EXTRAordinary Lives

Baylee is a former student of mine who is serving as an English teacher and missionary in a small village in Thailand. She began this journey at the age of 18 and is now 21. Her joy, enthusiasm, and funny incidents will delight you, and her intriguing and more serious stories will inspire you. Tune in to learn more about Thai and Buddhist culture, to hear about  Jesus' incredible impact on everyday lives, and to experience Baylee's incredible heart for others.

American Idol alum, Scott MacIntyre, was born blind and is a two-time kidney transplant recipient. His musical talent and positive personality won the hearts of the TV audience. Today, Scott and his wife, Christina, travel around the world telling their EXTRAordinary story of perseverance, God's care, and "Enduring Hope," and have a TV special and podcast with the same name.Scott's website,https://scottmacintyre.com/, features his music, TV specials, podcast, and much more. Find Scott and Christina's podcast, Enduring Hope, by clickinghere.

Chris Earl, Former Navy Fighter pilot, squadron leader, instructor, and NORAD consultant is above all a humble man of integrity who is currently using his training and experience to teach and coach high-risk companies using the principles of human performance and the art of servant leadership. Chris shares EXTRAordinary stories of God's protection and provision and valuable insights on work, life, and following Jesus. You'll find this episode exciting, inspiring, and worthwhile. You can find Chris, President of Cutlass Consulting and founder of The Earl Group on LinkedIn. Ellen talks about Greg Koukl's organization called Stand to Reason, which can be found at str.org, and his book, The Story of Reality: How the World Began, How it Ends, and Everything Important in Between. Ellen's website is https://www.extraordinary.live/ and you'll find her on Instagram @extraordinarylivespodcast

I admire the way Steve and Debbie work as a team. They've been married for over 38 years and were involved in ministry together before that. They've worked with college students with Cru, and more recently, served in church ministry. They've seen God heartily at work over the years, including through the extravagant love of friends who came alongside them when their infant son wasn't growing. You'll appreciate their stories of God's faithfulness and the impact of other believers in their lives. It's a reminder to all of us how important each one of us is in the body of Christ. Show notes  Steve mentions the book, The Divine Conspiracy, by Dallas Willard, especially referring to the definition of “disciple" as being an apprentice. For a sermon by Steve on the topic of Forgiveness, click here.

Pam Clark heads up the “Protecting Our Daughters” or “P.O.D.” project, which works with a church in Kenya to provide hygiene products and resources to girls in Kenya. This ministry is vital to the success and well-being of these young women, and the program also teaches women how to sew and earn a living. Pam has a heart of compassion and a background of unique cultural experiences that have prepared her for this outreach. She also has a can-do attitude, jumping in to help where she sees a need. You'll be fascinated by her story which includes growing up around the world including West Berlin when the wall went up, and inspired by her resilience going through a divorce with two young children and witnessing God's provision and care.   Show notes  For more information about P.O.D., go to https://protectingourdaughters.com/

With endorsements by Bill Walton and Billie Jean King, Jenné Blackburn's book, Always An Athlete, is on its way to helping post-competitive athletes transition to life beyond their sport. Her research and insights on the all too common struggles of physical and mental health plus loss of identity, which she experienced in her own life after collegiate volleyball, led her to discover 3 pillars that are helpful for all of us. Her website and book offer hope, encouragement, and resources. They also expand on Jenne's determination to create cycle events at major sports franchising games to form a much-needed community for all athletes, an idea born from a bike ride taken while attending the prestigious ESPNW Summit, an invitation Jenné believes was an EXTRAordinary opportunity orchestrated by God, which came about from another EXTRAordinary experience she had at Baylor, working with coaches and the administration to link athletes to outreach opportunities (Sic ‘em Bears!). You'll love meeting Jenné and hearing her impacting stories. Show Notes: Bill Walton died May 27th of this year, and Jenné has a tribute to him on her website. You'll hear about her interaction with him in this podcast. Ellen and Jenné discuss Ellen's blog post about a Chinese proverb. #alwaysanathlete #JenneBlackburn #missions #teamsports #team #cycling #bicycle #BillWalton #self-sacrifice #physicalhealth #mentalhealth #identify #lossof identity #ESPNWSummit

