Experience Emerge (ExEm)
Experience Emerge (ExEm) with musician-turned-mental health therapist, Matthew Knabe, MA, LPCC-S (cuh-nay-bee), uncovers the various ways people find rest and live free amidst the crazy challenges life brings. With a zoned-in focus, Matthew carefully probes into the broken places of people’s lives, bringing the listener into the experience, all the while adding life tools and insights. ExEm is a conversational resource of emerge.org, a global faith-based counseling organization.
Thinking Clearly and Breaking Free from Negative Thoughts: Dr. David Pendergrass
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Life is hard, relationships are complicated, and our past experiences can shape how we see ourselves and the world around us. But what happens when we spend more time talking about our problems than actually working toward healing?
In this episode, we sit down with Dr. David Pendergrass—pastor, author, biblical scholar, counselor, and leadership consultant—to explore the power of our thoughts, the impact of stress and trauma, and why asking for help can be one of the most courageous steps we take.
Together, we discuss how...
Beauty From The Ashes: Rising Above the Loss of A Loved One to Suicide: Shonda McBride
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Losing a loved one to suicide brings a unique kind of grief—filled with unanswered questions, confusion, heartache, and the difficult journey toward healing.
In this deeply personal episode of the Experience Emerge Podcast, Shonda McBride courageously shares her family's story of loss and how her faith has sustained her through unimaginable pain. We discuss her recently published book, the importance of community and support, and how God can meet us in the darkest moments of our lives.
While some wounds may never fully heal, Shonda's story is a po...
Getting Below the Surface with Men: Seth Day MA, LPC
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What does it mean to be a man in today’s world? Between the demands of marriage, fatherhood, ministry, and everyday life, men often find themselves navigating expectations, responsibilities, and relationships without a clear roadmap.
In this episode of the Experience Emerge (ExEm) Podcast, our host Matthew Knabe welcomes Emerge counselor Seth Day, MA, LPC, for an honest and insightful conversation about the unique challenges men face. Together, they explore the complexities of relationships, the importance of personal growth, and what it looks like to become better husbands, fathers, leaders, and me...
Her Trauma's Heavy, But She is "Held by Faith:" Wendy Rollin
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In this prolific episode of the ExEm Podcast, we are honored to welcome Wendy Rollin, a fellow podcaster and author. Wendy shares her remarkable journey of overcoming significant life challenges while maintaining her unwavering faith and finding solace in the Lord.
Her testimony serves as an inspiring example of resilience, strength, and hope for individuals navigating through difficult times. While we all encounter trials in life, Wendy’s experience serves as a poignant reminder that faith can provide us with an indomitable strength.
Please note: While the co...
Pastoral Care: Pastor Don Miller
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In this episode of the Experience Emerge Podcast, recorded live at a ministry convention in Orlando, we sit down with Pastor Don Miller, Superintendent of the Southern Missouri District of the Assemblies of God, for an honest conversation about the unique challenges of pastoral ministry.
This conversation explores what it means to care well for those who spend their lives caring for others. From maintaining healthy priorities and protecting family relationships to avoiding the trap of allowing ministry work to replace a personal relationship with God, Pastor Don offers practical wisdom...
We're All "Working" On It: Jeremy Pietrocini
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Is work simply a necessary burden, or is it something much more? In this episode, we sit down with Jeremy Pietrocini from RECREATE to explore God’s design for work and why it matters more than we often realize.
Many people view work as a consequence of the Fall, but Scripture tells a different story. Before sin entered the world, God gave humanity meaningful work in the Garden of Eden. Work was part of His original design—an opportunity to create, cultivate, steward, and partner with Him in brin...
A Therapist’s Insight on Healthy Parenting: Alexa Riemenschneider, MAEd, LPC
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Parenting is one of the most meaningful — and challenging — responsibilities we will ever have. In this episode, Alexa Riemenschneider joins us for an honest and practical conversation from a therapist’s perspective on raising healthy, connected kids in today’s world.
Together, we explore how parents can improve communication, strengthen emotional connection, and approach discipline in a way that guides rather than controls. Alexa shares insight into balancing emotional and logical parenting, helping children develop responsibility and resilience while maintaining trust and safety within the relationship.
This episode also tackles...
