It's A Family Matter: Recent Episodes
Baptist Children's Homes of NC, Inc.
Family is more complicated than ever. Episodes of “It’s a family matter.” features Dr. Michael C. Blackwell, noted family advocate and president/CEO of Baptist Children’s Homes of North Carolina, as he interviews guests on the leading edge of relationship issues involving parenting and family. Whether you are looking for guidance or just want to hear some great conversation on families, this is the podcast for you.
Dr. Blackwell brings listeners an encore of one of the most popular “It’s a family matter” episodes featuring Dr. Gary Chapman—author of The 5 Love Languages. In this episode, Dr. Chapman discusses how gifts are a universal expression of love. Whatever form the gift takes, the receiver understands the giver thought of him/her affectionately. Listen as Dr. Blackwell examines the dynamics and implications of gift-giving in his exclusive interview with Dr. Chapman.
Dr. Blackwell brings listeners an encore of one of the most popular “It’s a family matter” episodes featuring Dr. Lowell K. Davis who was instrumental in the creation of BCH's HOMEBASE ministry for students at Western Carolina University. Join Dr. Blackwell as he and Dr. Davis discuss the family, scholastic, and social factors that influenced Davis's path and his dedication to helping students thrive. The podcast and this episode were award winners at the 2023 Baptist Communicators Associations annual meeting.
To commemorate her 50th anniversary, Dr. Blackwell brings listeners an encore of the second interview with BCH’s Linda Morgan. Join Dr. Blackwell and Linda as they continue to reflect on God's purpose and His calling on their lives. This podcast originally aired on Linda’s 48th anniversary. On her 50th—and beyond—she still says, “I know I’m where I need to be; God’s not finished with me yet.”
To commemorate her 50th anniversary, Dr. Blackwell brings listeners an encore of his interview with BCH’s Linda Morgan. Linda began serving at Broyhill Home in 1973. Today, she is the ministry’s longest tenured employee. Listen as Linda and Dr. Blackwell reflect on her journey from secretary to a senior leader and how her time with BCH has strengthened her relationship with God and others.
Dr. Blackwell brings listeners an encore of one of the most popular “It’s a family matter” episodes featuring Dr. Gary Chapman. Throughout his life on earth, Jesus demonstrated love through service to God and to the people He encountered. Listen as Dr. Blackwell explores acts of service and the importance of approaching life with a servant's heart.
Dr. Blackwell brings listeners an encore of one of the most popular “It’s a family matter” episodes featuring Dr. Gary Chapman, highlighting his seminal book, The 5 Love Languages. Listen as he and Dr. Blackwell discuss how God connects with people through their love languages, especially quality time.
Dr. Michael Blackwell interviews longtime Baptist Children's Homes staff member Sara Becker regarding the impactful work of the Bob and Carolyn Tucker Greater Vision Outreach team. Listen to their discussion of how this ministry helps provide self-sufficiency to financially at-risk families throughout central and eastern NC, shares the hope of Christ to those experiencing crisis, and facilitates healing for thousands each year through intentional, compassionate support.
Artist, writer, and longtime BCH friend Starr Ayers joins host Dr. Michael Blackwell to discuss her newest book, "Room At The Table: Encouraging Stories From Special Needs Parents," which she co-authored with Stephanie Pavlantos. Listen as Dr. Blackwell and Ayers discuss her journey as a parent of a special needs child, and the way BCH's Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Ministry helps Ayers' daughter and other adults at BCH’s nine group homes to be their best version of themselves.
Dr. Blackwell brings listeners an encore of one of the most popular “It’s a family matter” episodes featuring a message he delivered encouraging adults of all ages to strive for happiness. Praying, thinking, and serving helps us nurture happiness essentials such as close relationships, respect, trust, and having fun. Join Dr. Blackwell for this positive word.
