The Life Challenges Podcast

Katie Coblentz shares her powerful journey from identifying as transgender to finding her identity in Christ, revealing how Jesus' love filled the emptiness that transition couldn't satisfy.

Katie shares how her transition initially felt effortless—"like pedaling downhill"—as society's affirmation created a smooth path forward. Yet seven years into living as "Caden," something wasn't right. The revelation that shook her came not from anti-transgender arguments but from a profound spiritual awakening that made her question everything she'd built her identity upon.

Most striking is Katie's discussion of "death before detransition"—the disturbing mindset that suicid...

Katie Coblentz shares her powerful journey through gender transition and detransition, revealing how her identity as a baptized child of God ultimately became her anchor when everything else fell apart. She describes the complex path from childhood confusion to medical transition and back, offering unique insights from someone who has lived on both sides of this profound life experience.

"I'm a baptized child of God," Katie says, describing the moment of clarity that came after years of confusion. "Really, honestly, it's all I'll ever need."

The path to that realization wasn't straightforward. Katie shares how...

This episode examines recent events through a Christian perspective.

• Discussion of the Minnesota church shooting, warning against using tragedy to vilify entire groups
• The "world's oldest IVF baby" - embryo adoption giving life to a 30-year frozen embryo
• Remembering James Dobson's significant impact on pro-life and family values movements
• Examination of the Mark Surrogacy case reveals exploitation in unregulated reproductive technology
• Analysis of church-state separation after a Lutheran pastor resigned for planning political endorsements

Listen on: Apple...

What happens to your perspective when you work with terminally ill patients every day? Danita Ziegler, a medical professional supporting glioblastoma patients, reveals the profound shift in priorities that comes from standing at the threshold between life and death regularly.

"You cannot sweat the small stuff," Danita explains, describing emotional scenes in patients' homes that put everyday frustrations into perspective. After witnessing families navigate the devastating realities of terminal cancer, returning to normal life brings clarity.

This episode explores the stark contrast between homes with and without faith foundations when facing mortality. Danita shares how...

Courage doesn't mean fearlessness—it means standing firm despite our fears. The upcoming Fearless Faith conference, hosted by Christian Life Resources on September 13th at Kettle Moraine Lutheran High School in Jackson, Wisconsin, offers exactly what today's Christians need: biblical wisdom for navigating our complex world.

Based on Joshua 1:9, this one-day gathering brings together remarkable speakers who understand firsthand what it means to face life's storms with God's strength. From Pastor Fleischman's opening sermon "Someone Must Die" to Dr. Stacey Jensen's insights on finding peace through personal loss, each session addresses real challenges Christians face. Dr. Rob Ba...

Stepping through the doors of New Beginnings, single mothers find more than just shelter—they discover family. Case Manager Ruth Westfall shares her passionate journey of guiding these women from survival mode to stability through a comprehensive five-year program designed to break cycles of generational poverty.

"Every single girl is a success," Ruth explains, describing how each resident receives God's Word regardless of how long they stay. With daily devotions, weekly church attendance, and constant conversations about grace and forgiveness, faith forms the foundation of a program that transforms lives through six essential pillars: faith, parenting skills, ed...

Special guest Professor Emeritus Mark Braun joins us to unpack the familiar biblical narrative of David and Bathsheba through a more nuanced lens. The story reveals deeper complexities than typically discussed, showing how a powerful king compartmentalized his life while covering up serious sin until confronted by Nathan the prophet.

This episode offers profound insight for anyone struggling with hidden sin or its aftermath. While forgiveness is complete and unconditional, consequences often remain. The good news? "It's the knowledge of forgiveness that better equips you to handle the scars." Through David's story, we learn that God's grace...

When science and policy push the boundaries of God's design, where do Christians stand? In this thought-provoking exploration of today's most challenging bioethical issues, we dive deep into recent developments that force us to confront fundamental questions about life, reproduction, and human dignity.

The conversation begins with an examination of the recent legislation defunding Planned Parenthood and its potential ramifications. While the organization claims this could force closure of one-third of their clinics, our hosts unpack the complex political dynamics at play as states may step in to replace federal funding. What might this "predicament designed to...