Still Faithful Through Grief, Loss, and God’s Grace: Samantha Vitarella’s Story
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Samantha Vitarella joins the podcast to share a deeply personal story of loss, redemption, grief, faith, and the sustaining grace of God through unimaginable hardship. From growing up in a broken home marked by abuse and alcoholism, to becoming a teenage mother, Samantha opens up about the moments that shaped her life and ultimately drew her back to Christ.
In this powerful conversation, Samantha reflects on losing her father at a young age, navigating years away from God, the heartbreak of miscarriage and medical trauma with her children, the devastating loss...
Parenting Prodigals: Lori Ross
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What happens when your child grows up and begins to walk a different path than the one you hoped for?
In this deeply honest and needed conversation, we sit down with Lori Ross to talk about the reality of parenting prodigals—especially adult children. It’s a journey marked by love, grief, questions, and often… silence. Because the truth is, there aren’t many spaces where parents can openly talk about this season without shame or fear of being misunderstood.
Together, we explore the weight parents carry:
– The fear of “w...
How Do We Define Success: Rev. Christan Causey
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In this episode, we sit down with Rev. Christan Causey, an ordained minister and Director of Minister Health for the Southern New England Ministry Network. With a heart for soul care and a deep commitment to helping others live from a place of wholeness, Christan brings a unique blend of pastoral wisdom, counseling insight, and practical ministry experience.
Holding a Master’s degree in Human Services Counseling with a concentration in Marriage and Family Ministry, she is passionate about walking alongside ministry leaders as they navigate the emotional and spiritual demands of...
Grief and How It Affects Those Leading the Church: Pastor Rusty Richards
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Grief is a universal part of the human experience, yet it’s something many of us feel unprepared to face. Loss touches every life, and navigating the emotions that come with it can be one of the most challenging journeys we walk.
In this episode, we explore the reality of grief—how it affects us personally, spiritually, and within our communities. We also take a closer look at the unique role pastors play as they walk alongside others through seasons of loss while often carrying their own burdens at the same time...
From Chaos to Calling: Lawton Outlaw’s Journey to Peace and Purpose
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In this powerful episode, we sit down with graphic designer and skateboard ministry leader Lawton Outlaw for an honest conversation about struggle, surrender, and redemption.
Lawton shares his journey through personal battles, internal chaos, and the search for identity—opening up about the moments that nearly defined him and the faith that ultimately transformed him. What began as pain and uncertainty became a calling rooted in Christ.
Today, Lawton is channeling his creativity and passion into meaningful work with kids in skate parks in Texas, meeting them where they ar...
More or Less Medication for Kids? With Dr. Denny King
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In this important and nuanced conversation, we sit down with Dr. Denny King to tackle a question many parents, pastors, and Christian leaders are quietly wrestling with: When is too much medication a thing for kids… and when is too little actually the greater risk?
From ADHD and anxiety to mood struggles and behavioral concerns, medication in children can feel confusing, emotional, and even spiritual. Are we over-medicating? Are we under-treating? Is taking medication a lack of faith — or could it be wise stewardship of the mind and body God has entr...
Mental Health Ministry: The Struggle is Real with Dr. Jared Pingleton
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On this episode of the ExEm Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Jared Pingleton to talk about his latest book, Mental Health Ministry: The Struggle Is Real. Dr. Pingleton brings a refreshing, honest voice to the conversation around mental health and faith—naming the real struggles people face while offering practical wisdom for churches, leaders, and individuals who want to respond with compassion and clarity.
Together, we explore why mental health can no longer be ignored in ministry, how the Church can become a safer place for ho...
Living a Linked Life: The Power of Generativity with Dr. Robert Crosby
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Season seven of the ExEm Podcast launches with a powerful and timely conversation. In Episode 121, we're joined by the President of Emerge, Dr. Crosby, as we explore the idea of Generational Generativity—what it means to intentionally live as a catalyst for healing, growth, and legacy across generations. Together, we talk about breaking unhealthy generational chains, choosing to give generously—emotionally, spiritually, and relationally—to the generation coming behind us, and resisting the temptation to live only for ourselves. We also reflect on the humility required to remain teachable, honoring and learning from those...
Everyone Needs a Counselor, Coach and Consultant: Pastor Jeremy Godwin
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In this episode, we explore a powerful and practical truth: everyone needs a counselor, a coach, and a consultant. Whether you’re leading in ministry, business, or family life, no one thrives in isolation—and wisdom multiplies when we invite the right voices into our lives.
