55:11 Podcast

In this episode of the 55:11 Podcast, Dirk Smith and Brooke Kehl sit down with Dasha Novikova, who shares powerful testimonies from people across Ukraine—stories of how one Bible, received in the midst of war, can bring hope, healing, and a renewed sense of faith.Dasha gives us a glimpse into what it's like to live through ongoing conflict, while also witnessing firsthand how God is moving in the local church through trauma-informed care and the strength of community.This conversation isn't just about war—it's about the power of God's presence in our lives, even when we can't see the way forward. If you've ever wondered how faith can survive in the toughest moments or how you can help, this episode will speak directly to your heart.Show Notes:Follow us on: PRAY.COMConnect with EEM:EEM WebsiteEEM FacebookEEM LinkedInEEM InstagramEEM Media

Life has a way of leading us through unexpected twists—some that break us and some that build us. In this episode of the 55:11 Podcast, host Brooke Kehl sits down with Tamika Rybinski, a writer, graphic artist, and missionary based in Vienna, Austria. Tamika's story is one of resilience, faith, and creativity.From surviving a life-changing car accident to navigating cancer and a stroke, Tamika's journey is marked by deep trust in God through every season. She shares how her love for art, storytelling, and missions led her to EEM, where she now designs book covers and creates Scripture-based coloring books that bring families closer to God's Word.This conversation is about finding meaning in the mess, seeing God's hand in every moment, and learning how even small acts of obedience can be part of His bigger plan. Whether you're walking through uncertainty, seeking purpose, or just love a good story of faith, this one's for you.Follow us on: PRAY.COMConnect with EEM:EEM WebsiteEEM FacebookEEM LinkedInEEM InstagramEEM Media

In this episode, Bart Rybinski joins us to look back on the challenges and victories of 2024. We talk about why trust and strong relationships matter, even when things get hard, and how unexpected partnerships have helped get Bibles into more hands.We also share stories about the impact of giving people access to Scripture and what it's been like working in places like Poland and Ukraine. We get honest about what it means to serve and why prayer, patience, and community make all the difference.Tune in for a down-to-earth chat about faith in action and how God keeps showing up in ways we never expected.Show Notes:Follow us on: PRAY.COMConnect with EEM:EEM WebsiteEEM FacebookEEM LinkedInEEM InstagramEEM Media

In this episode, we are joined by church leader, author, and cultural commentator Patrick Miller as we dive into what it means to embrace life as “joyful outsiders” in today's world. Patrick shares some amazing insights from his books with co-author Keith Simon, Truth Over Tribe and the upcoming Joyful Outsiders, and we discuss how to stay true to our faith while loving people across divides. It's an honest and encouraging conversation on finding unity, living counter-culturally, and showing Christ's love in practical ways. Tune in to learn more about how living with joy, radical generosity, and a reliance on the Holy Spirit can transform our communities and reflect Christ's love in a divided culture. Follow us on: PRAY.COM Show Notes: Follow us on: PRAY.COM Connect with EEM: EEM WebsiteEEM Facebook EEM LinkedIn EEM Instagram EEM Media  

In this episode of the 55:11 Podcast, Dirk Smith and Brooke Kehl are joined by Andy Corley, President and CEO of Prison Fellowship International (PFI), for another inspiring conversation on their success and challenges over the past year. Together, they discuss the life-changing work of ministering to prisoners and their families and the special focus on children with parents behind bars. Andy also shares the heart of PFI's global ministry–centered on worth, redemption, and the unique partnership between PFI and EEM to creatively share the gospel. With stories of God's faithfulness, fresh insights into preventative efforts, and a look toward what's ahead, this episode dives into how serving the vulnerable and marginalized beautifully reflects God's character. Tune in to hear how partnerships, prayer, and radical trust in God's provision are making an eternal impact—and be inspired to join in the mission of bringing hope and transformation to communities around the world. Follow us on: PRAY.COM

