Uncharted: Navigating Faith and Life

40 Episodes
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By: Adam Swedenburg https://linktr.ee/AdamSwedenburg

Welcome to Uncharted: Navigating Faith and Life — a youth ministry podcast designed for students but meaningful for everyone.Faith is a journey, and no matter your age, we all face uncharted territories in life. Each episode explores real-life topics that matter to students and adults alike, offering practical wisdom, biblical insights, and inspiring stories to help you navigate life’s challenges with confidence.Whether you're a student seeking direction, a parent wanting to connect, or simply someone looking for encouragement, Uncharted is here to equip and empower the next generation—while inspiring every generation—to live boldly for Christ. Join us as we...

From the Edge to Embrace: Bambi Lynn’s Story of Redemption and Purpose
Today at 8:00 AM

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In this powerful and deeply moving episode, I sit down with Bambi Lynn—life coach, motivational speaker, blogger, and two-time published author (soon to be three!). Bambi shares her incredible testimony of transformation, beginning in 1987 when, just days after nearly ending her life by jumping off a bridge, she gave her heart to Jesus.

We talk about the life-saving moment when a passing police officer intervened, the shocking discovery she made in the psych hospital, and how pregnancy at 16 marked the beginning of a new chapter. From trauma and suicidal thoughts to...


Sacred Balance: Healing Minds & Souls with Miriam Diphouse McMillan
Last Thursday at 8:00 AM

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In this episode, I’m joined by Miriam Diphouse McMillan—author of Sacred Balance: How Ancient Practices Can Restore Modern Minds. Miriam is a chaplain at an inpatient psychiatric hospital, an ordained minister, a writer for the Intercession of Spirituality and Mental Health, and above all, a child of God. 

We dive deep into the intersection of faith and mental health, exploring how spiritual practices—like prayer—have been scientifically shown to calm the mind through MRI research. Miriam shares insights from over 12 years of experience walking alongside people in crisis, leading s...


Made for More: Finding Purpose in the Middle of the Mess
Last Wednesday at 8:00 AM

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Have you ever felt like you’re just… not enough? Like you’re too broken, too behind, or too messy to be used by God? In this episode of Uncharted: Navigating Faith and Life, host Adam Swedenburg takes us deep into the heart of that struggle—and reminds us of a greater truth: you were made for more.

Through powerful scriptures, real-life reflection, and moments of guided silence, Adam walks us through what it means to reject the enemy’s lies and believe what God says about us. From Ephesians 2:10 to Romans 8:2...


From Rejection to Restoration: Angela Eugene on Faith, Family, and Finding Her Father
06/24/2025

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In this powerful episode, I sit down with Angela Eugene—ordained minister, associate pastor, author of "HerStory: Surviving the Journey Called Life Through Rejection, Abandonment, and Fear," and "Refresh Your Spirit", a 31-day devotional. Angela shares how her relationship with God deepened in the midst of marital chaos, and how she learned to keep Christ at the center of her marriage.

We explore the impact of fatherlessness in her early years, the shift when her stepdad entered her life at 15, and her emotional journey of reuniting with her biological father—ultimately beco...


Escaping Christmas: Grief, Grace, and Finding Light in the Darkest Season
06/19/2025

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In this heartfelt episode, I sit down with Becky Avery—author of Escaping Christmas, blogger, full-time professional, and full-time wife—who is on a powerful mission to help others navigate grief. After losing her mother to a long battle with cancer and her father suddenly just 17 months later, Becky and her brother found themselves dreading the holidays and wondering: Can you skip Christmas? That question became the seed for her moving book, written and published just one year after her father's death.

We talk with Becky about three core themes from her...


Rooted, Not Shaken: Finding Stability in an Unsteady World
06/18/2025

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In this episode of Uncharted: Navigating Faith and Life, host Adam Swedenburg dives deep into the importance of being spiritually rooted in a world that constantly shifts. Drawing from Jeremiah 17:7–8, Adam unpacks what it means to trust God through every storm and drought life throws our way. You’ll learn three powerful habits that grow deep roots—staying in the Word, staying in community, and staying honest with God. Whether you’re facing fear, loss, or feeling like you’re not enough, this episode reminds you that you don’t have to be unshaken by...


Love in Every Stripe: Finding God in the Brokenness with Shannon Debona
06/17/2025

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In this powerful and heartfelt episode, I sit down with Shannon Debona—author of Love in Every Stripe Book, speaker, elementary teacher, and woman of deep faith. Shannon shares her journey of growing up in the church and walking with God her whole life, only to find herself in a spiritually dry season, wondering where God was in her pain.