Our guest is Pastor Jeremy Godwin, COO of Builders International, who brings a unique blend of pastoral insight, executive leadership, and global ministry experience. Jeremy helps unpack the distinct roles of counseling, coaching, and consulting—why each matters, how they differ, and wh...
God and Trauma: Author Samantha Jones
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In this powerful episode of the ExEm Podcast, Matthew sits down with author Samantha Jones to talk about her deeply moving book, God and Trauma: The Lessons I’m Learning. Samantha is a wife, mom, and survivor of significant past trauma — and she’s courageously opening the pages of her healing journey for others to find hope.
Together, we explore how God meets us in the darkest valleys, the slow and sacred work of restoration, and the practical lessons Samantha is learning as she continues to walk with Jesus throug...
Fostering Hope: Paris Yanno
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In this episode, we "Zoom" in with Paris Yanno is the Father's Heart Director at the Ohio Church Multiplication Network. She is a wife, mom of three biological children, and a woman whose heart grew far beyond the walls of her own home. Paris and her husband felt called to open their lives to children in crisis, choosing to foster for an entire decade. Over those ten years, they welcomed numerous displaced kids—each with their own story, their own struggles, and their own need for a safe place to land.
Par...
Freedom from Sexual Sin: Joshua Rowland
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(This episode may not be appropriate for younger listeners)
In this episode, Matthew Knabe sits down with Joshua Rowland from Pure Life Ministries to have an open and redemptive conversation about breaking free from the grip of sexual sin. Joshua shares his powerful story of healing and restoration after years of personal struggle, and how God’s transforming grace led him to freedom and a life of purpose.
Together, they discuss how sexual sin takes root, how shame and secrecy ca...
A Caring Life: Missions, Adversity, & God’s Faithfulness: Dr. Aaron Santymire
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In this episode of the ExEm Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Aaron Santymire, missionary, author, and current Member Care Director for AG World Missions. Dr. Santymire shares his powerful story of life on the mission field: the incredible ways he’s seen God move across nations, as well as the deep challenges and personal adversities that come with serving in cross-cultural ministry.
As the author of The Caring Life and The Caring Family, and host of The Clarity Podcast, Aaron brings a...
Scrupulosity & Feeling Uncertain About Salvation: Pastor Austin McCann
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In this episode, our host has a thoughtful conversation with Pastor Austin McCann about the diverse ways people encounter Christ and begin their faith journey. While some stories of salvation seem simple and clear, others are marked by struggle, questions, and even deep anxiety. Pastor Austin helps us unpack the reality that there is no single blueprint for coming to faith—God works uniquely in every heart.
A significant part of the discussion centers on scrupulosity, a form of religious anxiety often tied to OCD-type thinking, where individuals become ov...
It’s All About Rest & Laughs: Pastor Jason Burns
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What do you get when you run into a great friend at a convention in Orlando? A whole lot of laughs, a few life lessons, and one very traumatized mother-in-law. In this episode, our host sits down with Pastor Jason Burns to catch up on their friendship, hear about his annual Christmas tradition of tormenting his mother-in-law with outrageous gifts, and dive into something we all desperately need—rest. With a mix of humor, honesty, and heart, Jason reminds us that joy and Sabbath go hand in hand and that friendship makes the jo...
Identity: Dr. Darla Rakes
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Who are we, really? In a world full of labels, expectations, and shifting definitions of self, it’s easy to lose sight of our true identity. In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Darla Rakes, a leader, educator, and woman of deep faith, to talk about what it means to anchor our identity in Christ. Together, we explore why our sense of self apart from Him will always feel incomplete, how faith gives us clarity and purpose, and why knowing who we are in Christ brings freedom from comparison and striving. Dr. Ra...
Emotional Regulation: Tera Wages
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In this episode of the Experience Emerge podcast, we converse with Tera Wages, CEO of The Connection Codes, to explore the art of emotional regulation—what it is, why it matters, and how it can transform your relationships and daily life. Tera shares practical tools from The Connection Codes framework to help you identify, name, and process emotions in real time so they don’t spiral into conflict, burnout, or shutdown. Whether you tend to bottle up your feelings or wear them on your sleeve, this conversation will give you a clear, compassionate path...