In this episode, we explore the impactful work of Open Doors USA, an organization dedicated to supporting the persecuted church worldwide. Despite facing severe persecution, the church in different regions continues to grow, offering a powerful testimony of faith. Ryan Brown, CEO of Open Doors USA, shares how their mission raises awareness, provides resources, and advocates for those risking their lives to follow Christ. He emphasizes the lessons American Christians can learn from the persecuted church and the importance of prioritizing a deep relationship with God. Watch to know more about how the global body of Christ is strengthened through the faith of those who face persecution daily. Follow us on: PRAY.COM Show Notes: Follow us on: PRAY.COM Connect with EEM: EEM WebsiteEEM Facebook EEM LinkedIn EEM Instagram EEM Media

In this episode, we explore the incredible work of Transform Iran, a group dedicated to bringing freedom and hope to the people of Iran. Despite strict government rules that make it illegal to leave Islam or own a Bible, the church in Iran is growing fast. Over a million Iranian Muslims have given their lives to Christ in the past 45 years. Lana Silk, from Transform Iran, shares how the ministry focuses on three main areas: spreading the Gospel, helping new believers grow in their faith, and bringing positive change to communities. She discusses the importance of sacrifice, trusting God, and the need for ongoing discipleship in our Christian lives.  Tune in to hear how the Gospel is transforming lives in one of the most oppressed nations in the world. Show Notes: Follow us on: PRAY.COM Connect with EEM: EEM WebsiteEEM Facebook EEM LinkedIn EEM Instagram EEM Media

In this episode, hosts Brooke Kehl and Dirk Smith are joined by three more EEM Regional Directors – Monty Tuttle, Jon Mark Smith, and Clyde H. Slimp to talk about the impactful stories from their recent trip to Hungary and Slovakia. The Region Directors discuss their visits with various EEM ministry partners and the powerful work being done in these regions. Hear a moving story of one woman's surprising reaction to discovering God's Word in her heart language for the first time. Listen to the heartwarming stories of Palanta, a puppet ministry bringing Bibles and the message of Jesus to Hungarian children. Learn about Hungarian Gypsy Missions International, which brings hope to the Romani community by providing Bibles in their native language. The guests also share their moving experience at a Roma church in Slovakia, where they witnessed the incredible impact of the Bible translated into the local dialect. Listen to the podcast to learn more about these incredible ministries and how you can pray for their ongoing work. Show Notes: Follow us on: PRAY.COM Connect with EEM: EEM WebsiteEEM Facebook EEM LinkedIn EEM Instagram EEM Media

In this episode, hosts Brooke Kehl and Dirk Smith, along with guests Jim Black, Lanny Tucker, and Darryl Willis, share impactful stories from their trip to Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan, highlighting the power of Bible distribution and unity among believers.  Hear about a former Soviet Air Force officer turned pastor and a gathering of church leaders in Kazakhstan sharing their experiences. They share inspiring stories of individuals who have overcome challenges and embraced their faith wholeheartedly amidst great adversity. The conversation emphasizes the boldness of Christians, the need for more Bibles, and the importance of unity.  Listen to the podcast to learn more about how you can support and pray for EEM and the nations of Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan. Show Notes: Follow us on: PRAY.COM Read the Kazakhstan report for more inspiring stories: https://www.eem.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/6.27.24Public-K2-Report.pdf  Connect with EEM: EEM WebsiteEEM Facebook EEM Twitter EEM Instagram EEM Media

