God-Sized Stories with Patricia Holbrook
This podcast features columnist Patricia Holbrook's interviews with Christian leaders, authors, movie producers and actors, as well as ordinary believers whose faith and life story will encourage you to remain strong in your faith and boldly step into your God-sized dreams. Among others, Patricia has interviewed Jim Caviezel, Max Lucado, Lee Strobel, the Kendrick Brothers, Priscilla Shirer, and Francine Rivers for her YouTube channel and her interviews are also available on this podcast.Patricia Holbrook is an author and faith column for The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, the largest newspaper in the South, reaching 2.3 million readers in Georgia, Alabama and north of...
Faith in the Midst of Addiction: Jonathan Tepper on Growing Up Around Heroin, Loss & Redemption
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What does it look like to grow up surrounded by addictionâand still witness the power of Godâs love?
In this episode of God-Sized Stories with Patricia Holbrook, Patricia sits down with Jonathan Tepper, author of Shooting Up: A Memoir of Love, Loss, and Addiction. Raised by missionary parents in one of Madridâs most broken communities during the heroin epidemic, Jonathan shares how his childhood shaped his understanding of faith, compassion, and redemption.
This conversation will challenge you to rethink how you see brokennessâand how God calls us...
Set Free: Mark Hopson on the Gospelâs Power to Break Addiction and Shame
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Addiction and destructive patterns affect millions of peopleâand the shame surrounding them often keeps people trapped in silence.
In this episode of God-Sized Stories with Patricia Holbrook, Patricia sits down with Mark Hopson, Executive Director of Decision Point and author of Set Free, to discuss how the gospel addresses the deeper spiritual roots behind addiction.
Mark shares how true freedom is found not in willpower or self-improvement but in the transforming power of Jesus Christ.
In this episode you'll discover:
⢠Why addiction is often root...
Is Fear a Sin? A Biblical Conversation on Anxiety with Ed Welch
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Is fear a sin?
For many believers, anxiety comes with a second burden: guilt. We worry not only about our circumstances but also about whether our fear disappoints God.
In this episode of God-Sized Stories with Patricia Holbrook, I speak with Ed Welch about his book Fear Is Not a Sin and what Scripture teaches about anxiety, weakness, and the nearness of Christ.
Youâll discover:
Why fear is part of living in a fallen world
The difference between struggling and rebelling
Are You Living as a Witness? | Darren Carlson on the Book of Acts & Global Missions
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The Book of Acts is not just historyâit is a blueprint for how believers live on mission today.
In this episode of God-Sized Stories with Patricia Holbrook, Dr. Darren Carlson shares insights from his new devotional, Witness: Missional Devotions from the Book of Acts. As a pastor and founder of Training Leaders International, Darren brings powerful stories from the global Church that demonstrate how the Gospel continues to advance in remarkable ways.
Youâll discover:
What it means to be a witness in your everyday life
...
How to Take Your Thoughts Captive: Faith, Neuroscience, and Renewing Your Mind | Dr. Lee Warren
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What if taking your thoughts captive isnât just biblical wisdomâbut something that actually changes your brain?
In this episode, Patricia Holbrook is joined by Dr. Lee Warren, neurosurgeon, pastor, and author of The Life-Changing Art of Self-Brain Surgery, to explore the powerful intersection of faith, neuroscience, and emotional healing.
Dr. Warren explains how repeated thoughts shape the brain over timeâand why anxiety, fear, grief, and discouragement can become mental ruts. Together, they unpack what Scripture means when it calls us to take every thought captive, and how in...
Your Only Comfort: Charles Spurgeon on Hope in Suffering
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In this episode, Dr. Geoff Chang and I explore his new devotional book, Your Only Comfort: Devotions for Hope in Suffering, a powerful collection of reflections drawn from the sermons of Charles H. Spurgeon and thoughtfully edited by Dr. Chang. This conversation offers biblical encouragement for anyone walking through pain, grief, or prolonged hardship.
