questions.In this episode, we discussed:How to navigate relationships after losing a babyForgiving friends and family who have hurt us in our griefWhy friendships may change after lossVictim mentality and identityPreparing our hearts for our baby's first Heaven...
2023-08-151h 05
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant Loss39 | Important Truths about Babies in Heaven | Ashley + KristinJoin us for this special 3-part summer series called "Conversations of Hope with Ashley and Kristin." Ashley Opliger and Kristin Hernandez are both bereaved moms who desire to point other grieving moms to the hope they've found in Jesus. New episodes will release each summer month (June, July, and August) with this month's episode title being "Important Truths about Babies in Heaven."At the beginning of the episode, Ashley shares a personal update about her son, Brenner, and his recent surgery and medical issues.In this episode, we discussed:Where do babies g...
2023-07-151h 12
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant Loss38 | Conversations of Hope: A Foundation of Biblical Hope | Ashley + KristinJoin us for this special 3-part summer series called "Conversations of Hope with Ashley and Kristin." Ashley Opliger and Kristin Hernandez are both bereaved moms who desire to point other grieving moms to the hope they've found in Jesus. New episodes will release each summer month (June, July, and August) with this month's episode title being "A Foundation of Biblical Hope." In this episode, we discussed:Where do we place our hope after we've lost a baby?What is "hope" anyway?Desiring to have a rainbow baby - is it okay to long for another baby?R...
2023-06-1547 min
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant Loss37 | Finding Community and Renewing My Faith after My Son's Full-Term Stillbirth | Heather CohenJoin us for a conversation with bereaved mother Heather Cohen about how she found community and renewed her faith after the full-term stillbirth of her son, Levi. Just days away from her scheduled c-section, Heather was shocked to discover that her son no longer had a heartbeat. Devastated and grieving, she turned to Bridget's Cradles and began attending our online support groups and volunteering to comfort others through the ministry. Hear Heather's story of finding hope in the midst of her heartache and how you, too, can find hope after the loss of your baby....
2023-05-011h 05
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant Loss36 | God So Close: Relying on the Holy Spirit as a Grieving Mom | Becky ThompsonJoin us for a conversation with Becky Thompson about how to rely on the Holy Spirit as a grieving mom. In the midst of a season of suffering, we do not have to wait to meet God on the other side; rather, He is a God so close Who longs to be near to us in our pain. Becky shares her story of losing her daughter at eight weeks and how the Lord brought hope to her broken heart. She decided to trust in Him knowing that she couldn't lose Him too.
2023-04-0153 min
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant Loss35 | The Good She Brought Me + Draw Near to Him | Ashley OpligerJoin us for a discussion with Ashley Opliger about the good that came from the birth and death of her daughter, Bridget. Ashley shares how her loss shifted her focus to Heaven and living for God's Kingdom. In this episode, Ashley encourages grieving moms to draw near to God by reading His Word. She invites moms into a relationship with Him because she believes He is the only One who can heal their broken hearts. His amazing gift of salvation gives us the hope of Heaven with Him and our babies who have gone there before us....
2023-03-0144 min
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant Loss34 | Redemption in our Marriage and Family after Losing our Daughter | Steve + Heather ColvinJoin us for a conversation with Steve and Heather Colvin about how the Lord brought healing and redemption to their family after losing their daughter, AnnaJoy. Through a testimony of radical transformation in their marriage after AnnaJoy passed away, Steve and Heather founded a nonprofit ministry called AJ's Place: A Foundation of Hope. They help families afford memorial stones for their babies who have gone to Heaven too soon.In this episode, we discussed:How the Lord wants you in complete freedom in your healingThe lies we believe when we are grievingSatan a...
2023-02-0154 min
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant Loss33 | The Beautiful Brokenness of Grief | Kelcey CroneJoin us for a conversation with Kelcey Crone about the beautiful brokenness of grief. After their son was born into Heaven, Kelcey and her husband were in a pit of despair. Not only were they grieving their son, but his loss exposed their sin from the past and in the present.In the nakedness of their grief, they turned to God, and He saved their marriage. Both individually and collectively, God radically transformed them and gave them a new purpose in serving others and living for Jesus.In this episode, we...
