Growing on The Vine

In this insightful episode of Growing on The Vine, host Chris Ryan sits down with Daisy Tate, the Board Chair of the Veteran Supplemental Support Network. Based in Temecula, VSSN has been a dedicated resource for military and veteran families since 2013. Daisy provides a "30,000-foot overview" of the organization’s mission, emphasizing that they do not duplicate existing government services. Instead, they focus on "filling the gaps"—the small but critical logistical hurdles like transportation failures or short-term housing delays that often lead to major crises for veterans.

Daisy shares a powerful "thought map" of the veteran journ...

In this episode of Growing on The Vine, host Chris Ryan welcomes Paul Fischer (CEO and Founder) and Chris Clemens (COO and Pastor) of Radiant Mobile to discuss a revolutionary approach to digital safety. Radiant Mobile is introduced as the first-ever Christian mobile plan, designed specifically to address the pervasive dangers of the modern internet. Unlike traditional parental control apps that can be bypassed or deleted, Radiant Mobile utilizes patent-pending technology to block inappropriate content at the carrier level before it ever reaches the device.

In this episode of Growing on The Vine, host Chris Ryan sits down with Julie Noe, the Executive Director of the Rose Again Foundation, to discuss the unique and vital role the organization plays in Southwest Riverside County. While foster care agencies manage the legal and placement aspects of a child’s journey, Rose Again focuses on "filling the gaps" providing the emotional and material support that the state system often overlooks.

Julie highlights the foundation’s "A Book of Their Own" initiative, emphasizing the psychological importance of foster children owning something brand-new rather than a hand-me-down. She s...

On this episode of Growing on the Vine, Chris Ryan sits down with Dr. Yuan Hawks, candidate for Temecula City Council, District 5, to discuss an extraordinary journey from growing up under Communist China's one-child policy to serving her community in Southern California.

Dr. Hawks shares how earning a full scholarship to pursue a Ph.D. in Molecular Genetics at the University of Illinois changed the course of her life. She reflects on discovering Christianity while in graduate school, leaving a successful scientific career to become a full-time mother and homeschool educator, and embracing a life of servant...

In this episode of Growing on the Vine, host Chris Ryan sits down with Rudy Cortez, the visionary founder of Próspero, a social enterprise based in Lake Elsinore, California. Prospero operates as a "Center of Prosperity", offering a welcoming, home-like environment where individuals can find support for immigration, business development, and financial security.—all free of charge.

He discusses staying open God's promises and plans and how it allows an organization to expand beyond it's human-planned limitations.

TJ Cortez, a worship leader and musician from Menifee, shares his journey in music and ministry and the story behind his song "Every Other Love," a testimony of finding hope and healing in God.

He discusses songwriting, struggles with loneliness and depression, his heart to evangelize through accessible worship, and the growing revival happening in the community. Find his music on YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram at official1914music.

On this episode of Growing on The Vine, we welcome Caleb Hebert and Providence Baker for a conversation about faith, music, creativity, and using God-given gifts for His glory. Caleb is a young composer and songwriter from Southern California whose work includes film scores, musicals, original Christian music, and the church ministry musical Remember Jericho. Together, Caleb and Providence share the heart behind their creative work, their collaboration in music, and what it means to pursue excellence while keeping Christ at the center.

This conversation reminds us that Christian creativity is not just about talent. It is...

Kim-Evinda Lepins of Trench Classes United explains a faith-based, small-group class pathway designed to strengthen relationships by addressing unresolved roots from the past. The program begins with How to Love Who You Love and continues with deeper “root classes” on themes like shame, anger, fear, rigidity, and identity, supported by mentoring and guidance from a licensed therapist. Classes are offered in-person and online, with affordable pricing and a focus on healing through Christ-centered community.

Host Chris Ryan introduces Growing on the Vine and welcomes Cassidy Brewer, a Temecula-based author, to discuss her new book, Blameless. 

Brewer offers an overview of her story as a near-death experience memoir centered on a ruptured brain aneurysm connected to an arteriovenous malformation (AVM) that occurred when she was thirteen, followed by extensive hospitalization, multiple surgeries, a stroke, and an approximately four-month coma. 