Season Three, Episode Five: Hosts Dirk and Brooke visit with guest Dave Keesling about his work with PhilanthroCorp. Dave is the Founder and Executive Vice President of PhilanthroCorp, which partners with hundreds of churches, para-church, and Christian higher education ministries across America, encouraging their donors to consider estate planning from a Biblical worldview. He has been helping people all over the country develop estate plans from a Biblical perspective for over 30 years. Dave's relationship with the Lord grew through being the primary caregiver for his late wife Cindy and her 37-year battle with MS. Dave has three children with Cindy and seven grandchildren. He and his wife Marcia live in Woodland Park, CO. Dave has served on the Boards of Choices, the local crisis pregnancy center as well as NCCF. You can receive Dave's daily devotionals at www.lifeinrealtimeonline.com ——— Free Professional Estate Planning for the EEM Family  Since 1997, PhilanthroCorp has been helping Christian families consider issues of stewardship and estate planning from a Biblical worldview. PhilanthroCorp will help you discern the important relationships and resources you have and recommend the most effective tools to ensure your family is cared for and that you leave the legacy you desire. The process begins with a phone interview, during which PhilanthroCorp asks questions to learn your story, including your wishes and hopes for future generations. PhilanthroCorp then provides tools that can guide you to legacy decisions in the privacy of your home. Based on those decisions, PhilanthroCorp will design a plan that can be implemented by your advisors or by an attorney in their network at reduced rates. The services of PhilanthroCorp are free to you, and there is no obligation. Get started by calling Susan Wylie at PhilanthroCorp at 800-876-7958 ext. 2125 ---- Every story is a living example of Isaiah 55:11.  To learn how you can partner with us to provide God's Word, go to: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠EEM.ORG⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow us on: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠PRAY.COM

Season Three, Episode Four: Hosts Dirk and Brooke visit with guest Ivan Prokopchuk to discuss his orphan ministry (Usmishki) in Kyiv, Ukraine. Ivan and his family are long-time EEM ministry partners providing spiritual and material aid for orphans and at-risk youth. In this special episode, Ivan opens up about the reality of living on the frontlines of war, continuing in ministry, and how his priorities and life have been shaped through continued hope in and reliance on God.  Follow Usmishki on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/usmishki ---- Every story is a living example of Isaiah 55:11.  To learn how you can partner with us to provide God's Word, go to: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠EEM.ORG⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow us on: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠PRAY.COM

Season Three. Episode Three. Openness And Desire For God's Word. An Interview with return guest, Bart Rybinski. Hosts Dirk and Brooke visit with Bart Rybinski for an update on his work and ministry. Bart, EEM's VP of European Operations, became a Christian in 1995 and graduated soon after with a bachelor's degree in business management. After working in IT in Poland, he eventually went to Oklahoma Christian University, earned a bachelor's degree in biblical studies, and then a marketing and master's degree in ministry. After short-term missions and working on staff at a church, along with his wife and 3 kids, he now works in Vienna with adequate space for his operations to Europe. Every story is a living example of Isaiah 55:11.  To learn how you can partner with us to provide God's Word, go to: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠EEM.ORG⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow us on: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠PRAY.COM

Season Three. Episode Two. In this episode, hosts Dirk and Brooke talk with F. LaGard Smith about his extensive work as an author and The Daily Bible, an essential resource for EEM.  F. LaGard Smith was born in 1944 in Houston, Texas, thereafter living in Shawnee and Tulsa, Oklahoma, Lancaster, Texas, and Birmingham, Alabama, before heading off to college at Florida College, graduating from Willamette University with both an undergraduate and law degree. Smith was a District Attorney for Malheur County, Oregon for three years, served as an administrator for the Oregon State Bar in Portland for a year, then spent 27 years teaching at Pepperdine University School of Law in Malibu, California, focusing on Criminal Law, Criminal Procedure, Trial Practice, and Law and Morality. For five years, Smith was Scholar in Residence for Christian Studies at Lipscomb University in Nashville, Tennessee, then taught for two years at Liberty University School of Law and for four years at Faulkner University's Jones School of Law in Montgomery, Alabama, before retiring to write full time. Smith has written some 35 books--legal, social, doctrinal, and devotional. He is most widely known as the compiler and narrator of "The Daily Bible" (the NIV and NLT in chronological order). He and his wife Ruth live in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, and, for several months a year, at their cottage in the English Cotswolds, where he does much of his writing. Every story is a living example of Isaiah 55:11.  To learn how you can partner with us to provide God's Word, go to: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠EEM.ORG⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow us on: ⁠⁠⁠⁠PRAY.COM