2023-01-0144 min
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant Loss32 | The Moon is Always Round: Seeing God’s Goodness Even When Your Baby Has Died | Jonathan + Jackie GibsonJoin us for a conversation with Jonathan and Jackie Gibson about seeing God's goodness even when your baby has died. After their daughter was stillborn, Jonathan wrote a book called The Moon is Always Round. The book is based on a catechism he taught his oldest living son about how God is always good even when we can't see it (just like how the moon is always round even when it's not fully visible).Jonathan (Jonny) shares the inspiration for his book as well as his grieving journey alongside his wife, Jackie. They share practical w...
2022-12-1550 min
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant Loss31 | Hope When the Holidays Hurt | Kristin HernandezJoin us for a conversation with Kristin Hernandez about finding hope when the holidays hurt. Kristin shares from her new advent journal about how to grieve with hope through the Christmas season when you're missing a baby/ies in Heaven.After losing five precious babies, Kristin talks about how her faith helped her through the holidays. Our topic is Advent, which in Latin means "coming" referencing the longing of our Messiah. We discuss parallels between the Jews waiting in the Old Testament for Jesus' First Coming and now in the New Testament how we are currently awaiting...
2022-12-0144 min
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant Loss30 | The Gift of One Day: How to Grieve a Grandchild and Support an Adult Child Who Lost a Baby | Kerry + Chris ShookJoin us for a conversation with Pastor Kerry and Chris Shook about how to grieve a grandchild and support an adult child who has lost a baby. After losing their grandson, Jude, they had to learn how to navigate grief both from the perspective of grandparents and parents. In this episode, they share how they came alongside their son and daughter-in-law and walked with them through their grief.Kerry and Chris give practical ideas on how to show up for your children who are grieving a baby and how to navigate family traditions and holidays. They also...
2022-11-1544 min
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant LossBonus Ep | Wave of Light 2022This is a special bonus episode highlighting the program from the Wave of Light event that Bridget's Cradles hosted in Wichita, Kansas on October 15, 2022, Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day.In this episode, we shared:The program and announcements from our Wave of Light 2022 eventScott Evans' remarks and Ashley Opliger's speech and prayer from eventA thank you to our generous corporate and memorial sponsorsThe Shine Their Light Award Winners' speech (Jon and Kelcey Crone, parents to David Bruce Crone in Heaven)Reading of Names of Babies in Heaven (for families that registered/attended or sponsored the...
2022-11-0220 min
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant Loss29 | Joyful Sorrow: Finding Hope in the Darkness of Grief and Trauma | Julie BuslerJoin us for a conversation with Julie Busler about mental illness amidst loss and grief. Julie shares her story of how loss and trauma impacted her mental health and caused her to become suicidal. As a missionary overseas, she was hospitalized in a Turkish psychiatric ward due to her suicidal ideation.Through intense healing from the Lord, medication, and therapy, Julie found hope and joy again. But God didn't heal her entirely of her depression. She has learned how to allow joy and sorrow to coexist in her life. In this episode, Julie shares her testimony of...
2022-11-0155 min
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant Loss28 | Trusting God’s Character after Losing a Baby | Ashley OpligerWhen you lose a baby, your whole world falls apart. It's common to wonder where God is and why He would allow you to suffer in this way. You feel abandoned by Him and question why He would let your baby die.Unfortunately, we are not immune to the fallen nature of our world corrupted by sin and death. But take heart! Jesus has overcome the world and defeated death forever. And, best of all, He promises us eternity in Heaven with Him and our babies through salvation in Him. In this short episode, Ashley shares her...
2022-07-1521 min
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant Loss27 | Abortion, Pregnancy Loss, & the God Who Forgives & Comforts | Misty PhillipJoin us for a conversation with Misty Phillip about abortion, pregnancy loss, and the God who forgives and comforts. Misty shares her vulnerable testimony of finding freedom in God's forgiveness after having an abortion. Through her repentance, she has become an advocate for the unborn and shares about the sanctity of human life.After also experiencing pregnancy loss and the stillbirth of a baby boy with a life-limiting diagnosis (and choosing to carry him), Misty shares how she grew in faith through her losses and pain. Her testimony is one of redemption and points us to the...