Dr. Blackwell brings listeners an encore of one of the most popular “It’s a family matter” episodes featuring Bishop Dr. George B. Jackson, pastor of Citadel of Faith Christian Fellowship in Thomasville, NC and founder of the community’s Martin Luther King Social Action Committee. In this third in a series of three episodes, Dr. Jackson and Dr. Michael Blackwell discuss the history, characteristics, and significance of the Black Church in America.
BCH President Dr. Michael Blackwell interviews fellow childcare professionals, Jay Boyd, Senior VP of Strategy & Engagement for Connie Maxwell Children's Homes of SC, which is led by President Danny Nicholson, and Chrystelle Thames, Director of Communications for The Baptist Children's Village of MS, which is led by Executive Director Sean Milner. Listen as Jay and Chrystelle discuss the circles of godly influence which have informed their call to serve children and families.
Dr. Blackwell brings listeners an encore of one of the most popular “It’s a family matter” episodes featuring marriage and family therapist Dr. Emma Wallace. The duo discuss the scope and lasting negative effects of childhood trauma. Learn how these traumatic experiences are stored in a person's body and psyche, reaching into adulthood.
Dr. Blackwell brings listeners an encore of one of the most popular “It’s a family matter” episodes featuring family therapists Drs. Mac and Emma Wallace, Join Dr. Blackwell as the trio discuss how to identify relational challenges in marriage, and share healthy methods to break patterns of complaints and criticisms.
Join Dr. Michael Blackwell as he interviews Andrew Hopper, Lead Pastor of Mercy Hill Church. Originally a church plant, and now planting churches, Mercy Hill's congregations in Greensboro and High Point, NC, are dynamic partners with BCH's foster and adoption ministries. Listen and learn how the congregations have moved from the sidelines to the front lines to help provide "Every Child" a safe and loving home.
Join Dr. Michael Blackwell as he interviews Andrew Hopper, Lead Pastor of Mercy Hill Church. Originally a church plant, and now planting churches, Mercy Hill's congregations in Greensboro and High Point, NC, are dynamic partners with BCH's foster and adoption ministries. Listen and learn how the congregations have moved from the sidelines to the front lines to help provide "Every Child" a safe and loving home.
Dr. Blackwell recently spoke to a large group of Baptist communicators, development officers, and marketing experts from across the country. In this episode, listen to his insights for building a culture of holy connections by pouring love, appreciation, and value into others, resulting in extraordinary outcomes.
Dr. Blackwell recently spoke to a large group of Baptist communicators, development officers, and marketing experts from across the country. In this episode, listen to his insights for building a culture of holy connections by pouring love, appreciation, and value into others, resulting in extraordinary outcomes.
Dr. Blackwell brings listeners an encore of one of the most popular “It’s a family matter” episodes featuring inspirational Christian speaker Betsy Bolick. Enduring numerous physical difficulties, surgeries, and hospitalizations throughout her life, four foot, eight inch tall Betsy heard God's call to share her faith. In this first of the original two episodes, listen as she and Dr. Blackwell discuss "Small Enough Ministries.”
Dr. Blackwell brings listeners an encore of one of the most popular “It’s a family matter” episodes featuring inspirational Christian speaker Betsy Bolick. Enduring numerous physical difficulties, surgeries, and hospitalizations throughout her life, four foot, eight inch tall Betsy heard God's call to share her faith. In this first of the original two episodes, listen as she and Dr. Blackwell discuss "Small Enough Ministries.”
Dr. Blackwell brings listeners an encore of one of the most popular “It’s a family matter” episodes featuring internationally-known author and relationship expert Dr. Gary Chapman. The duo discuss the origins of Dr. Chapman's influential book and the nature of the five love languages.
Dr. Blackwell brings listeners an encore of one of the most popular “It’s a family matter” episodes featuring internationally-known author and relationship expert Dr. Gary Chapman. The duo discuss the origins of Dr. Chapman's influential book and the nature of the five love languages.
Dr. Michael Blackwell welcomes back BCH Council of Advisors member and noted public servant Phil Kirk for a rich discussion on the traits of a true leader. Listen and discover unique insights that apply to people and organizations who are pursuing worthy goals.