Season Three. Episode One. In this episode, hosts Dirk and Brooke talk with Andy Corley about his work and new partnership with EEM.  Andy Corley is the CEO and president of PFI (Prison Fellowship International). Andy's work over the years has ranged from geology to commercial business to global mission work at PFI, serving now as CEO and president. EEM is grateful for the new partnership that now exists between the two ministries. To learn more about Andy's work, please visit: ⁠⁠⁠⁠pfi.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ Every story is a living example of Isaiah 55:11.  To learn how you can partner with us to provide God's Word, go to: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠EEM.ORG⁠⁠⁠ Follow us on: ⁠⁠⁠PRAY.COM

This is a quick update before Season 3 from Dirk and Brooke. Season 2 is also available in video format on EEM's YouTube channel Every story is a living example of Isaiah 55:11. To learn how you can partner with us, go to: EEM.ORG Follow us on: PRAY.COM

Season Two. Episode Nine. In this season's finale, hosts Dirk and Brooke talk with Masoud Ghorbani about his journey from Islam to Christianity.  Masoud and his family left Afghanistan in 2015 looking for a better life. Their journey led them through Iran, Turkey, and eventually into Greece. As a staunch Muslim, Masoud saw himself as a defender of Islam who must resist the gospel message but eventually made a dramatic shift and chose to follow Jesus. Today, Masoud, his wife Anahita, and their three children are faithfully serving God in Athens, Greece, and around the globe with his online ministries. Working with Diaspora Pathways, Masoud leads the Agape Church of Athens, serves as Co-leader of the Farsi Bible Institute, leads the Afghan Association of Christian Pastors, teaches in the Academy for Spiritual Formation, speaks at conferences, and works to equip disciples to reach Afghans for Christ in Afghanistan and around the world. To learn more about Masoud's ministry, please visit ⁠DiasporaPathways.org⁠ Every story is a living example of Isaiah 55:11.  To learn how you can partner with us to provide God's Word, go to: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠EEM.ORG⁠⁠ Follow us on: ⁠⁠PRAY.COM Season 3 coming soon!

Season Two. Episode Eight. From Russia With Love. Hosts Dirk and Brooke talk with Oleg Yakimenko about his gospel ministry in Russia and his ongoing work with EEM.  Oleg joined EEM in 2013 as the National Coordinator for Russia and Belarus. Now, Oleg coordinates the EEM work in Russia and the countries of Central Asia and Transcaucasia. He has Master's degrees in Teaching and Translation of English and German Languages and in New Testament Theology. Oleg obeyed the Gospel in 1993 and is passionate about spreading God's Word. In 1997, Oleg moved from Eastern Ukraine to Russia and worked as an Evangelist with the local church of Christ in St. Petersburg. Oleg is married to his wife Natasha, and they have two adult sons and two grandchildren. Learn more about Oleg's ministry. Every story is a living example of Isaiah 55:11.  To learn how you can partner with us to provide God's Word, go to: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠EEM.ORG⁠ Follow us on: ⁠PRAY.COM⁠

Season Two. Episode Seven. Mission For Macedonian Revival. Hosts Dirk and Brooke reconnect with Nikola Galevski after meeting him recently on an EEM trip to North Macedonia.  Nikola Galevski was born and raised in Skopje, Macedonia. Coming from a traditional Orthodox family, his faith was ignited in his youth through the witness of the local Evangelical Church in Skopje and with a special gift of God's Word. These events in his life inspired a life-long mission to share God's love with as many as possible. After finishing a BA in Art History and Archaeology, together with his wife Anet (who died from cancer in 2021), they both pursued master theological and ministry preparation studies at Regent College in Vancouver, Canada, under the mentorship of Dr. Gordon Fee and Dr. Rikki E. Watts. Upon graduation, Anet and Nikola returned to Macedonia in 2005 to lead the Macedonian IFES/IVCF, start their second church plant, and initiate numerous evangelistic, outreach, educational, publishing, and music projects. Nikola and Anet have one daughter, Giselle-Maria Galevska. Apart from being a pastor of Evangelical Church Soulcraft, Nikola Galevski is a university evangelist, and lecturer in biblical studies, preaching, mission, and visual arts in North Macedonia and internationally. His utmost desire is to wholeheartedly love God and love people.  Learn more about Nikola from ⁠⁠scholarleaders.org⁠⁠. Every story is a living example of Isaiah 55:11.  To learn how you can partner with us to provide God's Word, go to: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠EEM.ORG Follow us on: PRAY.COM