2022-07-0142 min
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant Loss26 | Why Prophecy Gives Us Hope to Be Reunited with Our Babies in Heaven | Todd HampsonJoin us for a conversation with Todd Hampson about why Bible Prophecy gives us hope to see our babies again in Heaven. Todd is the co-host of the Prophecy Pros' Podcast and a grieving father to two babies in Heaven. Todd shares about the unexpected death of his son, Ethan, and how his faith proved to be real as he trusted in God to carry him through. His love for Scripture and Bible Prophecy allowed him to find hope in the midst of his grief. Todd encourages us to focus on our glorious future and spend the s...
2022-06-1547 min
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant Loss25 | Waiting in Hope through Infertility and Loss | Kelley RamseyJoin us for a conversation with Kelley Ramsey about waiting in hope through infertility and pregnancy loss. Kelley is the founder of Waiting in Hope Infertility Ministries and has experienced multiple miscarriages and waiting seasons as she has tried to grow her family.In her heartache, God revealed to her where her true hope really lies—not in a baby—but in her Savior. As she walked with Jesus in her sorrow, she surrendered her desires and trusted God's will for her life. Kelley encourages grieving moms to trust that God knows what is best for them and...
2022-06-0139 min
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant Loss24 | Compassionate Care and Dignified Decisions for Grieving Families | Rebekah BeresfordJoin us for a conversation with Rebekah Beresford about how she found hope and healing after a traumatic experience delivering her stillborn daughter, Eliana, at a hospital. She was not offered to hold or see her daughter and later realized that Eliana's ashes were taken as medical waste to a landfill. Through her story of deep pain and sorrow, Rebekah shares why offering compassionate care and dignified decisions at the hospital is crucial for grieving families to have peace in their grieving journey. She shares practical advice for nurses and points them to pursue bereavement training t...
2022-05-151h 03
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant Loss23 | Expecting Loss and Valuing Life | Labor of HopeJoin us for a conversation with Ryley Chestnut and Hayley Martinez from Labor of Hope. They are both certified bereavement doulas who have lost children due to a life-limiting condition in pregnancy. Labor of Hope is an organization that exists to value every life and support couples who have been given a life-limiting diagnosis in pregnancy. Ryley and Hayley advocate for choosing life and making memories with your child. From their own heartbreaking experience, they share their grief and healing journey.In this episode, we discussed:Choosing life and carrying a baby with a l...
2022-05-0143 min
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant Loss22 | Bible Prophecy for the Grieving Mother | Jessica SpeasJoin us for a conversation with Jessica Speas about Bible Prophecy and The End Times. This is an opportunity for grieving mothers to learn more about Bible Prophecy and the hope we have as we await Jesus' Second Coming. With a third of the Bible being about prophecy, this is a topic we cannot ignore as Christ-followers.In our season of grief and in this broken world we live, our hope can only be found in Jesus who has promised to return to this earth to rule and reign. Jessica, a grieving mom herself, is passionate about...
2022-04-151h 18
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant Loss21 | Grieving Differently after Pregnancy Loss | Moria RooneyJoin us for a conversation with Moria Rooney, founder of Mother of Wilde. After losing her son, Noah Wilde, she started a business that sells memorial prints of babies who passed due to miscarriage, stillbirth, or infant loss.Moria shares how her faith in Jesus allowed her to grieve differently than the world grieves: with hope. Even after unanswered prayers and a devastating loss, she learned to trust in God's good and unchanging character. Now, she blesses grieving moms with beautiful prints of their babies to remind them of the hope they have to see their babies...