She describes the event as sudden and largely symptomless beforehand, with only a vague recollection reported by her mother of an earlier “washing” sensation in her head. The acute onset included shakin...

Welcome to Growing on The Vine, a community affairs conversation from 102.5 The Vine FM, where we explore how followers of Jesus are living out their faith in the everyday life of Southwest Riverside County. I am your host, Chris Ryan.

In this episode, I am joined by my guest, Melissa Lampert, the owner of Hills of Mercy Counseling in Temecula. We talk about the growing mental health needs of children and adolescents, how faith-informed counseling can serve families, the impact of phones and social media on identity and anxiety, and why simple habits like shared meals and...

On this episode of Growing on The Vine, Chris Ryan welcomes Frank Clement, A Vice President of America's Christian Credit Union. Together, they explore how everyday banking can fuel Kingdom impact. Frank shares how simple deposits resource churches, support missionaries, and strengthen families in need. It is a practical conversation about stewarding God’s money wisely, aligning finances with faith, and discovering how your accounts can quietly underwrite powerful ministry in your community every day for God’s glory.

In this episode of Growing on the Vine, Chris Ryan speaks with Jessica Muñoz, CEO of Voices for Children, about the life-changing work of CASA—Court Appointed Special Advocates. These trained volunteers walk alongside children in foster care from birth through age 21, offering stability, support, and advocacy both in daily life and in the courtroom. Jessica shares how CASAs provide judges with vital insight into a child’s needs, help older youth prepare for independent living, and give younger children a consistent voice in times of transition. Together, they explore how the community can step in, speak up, and m...

On this episode of Growing on the Vine, Dr. Valerie Scola, founder of Scola Family Dentistry, joins host Chris Ryan for a warm and insightful conversation about faith, dentistry, and community. Dr. Scola shares her personal journey into dentistry, the legacy of her father’s practice, and how her Christian faith became central to her life and professional calling. 

In this episode of Growing on The Vine, Chris Ryan interviews Kim Rodriguez, Executive Director of My City Youth Center in Hemet, California. The conversation explores the center's mission to serve at-risk and underserved youth in one of Hemet’s roughest neighborhoods. Originally established by a local pastor over a decade ago, My City Youth Center provides after-school programs, life skills education, and essential services like meals and tutoring—all free of charge.

Kim highlights the center’s intentional faith-based foundation, their Young Parent Program (serving teen and young moms ages 13–25 with education, resources, and a merit-based “baby bucks...

On the next episode of Growing on The Vine, we welcome Sarah Lanza, a board member of Lamb of God Maternity Home, and Cassandra, a birth mother and spokesperson for the organization. Together, they share insights into this incredible third option for young mothers facing unexpected pregnancies who may feel unsure about their next steps. Discover how Lamb of God Maternity Home provides a life-affirming path to adoption, offering hope and blessings to countless families. 

Welcome to Growing on the Vine, the Radio show and podcast highlighting the individuals, organizations, and ministry leaders making a difference in Southwest Riverside County. In this episode, Chris Ryan sits down with Kim Gerrish, the executive director of Michelle’s Place, a Cancer Resource Center in Temecula, California. With a passion for advocacy and support, Kim has been at the forefront of providing resources and hope to individuals and families affected by cancer. Together, Chris and Kim explore the mission of Michelle’s Place, its impact on the community, and the inspiring stories that fuel its work.

Welcome to "Growing on The Vine" with Chris Ryan of 102.5 The Vine FM. In today's episode, we have the pleasure of speaking with Pastor Gary Johnson from Calvary Chapel Hemet about their upcoming event, Re-Ignite 3.0. This men's conference is designed to inspire and strengthen attendees' faith through engaging sessions and fellowship. Stay tuned as we delve into the details of this exciting event and learn how it aims to impact the community.

https://cchemet.org/

https://cchemet.org/re-ignite-3-0-mens-conference/?utm_source=chatgpt.com

In this episode of Growing on The Vine, Chris Ryan speaks with Marlene Rose and Shannon Clark of Hidden Jewels Ministries. Learn about this endeavor to reach women with the hope of Jesus in one of the most unlikely of places. 