Dr. Michael Blackwell welcomes back BCH Council of Advisors member and noted public servant Phil Kirk for a rich discussion on the traits of a true leader. Listen and discover unique insights that apply to people and organizations who are pursuing worthy goals.
In addition to being an active member of Dr. Michael Blackwell’s Presidential Council of Advisors, Phil Kirk has been a tireless advocate for education, business, and common-sense government throughout North Carolina. Kirk’s experience in public service includes serving as chief of staff for three NC Governors. Join Dr. Blackwell and Kirk as they discuss Kirk’s humble beginnings and his unique perspectives from “inside the inside.”
Dr. Michael Blackwell is joined in the podcast studio by a very special guest: America's Santa! Listen to Dr. Blackwell's conversation with Santa for a mid-year reminder about why Jesus is the reason we celebrate Christmas.
Since his arrival at Kennedy Home as a child in the 1950’s, Jim Dyer has had a heart for Baptist Children's Homes of NC. Listen as Dr. Michael Blackwell and one of BCH’s favorite ambassadors discuss Dyer's journey from a broken home to successes in a variety of roles, including Vietnam military helicopter pilot, corporate chaplain, and Mayor Pro Tem of the Town of Wake Forest.
While serving as Western Carolina University's associate vice chancellor for student success, Dr. Lowell K. Davis was instrumental in the creation of BCH's HOMEBASE ministry for independent students. Now serving as vice chancellor for student affairs at UNC Wilmington, Dr. Davis continues to innovate services that help young adults succeed. Join Dr. Michael Blackwell as he and Dr. Davis discuss the family, scholastic, and social factors that influenced Davis's path and dedication to helping others thrive.
Dr. Michael Blackwell interviews Rev. Dr. Jim Dean, director of HOMEBASE, which last year served more than 14,000 independent students at WCU by providing spiritual guidance, resources such as food and clothing, and a place to call "home." Listen as Dr. Blackwell and Dr. Dean discuss the challenges faced by young adults who are trying to build a path in life without familial support, and how BCH's exemplary HOMEBASE ministry helps these college students to not only succeed but to thrive.
Teammates, friends, and brothers in Christ, Rob and Alex talk with Dr. Michael Blackwell shortly before their appearance in the 2022 Special Olympics USA Games in Orlando as members of the SONC Soccer Team. Listen as they share what life is like for them and the other residents at Alverta Bolick Home in Asheville, and how they are living life to their fullest potential.
Physician, author, wise counselor, and dear friend of many, at 94 years of age, BCH alumnus Dr. Ted Chandler is still making five-year plans. Listen as Dr. Michael Blackwell continues his interview with Dr. Chandler, discussing the powerful dynamic of healthy living that leads to positive, transformative lives and family abundance.
Before it was Baptist Children’s Homes of North Carolina, it was the “Baptist Orphanage” or the “Thomasville Orphanage.” Listen as Dr. Michael Blackwell interviews 94-year-old Dr. Ted Chandler as he recounts details about life as a child for him and his two brothers growing up at the “Orphanage” in the 1930s and 40s. Learn how Dr. Chandler’s experiences and gained values were transformative, helping him reach his childhood dream of becoming a medical doctor.
Dr. Michael Blackwell and guest Dr. Mark Smith, BCH's Foster & Adoption Church Liaison, discuss the Every Child Initiative. Listen as they explain how BCH and the Baptist State Convention of North Carolina partner with churches to reach, train, and support Christian married couples so they can provide safe and loving homes for children in need.
In this episode, Dr. Michael Blackwell shares another encouraging message delivered to Baptist Children’s Homes of NC staff members during a recent event. Listen as he relates important biblical lessons from Isaiah 61:1-3, lessons of hope, love, and forgiveness.
Dr. Michael Blackwell interviews Todd Unzicker, executive director/treasurer of the Baptist State Convention of North Carolina, and Baptist Children’s Homes’ chief operating officer Keith Henry. The three discuss how a "shared vision" is yielding positive results through the “Every Child” partnership, where BCH works with the BSCNC and NC Baptist churches to provide love and support to the 16,000 children in need of a home throughout NC. Listen to how this rapidly-growing initiative is bringing the blessings of foster and adoption ministries to children and families around the state.
