Livin' The Bream Podcast

"To realize a policy of peace through strength, you really need to work closely with allies."

Director of the Ronald Reagan Institute Roger Zakheim joins Shannon for a thought-provoking conversation on his forthcoming book, Peace Through Strength: How Reagan's Military Buildup Won the Cold War. Roger details President Reagan's tactical strategy to rebuild American military strength, the foundation of the Peace Through Strength doctrine, and the parallels between the Reagan and Trump presidencies.

Peace Through Strength: How Reagan's Military Buildup Won the Cold War is out Tuesday, November 17th!

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Where do your priorities lie? 

Co-founder & CEO of Axios and co-author of Simplify: Do 50% More with 50% Less, Jim VandeHei joins Shannon for a conversation on how to best maximize your time, energy and joy.

From navigating stress and anxiety, learning to say "no," Jim shares practical strategies for taking an honest look at your priorities and building a simpler, more intentional life.

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Even when life is out of control, God is in control.

Author and comedian Ellen Skrmetti joins Shannon for a hilariously transparent and joyful conversation on her new book Cattywampus: A Southern Women's Guide to Laughing When Life Goes Sideways. Ellen and Shannon discuss the transition from child to caregiver of a parent and navigating new seasons of life with grace, curiosity and wonder, all while keeping God at the center.

Cattywampus releases November 3, 2026!

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How do we learn to quiet the noise in a world that's so loud?  Author and Lead Pastor of National Community Church, Mark Batterson 's new book "Not My Circus: Living with Courage, Conviction, and Compassion in a World of Chaos" provides spiritual and practical solutions to that question.

Pastor Mark emphasizes how the Lord invites us to find peace in Him, sharing three key principles to cultivate a non-anxious presence. Encouraging listeners, "don't lose heart, don't lose hope, don't lose faith in the end of the story."

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When Sarah McDaniel found herself in situations outside the life she planned for herself, she turned her grief into a journey of restoration, faith, and purpose. She introduces her new book, The Bright Side of the Other Side: Notes from a Soul Restored, detailing her path through unexpected heartbreak and how restoring an abandoned 1920s cottage served as a physical parallel to the rebuilding of her soul. 

Sarah discusses finding strength in life's darkest valleys, holding onto scripture through devastation, and learning how to trust God's plan when everything falls apart.

In this special episode of Livin' the Bream, co-host of FOX & Friends and host of The Brian Kilmeade Show on FOX News Radio, Brian Kilmeade, announces his new book, Uniting the States: Six Crucial Moments That Forged the American Miracle.

Brian highlights six crucial moments in history that united America. From John Adams defending British soldiers after the Boston Massacre to George Washington’s miraculous escape in Brooklyn, he explores how trial, law, and providence forged the "American miracle."

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New York Times bestselling author Stasi Eldredge introduces her new book, The Ladder of Love, A Pathway to Emotional Healing and Spiritual Intimacy with Jesus. Stasi invites readers to move beyond duty, obligation, and religious posturing into a deeper, experiential relationship with Jesus.

She shares practical guidance for finding quiet time with God, overcoming past pain, and experiencing true spiritual intimacy. 

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Theology isn't just for academics, and Lisa Harper is here to explain why!

Bestselling author and Bible teacher Lisa Harper introduces her new book, Theology for the Rest of Us: A User-Friendly Guide to Super Cool, Really Transformational Stuff about God and Why It Matters. She takes some of the most intimidating theological concepts and unpacks them into digestible, user-friendly truths that spark authentic intimacy with Jesus and help you navigate life’s biggest questions.

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Pastor, bestselling author, and revivalist Samuel Rodriguez analyzes key takeaways from his book, Goliath Never Wins: 5 Rock-Solid Strategies for Slaying Your Giants.

From rediscovering your identity to leading with integrity and innovation, Pastor Sam shares faith-driven advice to help you stop living in fear and step into your purpose. He reveals the daily routine that transformed his spiritual life and how handling adversity opened many doors. 

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"Miracles delayed do not mean miracles denied." - Dr. Robert Jeffress

First Baptist Church Senior pastor, Dr. Robert Jeffress dives into his new book, Divine Invasions: Experiencing God's Miracles in Your Life Today. He shares a joyful, biblically rich look at how heaven touches earth.