What does it look like to practice Christianity in a country where the government controls religious expression? Jolie, a Chinese Christian, takes us behind the scenes of faith life in modern China, revealing a fascinating world where state churches require government-approved sermons and where house churches operate in a delicate balance with authorities.

Raised in China and introduced to Christianity at age eight, Jolie initially viewed God as "almost like a genie" - someone to pray to only when she needed something. It wasn't until facing major life disappointments and a near-death experience that her faith transformed...

What happens when church members abandon biblical values for cultural ones? Our hosts dive into troubling survey results showing that in one Lutheran denomination, 54% of churchgoers support legal abortion and 50% favor same-sex marriage—despite clear biblical teachings to the contrary.

This eye-opening discussion explores why Christians increasingly adopt secular positions contrary to Scripture. The problem runs deeper than simple rebellion or ignorance. When pastors have members for only an hour or two weekly while cultural messages bombard them constantly, the battle for hearts and minds becomes challenging. Add confirmation bias—our tendency to filter out information that chal...

What if the most dangerous addictions aren't the ones society warns us about, but the ones it actively encourages? In this thought-provoking conversation with Mike Helwig, a pastor turned licensed psychological counselor, we explore the concept of "acceptable addictions" - those normalized behaviors that silently damage our relationship with God and divide us from our community.

Helwig brings a unique perspective as someone who combines theological training with clinical mental health expertise. He defines addiction clearly: compulsively engaging in behavior you're powerless to change alone, to the point where you ignore negative consequences. While society recognizes substance...

Freedom carries profoundly different meanings depending on whether you're viewing it through the lens of modern culture or biblical truth. This thought-provoking episode tackles the paradox at the heart of Christian freedom—that surrender to Christ actually leads to our greatest liberty.

Pastor Bob Fleischmann begins by sharing Martin Luther's powerful insight that "A Christian man is the most free lord of all and subject to none. A Christian man is the most dutiful servant of all and subject to everyone." This seemingly contradictory statement opens the door to understanding how Christian freedom differs fundamentally from the wo...

Modern medical advances often solve one ethical dilemma while creating new ones. The question isn't just whether we can implement cutting-edge technologies, but whether we should—and what considerations must guide these momentous decisions.

Consider Japan's promising artificial blood trials, a direct response to their dramatically aging population and declining birth rates. With younger generations shrinking and fewer blood donors available, this innovation could extend blood shelf-life from weeks to years. Yet at $5,000-$9,000 per unit compared to $215 for donated blood, such solutions highlight healthcare disparities between wealthy and developing nations where blood supplies may only reach 40% of...

What drives someone who identifies as Christian to commit acts of political violence? In the wake of the tragic shooting of Minnesota state legislators, we examine the disturbing intersection of faith, extremism, and vigilante justice.

We explore the psychological and spiritual factors that lead people to believe they must take extreme measures to correct what they perceive as societal wrongs. From abortion clinic bombings to political assassinations, history shows these aren't new phenomena—though media coverage often suggests otherwise. The common thread? A dangerous impatience with God's timing and a fundamental misunderstanding of Christian vocation.

Th...

"He put me here to take care of them. This is what He wants me to do." These words capture the essence of Joann Gromowski's profound caregiving journey spanning nearly two decades as she cared for her father, aunt, and mother through various stages of illness and decline.

What does it truly mean to become a caregiver for aging parents? In this deeply moving conversation, Joann shares the raw realities of her experiences, from the practical challenges of managing dementia to the spiritual strength that sustained her through countless sleepless nights. Her story reveals how each caregiving...

Father's Day stirs complicated emotions for many of us. Whether you had an amazing dad or one who left deep wounds, this episode explores how our Heavenly Father's perfect example can transform both our understanding of fatherhood and our approach to healing.

We dive deep into how our experiences with earthly fathers shape our perception of God, for better or worse. Those blessed with loving fathers often find it easier to connect with God as Father, while those who experienced neglect, abuse, or absence might struggle with this fundamental relationship. Yet understanding God's perfect fatherhood—His consistency, un...

