In this introductory episode, Jason and Lauren share a little about themselves and why they've started this podcast. Married for nearly 12 years, the Vallottons have a complex combination of relational dynamics. Divorce, remarriage, blended family, adult children, and babies are all a part of the story. They're both pastors and leaders at Bethel Church in Redding, California where Jason serves on the Senior Leadership Team, oversees the counseling department, and runs a men's ministry called BraveCo. Lauren is focussing on the babies in this season but also serves on the Senior Leadership Team at Bethel. The genesis of "Dates, Mates & Babies with the Vallottons" was birthed out of their journey of leading themselves and others through the ups and downs of life in pursuit of the highest level of relational fulfillment and health. Jason and Lauren believe that as humans, we're created in the image of God, designed to live in family and community, but learning to thrive in these contexts is learned rather than innate. They're excited to unpack subjects of relational health, relatable stories from their own journey, interviews with experts, and series on relational topics of interest. If you want to learn about dating, marriage, raising kids, journeying through infertility, blending families or a variety of other subjects, subscribe and stay connected!Connect with Lauren:InstagramFacebookEmail Connect with Jason:Jay’s InstagramJay’s FacebookBraveCo Instagramwww.braveco.org