2022-04-0137 min
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant Loss20 | Holding on to Love after You've Lost a Baby | Candy McVicarJoin us for a conversation with Candy McVicar, author of Holding on to Love after You've Lost a Baby, a book she co-wrote with Dr. Gary Chapman. Candy, who has two children in Heaven, shares how to use the 5 Love Languages to strengthen your marriage after loss. Learning how to love your spouse in the midst of sorrow is a powerful way to support each other and grow closer to God and one another.Candy is the founder of the Missing GRACE Foundation. She is passionate about providing resources and education to bereaved families...
2022-03-1552 min
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant Loss19 | When Wishes Change | Tricia RoosJoin us for a conversation with Tricia Roos on pursuing and accepting God's will when your motherhood journey looks nothing like what you had hoped or expected it to be. After her daughter, Annabelle, was diagnosed with Trisomy 18, Tricia was advised to get an abortion. Tricia chose life and watched God perform a miracle: allowing Annabelle to live for six days and defy all medical odds. Tricia shares Annabelle's story in her new book, When Wishes Change, which describes how God walked her through her grief and showed her how to embrace His will for her life. S...
2022-03-0154 min
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant Loss18 | Strengthening Your Marriage after Pregnancy Loss | Matt + Ashley OpligerIn this episode, Ashley Opliger is joined with her husband, Matt, for a conversation about strengthening your marriage after pregnancy loss. Together, they discuss the struggles they faced in navigating complications in Ashley's pregnancy with Bridget and how they walked together after her death. Matt shares his perspective, as the father and husband, of what grieving has been like for him.The loss of a baby is one of the most heartbreaking experiences a couple can face in their marriage. However, even in the pain and sadness, there are opportunities to grow closer together. Matt and Ashley's...
2022-02-1545 min
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant Loss17 | Real Talk on Pregnancy Loss | Rachel LewisJoin us for "real talk" on pregnancy loss with Rachel Lewis, author of Unexpecting: Real Talk on Pregnancy Loss. Rachel has five children in Heaven and regularly writes about life after loss. She is the founder of Brave Mamas, an online community for grieving mothers.Rachel shares about her new book, Unexpecting, which walks grieving moms through loss, lament, love, and legacy after the loss of a baby.In this episode, we discussed:Birth trauma and PTSD after pregnancy lossFoster care and grief following reunificationWrestling with doubt and finding authentic faithThe Book of...
2022-02-011h 02
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant Loss16 | Courageously Expecting after Loss | Jenny AlbersJoin us for a conversation about pregnancy after loss with Jenny Albers, author of Courageously Expecting. After losing two precious babies, Jenny created Still Loved, an online space for grieving families to share their stories.She is passionate about giving bereaved parents a voice in their grief as well as supporting women in their pregnancies after loss. Jenny shares about her new book, Courageously Expecting, which provides women with 30 days of encouragement for pregnancy after loss. In this episode, we discussed:The emotions and fears of pregnancy after lossProfessional remembrance photography, regrets and wishesThe p...
2022-01-1538 min
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant Loss15 | Grieving with the Gospel | Casey NestorJoin us for a conversation with Casey Nestor about grieving with the Gospel. After losing her sons Judah and Caleb, Casey found herself laying on the floor in deep grief, crying out at the foot of the Cross. Through her tears and questions, she depended on Jesus to survive the suffering and be sanctified in His image. Because she received a cradle for her son, Casey was connected to Bridget's Cradles and has become a part of our Hope Online community. Her testimony of faith has been a source of encouragement for many grieving moms. In...
2022-01-011h 08
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant Loss14 | The Power of Community for Grieving Mothers | Foreknown MinistriesJoin us for a conversation with Alyson and Kelsi of Foreknown Ministries about the power of community for grieving mothers. Alyson and Kelsi are best friends who lost their babies two weeks apart from each other. In the deepest of grief, they leaned on their faith and friendship.Now they host weekend retreats, digital support groups, and a texting community for women who have experienced pregnancy loss. They believe in having a "cross" of support: vertical from God and horizontal from community. In this episode, they share advice on how to make friendships with other grieving...