From divine protection to miraculous healing, Pastor Jeffress shares four ways God shows up and why a "no" or "wait" from the Lord might be the sweetest blessing of all.  

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As the nation marks 25 years since the September 11th terror attacks, Shannon sits down with Frank Siller, Chairman, CEO, and co-founder of the ‘Tunnel to Towers Foundation’.

Frank shares the emotional story behind his new book, ‘Let Us Do Good’, tracing the origins of the foundation back to the ultimate sacrifice made by his younger brother, firefighter Stephen Siller, on 9/11.

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Are anxiety and overthinking draining your peace? New York Times bestselling author Lysa TerKeurst shares how trying to fix others and control every outcome leads to total exhaustion. She introduces her new book, Making Peace with What I Can't Control, a great read for someone looking to unpack the roots of overthinking. Plus, Lysa highlights some practical, scriptural steps to surrender outcomes to God for lasting relief.

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Author of the new book, Freely Sober: Rethinking Alcohol Through the Lens of Faith, Ericka Andersen shares a candid, soulful heart-to-heart on breaking free from alcohol. She opens up about her own winding journey toward sobriety, gently unraveling the shame, legalism, and gray areas that so often keep people trapped in silent cycles.

Ericka illuminates how embracing honest vulnerability, family transparency, and God's unconditional grace offers a joyful path to true freedom.

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Can joy and pain truly coexist?

Author, speaker, and founder of the women's ministry Broken Crayons Still Color, Toni Collier opens up about single motherhood, divorce, and learning to embrace life’s toughest seasons. She shares how her international ministry helps women process deep struggles to find real, lasting hope.

Toni also dives into her podcast, Unshakable Moxie, where she interviews inspiring women, from Joni Eareckson Tada to Food Network stars, to explore how faith and true grit keep us moving forward.

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Author of The Digital Delusion, Jared Cooney Horvath discusses the negative impact of technology on children's learning and development. He weighs the advantages of banning smartphones in schools and highlights the positive results on student performance.

Jared explains why tech usage often fails to benefit students and shares practical ways teachers can drive progress, including the power of simple pen-and-paper methods.

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What happens when a custom t-shirt, an adorable yellow lab named Brando, and a simple leap of faith hit the pavement?

After losing his job during the COVID-19 pandemic, Author Mark Buckley took a chance on a dream and began walking the beach offering simple prayers, a friendly ear, and a little tail-wagging joy to total strangers.

Mark shares his inspiring book, Stories from the Strand: Do You Need Prayer?  He describes how he took bold steps to help others connect with their faith and some of the strangers he's shaped along the way. 

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In this special bonus edition of Livin' the Bream, podcast favorite Pastor Max Lucado shares insights from his book, Unbreakable Courage: Strong Faith in an Age of Anxiety, Chaos, and Exhaustion. He draws parallels between the biblical story of Elijah and modern struggles with anxiety, isolation, and burnout.

Pastor Lucado shares how life's challenges, trials, and "boot camps" serve as training grounds to build faith and deeper reliance on God.

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Bestselling author, speaker, and artist Ruth Chou Simons discusses her new book, This Moment Matters: 100 Ways to Cultivate a Grace-Laced Life. Ruth opens up about balancing a busy household of six sons, navigating seasons of family crisis, and reclaiming lost time from screen addiction and doomscrolling.

 Shannon and Ruth also share practical tips on incorporating scripture into daily routines, celebrating life’s small wins, and recognizing God’s presence beyond Sunday service. 

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As America keeps the 250th birthday party rolling, political consultant and author Kelley Paul stops by to share two delightful new books: Good Night, Little American and Good Night, Young American.

Think of them as the ultimate bedtime story upgrade! Kelley dives into\ how our littlest citizens can discover the story of how America came to be, reminding us that our rights come from God and celebrating the brave souls who protected them. 

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West Virginia Congressman Riley Moore discusses his ongoing efforts to protect global religious freedom and push for accountability in Nigeria.
And as a professional welder who took a non-traditional route into public service, he explains why more young Americans should consider trade schools over college debt and why he believes the H-1B visa program undercuts American workers. He also previews the upcoming legislative battles on Capitol Hill, sharing an inside look at his role on the House whip team working to secure a Continuing Resolution.

