Shows
The Defender Podcast5 Years Waiting for China AdoptionIn this episode of The Defender Podcast, Herbie Newell is joined by Karla Thrasher, Lifeline’s Senior Director of International Adoption, to discuss the heartbreaking impact of China’s five-year suspension of international adoptions, which left 400 children—many with special needs—waiting for families. Recent developments, including China’s September 2024 decision to end all international adoptions, have deepened the uncertainty for children and the 300 U.S. families still committed to them. Herbie and Karla explore the emotional toll on families, the long-term effects on children, and Lifeline’s ongoing advocacy at the highest levels, providing hope through prayer, support, and action...2025-01-2920 min
The Defender PodcastThe Changing Landscape of the Pro-Life Movement: A Conversation with Jor-El GodseyIn this episode of The Defender Podcast, Herbie Newell is joined by Jor-El Godsey, president of Heartbeat International, to discuss the evolving landscape of the pro-life movement. Heartbeat International is at the forefront of supporting pregnancy help centers, maternity homes, and adoption services worldwide. Jor-El shares his insights on how the abortion industry is shifting, with a rise in chemical abortions and telecare options, and how Heartbeat is responding by empowering leaders and providing essential resources to meet women where they are. As we observe Sanctity of Life Month, Herbie and Jor-El also discuss the importance of equipping churches...2025-01-0834 min
The Defender PodcastChampioning Life in 2025In this first episode of 2025, Herbie Newell is joined by Pastor Chris Johnson, Lifeline Children's Services' Senior Director of Church Partnerships, to discuss the significance of Sanctity of Human Life Month. Pastor Chris, a seasoned pastor and adoptive father of seven, shares how valuing and protecting life is central to Lifeline’s mission. Together, they reflect on the evolution of the pro-life conversation, particularly since the Dobbs decision in 2022, and highlight practical ways churches and individuals can champion the intrinsic worth of every human life as we begin a new year.GUESTChris Johnson is...2025-01-0135 min
The Defender PodcastLove: Advent Week 4 – Reflecting Christ's Sacrificial LoveIn this final episode of our Advent series, Herbie Newell reflects on the greatest gift of Christmas—God’s love. He shares a powerful story from Lifeline Children's Services that beautifully exemplifies sacrificial love and the transformation it can bring. Exploring the scriptures from Luke and Mark, Herbie highlights how God's love is active, relational, and sacrificial, and how it compels us to love others in tangible ways. As we celebrate the birth of Jesus, let us remember that God's love makes a way, transforms lives, and gives us hope. Join us as we reflect on the depth of God...2024-12-2219 min
The Defender PodcastThe Waiting Season: Lessons from Advent and AdoptionIn this special Christmas episode of The Defender Podcast, Herbie Newell and Dr. Rick Morton reflect on the profound lessons of Advent and their parallels to adoption and foster care. Together, they discuss the challenges and joys of waiting—whether for the fulfillment of God's promises, the arrival of a new family member, or the hope of ultimate restoration through Christ. HOSTHerbie Newell is the President & Executive Director of Lifeline Children’s Services and its ministry arms.CO-HOSTDr. Rick Morton is the Vice Presi...2024-12-1837 min
The Defender PodcastJoy: Advent Week 3 – The Shepherd's Song of PraiseIn this Advent edition of The Defender Podcast, host Herbie Newell reflects on the joy found in the true meaning of Christmas. As we approach the third week of Advent, we examine the shepherds’ joy at the birth of Jesus—not a happiness tied to circumstances, but a deep, eternal joy rooted in God’s presence. Herbie shares a personal story of unexpected joy from his own life and invites us to consider how the joy of Christ can transform us, even in times of suffering. This episode explores the difference between fleeting happiness and lasting joy, and offers four p...2024-12-1517 min