2021-12-1550 min
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant Loss13 | Coping with Hope through the Holidays | Ashley OpligerIn this special episode, Ashley Opliger shares a heartfelt message and prayer for mothers who are grieving during the holidays. This Christmas season was supposed to be a time of joy and making memories with your baby, but now is filled with overwhelming sadness and pain.Ashley shares practical ideas for "coping with hope" through the holidays when grief is magnified and our hearts miss our babies in Heaven more than we can stand. With a focus on grace and communication, Ashley gives advice on how to navigate holiday gatherings and relationships with friends and family. This...
2021-12-0148 min
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant Loss12 | Renewing Your Mind after Pregnancy Loss | Alicia MichelleJoin us for a conversation with Alicia Michelle, host of the Vibrant Christian Living Podcast, about renewing our minds after pregnancy loss. Alicia is a Bible Teacher and certified NeuroCoach. She equips women with practical brain-and-Biblically based tools to overcome negative thinking and cultivate godly confidence.After losing her son in an early miscarriage, Alicia struggled with overwhelming sadness. Through her journey, God has given her wisdom on how to cope with grief in a healthy way. She teaches us how to manage our thoughts and get out of the negative spirals that we get stuck in...
2021-11-1554 min
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant Loss11 | Pressing into the Pain after Infant Loss | Lindsay JohnsonJoin us for a conversation with Lindsay Johnson, founder of Aspyn Arrows, about pressing into the pain after infant loss. Lindsay shares the tragic story of finding her one-month-old daughter, Aspyn, unresponsive in her crib.Following her daughter's death, she struggled with suicidal thoughts. She leaned into her faith and God brought beauty from ashes. In this episode, Lindsay shares her story and more about Aspyn Arrows (the nonprofit organization she started to educate families on safe sleep practices and empower them to sleep with peace of mind by providing them with Owlet Baby Care monitors).
2021-11-0156 min
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant LossBonus Ep | Wave of Light 2021This is a special bonus episode highlighting the program from the Wave of Light event that Bridget's Cradles hosted in Wichita, Kansas on October 15, 2021, Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day. In this episode, we shared:The program and announcements from Bridget's Cradles Wave of Light 2021 eventAshley Opliger's speech and prayer from the eventA thank you to our generous corporate and memorial sponsorsThe Shine Their Light Award Winners and David Steinhilpert's speechReading of Names of Babies in Heaven (for families that registered/attended or sponsored the event)EPISODE SHOW NOTES:https://www.bridgetscradles.com/post...
2021-10-2537 min
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant Loss10 | Walking through the Valley of the Shadow of Death | Anesha StanleyJoin us for a conversation with Anesha Stanley, founder of Keys of Hope Foundation, about walking through the valley of the shadow of death after recurrent pregnancy loss. Anesha shares how she struggled with suicidal thoughts after losing five babies to miscarriage and life-threatening ectopic pregnancies.As she walked this painful road of depression, God began to guide her out of the valley and renew her joy. In this episode, Anesha shares her triumphant testimony of overcoming the darkness of grief and how God led her to start a nonprofit to serve grieving mothers in her community.
2021-10-151h 05
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant Loss9 | Anchored by the Gospel after Losing My Baby to Cancer | Jess McClenahanJoin us for a conversation with Jess McClenahan about how the Gospel anchored her to hope after the loss of her 11-month-old daughter, Cora. Jess shares Cora's story of being diagnosed with neuroblastoma cancer and how she clung to her faith after Cora's passing to Heaven.In her heartbreak, Jess discovered God's character and learned to trust Him in a new and deeper way. Jess shares how she found abundant life in Christ and redefined what blessing looked like. She encourages grieving mothers to study God's Word and anchor their hearts to the hope of Jesus.
2021-10-011h 04
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant Loss8 | How to Nurture a Grieving Mother's Heart | Johanna Mutz + Denise WolfeJoin us for a conversation with Johanna Mutz and Denise Wolfe, founders of laurelbox, about how to nurture the heart of a grieving mother. Johanna and Denise share their story of starting a company to offer beautiful gifts for women who have experienced loss. After Denise's friend lost a baby and Johanna experienced a miscarriage herself, they knew there was a need to nourish broken hearts after loss. Starting laurelbox was their response to that need. Now they offer thoughtfully curated gift boxes to support women who want to support their loved ones through grief.I...