In this Growing on The Vine episode, Chris Ryan sits down with Cristina Bailey, co-owner of Signarama Temecula, to discuss the intersection of faith, family, and business. Cristina shares her journey of running a family-owned sign franchise, emphasizing the importance of faith in shaping their business and personal lives. The conversation explores how their faith guides their professional ethics, family values, and community involvement, including sponsorship of faith-based events like the 102.5 The Vine FM's Worship World Tour.

Welcome to this episode of "Growing on The Vine," part of 102.5 The Vine FM's Community Affairs program, where we spotlight inspiring individuals making a difference in their fields and communities. Today, we’re joined by Kyle Onstott, owner of Marketing Empire Group, who will share his unique perspective on the intersection of faith and business. Kyle discusses how his Christian values shape his leadership and business decisions, offering insights on maintaining integrity, purpose, and faith while navigating the challenges of the marketplace.

Paul Rangel is the owner of Sofa Spectrum Furniture but might be better known for his work in service to Southwest Riverside County. Voted the 2023 Citizen of the Year by the Temecula Valley Chamber of Commerce, Paul talks about serving his community, opening his business for ministry, and his passion for helping local nonprofits grow.

Welcome to "Growing on The Vine," where we share stories of growth, passion, and purpose. In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Long Phan of TLC Dental, a dedicated dentist whose love for ministry is woven into every aspect of his practice. Dr. Phan shares how his commitment to both dentistry and ministry shapes his approach to patient care, combining technical expertise with a deep compassion for people’s physical and spiritual well-being. Join us as we explore his inspiring journey of serving others through his profession and faith, and how his mission extends beyond the dental chair to...

Welcome to "Growing on The Vine," the podcast where we explore stories of growth, resilience, and community impact. In this episode, we're thrilled to feature Neighborhood Healthcare, an organization dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care to underserved communities. We'll dive into how Neighborhood Healthcare is transforming lives through accessible healthcare services, focusing on the holistic well-being of individuals and families. Join us as we discuss their innovative approaches to community health, and the powerful stories of hope and healing that are growing on the vine of their mission.

Welcome to "Growing on The Vine," where we explore the intersections of faith, growth, and personal transformation. In this episode, we are honored to have Pastor Aaron Russ, Associate Pastor at Centerpoint Church in Murrieta, as our special guest. Pastor Russ discusses his latest book, Close & Present, which delves into the profound journey of drawing nearer to God in the midst of life's complexities. Join us as we unpack the themes of his book, exploring how to cultivate a deep, authentic relationship with God that is both close and ever-present in our daily lives. This conversation promises to offer...

Anay Torres is the program coordinator of Destiny Care Foundation and joins us on this episode of Growing on The Vine to share how this nonprofit serves seniors in the Inland Empire. 

In this episode, we speak with Suzie Wheeler-Rucher, Nicole Nowakowski, and Thomas Lashley, all from 40 Days for Life. Join us on Growing on The Vine to understand better the mission, passion, and profound impact of 40 Days for Life. This podcast is a call to action and a testament to the power of faith, hope, and love in the face of one of society’s most pressing moral challenges.

On this episode of Growing on The Vine, Chris speaks with members of Sidewalk Advocates for LIfe, a group that aims to bring hope and save lives. 

Victor Murillo is the Celebrate Recovery Spanish leader at Orchard Church. He has been involved with Celebrate Recovery going on four years, September 30th, which is his sobriety date. Victor hit my rock bottom four years ago with addiction, with alcoholism. "You know, my rock bottom, I had to look up, I looked up to Christ, and I looked up to God, and I said, you know what? I'm tired. I can't do this by myself." 

On this episode of Growing on The Vine, we highlight the impactful work of the Western Eagle Foundation in its efforts to nourish communities through its innovative food pantry and bargain store initiatives. From the inception of these initiatives to the daily operations and impact on local communities, our guests will offer invaluable insights into the transformative power of grassroots efforts in addressing food insecurity.

This episode of Growing on the Vine features Brett and Aubrey Masters, leaders of Dream Center Lake Elsinore in California, a ministry that combines church outreach and community service. Dream Center Lake Elsinore was founded with a "missional model" emphasizing outreach and addressing tangible community needs rather than traditional church formats. Their mantra, "Find a need and fill it; find a heart and heal it," drives their efforts.