We discuss:
  ⢠ Why suffering is not evidence of Godâs absence
  ⢠ How Spurgeonâs own trials shaped his message of hope
  ⢠ The difference between emotional relief and gospel-rooted comfort
  ⢠ How this devotional can be used daily in hard se...
Believing Godâs Truth Over The Worldâs Lies
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In this heartfelt conversation, Patricia Holbrook welcomes Brendt Blanks, author, content creator, and former marriage and family therapist, to share her powerful journey from counseling in hospitals to building a thriving faith-based lifestyle brand ("She Gave It A Go") and publishing her new devotional book, "Listen Closer." The episode dives into navigating grief, finding purpose in pain, and reframing negative thoughts with the truth of Godâs Word.
Key Topics Covered:
- Navigating seasons of loss, grief, and family challenges
- The story behind "She Gave It A...
The Good Investor: Aligning Faith and Finance
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Is investing ever neutralâor does our money always carry influence?
In this episode of God-Sized Stories with Patricia Holbrook, Patricia welcomes Christian financial advisor and author Robin John to discuss his book The Good Investor and how believers can think more biblically about wealth, stewardship, and long-term impact.
Robin offers a thoughtful and practical framework for Christians who want their financial decisions to align with their faithânot just in generosity, but in how and where their money is invested. This conversation invites listeners to consider how investing can...
Year-End Ministry Update: A Year of loss, faith and unshakeable Trust in Godâs faithfulness
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In this personal year-end message, I share honestly about a season of loss, pause, and transitionâand how God has been faithfully rebuilding the work of Soaring with Him Ministries.
This year brought unexpected grief, caregiving, job loss, and closed doorsâbut also renewed calling, expanded podcast reach, and continued ministry to vulnerable women. This is not the end. It is a new chapter.
đ Partner with Soaring with Him Ministries:
 https://secure.givelively.org/donate/soaring-with-him-ministries-inc/2026-ministry-funding-campaign
If this ministry has encouraged you, I invite you to praye...
The Case for Christmas: Lee Strobel on the Evidence Behind Jesusâ Birth
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Is the Christmas story fact or tradition?
In this Christmas episode of God-Sized Stories, Patricia Holbrook sits down with bestselling author and former legal journalist Lee Strobel to discuss his latest book, The Case for Christmas. Strobelâbest known for The Case for Christâbrings his investigative mindset to the nativity story, examining whether the birth of Jesus stands up to historical scrutiny.
In this conversation, Lee Strobel discusses:
The historical reliability of the Gospel accounts
Archaeological evidence supporting the Christmas narrative
The virg...
Messianic Familyâs Holocaust Legacy Opens Doors for the Gospel in Israel
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Welcome to another inspiring episode of God-sized Stories with Patricia Holbrook! In this heartfelt conversation, Patricia sits down with Devorah, one of the leaders of Dugit Outreach Center in Tel Aviv, to discuss the powerful legacy behind the book "Legacy of Hope," the impact of Messianic Judaism in Israel, and the courageous story of Rabbi Daniel Tzion, who helped save thousands of Jews during WWII.
Learn about the vibrant outreach ministries of Dugit Outreach Center, The Anchor coffee shop, Adonai Way congregation, humanitarian work, and Shilano TV. Devorah shares personal reflections...
The Lies Christians Believe & How to Break Free â Gary Thomas
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Welcome to another inspiring episode of God-sized Stories with Patricia Holbrook! In todayâs conversation, Patricia sits down with bestselling author and renowned speaker Gary Thomas (appearing here as John Seidel) to explore his powerful new book, *The Life You Were Reborn to Live*.
In this episode:
- Unpacking Spiritual Lies: Gary shares eye-opening insights on the lies we often believe about ourselves, about God, and about peace in our livesâand how those lies hold us back from true intimacy with Christ.
- Fr...
Jonathon Seidl: Confessions of a Christian Alcoholic
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What happens when a follower of Christ faces addiction head-on?
