Afternoons With Mike PODCAST

He is heard daily on The Shepherd on "Freedom's Call." Mat Staver leads The Liberty Counsel, a law firm devoted to protecting our nation's religious freedom and liberties. Mike sits down with Mat at the NRB to discuss the current climate in the US - plus interviews with Pray.com's Zak Shellabarger, Fred Pry (Child Evangelism Fellowship), and Sean Teis from "God is My Dad."

It might strike the average believer as a different title, but "UFOs and God" is a documentary coming to a screen near you. Director and screenwriters Wes and Amanda Llewellyn tell the background and setup to this new film, part of which was screened at the NRB. Plus, interviews with Judy Isaacson Elias, founder of "Heroes to Heroes," and John Ensor, President of "PassionLife."

You simply can't be around Barry Maguiar without being affected by his positive and loving personality. He became a successful businessman with his famous car wax...but his passion is the Gospel of Jesus. Plus, NRB interviews with EJ Kimball, a leader with CAM - Combat Antisemitism Movement, and also Brent Vawter from CBMC.

Recorded in Dallas at the NRB, Mike welcomes Max McLean, one of the nation's leading voice actors. Max's voice has been on five versions of the Bible, plus as a touring one-man show based on the life of C.S. Lewis. Also, a visit with Dr. Ingrid Skop with the Charlotte Lozier Institute, and Lindsay Swindle from Project KEEP.

Mike talks with an entrepreneur that moved to Nashville for country music as artist - Gigi Butler toured with the stars, but used her baking skills in a unique way. Also, a talk with Medishare's Dr. Ian Day, ad a return visit with Debbie Wuthnow from iVoterGuide.com.

An interesting collection of guests from varied media interests - that is the NRB for 2025, and today Mike interviews Brad Dacus, girl's dance leader Mary Bawden, and Jeff King.

Mike welcomes back radio host and commentator Todd Coconato, as well as the leader of the Trail Life scouting organization, Mark Hancock.

From the Press Center at the largest Christian media gathering in the world, Mike interviews Brian Sanders, Eric Lionheart and Claton Butcher.

Mike is back at the annual NRB Convention with interviews galore - today, film makers Marc Aramian and Veronica DiPippo, former mobster Robert Borelli, and pro-life activist Emily Berning.

Having written over 40 books, Jacquelyn Lynn may be one of the most diligent authors we talked to over the years. Her latest book, "Christian Business Almanac," is chock full of great reading, from interesting tidbits on every date of the year, to articles that will inspire. Mike and Jacquelyn talk about February. Also, Barry Sneed is a specialist in the Christian Healthcare Sharing Ministry.

In her second visit to The Shepherd Studios, Erin Huntley brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to any discussion. She has worked tirelessly for years in her role as Chairman of the Republican Party of Central Florida. She is now an officially declared candidate for State Representative for District 45, a large district serving much of Orange County into Osceola County.

It was a well-attended and delightful morning meeting as members of the community gathered to pray and to hear the testimony of Jonathan Isaac from the Orlando Magic. The Shepherd was there with mic in hand, and Mike talked to several participants, including Art Ally, leader of the Shepherd's Studio Sponsor, The Timothy Plan. Plus a visit with actress Charlene Tilton from the iconic TV show "Dallas."

The election may be over, but the debating is still going on. Paul Kamenar brings an informed and educated viewpoint to today's show, discussing some of the issues that President Trump is having to deal with. Paul is lead counsel at the National Legal and Policy Center in Washington, DC. Plus, in honor of Valentine's Day, Mike shares a conversation with his wife Cindy Gilland.

In what was real treat for Mike Gilland, he welcomed Rev. Al Mohler to his program to discuss our culture and pastor's needed roles to help their congregation sort through it, and also some serious thoughts about our nation's media and its future. Al Mohler has a daily podcast that is immensely popular - it is called "The Briefing," and you can subscribe at www.albertmohler.com.

Michelle Smith is one of the leaders of the Seminole County Prayer Breakfast, and annual event that takes place in 2025 on Monday, February 16th. A true community leader, Michelle is also the Chairman of the Board for "The Sharing Center," one of Central Florida's largest non-profits serving those who are homeless and underemployed. Michelle also offers a first-hand perspective of the recent inauguration of President Donald Trump, as she was in the Capitol Building for the event.

By day, Sarah Hohman is a successful marketing specialist for AdventHealth...but she has years of experience in leading worship and using her God-given voice back to Him. Now, she has written and recorded a new single that represents much of the message that she's been given to share. Sarah shares the radio debut of that single in this episode.

It is one of the most watched events in the world - The Super Bowl for 2025 featured an opportunity for the Kansas City Chiefs to make history with a "three-peat," something that has never been accomplished. It wasn't to be, as the Philadelphia Eagles soared high. John Crossman joins Mike to talk about this event and its cultural impact. Plus Pastor Joe Schimmel talks about last year's Super Bowl and lessons we learned from it.