Dr. Michael Blackwell spends time with Todd Unzicker as he reflects back on his first year as executive director of the Baptist State Convention of North Carolina. The two discuss how local churches are partnering with the Convention and Baptist Children's Homes through the new Every Child Foster & Adoption Ministry. Blackwell and Unzicker affirm their partnership and Baptists’ spirit of oneness to realize God's vision of helping provide every child in need a safe, loving home where they can hear and experience the Gospel.
In his second interview with Baptist Children’s Homes of North Carolina Trustee Jay Westmoreland and COO Keith Henry, Dr. Blackwell discusses the amazing ways God brings people and ministries together to grow the Good Shepherd Children's Homes in Guatemala while realizing other BCH opportunities to serve children.
With the construction of three new homes, Baptist Children’s Homes of North Carolina and the Westmoreland family are realizing a dream to serve children at River Hill Refuge in Cleveland County. Join Dr. Michael Blackwell, BCH COO Keith Henry, and BCH Trustee Jay Westmoreland as they discuss this new, innovative ministry that opens the door to foster families who want to foster multiple children.
In Dr. Blackwell's second interview with Cyndie Truax, they discuss how God brought meaningful relationships to bear fruit through Christian Adoption Services’ ongoing support of birth mothers. With this newest ministry, Emmanuel Home, CAS staff members will better provide much-needed love and care for brave, strong women who place their children for adoption.
In her unique role as Baptist Children's Homes of North Carolina's Director of Strategic Initiatives and Special Projects, Cyndie Truax's experiences with adoption have informed her perspective on God's amazing love and providence. In this interview with Dr. Michael Blackwell, Cyndie shares powerful personal stories of God at work in the lives of the most vulnerable, children in need of a family.
When she joined North Carolina Baptist Aging Ministry (NCBAM), Angie Gregg brought extensive fire prevention and education experience to her role as a regional director. Listen as Dr. Blackwell talks with Gregg about her background in firefighting and her heart for keeping aging adults safe in their homes.
In this episode, Dr. Michael Blackwell shares from a message he delivered during a recent NCBAM team staff meeting. NCBAM is a ministry that focuses in part on helping aging adults 65+ thrive at home. Listen as Dr. Blackwell encourages us all to remember to Hope, embrace Opportunity, practice Ministry, and Encourage others.
Having shared the Gospel with an estimated 2.5 billion people, the Reverend Doctor Billy Graham is considered by many to be the foremost preacher of the 20th century. In this episode of It’s a Family Matter, listen as Dr. Michael Blackwell shares memories of unique interactions he had with Rev. Dr. Graham and the Graham family—encounters that would impact Blackwell's life and ministry in profound ways.
"A river of peace. A hill of hope. A refuge of healing." During his presentation at the recent groundbreaking for River Hill Refuge, Dr. Michael Blackwell vividly describes God's amazing work and purpose in preparation for this newest ministry—three homes for foster families near Shelby, North Carolina. Listen as Dr. Blackwell shares the vision of love and care which will surround these children and families.
For decades, friends Dr. Blackwell, David Smith, and Ed Beddingfield have each reached countless people with their messages of encouragement. For David and Ed, grieving the loss of their wives in recent years has given them a perspective that uniquely informs their writing and preaching ministries. Listen as they discuss their faith journeys and share important life lessons.
David Smith and Ed Beddingfield have been profoundly affected by their wives' deaths. In this episode they continue their discussion with host Dr. Blackwell, reflecting on heartfelt moments of mutual encouragement and shared expressions of grief that have since touched their lives. Listen as Ed shares a powerful musical rendition of "God Leads Us Along."
In recent years, Dr. Blackwell's longtime friends and fellow pastors David Smith and Ed Beddingfield lost their wives; one from cancer, and one in a house fire. Listen as they discuss how such deep loss has impacted their approach to life and relationships.