The Defender PodcastPreparing the Way: Advent Week 2 – Making Space for JesusIn this second week of our Advent series, Herbie Newell reflects on the theme of preparation. As we enter the busy holiday season, he challenges us to pause amidst the chaos and make room in our hearts for the coming of Christ. Drawing from the example of Mary and the humble circumstances of Jesus’ birth, Herbie explores how we can prepare spiritually by simplifying our lives, practicing humility, and prioritizing time with God. Through reflection on passages from Isaiah and Luke, he encourages us to prepare not just during Advent but every day, creating sacred moments of worship and se...2024-12-0817 min
The Defender PodcastBest of 2024: Heartbreaking News: The Future of China AdoptionsIn this rebroadcast of one of the best episodes from 2024, The Defender Podcast revisits a powerful conversation between Herbie Newell and Karla Thrasher, Lifeline's Senior Director of International Adoption, about the devastating announcement from the People's Republic of China regarding the suspension of intercountry adoptions. In this episode, Herbie and Karla delve into the profound impact of this decision on hundreds of waiting children and families, many of whom have been in the process for over five years. They reflect on the heartbreak faced by families who have formed bonds with these children and discuss the advocacy efforts Lifeline...2024-12-0434 min
The Defender PodcastWaiting in Hope: Advent Week 1 – Trusting in God’s PromisesIn this special Advent edition of The Defender Podcast, Herbie Newell explores the theme of waiting as we prepare our hearts for the coming of Christ. Reflecting on the promises of God throughout scripture—from the Israelites' longing for deliverance to the fulfillment of prophecy in Jesus—this episode reminds us that waiting is not passive but an active expression of trust and worship. Herbie shares a touching adoption story and encourages us to find hope and peace in Christ, our Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace.Discover how Advent mirrors the tension betw...2024-12-0116 min
The Defender PodcastA Heart of Thanksgiving: Reflecting on God’s Goodness Through All SeasonsAs 2024 draws to a close, Herbie Newell and Dr. Rick Morton reflect on the significance of cultivating gratitude, even amidst life’s challenges. Drawing from Scripture, they explore themes of God’s enduring goodness, the joy of community, and the peace that comes from Christ. Join this heartfelt conversation as they discuss how thankfulness can transform our perspective, bolster our faith, and remind us of the profound impact of God’s provision through Lifeline’s ministry.HOSTHerbie Newell is the President & Executive Director of Lifeline Children’s Services and its ministry arms.2024-11-2736 min
The Defender Bible StudyHeroic Faith: Embracing Transformation for Greater ImpactIn this episode of The Defender Bible Study, Herbie Newell wraps up a series on shifting from a caregiver to a heroic archetype at Lifeline Children’s Services. Herbie highlights how this transformation—from focusing on nurturing immediate needs to taking bold, proactive action—aligns with Lifeline’s mission to bring lasting change to vulnerable children, women, and families. LIFELINE CHILDREN'S SERVICES The mission of Lifeline Children’s Services is to equip the Body of Christ to manifest the gospel to vulnerable children. Our vision is for vulnerable children and their co...2024-11-2527 min
The Defender PodcastEmpowering Churches to Care: A Conversation with Andy Cook of Promise 686In this episode of The Defender Podcast, Herbie Newell and Dr. Rick Morton welcome Andy Cook, President and CEO of Promise 686, a ministry dedicated to equipping churches to serve vulnerable children and families. Andy shares his journey of starting Promise 686, rooted in the biblical mandate of Psalm 68:6, and the organization’s model, Family Advocacy Ministries (FAM), which helps churches launch sustainable ministries for foster, adoptive, and biological families in crisis. The conversation highlights the importance of collaboration in orphan care, particularly through partnerships like the one between Promise 686 and Lifeline Children Services. Herbie and Andy reflect on their journey to...2024-11-1334 min