The Mosaic Marriage: How Two Imperfect People Become One Masterpiece: Dr. Troy & Jana Jones
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In this powerful episode of the ExEm Podcast, we welcome husband and wife duo Dr. Troy and Jana Jones, authors of The Mosaic Marriage: How Two Imperfect People Become One Masterpiece. Together, they share candid insights from their own journey—filled with broken pieces, grace, and redemption—and how God shaped their imperfections into something beautiful. With wisdom, vulnerability, and practical guidance, the Joneses reveal how couples can move from surviving to thriving by embracing their differences, communicating with compassion, and keeping Christ at the center. Whether you’re newlyweds or navigating decades togeth...
Marriage & The Gospel: Tony Galieti
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In this episode of the ExEm Podcast, host Matthew Knabe sits down with guest Tony Galieti to discuss the profound connection between marriage and the gospel. Drawing from biblical wisdom and decades of pastoral and relational experience, Tony shares powerful insights on what makes a marriage thrive, not just survive. We explore the purpose of marriage through a gospel lens, examining how grace and humility shape our relationships and the practical considerations couples need to be mindful of to build a strong, lasting union. Whether you’re single, engaged, ne...
Burnout vs. Compassion Fatigue: Laura Howe
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In this powerful episode of the Experience Emerge (ExEm) podcast, our host, Matthew, sits down with Laura Howe, a Canadian mental health therapist and founder of Hope Made Strong. Based in Ontario, Laura is a passionate advocate for equipping churches and ministry leaders with practical tools to care for their communities, without burning out in the process.
We delve into the crucial—but often misunderstood—differences between burnout and compassion fatigue, particularly for those working in high-stress, high-empathy roles such as counseling, ministry, and caregiving. Laura explains how these two forms of e...
Authentic Leadership: Dan Owolabi
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In this episode of the ExEm Podcast, we’re joined by special guest Dan Owolabi—author, speaker, and passionate advocate for authentic leadership. Dan dives into the heart of what it means to lead with integrity, purpose, and faith in today’s world. Drawing from his impactful book, "Authentic Leadership," available now on Amazon, Dan shares practical insights on how leaders can move beyond titles and techniques to embody the kind of leadership that transforms lives and organizations from the inside out. Throughout the conversation, Dan opens up about his personal journey of faith...
Mental Health Minute: Calm Parenting Tips
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In this brief but impactful Mental Health Minute, Matthew Knabe, MA, LPCC, host of the Experience Emerge (ExEm) Podcast, shares practical insight on calm parenting. Learn how to respond—not react—in challenging moments, build emotional safety with your children, and model regulation that helps the whole family thrive. Parenting isn’t about perfection—it’s about presence. A healthier kid starts at home.
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Email the show: [email protected]Emerg...Leadership Intimacy: Dr. Robert Crosby
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Leadership Intimacy: Cultivating Depth in Your Life with Dr. Robert Crosby
In this episode, Dr. Robert Crosby continues the conversation in a leadership series we have been releasing every couple of months. Today's discussion is on Leadership Intimacy—Cultivating Depth in Your Life. The call to lead is not just with vision but with vulnerability, depth, and spiritual rootedness.
Dr. Crosby unpacks how true leadership begins in the secret place—with intimacy with God—and how that connection overflows into our relationships, teams, and daily decisions. Together, we exp...
Helping Men Find Healthy Community: Pastor Austin McCann
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In this episode, we’re joined by Pastor Austin McCann from Redemption Chapel for a powerful conversation on the importance of men finding authentic communities with other men. Pastor Austin shares personal insights and biblical wisdom on why brotherhood matters, how isolation can be dangerous, and what it looks like to pursue real, life-giving relationships as men of faith.
We also discuss the upcoming Men’s Conference at Redemption Chapel later this month, designed to help men grow stronger in their walk with Christ and deeper in their connection with...
The Two-Sided Coin of Pride: Jacob Galligan, MEd, LPC
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“The Two-Sided Coin of Pride”
In this episode, we sit down with Jacob Galligan, MEd, LPC, as he shares his journey into the world of counseling and the personal struggles that have shaped his faith. Jacob opens up about the challenges he has faced within the church, navigating seasons of doubt, and how his experiences have tested and strengthened his relationship with God.
We also dive deep into the two-sided coin of pride and self-deprecation—how both extremes can trap us, distort our identi...
