In this follow-up episode of Upstream, Joy continues the conversation with Adam Holz from Plugged In—this time, diving into the complex world of teens and social media. From the pressure to curate a perfect life to the constant comparison game, today’s teens are navigating challenges no generation has faced before. Adam unpacks how social platforms impact identity, mental health, and relationships—and what parents can do to guide their teens toward healthy digital habits.

In this episode of Upstream, Joy sits down with Adam Holz from Plugged In to talk about something every modern parent wrestles with—screen time. From tablets at the dinner table to toddlers mastering YouTube faster than their ABCs, we dive into how screens are shaping the minds and hearts of young children. Adam shares research, real-life examples, and practical wisdom to help parents set healthy boundaries in a digital world.

Pregnancy loss is a pain that often goes unspoken—but the emotional toll is deep, lasting, and real. In this episode of Upstream, Joy sits down with Dr. Joannie DeBrito to talk candidly about the mental health struggles that can follow a miscarriage or pregnancy loss. Together, they unpack the weight of grief, the silent battle with depression, and how to find hope and healing through faith and community.

On this episode of Upstream, Joy sits down with Brenda Huerta to talk about the often unspoken transition from being a hands-on caretaker to becoming a steady guide in the lives of adult children. Brenda shares personal stories, unexpected challenges, and the quiet beauty of learning to let go while staying deeply connected.

In this episode of UpStream, Joy talks with Lisa Anderson from Focus on the Family about the often-overlooked topic of unwanted singleness. Together, they unpack the heartache, hope, and faith that can come with longing for marriage while navigating life solo. Whether you're in this season yourself or walking alongside someone who is, this conversation offers empathy, wisdom, and a reminder that you're not alone.

In this episode of UpStream, marriage and family therapist Jeremy Keaton reveals how pornography fundamentally violates the nature of marriage. "Marriage is supposed to be like a blank canvas where couples co-create their own beautiful picture," Jeremy explains. "Pornography introduces outside colors and shapes – it contaminates what should be sacred between two people." Perhaps most hopeful is Jeremy's insight that pornography addiction is rarely about sex itself. Instead, it's about emotio...

On this episode of UpStream, Joy sits down with Lisa Anderson from Focus on the Family to explore how the Church approaches singleness. They talk about the unique challenges and opportunities singles face, how churches can better support and include them, and why singleness isn’t a waiting room—it’s a calling. Whether you're single, married, or leading ministry, this conversation offers fresh insight and encouragement for everyone.

In this episode of Upstream, Joy is joined by Lisa Anderson from Focus on the Family for an honest conversation about caring for aging parents living with dementia. As the roles between parent and child begin to shift, many adult children find themselves navigating unfamiliar territory filled with emotional, practical, and spiritual challenges. Lisa shares her own personal journey of walking alongside her mother through a dementia diagnosis, offering wisdom, grace, and hope for those in simil...

In this episode of Upstream, Joy sits down with Geremy Keeton from Focus on the Family to discuss his deeply personal and transformative book, Aftershock: Overcoming His Secret Life with Pornography: A plan for recovery. Together, they unpack the devastating impact pornography can have on individuals, marriages, and families—and the hidden toll it takes on mental, emotional, and spiritual health. Geremy shares his journey toward healing and the practical recovery plan that’s helped many men c...

In this episode of Upstream, Joy welcomes Dr. Joannie DeBrito from Focus on the Family for an honest conversation about mental health—and how it's being shaped by the constant stream of social media and news. Together, they unpack the emotional toll of living in a hyperconnected world, the anxiety that can come from information overload, and the subtle ways digital content influences our mood, relationships, and sense of identity.

In this episode of Upstream, Joy sits down with Dr. Danny Huerta from Focus on the Family to dive into one of the most talked-about parenting decisions: home school vs. public school. What are the key differences? How do you know what’s right for your child? And how can parents stay grounded and confident in their choice?

In this episode of Upstream, Joy Tolle welcomes Dr. Robert Paul, Vice President of the Focus Marriage Institute with Focus on the Family. As a licensed professional counselor and accomplished author, Dr. Paul shares insights on restoring marriages in crisis through programs like Hope Restored intensives. Learn about the impact of group therapy, the power of vulnerability in healing relationships, and how thousands of couples have found hope when all seemed lost. Whether your marriage is strug...

In this episode of Upstream, Chaplain Joy Tolle continues her conversation with Dr. Paul from the Focus Marriage Institute, affiliated with Focus on the Family. They discuss his book Nine Lies That Will Destroy Your Marriage and the most damaging misconceptions that can undermine a relationship. Dr. Paul shares personal insights from his own marriage, the importance of teamwork, and practical steps couples can take to build a thriving relationship. Tune in for an honest and insightful discuss...

Glenn Lutjens is an Associate Certified Coach through the International Coaching Federation and has been with Focus on the Family for over 25 years. He received advanced coursework in life coaching from the Professional Christian Coaching Institute. Before his time with Focus on the Family, Glenn served as an associate pastor in pastoral care at Pascack Bible Church in Hillsdale, New Jersey. He met his wife, Elizabeth, at Nyack College in New York. In this episode, we’re diving into the gap ...

Glenn Lutjens is an Associate Certified Coach through the International Coaching Federation and has been with Focus on the Family for over 25 years. He received advanced coursework in life coaching from the Professional Christian Coaching Institute. Before his time with Focus on the Family, Glenn served as an associate pastor in pastoral care at Pascack Bible Church in Hillsdale, New Jersey. He met his wife, Elizabeth, at Nyack College in New York. In this episode, we discuss the initial ste...

This week we go UpStream with Robert S. Paul, LPC Vice President of Focus Marriage Institute. In this insightful episode, host Joy Tolle, a chaplain with River Radio Ministries, interviews Dr. Robert S. Paul from Focus on the Family. Together, they explore the challenges faced by marriages today and delve into the resources and programs available to help couples navigate through crises. Dr. Paul shares his expertise on the importance of investing time and effort into maintaining a hea...

It can be tough navigating life's rough waters. Up Stream is here to help make that journey a little smoother.