The Defender PodcastEmbracing the Call of Adoption During National Adoption MonthJoin Herbie Newell and Karla Thrasher on this special National Adoption Month episode of The Defender Podcast as they explore the profound impact of adoption on vulnerable children around the world. Karla, Lifeline's Senior Director of International Programs, shares insights on the evolving landscape of international adoption, including the unique challenges and rewards families experience. They discuss the realities of waiting children, highlight emerging adoption programs, and reveal a new $1,000 scholarship for families beginning their adoption journey this month.GUESTKarla Thrasher is a graduate of the University of Alabama at Birmingham and a licensed social...2024-11-0628 min
The Defender Bible StudyFive Marks of a Heroic Witness: Bold Faith in AdversityIn this episode of The Defender Bible Study, Herbie Newell guides listeners through Acts 14, where Paul and Barnabas face challenges, rejection, and even physical threats as they spread the gospel. Herbie highlights five characteristics of a heroic witness, inspired by the steadfastness and bold faith of Paul and Barnabas. Through their example, we see how to embrace our spiritual gifts, remain courageous in adversity, and follow Christ wholeheartedly—even when facing criticism or praise.LIFELINE CHILDREN'S SERVICES The mission of Lifeline Children’s Services is to equip the Body of Ch...2024-11-0421 min
The Defender PodcastEngaging the Vulnerable: A Conversation with Josh Benton of Send ReliefIn this episode of The Defender Podcast, Dr. Rick Morton and Herbie Newell sit down with Josh Benton, National Vice President of Send Relief, recorded live at the Southern Baptist Convention in June. Josh shares his insights on the work of Send Relief, a collaborative platform that provides support to vulnerable people worldwide, focusing on disaster relief, crisis ministry, adoption, and foster care. He also highlights the growth in church engagement and volunteer mobilization within the Southern Baptist community, emphasizing the importance of partnership and cooperation.GUEST Josh Benton is the National Vice President of Send...2024-10-2327 min
The Defender Bible StudyHe Must Increase: Embracing Humility and Christ's Supremacy in Ministry - John 3:22-35In this episode of The Defender Bible Study, Herbie Newell leads us through John 3:22-36, reflecting on the profound statement, "He must increase, but I must decrease." Exploring the humility and joy of John the Baptist, Herbie reminds us that our work—whether in counseling expectant mothers, serving families in adoption, or supporting vulnerable children—must remain Christ-centered. As we exalt Christ and diminish ourselves, we find deep joy in seeing His supremacy in every aspect of ministry.LIFELINE CHILDREN'S SERVICES The mission of Lifeline Children’s Services is to equip the Body of Christ...2024-10-1417 min
The Defender PodcastOrphan Sunday: A Call to Action for the Church with Pastor Chris JohnsonIn this special episode of The Defender Podcast, host Herbie Newell and Dr. Rick Morton are joined by Pastor Chris Johnson, Lifeline’s Senior Director of Church Partnerships and External Advocacy. Pastor Chris shares the inspiring story behind Orphan Sunday, a movement that started in Zambia and has become a global call for the church to care for orphans and vulnerable children. Discover how your church can engage in this important cause, using resources and tools from Lifeline Children’s Services, and learn why caring for the vulnerable is not just a one-day event but an essential part of our...2024-10-0933 min
The Defender Bible StudyRevealing Christ’s Glory: The Miracle at CanaIn this episode of the Defender Bible Study, Herbie Newell leads us through John 2:1-12, where Jesus performs His first public miracle by turning water into wine at a wedding in Cana. This miracle reveals the compassionate heart of Christ and His divine authority over creation. Herbie emphasizes how Christ cares for even the smallest, most ordinary needs and how His miracles point to a deeper faith, calling us to reflect His heart in our service to vulnerable children and families. Join us as we explore how Christ’s glory is revealed in His care for the ordinary, His so...2024-09-2316 min