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Following a series of traumatic life events, husband and wife Rhonda and Jason Halbert didn’t know where to turn. To heal and find a way forward, they collaborated under the pen name R.J. Halbert to write a captivating supernatural fiction series, The Good Pasture Chronicles.

The Halberts sit down to discuss Architect, the final book in their trilogy, sharing how the creative process became a pathway to healing. They also open up about how God gave them the strength to fight through their toughest battles and rebuild their lives.

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FOX & Friends Weekend co-host Rachel Campos-Duffy shares her new book, All American Patriotism: Celebrating 250 Years of America’s Greatness. The book dives into personal, true stories of grit, hope, and what the American Dream truly means to them.

Rachel also reveals how Gen Z is reconnecting with faith as a massive spiritual resurgence stretches across the country.

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Michael Calvin and Rabbi Naftali Schiff discuss their powerful new book, Miracle: The Boys Who Escaped the Gas Chamber at Auschwitz. They share the extraordinary, true story of the October 1944 miracle, when a group of young boys was forced into an Auschwitz gas chamber, only to be miraculously spared at the last possible second when the doors suddenly reopened.

Michael and Rabbi Schiff share how their defiant resilience serves as a vital blueprint for confronting the terrifying modern resurgence of anti-Semitism. 

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Contemporary Christian vocal group Point of Grace, Shelley Breen, Denise Jones, and Leigh Cappillino, discuss their new album, Lady Wisdom, inspired by the Book of Proverbs. Drawing from motherhood, grief, and life experience, they describe the writing process and collaborating with new artists like Katy Nichole.

They also preview their upcoming cookbook, Food and Family, and Shelley (the group's designated chef) shares some foolproof, easy recipes. 

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Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter & best-selling author Anne Wilson introduces her newest book, Rebel: Following Jesus When the World Walks the Other Way, which recounts her journey as a Christian and country music artist. Anne shares how her faith was a source of strength following the tragic death of her brother and how she transformed her daily journaling into the hit song "My Jesus."

Anne also highlights her "Hey Girl Nation" initiative, a platform that provides a supportive community where young girls are reminded of their identity in Christ.

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Investigative journalist Billy Hallowell discusses his documentary series, Investigating the Supernatural: Angels and Demons. Billy explains how he balances faith with journalistic skepticism, using testimonies from theologians and psychiatrists to verify modern accounts of the supernatural.

He highlights stories of encounters ranging from UFO sightings to demonic activity, revealing that his studies of these chilling encounters have transformed his own faith and perspective on divine healing.

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Do you want better relationships?

Psychotherapist Jason VanRuler, author of Discovering Your Communication Type: The Five Paths to Deeper Connections and Stronger Relationships, overviews his five communication styles to transform how we connect.

The book is packed with practical advice on navigating conflicts, social awkwardness, and generational gaps, which Jason explains offer a roadmap to deeper empathy and vulnerability.

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Is your career merely a means to an end, or is it the space where you fulfill your purpose?

Chief Investment Officer of The Bahnsen Group and author of Full-Time: Work and the Meaning of Life, David Bahnsen explains the theological connection between worship and work. He describes why "vain ambition" differs from godly excellence and explores what it truly means to live a fruitful, purpose-driven life. 

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No matter the length, heartfelt cries can reach God’s throne and spark miracles.

Senior Pastor of Free Chapel, Jentezen Franklin, author of The Power of Short Prayers, reveals how short, simple messages to God can fuel great blessings. Jentezen also provides insight on how to break the barriers of prayer intimidation through heartfelt, scriptural dialogue. Exciting news! Livin' The Bream is officially a nominee for Podcast Impact at the K-LOVE Fan Awards. Vote HERE!

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What does it truly mean to prepare for Jesus' return?

International minister and co-founder of Messenger International, John Bevere introduces his new book, The King Is Coming: It's Time to Prepare for the Return of Christ, which guides Christians in preparation for the Second Coming of Jesus Christ. This book provides a practical roadmap for believers to transform their lives and deepen their intimacy with God.

John discusses his own shift toward recognizing the urgency of this message, informing readers that believing in the return of Christ is both a vital wake-up call and a sou...

"Everything He allows us to go through has a purpose." - Anne Graham Lotz

Preachers and best-selling authors Anne Graham Lotz and Rachel-Ruth Lotz Wright introduce their new book; God Won't Leave You There: Joseph's Story.