Shannon opens up about the tragic loss of her husband to suicide, along with the passing of her cousin and grandmother—all within a single year. Through her grief, she discovered a de...


Through the Fire with Ryan Wickline – Mindset, Suffering, and God's Purpose
06/12/2025

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In this powerful episode, I sit down with Ryan Wickline — host of Through the Fire Podcast, mindset coach, junior high wrestling coach, motivational speaker, and passionate Christ follower.

We dive into Ryan’s journey coaching young athletes, how he uses mindset training to help them push past limits, and why it's so important to reject the lies the world tries to sell us. Ryan opens up about the role of suffering in our lives and how God uses it to shape us — not break us. Together, we explore Romans 5:3–4 and discuss the powe...


The Power of Surrender: Letting Go and Trusting God
06/11/2025

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In this episode of Uncharted: Navigating Faith and Life, host Adam Swedenburg explores one of the most powerful yet misunderstood aspects of the Christian walk—surrender. What does it really mean to give control over to God? Why is it so difficult, and yet so freeing?

With powerful scripture like Proverbs 3:5-6 and Luke 22:42, Adam unpacks what true surrender looks like through the life of Jesus and his own personal experiences. You'll be invited to reflect on what you're holding onto and discover how letting go can open the door to pe...


A Walking Testimony: Kyndal Ray Edwards Journey for Mental Health and Hope
06/10/2025

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In this powerful episode, I sit down with special guest Kyndal Ray Edwards, founder of A Walking Testimony, who is currently walking across America for the second time to raise awareness for mental health and recovery. Kyndal shares his gripping story of transformation—from being raised in church and playing in the praise band, to falling into addiction, jail, and prison. In 2013, he set a goal to walk across America, and though life delayed the dream, he began his first cross-country walk in 2021 after being released from prison.

Now over 8,100 miles in...


Redefined by Grace: Kerrigan Buck's Story of Purpose After the Storm
06/05/2025

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In this powerful and heartfelt episode, I sit down with Kerrigan Buck—engineer, motivational speaker, host of A Living Testimony Podcast, devoted Christian, and proud cat mom—to talk about the moment that changed everything: a heart attack at just 27 years old. What could have been a tragedy became a divine turning point. Kerrigan shares how God used that life-altering experience to slow her down, reveal her true identity, and realign her with His purpose.

We dive deep into the importance of letting go of a performance-driven life, learning to forgive othe...


The Battle for the Mind: Winning the War Within
06/04/2025

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In this powerful episode of Uncharted: Navigating Faith and Life, host Adam Swedenburg dives deep into the often-overlooked battlefield we all face—our minds. Drawing from Scripture and personal experience, Adam explores how negative thoughts, fear, and lies can quietly shape our lives unless we learn to fight back with truth. You’ll learn how to identify strongholds, replace lies with God's promises, and guard your heart by renewing your mind. If you’ve ever wrestled with anxiety, self-doubt, or spiritual discouragement, this episode offers hope, encouragement, and practical tools to reclaim your though...


From Self to Savior: Breaking Mental Chains with Lunaria Gaia
06/03/2025

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In this transformative episode, I sit down with 2-time bestselling author, confidence coach, and host of The More Confidence with Luna Gaia Podcast, Lunaria Gaia. Once trapped in a cycle of people-pleasing, emotional struggles, and worldly pursuits, Luna shares her raw and powerful testimony of how everything changed when she encountered Jesus — culminating in her baptism in November.

Together, we dive deep into the battle of the mind: how our thoughts can enslave us if we’re not vigilant, the lies we believe about ourselves, and the freedom that comes from seek...


From Chaos to Calling: Carrie Fullerton on Faith, Grief, and God's Guidance
05/29/2025

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In this powerful episode, I sit down with Carrie Fullerton—host of Fullerton’s Professional Podcast and founder of Fullerton’s Professional Organizing. Carrie shares her journey from being a preacher’s kid raised in church, to drifting away in early adulthood, and then rediscovering her faith through Bible college—where she met her husband.

Carrie opens up about her 15 years in education, the surprising moment that sparked her organizing business, and how she's leaned on God through life’s biggest struggles, including the heartbreaking loss of her firstborn child.

We also...


You Were Made to Shine
05/28/2025

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In a world that often feels heavy and dark, God calls us to be light. 

In this episode of Uncharted: Navigating Faith and Life, Adam Swedenburg dives into Matthew 5:16 and reminds us that we don’t need a spotlight to shine—we just need to show up with purpose and faith. 