 In this powerful episode of God-Sized Stories with Patricia Holbrook, author Jonathon Seidl joins Patricia for a raw and hope-filled conversation about his new book, Confessions of a Christian Alcoholic.
Jonathon opens up about his battle with alcoholism, the stigma that surrounds addiction in the Church, and how he encountered Godâs grace in the midst of relapse, shame, and surrender.
 This isnât a story about perfection â itâs about the messy, beautiful work of sanctifica...
Lysa TerKeurst: How to Survive an Unwanted Divorce with Faith and Grace
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What does it look like to follow God through the heartbreak of divorce?
In this heartfelt conversation, Patricia Holbrook sits down with bestselling author Lysa TerKeurst to discuss her new book Surviving an Unwanted Divorce. Lysa shares her own journey through betrayal, healing, and rediscovering Godâs grace, while offering biblical and practical guidance for anyone walking the painful road of separation.
đ Book Giveaway! Weâre giving away a copy of Lysaâs new book â enter the contest using the link in the show notes.
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Nicole C. Mullen: It's Never Wrong to Do the Right Thing
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Hi friends, itâs Patricia Holbrook, and I am so excited to welcome you to a truly special episode of God-sized Stories! Today, I have the absolute pleasure of sitting down with Nicole C. MullenâGrammy-nominated, Dove Award-winning songwriter, beloved worship leader, and passionate Bible teacher. You may know her from her powerful song âRedeemer,â which has touched millions of hearts (including mine!).
In this episode, Nicole opens up about her personal journey through lifeâs mountaintops and valleys, and how clinging to Godâs Word has transformed her hardest seasons into stories...
Daniah Greenberg: Biblical Feminism and the True Value of Women
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In this powerful episode of God-Sized Stories with Patricia Holbrook, Patricia interviews Daniah Greenberg, Bible translator, author, and founder of the Tree of Life Bible Society.
They explore the roots of biblical feminism, the story behind the Tree of Life Bible translation, and the growing Messianic revival transforming lives across Latin America.
Daniah shares how the original Hebrew and Greek Scriptures reveal Godâs heart for womenâshowing that they are not only equal but essential to His redemptive plan.<...
From College Skeptic to Global Missions | An Interview with Jeff Dodge
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Welcome to God-sized Stories!
I had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with Dr. Dodgeâa passionate church leader, author, and missionary whose own journey to faith began as a university student right here in the Midwest. Together, we touch on his remarkable story of coming to Christ, his calling to reach students on campuses across the world, and the meaningful church planting work heâs been a part of, both here in the US and in the rural villages of Zambia.
We also dive deep into his brand new...
Light of the World Movie | An Interview with Brennan McPherson
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Welcome to another episode of God-sized Stories!
Today, I sit down with Brennan McPherson from the Salvation Poem Project, and we dive deep into their brand new, inspiring animated film, "Light of the World." This isnât just any movieâitâs a beautifully hand-drawn 2D feature that brings the life of Jesus to the big screen through the eyes of His youngest apostle, John.
Brennan shares the heart and vision behind the project, their passion for excellence, and a behind-the-scenes peek at the incredible teamâincluding animation artists from som...
God Uses Broken Leaders: The Clay Pot Conspiracy with Dave Harvey
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Leadership is not for the faint of heart. Iâve felt it in my own lifeâmoments of weariness, failure, and discouragement. And I know so many of you have, too.Â
Thatâs why Iâm so excited to share this weekâs episode with you.
 I sat down with Dave Harvey, author of The Clay Pot Conspiracy: Godâs Plan to Use Weakness in Leaders, to talk about how God uses our weaknessânot our strengthâto shape us for lasting impact.
Â
In this conversation, Dave...
Max Lucado on Tame Your Thoughts: 3 Biblical Tools to Renew Your Mind and Overcome Anxiety
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In this episode, Patricia Holbrook talks with best-selling author Max Lucado about his new book, Tame Your Thoughts. Learn three practical, biblical tools to silence lies, break free from guilt, and replace negative thinking with Godâs truth.