The Defender PodcastHeartbreaking News: The Future of China AdoptionsIn today's episode of The Defender Podcast, Herbie Newell is joined by Karla Thrasher, Lifeline's Senior Director of International Adoption, to discuss a devastating announcement from the People's Republic of China regarding the suspension of intercountry adoptions. Together, they explore the profound impact this news has on hundreds of waiting children and families, some of whom have been in the process for over five years. Herbie and Karla reflect on the heartbreak for families who have built relationships with these children, and the advocacy efforts Lifeline is undertaking in response. This episode sheds light on the complexities and challenges...2024-09-1832 minThe Defender Podcast2024 Mid-Year Ministry Update: Celebrating Lifeline’s ImpactIn this episode of The Defender Podcast, hosts Herbie Newell and Dr. Rick Morton provide a mid-year update on Lifeline Children's Services' ministry efforts in 2024, celebrating the impact and stories behind the statistics. They discuss nearly 100 children finding forever families through adoption and the ongoing need for more missional families, especially in the face of stricter abortion laws leading to increased foster care needs. The conversation highlights Lifeline's unique mission to uphold the gospel while caring for vulnerable children, the evolving landscape of adoption and foster care, and the church's crucial role in advocating for these children and supporting...2024-08-1441 minThe Defender PodcastPastor Greg Matte on Adoption and Community ImpactIn this episode of the Defender Podcast, hosts Rick Morton and Herbie Newell engage in a heartfelt discussion with Pastor Greg Matte of Houston’s First Baptist Church about the church’s adoption and foster care ministry. Pastor Matte shares his journey from being vocal about anti-abortion stances to actively supporting adoption as a proactive measure. He recounts the pivotal moment when his church raised substantial funds to support adoptive families, which led to the creation of a holistic ministry known as Legacy 68:5. This ministry offers comprehensive support, including counseling, therapy, and legal aid, all under one roof. Pastor Matt...2024-07-1730 minThe Defender PodcastBiblical Faithfulness and Caring for Vulnerable Children: A Conversation with Jonathan LeemanIn this episode of the Defender podcast, Herbie Newell and Rick Morton are joined by Jonathan Leeman from 9 Marks to discuss the importance of biblical faithfulness and caring for vulnerable children in the church. Leeman shares his insights on what it means to be a New Testament church, emphasizing the role of Christians in demonstrating justice and righteousness. The conversation covers various topics, including the need for the church to recover a commitment to good works, the significance of pastoral leadership in fostering a caring church culture, and the theological implications of caring for orphans and the needy. Leeman...2024-06-2630 min
Are You Kidding Me?Herbie Newell on Adoption Impacts in Real Time Post DobbsHow has the Supreme Court’s decision on Dobbs v. Jackson affected foster care and adoption in the United States during the past two years?This week, Naomi and Ian are joined by Herbie Newell, President & Executive Director of Lifeline Children’s Services, one of the largest adoption agencies in the United States. Herbie discusses how the recent limits on abortion access in some states have impacted adoption agencies. He highlights the cultural shifts that have emerged since the Dobbs decision, including the decreased stigma surrounding adoption. He also addresses the slight increase in foster care numbers foll...2024-05-2222 minThe Defender PodcastDefending the Vulnerable: Child Abuse Prevention with Julie LoweIn this episode of the Defender Podcast, hosts Herbie Newell and Rick Morton engage in a discussion on Child Abuse Prevention with guest Julie Lowe, a highly experienced author, speaker, and counselor. With over two decades of expertise in counseling and advocacy for vulnerable children, Julie offers invaluable insights into the nuanced understanding of child abuse, highlighting lesser-known forms that often evade detection. As April marks Child Abuse Prevention Month, the conversation pivots to the significance of awareness and proactive measures, with Julie outlining specific actions individuals and communities can take to combat this pressing issue. Drawing from her...2024-04-1739 minThe Defender PodcastHoly Week ReflectionsIn this special Easter episode of The Defender Podcast, Herbie Newell and Dr. Rick Morton reflect on the significance of Holy Week amidst their own family traditions and memories. Through these anecdotes, they underscore the central message of Easter—the sacrificial love of Christ and the hope it brings. Amidst laughter and cherished memories, they