Through a powerful personal story, the example of Daniel in Babylon, and practical challenges for your week, this episode encourages you to live boldly and love deeply right where you are. You were made to shine—not for your own...


Building Bridges with Norman Murray
05/27/2025

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In this powerful episode, I sit down with Norman Murray — founder of Building Bridges LLC and host of the Building Bridges: One Act of Love at a Time podcast. Norman is a Christian Life Coach, a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, a soon-to-be ordained minister, and most importantly, a faithful follower of Christ.

Norman shares how his ministry was born the night of the George Floyd tragedy, igniting a passion to bridge the gap between the church and the world. With six years of preaching under his belt, he opens up ab...


From the NFL to a Life Fully Surrendered to Jesus – with Sterling Harris
05/22/2025

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In this powerful episode, we sit down with Sterling Harris—speaker, author, influencer, businessman, husband, father, former NFL player, and unapologetic Jesus freak. 

Sterling shares his incredible journey from giving his life to God at age 11, to falling away and chasing worldly desires, to finally experiencing deep transformation through a restored relationship with Jesus.

Sterling opens up about the void he felt when he was separated from God, and how no amount of success or pleasure could fill that emptiness.

Through God’s grace, he found true freed...


Power in the Pause
05/21/2025

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In this short but powerful episode, Adam Swedenburg dives into the surprising strength found in stillness. 

In a world that runs on hustle and noise, what if the most powerful thing you could do today is... pause? 

Drawing from Psalm 46:10 and the example of Jesus Himself, Adam shares personal stories, biblical wisdom, and a weekly challenge that encourages you to make room for God’s whisper in the quiet. 

Whether you’re overwhelmed, exhausted, or just need a reminder that you’re not in this alone—this episode is...


Breaking Through the Lies: From Insurance to Intimacy with God — A Conversation with Violet Coots
05/20/2025

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In this powerful episode, I sit down with Violet Coots, a certified Christian coach, author, speaker, and founder of Breaking Through the Lies LLC. 

After spending 40 years in the insurance industry, Violet answered God’s persistent call on her life and stepped into full-time ministry. We talk about her journey from hesitation to obedience, her passion for teaching and coaching, and how she helps others replace the lies of the enemy with the truth of God's Word.

Violet shares insights from her 31-day devotional, Cultivating an Intimate Relationship with God...


Every Step Ordered: Dawn Pruszkowski’s Dance with Destiny and Unexpected Love
05/15/2025

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In this powerful episode, Dawn Pruszkowski—host of Unexpected Love Stories and Love Unexpected, author of Worship Steps, and former dance teacher—shares her journey of faith, movement, and miracles. 

From dreaming of Broadway to starting a dance ministry in college, Dawn recounts how a prophetic word led her to a mission trip where she met, got engaged to, and eventually married a man whose name she didn’t even know at first. 

Now married over 30 years, Dawn reflects on the importance of surrendering control and trusting God with every st...


No Filter Faith | Unfiltered Hearts, Unshakable Hope
05/14/2025

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In a world obsessed with filters and highlight reels, it’s easy to feel like we have to clean ourselves up before coming to God. 

But in this powerful episode of Uncharted, Adam Swedenburg reminds us that God sees beyond appearances—He sees the heart. 

Drawing from 1 Samuel 16:7, Adam shares a raw, personal testimony and explores how David’s unfiltered relationship with God shaped a legacy of real faith. 

This episode is your invitation to drop the mask, embrace vulnerability, and step into deeper connection with God and other...


Crucified Flesh: How Faith, Fitness, and Discipline Freed Jonathan Samuel from Addiction
05/13/2025

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In this powerful episode, I'm joined by Jonathan Samuel—fitness pastor, Christian wellness coach, speaker, and founder of Crucified Flesh. Jonathan shares his incredible journey from a troubled childhood, moving to the U.S. from a third-world country at age four, to becoming the “black sheep” of his family as he battled addiction to weed, alcohol, and food. With honesty and vulnerability, he reflects on growing up as a pastor’s kid, his love for sports and bodybuilding, and how that passion turned into gluttony and health issues.

We talk about how Jesu...


Ripples of Faith: Jennifer Godwin on Prayer, Purpose, and the Power of the Gospel
05/08/2025

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In this heartfelt episode, I sit down with Jennifer Godwin—Christian author of Go Make Ripples, speaker, wife of 37 years, mother of three, and proud grandmother—to hear her inspiring testimony. Jennifer shares how her journey with Jesus began with a simple prayer over dinner when she was just five years old, the moment that sparked her lifelong curiosity about faith. We talk through her story of wrestling with questions about God during middle school, shifting focus in high school, and the pivotal moment someone asked, "Do you want to know about God?" From...


