Hope + Help Podcast
Hope + Help Podcast
The Hope + Help Podcast offers biblical conversations about life's challenging problems. A production of the Institute for Biblical Counseling & Discipleship, show host Christine Chappell invites Christian authors, ministry leaders, and seasoned biblical counseling professionals to help listeners apply the gospel of Jesus Christ to everyday challenges.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Mar 25, 2026 • 40min
Hope + Help for Anxiety with Josh Weidmann
>>>Register now for our 2026 Summer Institute on navigating emotions, June 18th-20th in Riverside, CA! Virtual and in-person tickets available. Learn more at https://ibcd.regfox.com/2026summerinstitute
In this episode of the Hope + Help Podcast, host Christine Chappell interviews Josh Weidmann about his book, The End of Anxiety: The Biblical Prescription for Overcoming Fear, Worry, and Panic. Together, they discuss a biblical perspective on anxiety, its purpose, and the difference between godly concern and sinful worry. They also explore sources of anxiety, the role of trust in God, renewing the mind, addressing shame, and how believers can pursue Christlikeness and find hope in the midst of overwhelming emotions.
Main Discussion Points:
The purpose of anxiety in God's design
Difference between godly concern and sinful worry
Sources of anxiety: spiritual, bodily, relational, circumstantial
The role of trust in overcoming anxiety
Practical steps to interrupt anxious thoughts with Scripture
The gospel's role in reframing suffering and anxiety
The importance of community and wise counsel
View the full show notes & links for this episode: https://ibcd.org/anxiety-josh-weidmann
The Hope + Help Podcast offers biblical conversations about life's challenging problems. The podcast accomplishes this by offering a mix of interviews with seasoned biblical counseling professionals and ministry leaders on a variety of topics. Hosted by Christine Chappell. To learn more about the show and to access helpful resources, visit ibcd.org/hopeandhelp.
Connect with host Christine Chappell at https://christinemchappell.com.
IBCD's Hope + Help Podcast is available on most podcast streaming platforms, so please don't keep the show a secret! If you know someone walking through a challenging season of life, please share the Hope + Help Podcast with them.

Feb 25, 2026 • 36min
Hope + Help for After Divorce with Vaneetha Rendall Risner
In this episode of the Hope + Help Podcast, host Christine Chappell interviews Vaneetha Risner about the complex emotional landscape of navigating life after divorce and her new book, This Was Never the Plan: Walking with God Through the Heartache of Divorce. During the conversation, Vaneetha shares her personal journey, discussing the challenges of processing grief, anger, and shame, while also emphasizing the importance of faith and community support. They delve into the role of lament in healing, the necessity of forgiveness, and the hope found in trusting God amidst uncertainty. Vaneetha encourages listeners to engage their pain, seek community, and recognize that rebuilding life after divorce can lead to new beginnings.
Key Takeaways:
- Divorce can bring feelings of shame and isolation.
- Emotions after divorce can be a roller coaster.
- Community support is crucial during difficult times.
- Lamenting is a biblical way to process pain.
- Healing takes time and is not linear.
- Trusting God means leaning into Him during uncertainty.
- Rebuilding life after divorce can lead to new possibilities.
View the full show notes & links for this episode: https://ibcd.org/after-divorce-vaneetha-risner
Learn more about IBCD's 2026 Summer Institute in June on the topic of navigating emotions at ibcd.regfox.com/2026summerinstitute
The Hope + Help Podcast offers biblical conversations about life's challenging problems. The podcast accomplishes this by offering a mix of interviews with seasoned biblical counseling professionals and ministry leaders on a variety of topics. Hosted by Christine Chappell. To learn more about the show and to access helpful resources, visit ibcd.org/hopeandhelp.
Connect with host Christine Chappell at https://christinemchappell.com.
IBCD's Hope + Help Podcast is available on most podcast streaming platforms, so please don't keep the show a secret! If you know someone walking through a challenging season of life, please share the Hope + Help Podcast with them.