Kathy shares her phenomenal story of answering an insistent whisper to quit her job and work on homelessness, an endeavor she felt in no way qualified for. This "whisper" turned into her raising millions of dollars in donations to build a 100-unit housing complex, and later, a mental health treatment center and more. Her new book, Trust the Whisper, describes her experience and includes 20 other "extraordinary stories of ordinary grace" about others who heard and obeyed God's whisper and witnessed unimaginable results. You'll be enthralled by her story and challenged to listen for your own God whispers and purpose for your life. You'll find Kathy's new book, Trust the Whisper, published by Baker Books, on her website, ⁠https://www.kathyizard.com/⁠ where you'll also learn about her other 4 books, speaking engagements, and coaching. Listen to stories from her book here, and subscribe to What's Your Whisper, here. The podcast also refers to the book and movie, Same Kind of Different as Me. The movie is available on Amazon Prime, YouTube, and other streaming services. Ellen's website can be found at https://www.extraordinary.live/ Ellen mentions these verses and commentary: ”Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.“ James 1:27 NIV Real religion, the kind that passes muster before God the Father, is this: Reach out to the homeless and loveless in their plight, and guard against corruption from the godless world.“ James 1:27 MSG True religion does not merely give something for the relief of the distressed, but it visits them, it takes the oversight of them, it takes them under its care; so episkeptesthaimeans. It goes to their houses, and speaks to their hearts; it relieves their wants, sympathizes with them in their distresses, instructs them in divine things, and recommends them to God. And all this it does for the Lord's sake. This is the religion of Christ” (Adam Clarke, quoted in the Blue Letter Bible (BLB) app, James 1:26 Commentary by David Guzik).

Mike and Sharon have waded through marital struggles, a son's serious illness, a major car wreck, financial hardship, and career-choice doubts and reached the other side with a stronger faith and more confidence in God's guidance and care. They have worked with college students through Cru for many years and are currently working with grad students and faculty at NC State. You'll be intrigued and blessed by their stories of God's EXTRAordinary work in their ordinary lives. 

Humorously, God used Paulina's phobias and superstitions to point her toward His trustworthiness during a very upsetting time in her life. That is just one of the EXTRAordinary stories told by this Latina Spanish teacher. To be around Paulina is to be delighted by her laugh, positivity, endearing accent, strong belief, and compassionate heart. It's easy to see why this “Mama Llama” is loved by her students.  Included in this podcast is Proverbs 3:5-6:" Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight."

Bob encourages us that even though we all have "hurts, hang-ups, and habits," Jesus is right there with us to help us and grow us. Bob shares insights gained from Celebrate Recovery, a Christ-centered 12-step ministry he led at his church. He also shares the joys of leading a gratitude class at his local rescue mission and talks candidly about codepency and an alcoholic dad, marriage counseling, emotional maturity, and intentional discipleship. So many gems! Show Notes: *Bob references Nick Vujicic's talk about bullying: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l91cgdFCkJ0 *He also mentions the Bible Project videos: https://bibleproject.com/ *Ellen recommends the book, Crucial Conversations: Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking When Stakes are High.

Susan is a life coach, grief specialist, and counselor who, as an adopted only child, had to come to grips with difficult circumstances in her family and devastating truths about her family of origin. She tells us about these experiences and how God recently and unexpectedly infused her story with love and hope. In addition, she provides heartfelt insights for those who have been adopted (at 15:55) and helpful advice about how to talk with sensitivity to those who are adopted (at 17:45). Susan's website and contact information can be found at ⁠https://www.walkingalongside.me/⁠ Susan mentions two books she has written (at 29:05). The first is Out of Breath, a psychological thriller (warning: adult content due to its subject matter of addiction and the death of a child.) https://www.amazon.com/Out-Breath-Susan-Salluce/dp/0578090929 Her second book is a collection of stories about people who get grief tattoos: griefINK: Tattoo as the Language of Grief at https://www.amazon.com/griefINK-Tattoo-as-Language-Grief/dp/1519159870

The theme of Andrea's life is God's faithfulness. Jesus became her best friend at the age of 14 when her mom had to leave her abusive, alcoholic dad. Andrea's been through some tough times including family medical issues and infertility, but she has seen God at work through it all. You'll be enveloped in her rich faith, and you'll adore her dear and compassionate soul and strong convictions. 