Season Two. Episode Six. This episode was recorded on location in Athens, Greece. Hosts Dirk and Brooke traveled abroad with EEM (May 2023) for 13 days, visiting 5 countries. In this episode, they sat down with Matt Gulley of Diaspora Pathways. Matt's Bio (TBD)  To learn about Matt's work in Athens, go to: Diaspora Pathways Every story is a living example of Isaiah 55:11.   To learn how you can partner with us, go to: ⁠EEM.ORG

Season Two. Episode Five. This episode was recorded on location, in Vienna, Austria. Hosts Dirk and Brooke traveled abroad with EEM (May 2023) for 13 days, visiting 5 countries. In this episode, they sat down again with Dasha Novikova to get further Ukraine Updates. Dasha joined EEM in 2011 as the National Coordinator for Ukraine and now serves as EEM's National Director in Ukraine. Every story is a living example of Isaiah 55:11.  To learn how you can partner with us, go to: EEM.ORG

Season Two. Episode Four. Gospel For Millions In Greece. Hosts Dirk and Brooke talk with Johnathan Macris. Johnathan Macris is president of Hellenic Ministries (formerly Hellenic Missionary Union) and the oldest child of well-known Greek evangelical missionaries, Costas and Alky Macris. Johnathan graduated from Moody Bible Institute in 1985 and then returned to Greece to serve his mandatory year in the Greek Army. He and his wife, Miriam, married in 1987 and have five children: Justin, Natassa, Kyle, Karsten and Jorryn. Johnathan eventually went on to complete ministerial studies and was ordained as a minister of the Gospel in 1994 through the Wheaton Bible Church. Since the beginning of Hellenic Ministries in 1980, Johnathan has been vitally involved in the mission's emphasis of evangelism and church planting, discipleship and missions. In his leadership capacity, over the years, his responsibilities have included Personnel Manager, Summer Evangelistic Campaign Director/Coordinator, Member of both Greek and American Boards and de facto Administrator of the daily affairs of the Mission. He assumed the Boards designation of president in 2001. While the burden for Evangelism and Discipleship continues to mark Hellenic Ministries' priorities, Johnathan is emphasizing the need for the ministry to fulfill its role and call to raise up, equip and send Greek workers into the harvest field of world missions. For more information about Johnathan or Hellenic Ministries, please visit its website: hellenicministries.org Every story is a living example of Isaiah 55:11.   To learn how you can partner with us, go to: ⁠⁠⁠EEM.ORG

Season Two. Episode Three. Global Aid, Unity, And Hope. An Interview with Bart Robinski. Hosts Dirk, Payton, and Brooke visit with Bart Robinski, EEM's VP for European Operations. Bart became a Christian in 1995 and graduated soon after with a bachelor's degree in business management. After working in IT in Poland, he eventually went to Oklahoma Christian University, earned a bachelor's degree in biblical studies, and then a marketing and master's degree in ministry. After short-term missions and working on staff at a church, along with his wife and 3 kids, he now works in Vienna with adequate space for his operations to Europe. We hope you are inspired by this episode. Every story is a living example of Isaiah 55:11.   To learn how you can partner with us, go to: ⁠⁠EEM.ORG⁠⁠

Season Two. Episode Two. Bible Printing, Publishing, And Smuggling! An Interview with Scott Hayes. Hosts Dirk, Payton, and Brooke visit with Scott Hayes, EEM's Publishing Director. He is EEM's longest-serving team member - 38 years! Living in Vienna, Scott has many memories over the years involving bible printing, publishing, and even bible smuggling. We hope you are inspired by this episode. Every story is a living example of Isaiah 55:11.   To learn how you can partner with us, go to: ⁠EEM.ORG⁠ 