What happens when humans try to play God? The recent bombing of a fertility clinic in Southern California by an "anti-natalist" – someone opposed to human reproduction – reveals a disturbing philosophy gaining traction. These individuals believe bringing children into the world is fundamentally wrong, with many advocating for the eventual extinction of humanity.

Behind this radical position lies a godless worldview where humans, not their Creator, determine the value of life. As Pastor Bob Fleischmann observes, "When people are godless, they become god themselves—they become the arbiters of right and wrong and who lives and who dies." This c...

What happens when scientific advancement outpaces our ethical frameworks? As Christian Life Resources celebrates 42 years of ministry, this compelling discussion explores how a once primarily pro-life organization evolved to address the complex moral questions of our time and prepare for what's ahead.

The conversation takes us from CLR's humble beginnings—marked by a watershed moment when U.S. Surgeon General C. Everett Koop spoke at their 1984 convention—to today's expanded mission addressing everything from surrogate parenting to end-of-life care. National Director Bob Fleischmann candidly shares how the organization matured from focusing solely on fetal development arguments to help...

Death and aging are universal human experiences, yet few of us feel fully prepared to navigate them. In this deeply thoughtful conversation, Amber Albee Swenson draws from her unique perspective as both a private elderly companion and nursing home worker to offer wisdom that transcends typical end-of-life discussions.

Swenson walks us through practical preparation strategies regardless of our current life stage. For those still in their prime, she emphasizes that daily health habits aren't just about present comfort but future independence. "Thank God that you still can climb those stairs," she advises, encouraging a perspective shift that...

Join us for a heartwarming conversation with Pastor Fleischmann's mother, Helen Fleischmann. When Helen married at 17 and became a mother at 18, she never questioned whether she was "ready." Now, at 87 years old, this remarkable woman reflects on raising four boys beginning in a converted train car, immigrating from the Netherlands without knowing English, and building a legacy that spans 16 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren.

The conversation weaves through Helen's extraordinary life – from meeting her husband at a dance and getting married after just six weeks, to managing three boys in diapers simultaneously while her husband worked 12-hour days. What em...

Tiny pacemakers the size of a rice grain are revolutionizing care for premature infants with heart rhythm issues. These remarkable devices, which dissolve naturally after about a week, eliminate the need for risky removal surgery and represent a fascinating frontier in medical technology. Though currently benefiting a small number of children globally, the underlying innovations promise broader applications across healthcare.

Meanwhile, scientific research continues confirming the harmful effects of recreational marijuana on male fertility. THC significantly alters sperm morphology, potentially dropping viability below the threshold needed for reproduction. This raises challenging questions about why societies continue legalizing...

Heroes capture our imagination and inspire us to greatness, but what makes someone truly heroic? In this thought-provoking episode, we explore heroism through biblical, cultural, and pro-life perspectives.

The conversation begins by examining what separates ordinary good behavior from genuine heroism - the element of risk and sacrifice. While cultural heroes often exemplify societal ideals, biblical heroism centers on being an example worth following rather than achieving fame. We trace how Scripture rarely uses the term "hero," instead focusing on examples like Christ who modeled principles worth emulating.

What happens when our heroes disappoint us...

The resurrection of Jesus Christ transforms everything about our lives—from how we face death to how we make daily decisions. In this profound conversation with Pastor Piet Van Kampen, we explore 1 Corinthians 15, perhaps the most comprehensive teaching on resurrection outside the Gospels themselves.

What happens when we strip away resurrection hope from our faith? Paul's urgent message to the Corinthians reveals the devastating consequences: "If Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins." Without the resurrection, Christianity collapses into mere moral philosophy. But with it, we possess the ultimate an...

Birth control methods seem straightforward on the surface—just find what works, right? But for Christians seeking to honor God's design for life, the decision requires deeper consideration than our convenience-focused culture suggests.

Let's unpack the critical distinction between "safe" and "risky" birth control methods from a biblical perspective. This isn't primarily about medical risks to the user, but about whether certain methods might endanger an already conceived human life—a crucial distinction for believers who affirm that life begins at conception.

The conversation takes a thorough look at barrier methods, sterilization, natural family planning, and...