If youâre ready for peace of mind and a renewed spirit, this conversation will inspire you to win the battle in your mindâone thought at a time.
Read my latest column for the Atlanta Journal-Constitution: https://patriciaholbrook.com/2025/08/tame-your-thoughts-transform-your-life-a-new-book-and-ancient-truth-offers-help-for-the-anxious-heart/
Join our book giveaway here:
https://kingsu...
Pro-Life Mom: Called To Make A Difference
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In todayâs powerful episode, I sit down with the incredible Sarah Gabel Seifert, a woman of deep faith who has dedicated her life to equipping and empowering the Church through her work in advocacy and outreach.Â
We talk about her God-given calling, her familyâs legacy, and the vision behind the organization she leads. From the personal to the practical, Sarah shares how obedience to Godâs nudge led to transformative work in communities across the nation.Â
đď¸ Whether youâre feeling the stirrings of a mission field in your own life o...
Attacked by a Shark, Carried by God: The Miraculous Story of Jameson Reeder Jr.
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Hey friends, Patricia Holbrook here!
You do not want to miss this episode. Iâm sitting down with the amazing Reed family to share a story that will absolutely blow you away. Imagine this: a family trip to the Florida Keys takes a terrifying turn when 10-year-old J.J. is attacked by a shark. But in the middle of panic and pain, something extraordinary happensâa miracle that defies all odds and shines a spotlight on Godâs incredible love and power.
We talk about their raw emotions, the faith...
Guns and Moses and the Rise of Antisemitism in America
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đŹ Can a movie spark revival?
In this powerful episode, I sit down with Sal Litvakâa filmmaker, storyteller, and man of deep faithâwhose newest project challenges the culture and points hearts back to truth.
Sal shares his journey from Santiago, Chile to Hollywood, and the God-given passion that drives his bold, purpose-filled films. We talk about the importance of standing firm in todayâs cultural climate, and how media can either distract or awaken us spiritually.
If you're a Christian looking for films that inspire, uplift, and carry...
Self-Care: Essential for Great Marriage | An Interview with Dr. Bob Paul
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đď¸ What if the key to restoring your marriage starts with restoring YOU?
In this compelling episode of God-Sized Stories, I sit down with Dr. Bob Paul, licensed counselor, Vice President of Focus on the Familyâs Marriage Institute, and co-author of the life-changing book Empowered to Love.
We talk candidly about how emotional wounds, unmet needs, and unhealed pain can silently erode even the strongest relationshipsâand how healing begins when we allow God to restore our individual hearts. Dr. Paulâs insights from the world-renowned Hope Restor...
Hope for Israelâs Terror Victims of All Faiths: Inside One Family USAâs Mission
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In this powerful episode of God Sized Stories, I have the honor of welcoming Naomi R. Nussbaum, Executive Director of One Family Fund, an incredible organization devoted to supporting victims of terror and their families in Israel.
We dive deep into the personal and national heartbreaks experienced in the regionâespecially in light of recent eventsâand explore the unshakable resilience and hope that shape the Israeli people. Naomi shares not only her own story and connection to her Jewish heritage, but also the inspiring origins of One Family Fund and how...
Too Old Or Too Young To Fulfill Your Dreams | An Interview with Joseph Stam and David Alford
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In todayâs powerful episode, I sit down with filmmakers Joseph Stam and David Alford, the creative minds behind the new faith-based film, Searching for the Elephant.
What happens when a homeschooled teen with a passion for storytelling joins forces with a seasoned theater director whose heart beats for redemption? You get a dynamic duo, a God-ordained partnershipâand a story that just might change your life.
đŹ Searching for the Elephant tackles addiction, broken family dynamics, and the deep need for grace. It follows Jason Bowden, a young man spirali...
No Pain Is Wasted | Interview with Kim Patton
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Hey friends! đ
In this deeply moving episode, I had the joy of speaking with Kim Patton, an author and ministry leader whose powerful journey through heartbreak, foster care, and major life transitions is a true testament to Godâs redemptive power.