Season Two. Episode One. Open Doors In Croatia. Hosts Dirk, Payton, and Brooke visit with Jura Lazar, EEM's regional director for Central Europe. Jura is on the front lines. He is involved in widespread efforts in Central Europe that are opening doors for sharing the Bible. Also in this conversation: Jura's background in Croatia, family, work, passion, conversion story, and hope for the future in Central Europe. We hope you are inspired by this episode. Every story is a living example of Isaiah 55:11. To learn how you can partner with us, go to: EEM.ORG

This is a quick update before Season 2, dropping on March 7th, 2023. Dirk, Brooke, and Payton discuss the changes in the format for the podcast: the new focal points, the episode rhythm, and some special plans abroad. Season 2 will also include a video version available on EEM's YouTube channel. Every story is a living example of Isaiah 55:11. To learn how you can partner with us, go to: EEM.ORG Thanks for listening!

Episode Ten. A Conversation With Dasha Novikova - Ukraine Updates: Hope on the Frontlines of War . Hosts Dirk, Payton, and Brooke visit with Dasha about the War in Ukraine. Every story is a living example of Isaiah 55:11.  To learn how you can partner with us, go to: EEM.ORG As a reminder, the show will return after a brief hiatus in several months. So make sure to add/follow/subscribe to our podcast wherever you listen. If you add the show, it will be in your library. That way, whenever something new drops, it'll automatically populate in your feed. Thanks for listening!

Episode Nine. Macedonian Children Bibles. Hosts Dirk, Payton, and Brooke share a story, scripture, and challenge. Every story is a living example of Isaiah 55:11. To learn how you can partner with us, go to: EEM.ORG

Episode Eight. Habits of Humility. Hosts Dirk, Payton, and Brooke share a story, scripture, and challenge. Every story is a living example of Isaiah 55:11. To learn how you can partner with us, go to: EEM.ORG

Episode Seven. A Boat, A Refugee, And His Boy. Hosts Dirk, Payton, and Brooke share a story, scripture, and challenge. Every story is a living example of Isaiah 55:11. To learn how you can partner with us, go to: EEM.ORG

Episode Six. A Wounded Soul Clings To Jesus. Hosts Dirk, Payton, and Brooke share a story, scripture, and challenge. Every story is a living example of Isaiah 55:11. To learn how you can partner with us, go to: EEM.ORG

Episode Five. Bibles in Public Schools Hosts Dirk, Payton, and Brooke share a story, scripture, and challenge. Every story is a living example of Isaiah 55:11. To learn how you can partner with us, go to: EEM.ORG

Episode Four. Ukraine, Soup, and the Holy Spirit. Hosts Dirk, Payton, and Brooke share a story, scripture, and challenge. Every story is a living example of Isaiah 55:11. To learn how you can partner with us, go to: EEM.ORG

Episode Three. Middle East Refugees…All In Disciples! Hosts Dirk, Payton, and Brooke share a story, scripture, and challenge. Every story is a living example of Isaiah 55:11. To learn how you can partner with us, go to: EEM.ORG

Episode Two. The Mayor and a Children's Bible. Hosts Dirk, Payton, and Brooke share a story, scripture, and challenge. Every story is a living example of Isaiah 55:11. To learn how you can partner with us, go to: EEM.ORG

Episode One. The Train. Hosts Dirk, Payton, and Brooke share a story, scripture, and challenge. Every story is a living example of Isaiah 55:11. To learn how you can partner with us, go to: EEM.ORG

Welcome to 55:11, where every story is a living example of Isaiah 55:11. Hosts Dirk Smith, Payton Armstrong, and Brooke Kehl share inspiring stories of God's power globally in the lives of ordinary people.  This podcast is supported by EEM. EEM publishes, prints and distributes Bibles and Bible based materials in 30+ nations in 20+ languages. The podcast drops July 12, 2022. To learn how you can partner with us, go to: EEM.ORG