Jan 29, 2026 • 40min
Hope + Help for Understanding Emotions with Brian Borgman
In this episode of the Hope + Help Podcast, host Christine Chappell interviews Brian Borgman about the topic of understanding emotions and his book, Feelings & Faith: Cultivating Godly Emotions in the Christian Life. During the conversation, they explore the importance of emotions as part of being made in God's image, and delve into the dangers of neglecting emotions or being ruled by them—emphasizing the need for Christlike balance. The discussion highlights the role of Jesus as a model for emotional maturity and the hope found in the gospel for those struggling with emotional challenges. Practical steps for emotional transformation are also shared, encouraging listeners to seek growth in their emotional lives through faith and biblical understanding.
View the full show notes & links for this episode: ibcd.org/emotions-brian-borgman
Learn more about IBCD's 2026 Summer Institute on the topic of navigating emotions at https://ibcd.regfox.com/2026summerinstitute
The Hope + Help Podcast offers biblical conversations about life's challenging problems. The podcast accomplishes this by offering a mix of interviews with seasoned biblical counseling professionals and ministry leaders on a variety of topics. Hosted by Christine Chappell. To learn more about the show and to access helpful resources, visit ibcd.org/hopeandhelp.
Connect with host Christine Chappell at https://christinemchappell.com.
IBCD's Hope + Help Podcast is available on most podcast streaming platforms, so please don't keep the show a secret! If you know someone walking through a challenging season of life, please share the Hope + Help Podcast with them.

Dec 26, 2025 • 42min
Hope + Help for Wise Counsel with 2025 Summer Institute Speakers
In this special compilation episode of the Hope + Help Podcast, recorded live at IBCD’s 2025 Summer Institute, Christine Chappell brings together voices from across the conference to reflect on the meaning and practice of wise counsel according to the Scriptures. Through conversations with Jim Newheiser, Scott Mehl, Joe Keller, Shannon McCoy, Brian Borgman, Don Roy, Lauren Sterling, Paul Tautges, and Tim St. John, this episode explores how biblical wisdom is grounded in the fear of the Lord, shaped by gentleness and patience, and lived out in everyday care and discipleship. From theological foundations to personal growth and encouragement for counselors, these reflections invite listeners to pursue Christ-centered wisdom that honors God and lovingly serves others in the context of the local church.
View the full show notes & links for this episode: https://ibcd.org/wise-counsel-2025-speakers
The Hope + Help Podcast offers biblical conversations about life's challenging problems. The podcast accomplishes this by offering a mix of interviews with seasoned biblical counseling professionals and ministry leaders on a variety of topics. Hosted by Christine Chappell. To learn more about the show and to access helpful resources, visit ibcd.org/hopeandhelp.
Connect with host Christine Chappell at https://christinemchappell.com.
IBCD's Hope + Help Podcast is available on most podcast streaming platforms, so please don't keep the show a secret! If you know someone walking through a challenging season of life, please share the Hope + Help Podcast with them.

Nov 15, 2025 • 40min
Hope + Help for Repentance with Keith Evans
In this episode of the Hope + Help Podcast, host Christine Chappell interviews Keith Evans about the topic of repentance in the Christian faith. They discuss its significance, the difference between repentance and mere apology, and the negative connotations that can sometimes be associated with it. Keith emphasizes that repentance is a continuous part of the Christian life, rooted in grace and the transformative power of Jesus. They also delve into the importance of conviction of sin, viewing repentance as a gift, and practical applications for daily living. The discussion highlights biblical examples, particularly David’s prayer in Psalm 51, and encourages believers to embrace repentance as a means of spiritual growth and reliance on God’s mercy.
Key Takeaways:
• Repentance is essential to the Christian life.
• It’s not just about saying sorry; it’s about turning to God.
• Repentance should be seen as a gift, not a burden.
• The gospel offers hope and transformation through repentance.
• Conviction of sin is a necessary precursor to true repentance.
• Repentance is a continuous process, not a one-time event.
• We should seek to understand the difference between coerced confession and genuine repentance.
• Daily repentance helps us grow in our faith and reliance on Christ.
• David’s example in Psalm 51 shows the heart of true repentance.
• The Holy Spirit aids us in recognizing our need for repentance.
View the full show notes & links for this episode: ibcd.org/repentance-keith-evans
The Hope + Help Podcast offers biblical conversations about life's challenging problems. The podcast accomplishes this by offering a mix of interviews with seasoned biblical counseling professionals and ministry leaders on a variety of topics. Hosted by Christine Chappell. To learn more about the show and to access helpful resources, visit ibcd.org/hopeandhelp.
Connect with host Christine Chappell at https://christinemchappell.com.
IBCD's Hope + Help Podcast is available on most podcast streaming platforms, so please don't keep the show a secret! If you know someone walking through a challenging season of life, please share the Hope + Help Podcast with them.