Kim shares how her family answered the call to foster at a group home, eventually moving across states to continue their mission of ministering to teen girls. Her story highlights the beauty of obedience, the pain of transition, and the unshakable faith that anchors her.<...
Bikers' Prayers Deliver A Miracle | An Interview with Angie Howell
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As I prepared for this episode of God-Sized Stories, I couldnât stop thinking about the long list of unlikely people God used throughout Scriptureâmurderers, prostitutes, adulterers, cowards. People whose rĂŠsumĂŠs would never pass a background check today. And yet, these are the ones God chose to accomplish His most glorious work.
That same theme runs through the beautiful and raw testimony of my guest, Angie Howell, author of Jewel of Heaven: A Beautiful Story of Brokenness, Redemption, and the Power of a Bikerâs Prayer. Angieâs story is o...
Real-Life Miracles and Hope: Behind the Scenes of Show Me Your Glory with Eric Swithin
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Why does a loving God allow suffering? And can miracles really happen in the middle of our pain?
In this powerful episode, I sit down with Eric and Kameron Swithinâministry leaders, filmmakers, and the hearts behind the brand-new documentary Show Me Your Glory, releasing in theaters nationwide May 13â15, 2025.
Eric, a combat veteran, theologian, and founder of Abba Heart Ministries, shares how their journey through ministering to the fatherless and walking with the broken ultimately led to this incredible filmâa raw, awe-inspiring exploration of real-life miracles and divine encoun...
Seeing The Supernatural: Lee Strobel's Latest Investigation
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Have you ever had a supernatural experience you couldn't explain?
Or wondered whether stories of angels, near-death encounters, or spiritual warfare are real?
In this thought-provoking episode of God-Sized Stories, I sit down with bestselling author and investigative journalist Lee Strobel to discuss his newest book, Seeing the Supernatural. From compelling personal accounts to biblical truth, Lee explores the mysteries of the unseen world through the lens of faith, science, and Scripture.
đď¸ In this episode, we explore:
Why 8 in 10 Americans believe in a spiritual realm
W...
Still Bearing Fruit: A Conversation on Purpose and Longevity
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Hey, friends!
Today weâre doing something a little differentâyou guessed it, weâre going botanical with a spiritual twist! In this episode, I dive deep into powerful biblical lessons hidden in the lives of evergreen trees.
What does it really look like to live like an evergreen tree in our walk with Christ?
Here are the three powerful truths that I shared in the episode:
Â
1. Stay Planted in Godâs Word
2. â Embrace the Seasons, But Donât Be Ruled by Them
3. â Believe That You...
Faith And Purpose While In Prison | An Interview with Judy Henderson
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What happens when a life sentence meets Godâs grace?
In this powerful episode of God-Sized Stories, I had the incredible honor of sitting down with Judy Hendersonâa woman whose testimony left me speechless and inspired. From the depths of trauma and incarceration to the heights of healing and purpose, Judyâs journey is a breathtaking example of Godâs redemptive power.
We talk about:
- Her unexpected path to prison
- The miracle of her release
- How she found her voiceâan...
Thriving In Your Later Years | Interview with Dr. Mark Rutland
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I am beyond excited to invite you to watch our latest podcast episode, where I had the pleasure of speaking with the insightful Dr. Mark Rutland.
Our conversation delves into the art of aging gracefully, embracing laughter, and maintaining a generous heart as life's pace begins to change.
Dr. Rutland offers captivating stories and wisdom on how humor and self-acceptance can lead to a joyful, fulfilling life.
If you're curious about navigating life's later stages with joy and grace, this is an episode you won't want to...
Winning Every Battle | An Episode For Military Couples | Interview with Matt and Kristina Spencer
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In this inspiring episode, I sit down with Chaplain Major Matthew Spencer, USAF, and Kristina Spencer to discuss their powerful book, "VALOR & VOWS: A Tactical Guide to a Mission-Ready Marriage." đâ¨
As a military chaplain, Matthew has witnessed firsthand the challenges that service members and their spouses face. Together, he and Kristina share practical wisdom and biblical principles to help couples build a strong, mission-ready marriageâwhether in the military or civilian life.