Rob Travis has been teaching high school science for decades. His intriguing stories include growing up in a poor Jewish neighborhood in Brooklyn and experiencing harrowing adventures serving with the Merchant Marine. His stories are beloved by his students and have shaped his strong faith in Jesus. They inspire us to trust in the Way, the Truth, and the Life.

Mackenzie is a recent college graduate who has lived for over a decade with the sleep disorder narcolepsy (specifically, Type 1 Narcolepsy with Cataplexy). Amazingly, Mackenzie has persevered with a positive attitude and accomplished more than many her age, including becoming an EMT in Italy during the Covid lockdown. Wise and kind, she shares about the impact Jesus has had on helping her deal with her illness and developing her self-confidence. Her story is inspiring, and you'll enjoy getting to know this impressive and thoughtful young woman. Mackenzie quotes the insightful Dr. Seuss: “Those who matter don't mind, and those who mind, don't matter.” You can also find this podcast episode and others on Ellen's EXTRAordinary Lives website at https://www.extraordinary.live/

Yaneth (pronounced Janet) is the Team Leader of Cru's high school ministry in Houston. She was born in El Salvador and moved to the U.S. at the age of 4. Yaneth, along with her friend Debby Minell, who is on staff with Cru in the Twin Cities, share about Cru's summer nationwide high school missions trips to 6 continents and stories about teens who are going. Yaneth also shares thoughtfully about the hardships of feeling marginalized leading the team as a brown woman and about an exciting 1,000 Women campaign she developed with the help of some good friends. You'll be inspired by the joyful, resilient spirit and amazing stories of this EXTRAordinary woman. For more information about Cru's high school ministry in Houston, go to https://www.cru.org/communities/hs/houston/. For info on the 1,000 Women Campaign see https://sites.google.com/cru.org/a-thousand-women-campaign/home Yaneth recommends the book, Abuelita Faith: What Women on the Margins Teach Us about Wisdom, Persistence, and Strength by Kat Armas. To listen on the EXTRAordinary Lives website, go to https://www.extraordinary.live/episodes/38-yanethdiaz

At age 16, Suzy Ryan was kicked out of her home by her abusive stepfather. Although she suffered trauma in her home growing up, Jesus redeemed and transformed her into a connector who is warm, engaging, and exuberant about life and people. God rescued her, and now she wants to give hope to others with her newly published novel, Saving Summer, based on her story and intermixed with the anonymous stories of some of the hurting students she's been able to help as a teacher and mentor. Amazingly, she is an Ironman athlete and a SCAD survivor of 3 heart attacks. Suzy is EXTRAordinary, and she'll say it's all because of Jesus. Find her website at https://www.suzyryan.com/ where you can also order her book and audiobook, which is available on Amazon. Don't miss her speaking and book signing at Warwick's, 7812 Girard Avenue, in La Jolla on Sunday, June 4, from noon - 2 PM. She'll also be at the Encinitas Barnes and Noble at 1040 N. El Camino Real Drive on Saturday, June 17 from 1-3 PM. Go to https://www.extraordinary.live/ to find this episode and others on the EXTRAordinary Lives podcast.

Matt is a clinical psychologist and elder at Seacoast Community Church. His passion is helping people experience the transforming power of Christ. To do this, he integrates theology, psychology, and the journey of spiritual formation. In this episode, Matt helps us begin to recognize and better understand when and why we might be feeling a block in our relationship with God and others, and better yet, he leaves us with the hope that we can experience healing and closeness in our relationships. Matt recommends a free app he has developed and is excited to share with everyone. Go to https://www.emotionfit.us⁠ to check it out. You can download the free resource for mental health at https://www.emotionfit.us/program. He also mentions a helpful resource called Freedom in Christ ministries, https://www.ficm.org/. To learn more about spiritual formation, listen to an insightful conversation with Sue Smedley on Episode 31 ("Part 2") of the EXTRAordinary Lives podcast. Ellen mentions Psalm 139:23-24. For a fun song that features this verse, listen to one of Ellen's favorites, "I Just Wanna Know" by 1980's Christian alternative rock artist Steve Taylor. The EXTRAordinary Lives podcast can also be found at https://www.extraordinary.live/

Dianne Sivulka lives her life centered on making a difference for the Lord. She talks about trusting God through the painful experience of 10 years of infertility, her fun and impressive travel business, Travel on Purpose, and the book club associated with that, plus her new development role with an international microfinancing organization that helps women. You'll hear about her love of different countries and cultures and get an in depth look at traveling to one of her favorite places, Guatemala. You'll be touched by her stories and insights. For more information about Travel on Purpose and the book club, click on travelonpurpose.com. She also mentions her current role with Tirzah International; go to https://tirzah.org/. For Ellen's website, EXTRAordinary Lives, go to extraordinary.live.