Dr. Michael C. Blackwell recently spoke to a group of Baptist Children Homes of North Carolina trainers, sharing his definition of the acronym, CARE. Listen as he encourages and challenges us to be Courageous, "Awesomazing," Resilient, and Empathic. The benefits of these attributes will bless you and those in your life.
Moving hymns of Christian faith have often emerged from tremendous personal trials and tribulations. In part two of Dr. Michael C. Blackwell's interview with Dana Dixon, listen as the duo share messages of inspiration and encouragement while reflecting on the origins of hymns. Also, be treated to special vocal performances by Dixon.
Dana Dixon began singing in church at age two, then toured with her church's musical drama group as a young adult. Joining Dr. Michael C. Blackwell, Dixon describes her journey to Miss North Carolina and beyond, sharing her unique experiences developing, and using God's gifts to bless others through song and service.
This special episode of "It's a family matter" features unique reflections by host Dr. Michael C. Blackwell, the longest serving president and CEO of Baptist Children's Homes of North Carolina. As Blackwell turns the interview microphones over to BCH’s Jim Edminson and John Adamcik, listen as they celebrate Blackwell's ministerial calling, leadership milestones, and tremendous tenure.
Dr. Michael Blackwell and members of the North Carolina Baptist Aging Ministry (NCBAM) team, Carol Layton, Director of Communications & Administration, and Samantha "Sam" Allred, North Central Regional Director, share a candid and personal conversation highlighting the stigma, impact, and support resources related to mental health. If you or someone you love are facing mental health challenges, this special episode will speak to you. Listen, and reach out to get the support you and your dear ones need. Remember, you are not alone.
Samantha "Sam" Allred, regional director for North Carolina Baptist Aging Ministry, discusses with Dr. Michael C. Blackwell how she discovered God's purpose for her life. Listen as she describes how the call to ministry-driven work brought her to join the NCBAM team in connecting lonely, isolated aging adults with volunteers and churches.
Join Dr. Michael C. Blackwell as he welcomes Todd Unzicker, new Executive Director & Treasurer of the Baptist State Convention of North Carolina. Listen as EDT Unzicker shares his heart, passion, and enthusiasm for NC Baptists. Blackwell and Unzicker discuss the ongoing partnership between NC Baptists and BCH in reaching hurting children and families for Christ.
In this third in a series of three episodes featuring Bishop Dr. Jackson, he and Dr. Michael Blackwell discuss the history, characteristics, and significance of the Black Church in America.
In this second of three interviews, Dr. Michael Blackwell and Bishop Dr. Jackson discuss what it means to build and embody the "Beloved, Cherished Community," a place of "unity and understanding."
Dr. Michael Blackwell interviews Bishop Dr. Jackson, pastor of Citadel of Faith Christian Fellowship in Thomasville, NC and founder of the community’s Martin Luther King Social Action Committee. Listen as they discuss serving God's kingdom in challenging times.
Join Dr. Michael Blackwell and Linda Morgan as they continue to reflect on God's purpose and His calling on their lives. Having recently celebrated her 48th anniversary with BCH, Linda says, "I know I'm where I need to be; God's not finished with me yet."
Linda Morgan joined BCH in 1973. Today, she is the ministry’s longest tenured employee. Listen as Morgan and Dr. Blackwell reflect on her journey from secretary to a senior leader and how her time with BCH has strengthened her relationship with God and others.
The world tries to tell us who we are, but it is God's opinion that matters. Listen to Dr. Michael C. Blackwell's recent message to a church congregation on why we must, "claim our status as God's beloved and live our lives grounded in that fact."
Dr. Michael Blackwell and guests Drs. Mac and Emma Wallace continue their discussion regarding childhood trauma and its long-lasting, far-reaching effects. Adult survivors often face psychological and physical issues, addictions, violence, and relational struggles. Learn how to address childhood trauma through supportive counseling.