2021-09-1534 min
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant Loss7 | Improving Hospital Experiences for Grieving Families | Lori Beth BlaneyJoin us for a conversation with Lori Beth Blaney, founder of Rachel's Gift about improving hospital experiences for grieving families. Lori Beth shares her story of losing her daughter, Rachel, in a tragic car accident, and choosing to forgive the teenager who caused the crash. Lori Beth discusses with Ashley why she started a nonprofit to support grieving families and train hospital staff on bereavement care. She is an advocate for families to have options and guidance while making decisions in the hospital. In this episode, we discussed:Why it's important to talk about yo...
2021-09-011h 01
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant Loss6 | Raising a Rainbow Baby to Remember Their Sibling in Heaven | Ashley OpligerIn this episode, Ashley Opliger discusses how to raise Rainbow Babies (or older living children) to remember their sibling in Heaven. Through her experience of raising two boys on earth after the loss of her daughter, Ashley shares four practical ways you can help your living children honor their sibling in Heaven.Ashley is joined by her four-year-old son, Branton, for a few minutes during this episode to demonstrate how to talk to a young child about God, Heaven, and their sibling in Heaven. This short episode is a sweet glimpse into Ashley's life mothering children on...
2021-08-1524 min
Can I Laugh On Your Shoulder?Helping Others Grieve Pregnancy Loss & Stillbirth | Ashley Opliger, Bridget's CradlesMy guest today is Ashley Opliger, president and executive director of Bridget's Cradles, a nonprofit ministry dedicated to providing comfort, hope and healing to families grieving the loss of a baby in Heaven. They have donated cradles to more than 1,100 hospitals in all 50 states. Ashley lost her daughter, Bridget, during pregnancy. Ashley's mother knit a blanket for Bridget and made it into a knitted cradle. That was the start of Bridget's Cradles. This discussion is very personal to me, because I have had the horrific experience of losing babies, my sons Elijah and Malachi, during...
2021-08-0454 min
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant Loss5 | Wrestling Well with God through Recurrent Loss | Kristin HernandezJoin us for a conversation with Kristin Hernandez, author of Sunlight in December, about wrestling well with God through recurrent pregnancy loss. Kristin shares her story of losing five babies: a baby boy, Ethan, due to a life-limiting condition, and four precious babies to early miscarriage.In her heartbreak, Kristin discusses with Ashley how she turned to her faith in God and embraced the suffering. She believes that God will meet moms in the storm of grief and show them His goodness.In this episode, we discussed:Wrestling well with God through loss and...
2021-08-011h 12
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant Loss4 | Grieving a Life-Limiting Diagnosis | Amy BalentineJoin us for a conversation with Amy Balentine about her story of receiving a life-limiting diagnosis for her son, Simon. Amy shares her journey of walking through Simon's pregnancy and the seven days he lived on earth before going to Heaven.After grieving Simon's death, Amy and her husband also lost three other babies early in pregnancy. Amy discusses with Ashley how this shaped her faith journey and why she has chosen to look for blessings in the middle of her suffering. She encourages grieving moms to lean on Jesus in the darkness of grief....
2021-07-151h 01
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant Loss3 | Navigating Pregnancy Loss | Sarah PhilpottJoin us for a conversation with Sarah Philpott, author of Loved Baby, about how to navigate the painful journey of grief after pregnancy loss. Sarah shares her story of growing up as a rainbow baby herself and then experiencing multiple miscarriages while trying to grow her own family. Living a life acquainted with loss, Sarah discusses with Ashley how she grieved with hope and found joy in the perfection of Heaven. She encourages grieving moms to embrace Christ and use their spiritual gifts to shine His light after pregnancy loss.In this episode, we discussed:
2021-07-0140 min
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant Loss2 | Finding Peace after Miscarriage | Alisha IllianJoin us for a conversation with Alisha Illian about how to find peace after miscarriage. Alisha shares her story of finding out that her second baby had no heartbeat while she was all alone at a routine doctor's appointment. Blindsighted by grief, Alisha discusses with Ashley how she learned to rely on God and surrender her plans for her life. She encourages grieving moms to stay in Scripture and fixate on Jesus in order to find peace after pregnancy loss.In this episode, we discussed:How God stretches us when life doesn't go as p...