Husband/Wife duo Marc Aramian and Veronica DiPippo were part of the busy Hollywood film scene, directing and writing film projects and enjoying great success...until they were canceled, blacklisted because of their faith. They moved to Chattanooga, TN, and picked up where they left off. Their new crowd-funded project is amazing, and they tell the story. Hannah Pierrou is a gifted author, and painter - her writing and her art are both featured in her new book.

Erin Huntley has been active for years as the Chair of the Republican Party in Central Florida - now, she has become a candidate for State Representative in Florida's District 45. She shares about this venture, and her vision for the area. Also, two representatives from Chad Barr Law discuss an upcoming benefit golf scramble for vets, put on by their non-profit, Protecting Vets Foundation.

Brittany Parks returns, with news on an organization that she represents - Concerned Veterans for America (www.cv4a.org). Brittany brings an appeal for us all to be involved in advocating for vets by calling our congressmen on some important current issues.

Jim Harden has stood his ground in the fight for life. Leading an important women's clinic in Buffalo, NY, Jim saw the depth of the other's side's vitriol when a radical group firebombed his clinic, causing severe damage. Undaunted by threats and persecution, he - and many other similar organizations - are standing firm for life.

Abe Lopez returns to AWM after almost four years. When last here, he was a candidate for the position of mayor of Oviedo, a race that ended with him in second place. Abe returned to the classroom, a Title 1 School classroom, and became well known for his creative, effective teaching methods and approach. He has since risen to lead the Florida Debate Initiative...teaching other teachers to train students in the art of debating and in the knowledge found in the study of civics.

Pastor Mark Biltz leads El Shaddai Ministries, a media ministry based in the Pacific Northwest. Mark reaches millions of viewers around the globe through this ministry which emphasizes a Hebrew perspective and foundation of the Bible. Mark shares his love for and joy found in the Savior in this episode.

Tracie Searles is married to husband Andy, a longtime regular guest on "Afternoons With Mike." She shares her story of childhood in a happy home, her move to Florida and life in ministry as a single, then meeting Andy and their subsequent marriage. They now lead Church Together in Casselberry, FL. Tracie's background and training in broadcasting is evident in her interview.

He is an engineer by trade, but David Ubert's palette of experience goes wider than engineering. He has a passion for worship, music, and love to serve and organization known as Jews for Jesus. His story is delightful and refreshing, and his love for Jesus is inspiring.

The word "expert" has become a term bantered widely in our culture, but it is a fitting descriptor for today's guest. Having studied both American History and our current policies for well over 40 years, Dave serves as president of The American Policy Roundtable, and host of "The Public Square" heard daily on The Shepherd.

His travels across the nation have put him face-to-face with thousands of students, teachers, and members of churches. He is one who listens, and preaches the Word of God wherever he goes. Based in North Carolina, Alex McFarland is a highly regarded speaker, apologist and author of over 20 books.

As the old saying goes, no grass grows under the feet of Brittany Parks! The mother of a young daughter is active in her community, standing up for and letting her voice be heard over matters of great community importance. Brittany shares from her experiences that include being Deputy Statewide Director for the Trump Campaign in 2020, to her recent council meetings wherein she expressed concern.

Returning to AWM for the second visit, Mark Meckler offers an insider's look into the activities in the nation's capitol. Mark is active in American Politics, and leads the movement that is calling for a Convention of States - an action envisioned by our founding fathers, and one that Mark feels is necessary to protect our American way of life under the Constitution.

Claton Butcher has been a voiceover artist, and a Worship Pastor. But he spends his time now on developing his company, CrossCurrent Digital, a publishing platform for audiobooks. Also, a discussion on a case in Maine from First Liberty's Jeremy Dys, and a visit with author and archeologist Clayton Van Huss.

Back for the second part of their discussion on things learned from 2024, including items such as the spike in sales of Bibles, a new openness to faith by Gen Z, and other items, Pastor Andy Searles from Church Together in Casselberry offers a pastoral view to important issues of the day.

Andy Searles would be among the group of pastors in Central Florida who is most involved in their community beyond the church walls. As a chaplain for Orlando's soccer team, and also for the Casselberry Police Department, Andy is in touch with the lives of Central Florida residents. He and Mike discuss the Top 10 theological trends from 2024 in this, the first of two consecutive episodes.

Speaking from an incredibly informed position, Alex McFarland is regarded internationally as a leading apologist, author, campus speaker and minister. He travels the globe, sharing the Gospel, and adding his thoughts on apologetics to liberal college campuses. He gives an outlook toward our days ahead on this, his first visit to AWM in the new year.

Helping other women to succeed in their businesses - that is top of mind for Heather Rosson, an author, speaker, and President of the National Association of Christian Women Entrepreneurs. Heather's energy and can-do attitude is quite apparent in her talk with Mike in this episode.

