UpStream
It can be tough navigating life's rough waters. Up Stream is here to help make that journey a little smoother.
About the host: Joy Tolle
Joy has been with The River in various capacities since 2016. An ordained chaplain since 2019, she is now the lead chaplain for the team of River chaplains. She holds a deep compassion for people and believes her role is best described as a bridge between the sacred and secular, bringing Christ’s care and hope to those hurting and in crisis. Joy holds a Bachelor of Science in Christian counseling and is currently pursuing an MDiv in Pastoral Counseling. Joy and her husband live in Central Ohio and spend their (rare) free time teaching in children’s music ministries and coaching various drama teams.
UpStream
When Faith Meets Suffering | Finding Hope in Life’s Hardest Seasons
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Why does suffering happen—and how do we keep our faith when life hurts? On this episode of Upstream, Joy sits down with Joannie DeBrito from Focus on the Family to talk about the many forms suffering can take, from grief and loss to anxiety, disappointment, and seasons of uncertainty. Together, they explore practical ways to navigate pain, how faith can shape our response in difficult moments, and why hope is still possible even when life feels overwhelming. If you or someone you love is walking through a hard season, this conversation offers encouragement, perspective, and reminders that you are not alone.
A devotional podcast for parents on the go! Encouragement, Scripture, & prayer in just 7 minutes. Join the journey!