2021-06-2251 min
The God Girl LifeAshley Opliger | Sharing Hope in the Heartbreak of GriefHave you or someone you know experienced the grief of losing an infant child? Ashley Opliger, President and Executive Director of Bridget’s Cradles, shares her story of heartbreak and how the hope of Jesus brought her healing even in the midst of overwhelming grief. Learn how the ministry she founded in honor of her precious daughter, Bridget, comforts over 26,000 bereaved families a year. She is also the host of the Cradled in Hope podcast and the leader of Hope Gatherings support groups.Journey of a Cradle VideoWave of Light VideoBridget's Cradles Social Medi...
2021-06-1645 minSpark DirectoryThe God Girl Life - Ashley Opliger | Sharing Hope in the Heartbreak of GriefHave you or someone you know experienced the grief of losing an infant child? Ashley Opliger, President and Executive Director of Bridget’s Cradles, shares her story of heartbreak and how the hope of Jesus brought her healing even in the midst of overwhelming grief. Learn how the ministry she founded in honor of her precious daughter, Bridget, comforts over 26,000 bereaved families a year. She is also the host of the Cradled in Hope podcast and the leader of Hope Gatherings support groups.Journey of a Cradle VideoWave of Light VideoBridget's Cradles Social Medi...
2021-06-1645 minKFM On DemandThe God Girl Life - Ashley Opliger | Sharing Hope in the Heartbreak of GriefHave you or someone you know experienced the grief of losing an infant child? Ashley Opliger, President and Executive Director of Bridget’s Cradles, shares her story of heartbreak and how the hope of Jesus brought her healing even in the midst of overwhelming grief. Learn how the ministry she founded in honor of her precious daughter, Bridget, comforts over 26,000 bereaved families a year. She is also the host of the Cradled in Hope podcast and the leader of Hope Gatherings support groups.Journey of a Cradle VideoWave of Light VideoBridget's Cradles Social Medi...
2021-06-1645 min
Cradled in Hope | Podcast for Grieving Moms | Biblical Hope for Miscarriage, Stillbirth, & Infant Loss1 | Welcome to Cradled in Hope | Ashley OpligerThis first episode is an opening message from our Founder and Bridget's mom, Ashley Opliger. Ashley shares her heart behind starting the Cradled in Hope podcast and welcomes grieving moms to this sacred space.She reads the first chapter of the book she is writing which is also titled Cradled in Hope. This chapter is a letter to grieving moms letting them know they are loved and not alone in their grief. Ashley welcomes brokenhearted moms to meet her in spirit at the blue barn building that Bridget's Cradles calls their headquarters. Here, she wants to sit...
2021-06-1124 min
Radical Radiance: Encouragement for Christian Women by Rebecca George101. Serving Through Grief with Ashley OpligerAshley Opliger is the founder and Executive Director of nonprofit organization Bridget's Cradles. Resigning from a career in speech and language pathology, she began to pursue a career in full-time ministry in 2015. Ashley loves to-do lists and encouraging women in their walk with Jesus.
We chatted about:
The heart behind her organization Bridget's Cradles
When and how God put this way of serving families on her heart
Doing a lot with a little
How she would encourage a friend who wants to make a difference in their own sphere of life but doesn't know where to start
The reach of...
2021-05-0634 min
A Force To Be Reckoned With82. Grief, Infant Loss, and Making an Impact through Unexpected Tragedy With Ashley OpligerSend us a textDid you know 1 in 4 women experience miscarriage? If this is such a common thing that people face, why is it so taboo? Today we talk with Ashley Opliger about her story of losing her first daughter, Bridget. Ashley’s story is one of both heartbreak and hope and that’s exactly why we chose her to be part of our topic series for February. Ashley faced an unimaginable trial, but she didn’t just stop there. She surrendered her story and her life to God, and allow...
2021-02-111h 05