Susie Berner experienced God's love and faithfulness during her father's colon cancer and, later, during her own colon cancer. She admits to being shy to share her faith, but she has been faithful to do so. She even joined Cru's high school ministry staff to learn how to share the gospel better, and she has seen God change hearts. Susie is wise and authentic, and her extraordinary stories will inspire you. Susie mentions the devotional Streams in the Desert by L.B. Cowman. We also mention these Bible versions: Amplified Bible, NIV (New International Version), the Living Bible, J.B. Phillips/New Testament, and The Message. She also enjoys a compilation of Bible commentaries by David Guzik, free online at https://enduringword.com/#commentary. At the beginning of the episode, Ellen also gives a quick update in which she announces she's a new grandma (!) and gives some highlights about upcoming interviews.

Cynthia Zorn is a mom who has chosen to be a passionate advocate for her daughter, Mackenzie, who was diagnosed with narcolepsy (specifically, Type 1 Narcolepsy with Cataplexy), a serious sleep disorder, at the early age of 10. When Cynthia noticed uncharacteristic behaviors in Mackenzie, who went from being very active to sleeping an inordinate amount, Cynthia didn't give up on pursuing a diagnosis, which took a year. Cynthia's faith has remained strong, and she has been inspired by her daughter's vibrant relationship with Jesus. You'll hear about their trust in God in the midst of a difficult circumstance and their determination to bring good to others through it. Cynthia has written an article about being an advocate for your children. You can find it on my website, www.extraordinary.live/blog-1-1 or by clicking here. She also mentions a helpful organization for those who have or think they might have a sleep disorder: project sleep at https://project-sleep.com/.

Sydney and Austin have amazing God stories, including Syd overcoming an eating disorder in high school and Austin enduring a stressful on-call job in foster care. Married 3.5 years, they are already expecting baby #2, and baby #1, though the cutest little girl on earth, has "a scream that could break glass" - and she cried for a full year. You'll gain valuable insights on how to handle and overcome tough situations, and you'll be inspired by Syd and Austin's faithfulness and trust in the Lord, the lessons they've learned, and how sticking together "is just more fun."

Sue Smedley co-directs the Rivendell Institute's program on spiritual formation at Yale. On this week's show, she delves more into the process and practices of spiritual formation, which endeavors to help those following Jesus go deeper in their faith - from head to heart, from knowledge to application. The Rivendell Institute website puts it this way: "As followers of Christ, it is our desire to grow in our faith and see Christ 'formed' in us. Spiritual Formation is the process that enables us to move from knowledge to practice as we seek to live as Christ followers in the spheres of influence in which we find ourselves." Sue also shares an EXTRAordinary story about a student becoming a believer through a vision of Jesus. Sue is fun, inspiring, and insightful. You won't want to miss this interview. In addition, Sue refers to influential and beneficial books about spiritual formation and spiritual disciplines by these authors: Dallas Willard, Richard Foster, and Henri Nouwen.

At the age of 6, Sue Smedley told God she would be His missionary. She was shy and nervous about public speaking, but as she saw God work through her, she gained confidence. She worked with Cru's high school ministry for many years and now writes curriculum and teaches about spiritual formation to graduate students at the Rivendell Institute at Yale. You'll be hooked by her caring and fun personality and extraordinary God-stories. In the podcast, Sue mentions God's goodness to us and Psalm 84:11 "For the Lord God is a sun and shield; the Lord bestows favor and honor; no good thing does he withhold from those who walk uprightly." She also talks about the book by Sue Edwards and Barbara Neumann, Organic Mentoring: A Mentor's Guide to Relationships with Next Generation Women. In addition, Sue refers to influential and beneficial books about spiritual formation and spiritual disciplines by these authors: Dallas Willard, Richard Foster, and Henri Nouwen.