Marriage and family therapist Dr. Emma Wallace joins Dr. Michael C. Blackwell for a discussion about the scope and lasting negative effects of childhood trauma. Learn how these traumatic experiences are stored in a person's body and psyche, reaching into adulthood.
Drs. Mac and Emma Wallace, family therapists, join host Dr. Michael C. Blackwell to discuss how to identify relational challenges in marriage, and share healthy methods to break patterns of complaints and criticisms.
In the second of two episodes introducing Christian Adoption Services (CAS), BCH's newest ministry, listen as Dr. Michael Blackwell and CAS senior director of adoptions, Kevin Qualls, discuss how God prepared and supports Kevin in ministry. Learn how Kevin's Christian upbringing, his wife Kim, and his pastoral ministry experiences inform his approach to servant leadership through CAS.
When Christian Adoption Services (CAS) joined the BCH ministries in October, 2020, it brought with it an incredible legacy of more than 40 years of love for families, children, and birth mothers. Join Dr. Michael Blackwell as he interviews Kevin Qualls, CAS's senior director of adoption services, to discuss how God's hand has been upon and continues to guide CAS into new channels of blessings.
In Dr. Blackwell's third and final episode with BCH’s Keith Henry and Brenda Gray, we learn about their families and their service at BCH. These leaders share how their larger BCH family expects, strives, gives, and experiences the level of excellence to which God has called them.
In part 2 of Dr. Blackwell's interviews with Baptist Children's Homes of NC's chief operating officer Keith Henry and executive vice president Brenda Gray, learn how mentors and music influenced their faith and informed their calling to lead and serve.
Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, Baptist Children's Homes has continued to lovingly serve vulnerable children, adults, and families. Listen as Dr. Blackwell interviews chief operating officer Keith Henry and executive vice president Brenda Gray for an update. Learn how God has continued to provide, and how you can help offer a safe harbour for "the least of these" in this stormy season.
God made us to connect with Him—and with each other. We give and receive support in various ways, including financial. Listen as Dr. Michael Blackwell shares with a group of fundraising professionals proven insights to help maximize “connections” for the benefit of others.
From humble beginnings in the shadow of Gastonia's mills to the presidency of Baptist Children's Homes of NC, Dr. Michael C. Blackwell's journey has been full of rich experiences which have informed his life and ministry. Join us as his wife of 53 years, Catherine Blackwell, leads a heartwarming reflection on special memories.
Since meeting at Charlotte’s Big WAYS radio in 1965, God has brought Catherine and Michael Blackwell through seminary, pastorates, 38-years of service at Baptist Children’s Homes, and the arrival of beloved children and grandchildren. Now in their 54th year of marriage, listen as husband Michael interviews Catherine Kanipe Blackwell as she reflects on their journey together.
Being who God desires us to be requires understanding of how God made us and then looking to Him for guidance on our journey. Dr. Michael Blackwell continues his discussion with family therapist Dr. Mac Wallace, exploring the science of the brain and the realities of our human experience during COVID-19.
In this time of COVID-19 when there is extraordinary isolation and grief, taking care of ourselves is essential to maintaining healthy family and social relationships. Join Dr. Michael Blackwell as he and his guest, pastoral counselor and marriage and family therapist Dr. Mac Wallace, highlight the importance of taking time for personal refreshment, establishing healthy rituals, and listening so as to understand others.
God has given you a purpose and a voice. Recognizing and celebrating your unique communication strengths will help you achieve your dreams and realize your potential. Join Dr. Michael Blackwell as he shares tips for becoming a master communicator.
In today's episode, Dr. Michael Blackwell shares an encouraging message based on Isaiah 61:1-3. No matter your past or your current situation, God offers us forgiveness and the opportunity to enjoy his blessings.
God gives us a passion and a calling; pursue them with unrelenting positivity and persistence. This episode of "It's a family matter" features an inspiring message which Dr. Michael C. Blackwell recently shared with a group at Fort Caswell: in Christ, the best is yet to be!