emphasize the daily importance of remembering the gospel and its transformative power in their lives and the lives of those around them. Join them as they celebrate the resurrected Lord and invite listeners to embrace the hope of the gospel in their own lives....2024-03-2736 minThe Defender PodcastCelebrating Social Work Month: Lifeline's Unsung HeroesJoin hosts Herbie Newell and Dr. Rick Morton in this special episode of The Defender Podcast as they express gratitude to the unsung heroes of Lifeline Children's Services during Social Work Appreciation Month. Featuring inspiring conversations with Jessica Cumbers, a dedicated caseworker on the South Carolina team, and McKenzie Bussman, an International Social Worker on the Asia team, the episode delves into their journeys, motivations, and the impactful stories that fuel their passion for making a difference in the lives of vulnerable children and families. Discover the unique challenges faced by these social work heroes and the most rewarding...2024-03-2031 minThe Defender PodcastGender & Sexuality in Today's CultureIn today's episode of The Defender podcast, we sit down with Rev. Zach Coffin, whose incredible journey began with a miraculous encounter with God at the age of 5 when faced with a fatal kidney disease. Zach, alongside his wife Becca and their two daughters, embraced a full-time RV lifestyle in 2022, responding to a clear whisper from the Lord. As a former kids and youth pastor, Zach brings a unique perspective to the table as we delve into the challenging topic of "Gender & Sexuality". Listen in as Herbie and Dr. Rick discuss the challenges of navigating tough cultural conversations, including...2024-02-2853 minThe Defender PodcastLove, Marriage, and Family: A Biblical Perspective for Stronger HomesIn this insightful episode, Herbie Newell and Dr. Rick Morton explore the significance of Valentine's Day through the lens of Christian values, emphasizing the importance of fighting for the sanctity of marriage and life. As advocates for God's word, they discuss how embracing love in the Biblically prescribed manner contributes to the strength of marriages and, subsequently, forms a foundation for providing strong, stable homes for children. The conversation extends to the profound impact of these principles on caring for vulnerable children, stressing the role of a godly marriage in demonstrating love and stability. Listeners are encouraged to reflect...2024-02-1450 min
The Defender Bible StudySanctity of Human Life: Herbie Newell at Northport BaptistIn this special episode, Herbie Newell takes the stage at Northport Baptist Church to address the profound significance of Sanctity of Human Life month. As a respected voice in the realm of human advocacy, Herbie delves into the core principles that underscore the sanctity of every human life. Drawing on his wealth of experience, he shares impactful insights on the value and dignity inherent in each individual.RESOURCESAs abortion laws are changing across the nation, we must continue to stand for the lives of women and children with conviction and compassion. Your c...2024-01-2938 minThe Defender Bible StudyMonumental Moment for the Sanctity of Human LifeAs we approach Sanctity of Human Life Sunday, we're sharing a sermon by Lifeline's President and Executive Director, Herbie Newell, at Fellowship Bible Church in Topeka, Kansas. This timely engagement occurred shortly after the overturn of Roe v. Wade. Herbie discusses the implications of significant abortion cases, expounds on what God's Word says about this, and highlights how He calls His people to respond. We hope you find edification and encouragement in the message.RESOURCESThis year’s Sanctity of Human Life is January 21st. As abortion laws are changing across the nation, we must con...2024-01-151h 29The Defender PodcastThe Gift of AdventToday on the podcast, we have a special holiday episode! Herbie and Dr. Rick reflect on the goodness and grace bestowed upon us by the Lord throughout the year. Christmas isn't just a celebration; it's a time for deep gratitude. Hear of the Lord's hand at work through His people, caring for orphans and vulnerable children. It's a testament to the true spirit of Christmas.HOSTHerbie Newell is the President & Executive Director of Lifeline Children’s Services and its ministry arms.CO-HOSTRick Morton is the Vice President of Engagement at Li...2023-12-2032 min