Oct 20, 2025 • 40min
Hope + Help for Reproductive Loss with Tanya Flores
In this episode of the Hope + Help Podcast, host Christine Chappell interviews Tanya Flores, co-founder of Reproductive Loss Network . They discuss the profound impact of reproductive loss, including miscarriage, infertility, and abortion, and how these experiences can affect individuals physically, spiritually, and relationally. Tanya shares her personal journey and the importance of compassionate responses to those grieving. The conversation also highlights the need for Christ-centered counseling approaches and the significance of creating supportive environments within churches for those experiencing reproductive loss.
Key Takeaways:
Tanya's passion for helping others stems from her own experiences of reproductive loss.
Reproductive loss encompasses miscarriage, abortion, infertility, and more.
The grief associated with reproductive loss is often intangible and unseen.
Physical health can deteriorate due to the stress of grief and loss.
Spiritual challenges include questioning God's presence and care during loss.
Relationships can be strained due to the ripple effect of reproductive loss.
Unhelpful responses to grief often stem from discomfort with the topic.
Compassionate responses include being present and offering support without platitudes.
Christ-centered counseling emphasizes the importance of surrender and acceptance in grief.
An eternal perspective helps individuals find hope and purpose beyond their loss.
Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction to Reproductive Loss Ministry
02:17 - Understanding Reproductive Loss
04:48 - The Impact of Reproductive Loss
07:25 - Spiritual and Relational Challenges
09:45 - Unhelpful Responses to Grief
12:31 - Compassionate Responses to Grief
15:11 - The Impact of Guilt and Shame
16:12 - Eternal Perspective on Loss
18:28 - Counseling Approaches to Grief
21:03 - Navigating Doubts and Questions
23:53 - Creating Supportive Church Environments
25:04 - Words of Encouragement for the Grieving
View the full show notes & links for this episode: https://ibcd.org/reproductive-loss-tanya-flores
The Hope + Help Podcast offers biblical conversations about life's challenging problems. The podcast accomplishes this by offering a mix of interviews with seasoned biblical counseling professionals and ministry leaders on a variety of topics. Hosted by Christine Chappell. To learn more about the show and to access helpful resources, visit ibcd.org/hopeandhelp.
Connect with host Christine Chappell at https://christinemchappell.com.
IBCD's Hope + Help Podcast is available on most podcast streaming platforms, so please don't keep the show a secret! If you know someone walking through a challenging season of life, please share the Hope + Help Podcast with them.

Sep 22, 2025 • 38min
Hope + Help for Setting Boundaries with Jim Newheiser
In this episode of the Hope + Help Podcast, host Christine Chappell interviews Jim Newheiser about his book, Do I Need Boundaries? The conversation touches on the common struggles people face with boundaries in various aspects of their lives, emphasizing the importance of setting limitations in a God-centered way rather than a self-centered one. Listeners are provided a comparative analysis of secular and biblical views on boundaries and their practical applications in familial, occupational, and personal contexts. The episode concludes with reflections on maintaining joy and rest while managing commitments, along with closing encouragement for those struggling to say no to others' demands.
00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:31 Why Write About Boundaries?
03:10 Secular vs. Biblical Boundaries
07:09 Jesus and Boundaries
09:38 People Pleasing and Boundaries
21:32 Practical Applications of Boundaries
22:52 Setting Boundaries in Ministry and Work
27:06 Closing Thoughts and Encouragement
View the full show notes & links for this episode: ibcd.org/boundaries-jim-newheiser
The Hope + Help Podcast offers biblical conversations about life's challenging problems. The podcast accomplishes this by offering a mix of interviews with seasoned biblical counseling professionals and ministry leaders on a variety of topics. Hosted by Christine Chappell. To learn more about the show and to access helpful resources, visit ibcd.org/hopeandhelp.
Connect with host Christine Chappell at https://christinemchappell.com.
IBCD's Hope + Help Podcast is available on most podcast streaming platforms, so please don't keep the show a secret! If you know someone walking through a challenging season of life, please share the Hope + Help Podcast with them.