BCH's story is one of God's love for children, adults, and families. Join host, and publisher of Charity & Children, Dr. Michael Blackwell as he and 20 year+ C&C editor Jim Edminson look back on 133 years of “letters from home”
Shunned by the crowd, Zacchaeus longed for a glimpse of Jesus; this man on a mission received so much more. Join us as Dr. Michael C. Blackwell illustrates the heartwarming story of Jesus reaching out to the lost, calling their names, and leading them to their best lives.
Baptist Children's Homes’ staff engagement and compliance department serves more than 300 staff members. As the HR director for the past eight years, John Adamcik combines the intricacies of HR with Christian compassion. In this episode, Dr. Blackwell discusses the human side to human resources.
This episode of "It's a family matter" features a special message from Dr. Michael C. Blackwell encouraging adults of all ages to strive for happiness -- even in trying times such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Praying, thinking, and serving helps us nurture happiness essentials such as close relationships, respect, trust, and having fun. Join Dr. Blackwell today for a positive word.
We at Baptist Children's Homes of North Carolina (BCH) are witnessing God's amazing grace during this time of pandemic crisis. Join Dr. Michael C. Blackwell along with BCH leaders Keith Henry and Brenda Gray as they give glory to God and share ministry updates and needs, as well as stories of encouragement and gratitude.
From college Bible studies to speaking events, Betsy Bolick's "Small Enough Ministries" has boldly reached many with a message of encouragement -- God is big enough for whatever we face! Listen to part 2 of Betsy's interview with Dr. Michael C. Blackwell.
Inspirational Christian speaker Betsy Bolick has overcome a life full of challenges. Facing numerous physical difficulties, surgeries and hospitalizations, as a young adult, 4' 8" Betsy heard God's call to share her faith. Listen as she and Dr. Michael C. Blackwell discuss "Small Enough Ministries".
Aging adults face growing challenges for connectedness and support. Feelings of perceived invisibility and loneliness can take their toll on mental and physical well being. In this episode of “It’s a family matter”, healthy aging expert/cheerleader Whitney Brooks joins Dr. Michael C. Blackwell to discuss One Hope, NC Baptists Aging Ministry's new initiative to help aging adults thrive in a rapidly changing world.
Marking the 135th year of ministry, the staff members of Baptist Children's Homes celebrate God's continued blessings through a growing and diverse ministry. In this episode, Dr. Blackwell discusses with Chief Operating Officer Keith Henry the latest developments for HomeBase, Family Foster Care, the Tucker Greater Vision Outreach Ministry, and The Good Shepherd Children's Homes in Guatemala.
Join us for the final episode with Dr. Gary Chapman as we learn the importance of appropriate physical touch in strengthening relationships. While being mindful of personal boundaries, settings, and a diversity of perspectives, Dr. Blackwell interviews Dr. Chapman seeking ways to navigate this powerful love language.
Gifts are a universal expression of love says Dr. Gary Chapman – author of The 5 Love Languages. Whatever form the gift takes, the receiver understands the giver thought of him affectionately. Listen as Dr. Blackwell examines the dynamics and implications of gift-giving in his exclusive interview with Dr. Chapman.
Throughout his life on earth, Jesus demonstrated love through service to God and to the people He encountered. In this third episode featuring the five Love languages with Dr. Gary Chapman, listen as he and Dr. Blackwell explore the importance of approaching life with a servant's heart.
Published in fifty-one languages around the world, Dr. Gary Chapman's seminal book, The 5 Love Languages, has blessed millions of people. Listen as he and Dr. Blackwell discuss how God connects with people through their love languages, especially quality time.
Internationally-known author and relationship expert Dr. Gary Chapman joins Dr. Blackwell in the first of a five-part series. Listen as they discuss the origins of Dr. Chapman's influential book, and the nature of the five love languages.
Healthy relationships reflect friendship, love, trust, and respect. Join us for today’s episode of “It’s a family matter,” with Dr. Michael C. Blackwell, as he and Dr. Charles Petty discuss how we can mirror Jesus's demonstrated love for others.