The Teaming Life: Dr. Robert Crosby
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In this episode, we engage in an in-depth conversation with esteemed author Dr. Robert Crosby. Through his book, "The Teaming Church: Ministry in the Age of Collaboration," Dr. Crosby illuminates the profound concept of living a teaming life characterized by collaboration, honor, and unity. He shares practical strategies for cultivating honor circles around individuals, fostering deeper connections and enhancing team dynamics. Moreover, we explore the profound example of perfect teamwork exhibited within the Trinity, shedding light on its relevance to churches, ministries, and our lives. Whether you are a professional, ministry leader, or...
Doing Life Together: Jason Rice
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In this heartfelt episode, We sit down with one of Matt's best friends of over 30 years, Jason Rice, to discuss the incredible journey of friendship, mentoring, and doing life together. From navigating life's toughest challenges to celebrating its greatest victories, we share how staying grounded in God's Word daily and holding each other accountable has been the foundation of our relationship. Join us as we reflect on the joys, struggles, and lessons learned through decades of friendship and discover the power of faith and genuine connection in enduring life's stressors.
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Founder of Auntie Anne's Pretzels, From Trauma to Triumph: Anne Beiler
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In this powerful episode, we sit down with Anne Beiler, the inspiring founder of Auntie Anne's Pretzels. Anne opens up about her journey through unimaginable hardships, including personal trauma and deep struggles that could have shattered her faith and family. Instead, she found strength in her relationship with God and emerged stronger, building a thriving business and a healthy and enduring marriage. Anne's story is a testament to resilience, redemption, and the power of faith to transform even the darkest seasons of life. Tune in for a conversation that will encourage and inspire...
100th Episode!!! Wisdom for Leaders, Pastors & Difference-Makers: Pastor Dino Rizzo
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In this landmark 100th episode, we celebrate 100 impactful conversations with an extraordinary guest: Pastor Dino Rizzo! Dino is the director of ARC Churches, a passionate leader equipping churches worldwide, an author, a devoted husband and father, and the pastor of Church of the Highlands in Birmingham, Alabama.
Join us as Pastor Dino shares his incredible faith, leadership, and service journey. From practical insights for church growth to inspiring stories of outreach and compassion, this episode is packed with wisdom and encouragement for leaders, pastors, and anyone passionate about making a difference.<...
Navigating the Political Climate as Christians: Pastor Rob Ketterling
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In this episode, we are honored to welcome Pastor Rob Ketterling to the show. As our world grows increasingly divided, many believers grapple with how to engage with the political climate while staying true to their faith. Pastor Ketterling brings his wisdom and experience to this timely conversation, offering biblical perspectives on how Christians can navigate political tension, remain grounded in their values, and be a light in these challenging times. Tune in as we discuss the balance between faith and politics, how to foster unity in a divided world, and the church's...
The Leadership Squeeze - Navigating the Middle-Earth of Ministry: Dr. Robert Crosby
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We dive deep into leadership challenges in the Christian community with Emerge’s President/CEO, Dr. Robert Crosby, a seasoned pastor, author, and leadership expert. Our conversation explores unique pressures faced by Christian leaders today—the “leadership squeeze”—from balancing personal faith with public responsibilities to managing expectations within their congregations and communities.
Dr. Crosby shares his insights on how Christian leaders can navigate these challenges while staying true to their calling. We discuss strategies for maintaining spiritual health, fostering authentic relationships, and leading purposefully in an increasingly complex world. Whether you’re a p...
How To Have Care and Not Concern: Kemp Boyd
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We sit down with Kemp Boyd, the dynamic Executive Director of Love Akron, a nonprofit organization with a mission to bring unity to the city of Akron, Ohio, and beyond. Kemp shares his passion for creating meaningful connections across diverse communities, breaking down barriers, and bringing people together through the Gospel’s transformative power. Discover the story behind Love Akron, its impact on the city, and Kemp’s vision for a unified community rooted in love, compassion, and faith. Join us for an inspiring conversation about the power of togetherness, service, and living out...
A Secret You Would Never Have Believed: Vaughn Fink
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In this powerful episode of ExEm, Our guest Vaughn Fink takes us deeper into his journey through trauma and adversity, revealing a family secret that you won’t believe. After years of enduring pain and hardship, Vaughn discovered a truth about his family that shook him to his core—something hidden away for decades, only coming to light after the passing of his father. Join Vaughn as he shares the shocking details of this revelation, the impact it had on his faith, and how he found the strength to move forward. This is a st...