đš How can couples stay connected through lifeâs battles?
đš What are the key principles of a resilient marri...
Discovering Joy in Singleness: Lessons from Ryan Wekenman
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Welcome back to another inspirational episode of God-sized Stories!
In this special episode, I sit down with Ryan Wekenman, a dedicated singles pastor and the insightful author of "Single Today."
Ryan shares his compelling journey of singleness and the profound lessons he has unearthed along the way.
⨠Episode Highlights:
- God's Movement in Young Generations: Discover the power of young adults seeking God and their zealous faith.
- Ryan's Personal Insights on Singleness: Hear Ryan's candid thoughts on being content as a single person within th...
New Thought More Sinister Than New Age | Insights from Melissa Dougherty
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Welcome back to another compelling episode of God-sized Stories!
This week, we dive deep into a topic that has been subtly influencing the Christian community â the New Thought movement.
Our special guest, Melissa Dougherty, an astute YouTuber and author, joins us to shed light on how New Thought philosophies are creeping into our churches and everyday beliefs.
In this eye-opening conversation, Melissa and I explore:
- The difference between New Age and New Thought
- How New Thought teachings distort biblical scriptures
- Me...
Love That Survives Storms: Rebecca St. James and Cubbie Finkâs Inspiring Story
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Get ready for an inspiring episode of "God-Sized Stories" as I sit down with Grammy Award-winning artist Rebecca St. James and musician/producer Cubbie Fink!Â
In this powerful conversation, Rebecca and Cubbie share their journey of faith, music, and trusting God through life's challenges. From chart-topping success to personal struggles and incredible testimonies, this episode is packed with encouragement and wisdom.
đ§ Tune in as we discuss:
- How Rebecca balances music, ministry, and motherhood
- Cubbieâs transition from Foster the People to producing faith-centered music
- The...
Steph Carse: Emmy-Winning Artist Shares His âBut Godâ Story of Faith, Music & Purpose đśđ
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Iâm beyond excited to share my conversation with EmmyÂŽ Award-winning artist, filmmaker, and advocate, Steph Carse!
With a career spanning decades, Steph has sold over 500,000 records, been nominated for a Juno Award, and has become a beacon of hope through his music and ministry.
In this episode, Steph opens up about his incredible âBUT GODâ story:
â
From living in his car to finding his purpose through faith
â
His Emmy-winning journey as a filmmaker and producer
â
His latest projects, including the worship song âAlmightyâ (470K+ views!) and the Christmas...
The Plight of Troubled Teens In Foster Care | Interview with Scott Fuller
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Welcome to another God-sized Stories episode!
In today's interview, I had the honor of speaking with Scott Fuller, Vice President of Advancement at Murphy-Harpst Childrenâs Centers in Georgia. Scott's heartwarming and powerful narrative illuminates the incredible work being done for at-risk foster children.
Scott shares his inspiring journey of faith and how, after a career in church planting and pastoral ministry, he found his calling in child welfare. Hear first-hand accounts of transformative stories within Murphy-Harpst, including unique therapeutic approaches like equine therapy and innovative foster care models.
...Apologetics and Relationship Building: Lindsey Medenwaldt's Approach to Faith Sharing
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Welcome to Season 4 of God-sized Stories with Patricia Holbrook! đ
We're kicking off the new year with an inspiring conversation featuring Lindsey Medenwaldt in our first episode of 2024. đ
Dive into a spirit-filled discussion that sets the tone for building bridges and engaging cultural conversations while staying true to our faith.
In this episode, we explore:
⨠The importance of cultural engagement without compromising your beliefs.
⨠Lindsey's personal story of forming workplace bonds over common interests.
⨠Practical tools for Christians to handle diverse interactions.
⨠The significance of authentic r...