Birth control is a topic that touches on our deepest values around family, faith, and God's design for marriage. In this thoughtful exploration, we dive into the motives behind contraception decisions and how Christians can approach this sensitive subject with biblical wisdom.

We start by clarifying important distinctions between contraception (preventing the meeting of sperm and egg) and birth control methods that might prevent implantation after conception occurs. This foundational understanding helps frame the discussion around when and why Christians might consider family planning methods.

Scripture consistently portrays children as blessings from God – gifts to be...

Join us for this month's What's Trending episode as we discuss:

Postpartum depression isn't just a chemical imbalance—it physically changes women's brains. This startling discovery helps explain why so many mothers struggle after childbirth without even recognizing they're depressed. "It becomes your new normal," explains Pastor Jeff. "You're not really thinking 'I'm depressed,' you're just thinking 'I don't have a good life.'" The podcast explores how these physical brain changes reveal the profound impact pregnancy has on a woman's body and mind.

Meanwhile, a pivotal Supreme Court case could determine whether states ca...

When Michelle Markgraf worked as the executive director of the Compass Center, a rape and domestic abuse center in South Dakota, she encountered survivors from all walks of life—including many Christians who felt deeply alone in their suffering. In this powerful conversation, she dismantles the myth that abuse doesn't happen in faith communities and provides crucial insights for recognizing, understanding, and responding to abuse.

Markgraf defines abuse through two essential components: it's a pattern of controlling behaviors, not isolated incidents. While physical abuse might be the most visible, she explains why emotional and spiritual abuse often ca...

Join us this week with our special guest, Ann Tolly, as she shares her remarkable 40-year journey in pro-life ministry. Ann's story demonstrates how God transforms our deepest wounds into our most profound purpose.

When Ann and her husband helped establish a pregnancy care center in Michigan, they couldn't have imagined the ripple effects their work would create. Ann shares pivotal moments that shaped her ministry—from establishing their mission statement, “saving lives for now and eternity,” to overcoming challenging counseling situations with women who initially rejected spiritual guidance. Her candid stories reveal both the struggles and triump...

Imagine standing before a mirror every morning and declaring aloud: “I am a redeemed child of God. I am a forgiven child of God. I am a saved child of God.” According to our guest John Schuetze, LPC, DMin, MDiv, BC-TMH, this simple practice can transform how we understand repentance and reshape our relationship with guilt and shame.

In this profound exploration of Christian identity and repentance, Professor Schuetze draws from his 15 years as a pastor, 28 years teaching at Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary, and his ongoing work as a licensed professional counselor at Christian Family Solutions specializing in grie...

In this month's What's Trending episode, we explore the cutting-edge frontier of medical science: xenotransplantation. Can animal organs save human lives? We discuss groundbreaking advancements in cross-species organ donation, particularly focusing on long-term survival rates of patients receiving pig organs. While this innovation presents a promising avenue for addressing the overwhelming shortage of human organs, it raises critical ethical questions about the implications of using animal DNA within humans.

We also delve into President Trump's recent executive order aimed at expanding access to IVF, reflecting on the implications for families hoping to conceive. This timely discussion examines...

Dive into the meaningful discussion about the pro-life movement and its genuine commitment to supporting women in our latest episode. We explore the significant issue of whether pro-lifers genuinely care for women, addressing misconceptions surrounding this narrative. Our guest, Rachel Greiner from Christian Life Resources, provides valuable insights into the experiences of women who reach out for support and the overwhelmingly positive responses they receive from the pro-life community.

Whether you are an advocate, someone seeking answers, or simply curious about the pro-life movement, this conversation promises to enlighten and inspire. Together, let’s engage with compassion, un...

What if embracing life’s unexpected challenges could lead to profound personal growth and resilience? Our latest episode introduces you to Lindy Spencer, who opens up about her transformative journey of raising a daughter with spina bifida. Her story offers a beacon of hope and encouragement for families navigating similar paths, shining a light on the triumphs and complexities of parenting a child with special needs.

We examine the vital role that faith and community played in supporting Lindy and her husband during challenging times. With limited resources in the pre-digital age, they relied heavily on their ch...