Aug 12, 2025 • 51min
Hope + Help for Living Wisely with Zack Eswine
In this episode of the Hope + Help Podcast, host Christine Chappell interviews Zack Eswine about his book, Wiser with Jesus: Overcoming the Temptations that Hinder Your Relationships, Steal Your Time, Mar Your Decision–Making and Thwart Your Purpose. Some of the questions addressed in this interview are:
• What does it mean to “live wisely”?
• What role does prayer play in the pursuit of wisdom?
• How does the book of Proverbs help us to “discern our companions” and why is this an important part of living wisely?
• What does relational wisdom look like when we’re dealing with a crushed spirit?
• What do wisdom and love have to do with one another?
• In what ways does wisdom and love influence our decision-making?
• What might a wiser work/rest rhythm look like, according to Proverbs?
• How does meditating on God’s steadfast love encourage us on our pursuit of living wisely?
View the full show notes & links for this episode: https://ibcd.org/wiser-with-jesus-eswine
The Hope + Help Podcast offers biblical conversations about life's challenging problems. The podcast accomplishes this by offering a mix of interviews with seasoned biblical counseling professionals and ministry leaders on a variety of topics. Hosted by Christine Chappell. To learn more about the show and to access helpful resources, visit ibcd.org/hopeandhelp.
Connect with host Christine Chappell at https://christinemchappell.com.
IBCD's Hope + Help Podcast is available on most podcast streaming platforms, so please don't keep the show a secret! If you know someone walking through a challenging season of life, please share the Hope + Help Podcast with them.

Jun 24, 2025 • 29min
Hope + Help for Soul Refreshment with Heather Nelson
In this episode of the Hope + Help Podcast, host Christine Chappell interviews Heather Nelson about her book, Rest: Creating Space for Soul Refreshment. Some of the questions addressed in this interview are:
• Why do people struggle to experience rest, both in its physical and spiritual forms?
• What is the difference between physical and spiritual rest?
• What makes rest a "mark of freedom" for God's people?
• What is Sabbath rest, and what might it look like, practically speaking?
• How can we experience rest when tasks remain in a state of incompletion?
• In what ways can unbelief hinder our experience of Christ's rest?
• What does rest have to do with God's grace?
• In what ways might joylessness in the Christian life be linked to a lack of rest?
View the full show notes & links for this episode: ibcd.org/wayward-children-scott
The Hope + Help Podcast offers biblical conversations about life's challenging problems. The podcast accomplishes this by offering a mix of interviews with seasoned biblical counseling professionals and ministry leaders on a variety of topics. Hosted by Christine Chappell. To learn more about the show and to access helpful resources, visit ibcd.org/hopeandhelp.
Connect with host Christine Chappell at https://christinemchappell.com.
IBCD's Hope + Help Podcast is available on most podcast streaming platforms, so please don't keep the show a secret! If you know someone walking through a challenging season of life, please share the Hope + Help Podcast with them.

May 13, 2025 • 43min
Hope + Help for Wayward Children with Stuart Scott
***Register now for our 2025 Summer Institute & Pre-Conference: https://ibcd.regfox.com/2025-summer-institute ***
In this episode of the Hope + Help Podcast, host Christine Chappell interviews Stuart Scott about his book, Wayward Children: Finding Peace, Keeping Hope. Some of the questions addressed in this interview are:
• Why is the issue of wayward children one so difficult to talk about in the church?
• Why is it so challenging to fully entrust our children to the God who gifted them to us?
• How might parents respond to the anguish they feel in response to their wayward child?
• Why is it important to consider our heart posture before the Lord when grapple with the pain of wayward children?
• How might God work through our wayward children to reveal were we're setting our hope?
• Why is it a comfort that God—who is the perfect Parent—knows the pain of rearing rebellious, wayward children?
• What are some practical ways that can parents work against (or begin to reverse) relational disconnect?
• What role does prayer play in the context of wayward children, and what are some things we can be intentional about praying for?
View the full show notes & links for this episode: ibcd.org/wayward-children-scott
The Hope + Help Podcast offers biblical conversations about life's challenging problems. The podcast accomplishes this by offering a mix of interviews with seasoned biblical counseling professionals and ministry leaders on a variety of topics. Hosted by Christine Chappell. To learn more about the show and to access helpful resources, visit ibcd.org/hopeandhelp.
Connect with host Christine Chappell at https://christinemchappell.com.
IBCD's Hope + Help Podcast is available on most podcast streaming platforms, so please don't keep the show a secret! If you know someone walking through a challenging season of life, please share the Hope + Help Podcast with them.