Building strong relationships requires an investment in meaningful time together. This episode is a continuation of Dr. Blackwell's conversation with relationship expert Dr. Charles Petty. Listen as they explore the importance of communication and the power of the spoken word.
Marriages and other relationships face hazards from many areas of life. One subtle, but serious, threat is that of individuals drifting apart. In this episode, Drs. Petty and Blackwell share insights from more than a century of combined marriage experiences, including ways to intentionally strengthen and celebrate family.
Family turmoil and the deaths of his parents left Dr. Charles Petty fending for himself for much of his childhood. Rather than embrace a spirit of bitterness, Dr. Petty forged ahead, growing in faith and wisdom. Join him and good friend Dr. Michael Blackwell as they look back on Dr. Petty’s journey from orphan to internationally-known public speaker.
This special episode finds Dr. Blackwell and BCH Alumnus Jason Davis sharing good news updates in a remote recording during the Western Area Conference at Broyhill Home on September 5, 2019. Drawing from his experiences as a child in care at BCH, Jason, now a husband and father, learns more from his mentor as they discuss BCH's status and future plans.
From a broken, abusive childhood, Jason Davis found hope and healing at Baptist Children’s Homes. As an adult, Jason has strength in Christ, drawing on the lessons he learned from houseparents and staff at Broyhill Home in Clyde. Join us as Dr. Michael Blackwell catches up with his longtime friend Jason, and hear how Jason has returned to Broyhill to bless this current generation of children in care.
From being orphaned as an infant in China, to the loss of her first adoptive mom to cancer at age nine, and then, as a teen struggling through the trauma she experienced, Jessie faced big problems with her new adoptive family in North Carolina. At Baptist Children’s Homes Camp Duncan for Girls, Jessie gained skills that allowed her to connect to her new family and thrive. Listen as Jessie and Dr. Michael C. Blackwell explore her path to realize God’s plan for her life.
The death of a child of any age brings pain and reflection for a parent. Join us in this special edition of “It’s a family matter.” with Dr. Michael C. Blackwell as he and longtime friend and colleague Jennie Counts discuss the death and life of her son James. Hear candid words from a loving, grieving mother as she shares how celebrating the unique qualities of her son helps her navigate loss.
Dr. Michael C. Blackwell continues his conversation with veteran
cottage parents Adam and Sian Saunders. In addition to providing a
family-like environment for the children in care, the Saunders share
and model the love of Jesus to these children and their families.
Sometimes this involves smiles and laughter, and sometimes it means
getting on the floor to cry with a child who has lost hope in family
reunification.
After spending more than half their lives serving hurting children in a cottage setting, Adam and Sian Saunders share their unique experiences and perspectives with Dr. Michael C. Blackwell in this first of two episodes. Join us as the Saunders explain how they demonstrate God's love to vulnerable children by making them feel safe, valued and supported.
Dr. Michael C. Blackwell continues his interview with work/life balance expert Dr. Charles Petty. As the two family experts further explore family dynamics, the listener learns how compatibility in areas such as lifestyles, values and goals can help ensure meaningful, long-lasting relationships in marriage and family.
In the first of a series, Dr. Michael C. Blackwell interviews internationally-known work/life balance expert Dr. Charles Petty. The two discuss the challenges -- and solutions -- to balancing the demands of work with the reality of growing a family. Petty’s insights have helped thousands through his words of wisdom, humor and practical application.
Ciara recently shared her story on the inaugural podcast of "It's a Family Matter." with Dr. Michael C. Blackwell. Join us now for a bonus episode as Ciara makes the most of her opportunity to interview friend and mentor, Dr. Blackwell, for insights into following life’s calling.
She never knew her father. Her loving mother died. Orphaned and working through past abuse, young Ciara came to Baptist Children's Homes of North Carolina. Dr. Michael Blackwell interviews Ciara who shares how, experiencing God's love through caring support and finding newfound confidence in Christ, she developed God-given gifts and talents to earn top high school honors.