Faith That Works (Even When Life Doesn’t)
05/07/2025

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Life doesn’t always go the way we planned—dreams fall through, people let us down, and some seasons just plain hurt. In this episode, Adam Swedenburg gets real about what it means to have faith that works, even when life doesn’t. With Romans 8:28 as the anchor, Adam shares a powerful personal story of growing up in a hard environment, going into foster care, and discovering how God was working even when everything felt broken.

You’ll hear biblical examples like Joseph and Paul, practical encouragement, and a weekly challenge to respo...


Dan Brown Jr. – Emmy Awards, True Crime, and Unshakable Faith
05/06/2025

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In this powerful episode, I sit down with Dan Brown Jr., an 11-time Emmy Award winner and 17-time nominee, documentary filmmaker, TV composer, creative director, and founder of CrimeSonics—a company dedicated to creating sound for true crime films. Dan shares insight into his upcoming three-hour documentary on the unsolved case of Brianna Wells, a gripping project four years in the making, set to release soon on most major streaming platforms. With over $250,000 invested, Dan’s commitment to truth and justice shines through.

We talk about his passion for working on unso...


Guarding Your Heart & Grilling with Grace: A Conversation with Corey Lowe
05/01/2025

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In this heartfelt episode, I’m joined by Corey Lowe—father, husband, podcast host of Guard Your Heart, and a seasoned chef with over 15 years in the kitchen. 

Corey shares how he launched his podcast during the height of COVID to remind people they’re not alone, and how his journey as a husband and father shapes everything he does. 

We talk about the powerful role his wife plays in supporting his mission, the joy and challenges of dad life, and why capturing memories through photos matters. 

Corey ope...


Walking It Out – Putting Faith into Practice Every Day
04/30/2025

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In this episode of Uncharted: Navigating Faith and Life, Adam Swedenburg wraps up the month with a powerful challenge: don’t just talk about your faith—live it. 

Inspired by James 1:22, Adam dives into what it looks like to walk out your faith in real life—on the tough days, in the little moments, and when no one else is watching. He shares three practical ways to stay rooted in Jesus daily, along with a personal story that proves how small acts of love can have a big impact. 

Plus, yo...


Embracing Healing & Grace with Brandy Pursley
04/29/2025

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In this powerful episode, I sit down with Brandy Pursley—mental health coach, host of the Abiding Love Podcast, devoted wife, and Christ follower. Brandy opens up about her journey through trauma and how it led her to where she is today, both as a coach and a podcaster.

We dive into the reality that being a Christian doesn’t guarantee a pain-free life, and how seeking counseling is not a weakness—but a brave step toward healing. Brandy shares deep insights on overcoming grief, embracing emotions without shame, and the beauty...


The Power of Forgiveness and Confidence with Dan Scalf
04/24/2025

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In this powerful episode, I’m joined by Dan Scalf—podcaster, senior pastor, husband, father, and host of Deep Dive with Dano. With over 25 years in ministry, Dan brings deep wisdom and heart to our conversation as we unpack what it means to overcome self-doubt, build true self-confidence, and stay consistent in our calling.

We dive into the healing power of forgiveness—how it frees your heart, shapes your future relationships, and reflects the grace we've been given in Christ. We discuss how forgiveness doesn't mean forgetting, why it takes time, and ho...


Living Out Love: Putting Faith into Action
04/23/2025

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In this episode of Uncharted: Navigating Faith and Life, Adam Swedenburg dives into the heart of Christian living—love in action. From sacrificial love to forgiving love, and serving others with compassion, this episode explores what it truly means to reflect God’s love in our daily lives. With biblical truths, personal stories, and a weekly challenge, you’ll walk away encouraged and equipped to make love more than just a feeling—but a daily decision. Whether you're a returning listener or tuning in for the first time, get ready to be inspired to live...


Investing in the Next Generation with Steve Vandegriff
04/22/2025

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In this episode, I’m joined by Steve Vandegriff—an experienced educator with a Master’s in Christian Education who teaches both online and in person at Liberty University (where I first met him as one of his students!). Steve also teaches at Regent University and Colorado University, and has written courses for Colorado as well. He is the co-author of Timeless Youth Ministry, Essential Student Ministry, and Disturbing Behaviors.

We dive into what led him to become a teacher, how he goes the extra mile for his students, and his heart...