Key Points:

Dream Center’s Mission and Approach:

Welcome to another episode of Growing on The Vine, a podcast and radio show ministry of 102.5 The Vine FM. In this episode, we speak with team members from Birthchoice Centers.

Birthchoice Centers stand as beacons of support and guidance for individuals navigating the complexities of pregnancy decisions. As pillars of compassion and knowledge in their communities, these centers offer invaluable resources and counseling services to empower individuals to make informed choices regarding pregnancy options, sexual health, and more.

In this special episode, we're privileged to feature representatives from Birthchoice Centers who will share their expertise...

Welcome to Growing on The Vine, a podcast on 102.5 The Vine FM, where we delve into the stories of micro-ministry leaders making a big impact in Southwest Riverside County. Today, we spotlight JDS Creative Academy, a beacon of creativity and empowerment for individuals with developmental disabilities.

At JDS Creative Academy, art transcends boundaries, and creativity knows no limits. Through innovative programs and a supportive community, individuals with developmental disabilities are given the opportunity to explore their talents and share their unique perspectives with the world.

Join us as we chat with Diane Strand from JDS...

Welcome to Growing on The Vine, a podcast on 102.5 The Vine FM, where we explore the intersection of faith, work, and community impact. Today, we're excited to delve into a seminar led by Kevin Brownlee, focusing on the integration of faith and work, a topic near and dear to the hearts of micro-ministry leaders throughout Southwest Riverside County.

Kevin Brownlee brings a wealth of experience and insight to the table, drawing from his own journey of faith and professional endeavors. As a seasoned leader in both the corporate world and ministry, Kevin understands the challenges and opportunities...

https://www.nazarethusa.com/

Welcome to Growing on The Vine, a podcast on 102.5 The Vine FM, where we explore the diverse tapestry of faith, laughter, and community impact. Today, we're thrilled to welcome comedian Nazareth to the show, a true maestro of humor with a heart for spreading joy and inspiration.

Nazareth's comedy transcends cultural boundaries, weaving together hilarious anecdotes and profound insights that resonate with audiences of all backgrounds. As a pioneer in Christian comedy, he infuses his performances with faith-based humor that uplifts the spirit and leaves a lasting impression.

https://thedressesanddreamsproject.org/

Welcome to Growing on The Vine, a podcast on 102.5 The Vine FM, where we highlight the impactful work of micro-ministry leaders in Southwest Riverside County. Today, we're thrilled to shine a spotlight on The Dresses and Dreams Project, an organization dedicated to empowering young women through the magic of prom.

The Dresses and Dreams Project believes that every young woman deserves to feel beautiful, confident, and celebrated, regardless of her circumstances. Through their compassionate outreach programs, they provide formal dresses, accessories, and mentorship to girls facing financial hardship or other c...

Welcome to Growing on The Vine, a podcast on 102.5 The Vine FM, where faith, community, and mental health intersect. Today, we are privileged to welcome Chrissy Kortenhoeven, a Christian Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), to our show. Chrissy's dedication to integrating faith and mental health is truly remarkable, as she combines her expertise in therapy with her deep-rooted faith to bring healing and wholeness to individuals and families in Southwest Riverside County.

As an LMFT, Chrissy brings a compassionate and holistic approach to her practice, addressing the spiritual, emotional, and relational aspects of her clients' lives...

Welcome to Growing on The Vine, a podcast on 102.5 The Vine FM, where faith, entrepreneurship, and community converge. Today, we're privileged to welcome Sue Fries, a Christian business owner, to our show. Sue's journey as an entrepreneur is not just about building a successful business; it's about living out her faith in the marketplace and positively impacting Southwest Riverside County.

As a thriving business owner, Sue exemplifies integrity, compassion, and servant leadership in all she does. Her commitment to honoring God in her work and treating her employees and customers with dignity and respect sets her apart...

Welcome to Growing on The Vine, a podcast on 102.5 The Vine FM, where we explore the diverse tapestry of faith and community impact. Today, we're honored to welcome Anthony Gonzalez, the passionate leader behind the Hemet Jesus Walk, to our show.

Anthony's dedication to spreading the message of love, hope, and transformation is truly inspiring. Through the Hemet Jesus Walk, he brings people from all walks of life together to walk the streets of Hemet, praying for the community and sharing the love of Christ in tangible ways.

Join us as we sit down with...