Recognized as a Central Florida expert in parenting and today's youth, Connie Albers is regularly featured on Fox 35 in Orlando. She returns to AWM to discuss the fact that much has already happened in this brand new year. She talks about the distinctives of Gen Z, and our culture's need for hope.

Solo Parent is an organization that was formed by a single dad who lacked the available resources to help him as a parent who was on his own. This concept grew into a non-profit organization now reaching across the nation. In today's episode, you will meet Elizabeth Cole, now the Vice President of Solo Parent. She shares her own journey and how Solo Parent helps single moms and dads.

Rob Maaddi knows football like few others in the country. A professional writer for the AP, Rob knows the teams, the players and the game. He is also a strong believer, and features fellow Christians who are players on his weekly radio show, "Faith on the Field." Plus, a visit with business coach and inspirational speaker Pete Folch.

As the Director of the Center for Biblical Worldview at the Family Research Council, David Closson has put a great deal of time and study into current events as viewed through a biblical perspective. He has a new book about to be released, and he shares some thoughts in episode on America's political state. Jacquelyn Lynn joins Mike in the third segment to discuss her new book, the Christian Business Almanac.

Bethany Marinelli has had enough struggles with her own mental health to do nothing, so she reached deep within to write her story, sharing the hope that she found for herself. First through her blog, and soon to come in book form, her words are informed by experience coupled with hope.

Dr. Stella Immanuel is from Houston, but her reach and effectiveness extends far from Texas. She has been a strong voice against the forced vaccination from the beginning of the pandemic, and she is more convinced than ever that Americans have to take their health into their own hands by beefing up their own immunities. Attorney Paul Kamenar weighs in on the latest legal developments surrounding our President-Elect.

Mark Meckler is President and Co-Founder of CONVENTION OF STATES ACTION, the largest nation-wide movement seeking to call the first ever "Article V" Convention of States, as offered within the US Constitution. Mark is joined in his efforts by well-known advisors, such as former Senator Rick Santorum and attorney Michael Farris. Mark provides an informed and lively discussion in this episode.

Christmastime is normally thought of as a joyous season...but for many, it is a time of acute loneliness and depression. Dr. Mark Mayfield sees this all the time, and offers great advice for us all as we enter the holidays. Dr, Mayfield is a Christian Counselor and an author.

Barry Draper leads Draper Financial Services, and he has been helping families and individuals alike as they have to sort through the many options and decisions before them regarding their health care options. Be it Medicare, supplemental insurance, or plans within the marketplace, Barry is a seasoned pro with a listening ear and genuine care for his clients. He returns to AWM.

His years of pastoral experience equipped Jim Cornell for his work within prisons and jails, all part of Good News Global Jail Ministry. He sees the power of God from a very special vista as he works with prisoners, teaching on the love of God.

He is internationally known as a top economist. Steve Moore has been a contributor to the Wall Street Journal for years, and is part of the well-known Heritage Foundation. He is also seen on Fox News, and CNN. Steve offers an educated view into what we might expect from the Trump administration. Also, Mike welcomes back Andrew Steier from "Always Going," and also author Doug Hall.

Seeing truly amazing results in training and education, the creative minds behind Promising People are offering a new start and expedited training by using the technology of virtual reality. This is impacting all students, especially those who are coming out of incarceration. Dr. John L. Evans is President and Co-Founder, and he believes that this approach can go a long way in reducing recidivism among those coming back into society following jail or prison.

For several years now, Thurlow and Kathey Spurr have presented "Christmas Is" at Calvary Orlando, and this year is no exception. And, returning to his formal home, Bob Pickett will be back too as a featured soloist, and he will also lead the choir. Bob is a longtime friend to Mike, and he joins the show for another year, with some special music in hand. Also, in segment three, Mike visits with author and publisher Jacquelyn Lynn.

He survived a terrible tractor accident, and with the help of Samaritan Ministries, Brad Hopp was given a second chance at a healthy life. He is using that blessing to help many young women in Asia by giving them both hope and a rescue. Brad is hoping to expand his tea company to do even more.

They are a busy married couple...RC Williams and Julianna Ormond split their time between their business (Sherloc) and their non-profit (WatchmenAction.org). Their call is to awaken the church to our God-given role of being watchmen on the wall. They share a heartfelt appeal to believers and our need to not relegate our influence in our communities.

Bishop Daniel Timotheus of GFA World makes a second appearance within the Shepherd's campaign to make a difference in the lives of families in both Africa and Asia. We are seeking donations of "critters" and other simple needs, and our listeners can take part by visiting the Shepherd home page at www.theshepherdradio.com - then click on the banner. Giving is easy and secure.

She wanted to make a difference...in an area that was in critical need of change. Sheri Few answered the call, and formed "United States Parents Involved in Education" (USPIE). in this episode, she shares how the educational landscape has changed since the November 5th General Election.