Healing Trauma & Finding Freedom in Christ with Melanie Chavez
04/17/2025

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In this powerful episode, I’m joined by Melanie Chavez—host of the Christian Women Healing Trauma Podcast, Certified Trauma Coach, and founder of the Christian Women Healing Trauma Community. Melanie is on a mission to help women heal from their past and walk in the freedom Christ offers. Through her 12-week program, Surrender to Heal Academy, and her 50 Life-Changing Journal Prompts for Healing, she’s equipping women with the tools they need to surrender their pain and find purpose.

We dive into Melanie’s personal story, including the chaos and childhoo...


Faith in the Fire: Trusting God When Life Gets Tough
04/16/2025

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In this episode of Uncharted: Navigating Faith and Life, Adam Swedenburg explores what it means to hold on to faith during life’s toughest moments. With Romans 8:28 as our anchor, we’ll dive into trusting God's timing, holding on to hope, and choosing joy—even in the midst of pain. Plus, Adam shares a personal story of struggle and growth to remind us that even when life feels out of control, God is still at work.

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Letting Go and Letting God with Catherine Kelly
04/15/2025

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In this powerful episode of Uncharted: Navigating Faith and Life, I’m joined by the incredible Catherine Kelly — podcaster, teacher, mother, and devoted follower of Christ. As the host of the Breathe Easy Podcast, Catherine brings a heartfelt and honest perspective as she shares her journey through a season of deep struggle.

We dive into her story — one marked by childhood and family suffering, negative thoughts, and the pain of contemplating divorce. Through it all, Catherine experienced the transformative power of God’s grace. She shares how surrendering control and trusting God comp...


From the Streets to Salvation – Armandos Redemption Story
04/11/2025

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In this powerful episode of Uncharted: Navigating Faith and Life, I sit down with Armando— a husband, father, podcaster, and passionate follower of Christ. Jayare shares the heart behind his own show, The Jayare Podcast, which he’s been faithfully hosting for the past three years.

We dive into his journey of faith, from growing up in a Christ-centered home to straying into a life of drugs, alcohol, and gang activity. But Jayare's story doesn't end there. By God's grace, he found his way back to Jesus — and now he uses his pl...


Being a Light in Dark Places
04/09/2025

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In this episode of Uncharted: Navigating Faith and Life, we explore what it truly means to be a light in the world, as Jesus calls us in Matthew 5:14. How can we reflect His love in our daily lives, especially when facing challenges? Join me as we discuss three practical ways to shine—through kindness, speaking life, and standing for what’s right. I’ll also share a personal story that reminds us of the power of simple acts of love. Plus, a weekly challenge to help you put this message into action. Let’s step o...


Navigating Faith, Fandom, and Life with Javier Malave
04/08/2025

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In this episode of Uncharted: Navigating Faith and Life, I sit down with Javier Malave, an author, podcaster, blogger, husband, and father. Javier, the host of The Compass Chronicles, shares insights into balancing faith, fandom, and life as he juggles his creative work in the early morning hours of New York City. With four years of podcasting experience and a background in blogging, Javier offers a unique perspective on navigating the intersection of faith and the world of fandom. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on passion, purpose, and the quiet moments that...


Faith in Action: Living Out What You Believe
04/03/2025

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 Faith isn’t just about what we believe—it’s about how we live. In this episode of Uncharted: Navigating Faith and Life, we dive into James 2:26 and explore what it means to put our faith into action. Through personal stories, biblical insights, and a practical challenge, we’ll discover how small acts of love, service, and sacrifice can bring our faith to life. Join me as we take the first step in this month’s series, Faith in Action. Let’s move beyond words and start living out what we believe! 

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Faith, Family, and Finding Purpose with John W. Losh II
04/01/2025

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Join me on this inspiring episode of Uncharted: Navigating Faith and Life as I chat with John W. Losh II, a born-again Christian, husband, father, blogger, and podcaster. We dive into his incredible journey from a tough childhood to becoming a passionate leader in several ministries, including the Men in the Potter's Hands Podcast and Faith Horizons. John shares his love for trains through his Legacy Rail Blog and his 36-year marriage. Tune in for an uplifting conversation about faith, family, and finding purpose through life's challenges.

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The Power of Small Choices: Trusting God in the Everyday
03/27/2025

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In this episode of Uncharted: Navigating Faith and Life, we explore how the small, everyday choices we make—choosing kindness, gratitude, and integrity—can have a lasting impact. Inspired by Proverbs 16:9, we’ll discuss how God uses even the smallest decisions to guide our steps and shape our journey. Plus, I’ll share a personal story and a practical challenge to help you live out your faith in the little moments. Tune in and discover how the seemingly insignificant choices can be part of God’s bigger plan for your life!

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