Join us as we examine how placing God at the center can transform our relationships with both Him and those around us, guiding us through life's inevitable challenges with grace and wisdom. We explore the essence of compassion and how it is taught and modeled through everyday experiences. We also delve into the necessity of engaging with the Word and Sacraments to replenish our spiritual reserves. By staying rooted in faith, we invite you to embrace new challenges and opportunities to reflect God's love in your daily life.

This is our monthly 'What’s Trending' episode, where we discuss different current events. We begin with Derek Humphry’s death and his controversial contributions to the right-to-die movement. The ethical landscape shifts as we delve into the realm of AI and its impact on human connections. We also discuss Trump’s pardons for pro-life protesters. The final subject we touch on is the danger of euthanasia for psychiatric reasons. This episode unpacks these complex subjects and considers the potential societal repercussions.

SHOW NOTES:

AI Companion: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/01/15/technology/ai-chatgpt-boyfriend-companion.html?unlocked_article_code=1.q...

Amanda Herman began her philanthropic journey at just eight years old, proving that age is no barrier to making a difference. Her inspiring narrative of grassroots activism and relentless volunteerism exemplifies how passion and family support can lead to significant community impact. Through heartwarming stories and personal anecdotes, Amanda illustrates how individuals can enact change without the need for a large platform or resources. Her experiences, from raising funds for global initiatives to her hands-on engagement with New Beginnings - A Home for Mothers, reveal the extraordinary potential within each person to contribute positively to the world around them...

Online predators and sextortion are more prevalent dangers than many realize, and we're unpacking these pressing issues with returning guest Tracy Scheffler, Founder of 5-Stones Dodge County. Our discussion exposes the alarming tactics predators use on social media and smartphones, where they cleverly disguise themselves to earn the trust of young victims. These predators often manipulate emotions to coerce the sharing of compromising images, a situation that can spiral into extortion and emotional turmoil, sometimes with tragic outcomes. Our goal is to arm parents with the knowledge to engage their children in meaningful conversations about online safety and to...

Discover the unsettling truths about sex trafficking with our special guest, Tracy Scheffler from 5-Stones Dodge County. Tracy takes us on an eye-opening journey, challenging the myths often perpetuated by Hollywood and shining a light on the harsh realities of trafficking that are frequently overlooked, especially in rural areas. Her personal experiences and deep commitment to this cause provide unique insights into the tactics traffickers use and underscore the critical importance of education in prevention.

We confront the misconceptions surrounding human trafficking, particularly those that exist within conservative religious communities. It's a stark reminder that this is...

This episode dives into the recent murder of a healthcare CEO, examining public reactions and ethical implications. We also discuss Italy's ban on surrogacy and the introduction of a new HIV vaccine, focusing on how these topics illustrate the ongoing struggle between moral values and societal challenges. 
• The murder of United Healthcare's CEO sparks outrage and debates on morality 
• Public support for the murder raises ethical concerns 
• Italy's surrogacy ban reflects a deeper moral understanding 
• The new HIV vaccine prompts discussions about "safe sinning" 
• Exploring the importance of grace and accountability in today's society

SHOW N...

This episode explores the necessity of recognizing our mortality through the lens of Psalm 90, emphasizing that numbering our days leads to a more purpose-driven life. The discussion focuses on themes of wisdom, relationships, and the impact of our actions, encouraging listeners to embrace and maximize their time on earth. 

• Importance of Psalm 90 and its connection to life and death
• Modern society's detachment from the reality of mortality
• Wisdom gained from understanding our limited time
• Critical reflection on relationships and the legacy left behind
• Practical steps for living purposefully and meaningfully

Join us as we discuss how Christians can effectively share their faith during the Christmas season, emphasizing the importance of witnessing while navigating family dynamics and secular traditions. We explore practical strategies for bridging meaningful conversations, as well as provide personal stories that illustrate the positive impacts of simple actions during the holiday season.

This episode:
• Discusses the significance of the Christmas story in witnessing 
• Explores the challenges of engaging in faith conversations during family gatherings 
• Offers practical tips for sharing the gospel through Christmas traditions 
• Emphasizes the importance of humility and gentleness in discussi...