They reflect on their personal journeys of relying on God during dark seasons, offering a roadmap for choosing forgiveness and maintaining faith when life feels like it's falling apart.

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No matter how far you go, you're never out of God's reach.

Retired NASA Astronaut and United States Navy test pilot Butch Wilmore reveals the moment he realized he was stranded in orbit and how his faith kept him grounded. The veteran commander discusses his unexpected months-long stay on the International Space Station, an experience he details in his new book, Stuck in Space.

Butch shares technical insights into the Artemis II mission, the reality of "operational excellence," and how his trust in God provided peace when he wasn't sure he would return to Earth.

"The only work the Father asks of us is to believe." — Stephen McWhirter Worship leader and author of Radically Restored Stephen McWhirter shares his powerful journey from addiction to redemption. He reflects on how a strained relationship with his father sparked a life-changing encounter with God, transforming him into the worship leader and man he is today. Later, Stephen explains the transformative grace of God and the importance of finding one's identity in Christ, rather than in one's past or circumstances.

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Still Here. Still rooted in faith. Still in love.

Mary Beth and Steven Curtis Chapman share a transparent look into their 42-year marriage and the beautiful, refining process of growing and sharing a life together.

Highlighting their brand-new book, Still Here: Life Together on the Long Way Home, they emphasize that while they are total opposites, they continue to choose each other every single day. They share stories of faith, parenting, and why "bearing with one another in love" is always worth it.

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This Resurrection Sunday, Author and Pastor Dr. Jeremiah Johnston shares the profound story of the greatest overcomer, Jesus Christ. He providestheological evidence that Jesus was a real, approachable human who would become "the ultimate overcomer of sin and death."

Dr. Johnston describes the brutal cost Jesus willingly paid to redeem our sins and forge an everlasting relationship with us on earth. He highlights the depth of the biblical phrase "Shalom," emphasizing that even in our most impossible challenges, we can flourish because we surrounded by the "Prince of Peace."

Nothing Is Impossible with God is avai...

Author and Pastor Darren Tyler shares the powerful story of how God redirected his path, leading him to ministry. He reflects on how Moses's story in the Bible provided him with peace amid his discomfort with public speaking.

Pastor Darren explores Moses's story, highlighting how his courageous leadership and the miraculous way God works through those who are willing to answer His call on their lives.

Nothing Is Impossible with God is available NOW!

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"The antidote to self-doubt is not more self, but more God." - Lee Strobel

Investigative journalist and New York Times best-selling author of The Case for Christ Lee Strobel shares the story of Gideon in the Bible, a man who evolved from being fearful in the face of adversity to a mighty warrior through God's strength.

 Lee provides encouragement that when God calls people to seemingly impossible tasks, He provides the necessary equipment and strength to carry them through.

Shannon’s new FOX Book, Nothing Is Impossible with God! Order HERE

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Would you remain faithful in the face of temptation, luxury, and power?

Pastor Gary Hamrick shares the story of Daniel, a young Jewish exile whose faith was tested after being taken captive to Babylon. Though promised a new life of privilege, Daniel refused to compromise on his beliefs and remained devoted to the Lord.

Pastor Hamrick explains how Daniel’s unwavering integrity serves as a powerful example for believers, showing how to stand firm in faith despite societal pressures.

 Shannon’s new FOX Book, Nothing Is Impossible with God! Order HERE

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To be faithful is to consistently walk with God.

International minister, co-founder of Messenger International, and author of the new book, The King Is Coming, John Bevere shares the profound reality of what it looks like to walk with God through a century of drought and public ridicule.

He explains how Noah's story reminds us that preparing for the return of Christ is not about fear, but about the joy of a bride preparing for a long-awaited wedding.

 Something special is coming March 10th — Shannon’s new FOX Book, Nothing Is Impossible with God! Pre-O...

"When you get to the end of yourself, you get to the beginning of God." - Pastor Greg LauriePastor Greg Laurie explains how God can use even our most stubborn moments to lead us where He's called us to be.  Pastor Greg dives deep into the Book of Jonah, describing the prophet not just as a man fleeing a big fish, but as a reluctant prophet who had to overcome his own prejudices and comfort zone to deliver a message of mercy to his enemies.Something special is coming March 10th –Shannon’s new FOX Book, Nothing Is Impossible with God...