Andrew and Rachel have been married for less than 4 years and have already accomplished much, including moving from Austin to San Diego, achieving success at their workplaces, building strong connections with friends and their church family, and...having 2 delightful daughters! They are "go-getters" who are beginning to slow down, perhaps, but just a little. You'll love hearing how they met and about their strong faith in Jesus and His work in their lives.

Hayley talks about her newly-released book titled Barefoot King: The Indian Dalit who Defied Caste to Bless Others, which tells the true story of Raj, an Untouchable in the Indian caste system, and the incredible ways God intervened to take him out of harsh poverty and slavery into a fulfilling life of helping others. Hayley weaves a story of many exciting events that are transformed from anguish to hope. You'll be inspired to see others in a new way. Visit www.barefootking.com to learn more and to order the book on Amazon.

It's my birthday week! I thought it would be fun to share my own story. Even though I was raised in the Bible Belt, I did not grow up in a Christian family. Instead, my family believed in Christian Science. We didn't go to the doctor, and we believed we were spiritual and perfect, and that the material world did not actually exist. Go figure. This is how God broke through and placed me into reality. Ellen mentions the book by C.S. Lewis, Mere Christianity.

Mike and Nicole are a couple you cannot help but love. Married for over 40 sweet years, they are kind-hearted, love hospitality, and are devoted to living their lives to serve Jesus. Mike has written or co-authored over 110 intriguing books and was the Editor of Focus on the Family's magazines for many years. Nicole grew up in Switzerland, was an impressive ski racer and instructor, and has a "sweet" popular business called Nicole's Swiss Bliss, especially known for its delicious granola and rich chocolates. You'll enjoy hearing how this EXTRAordinary couple met each other, came to know Jesus, and how He has impacted their lives in EXTRAordinary ways. You can find out more about Mike and his books, including the books he talks about on the show, at www.mikeyorkey.com. And to find out more about Nicole's delectable creations (truffles, salted caramels, granola, biscotti, etc.) and to place an order, go to www.nicolesswissbliss.com. Notes: Mike and Nicole mention my daughter Hayley Bennett Lyle's soon-to-be published book, The Barefoot King, about Raj, a Dalit in India who perseveres and triumphs with God's help despite tremendous persecution and poverty. It will be available on Amazon in December or January.

Ryan is the lead pastor of Seacoast Community Church in Encinitas, and Sara, his wife, is the volunteer coordinator at the Community Resource Center. Ryan and Sara talk about their hearts for the marginalized and relate stories about God's impact on their lives. Ryan shares about the power of God working through his pastoral messages to touch people's lives, often in different ways than he would expect. Sara shares about the power of a praying grandfather who inspired her to model his example. You'll also hear about tough times during Covid and celebratory times featuring their wedding complete with deviled eggs. Most importantly, they tell us about the importance of humility. They are a power couple, but not in the usual sense; they are humble servants of Jesus who rely on His power to live EXTRAordinary lives. And how apt - this episode is #25, and they are celebrating their 25th anniversary! : ) In this episode, Sara shares a verse from the book of Psalms, chapter 34, verse 8: "The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." Also mentioned is the verse, Micah 6:8: "He has shown you, O man, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God."

Ryan is the lead pastor of Seacoast Community Church in Encinitas, and Sara, his wife, is the volunteer coordinator at the Community Resource Center. Ryan and Sara talk about their different backgrounds and personalities and relate stories about God's impact on their lives. Sara became a caretaker of her younger sisters in her teens and developed a heart for the marginalized, and Ryan moved every three years as part of a military family. They are a power couple, but not in the usual sense; they are humble servants of Jesus who rely on His power to live EXTRAordinary lives.

Jim Black, a criminologist and professor emeritus of Sociology at the University of Tennessee, constantly looks to apply God's principles in his everyday life, and in some unusual places such as Death Row and Peanuts Cartoons. You'll enjoy his fascinating stories and see how God has influenced his life and decisions. He is a man of integrity who desires to be humble and kind and is grateful for the "friend we have in Jesus." In the podcast, Jim mentions two fun and enlightening books, The Gospel According to Peanuts by Robert L. Short and The Pastor is In: A Thirty-Day Faith Devotional by Rigel J. Dawson. Ellen quotes Ephesians 4:1-2 and Matthew 25:35-36 and reads lyrics from the hymn, "What a Friend We Have in Jesus."

Carly is a true friend with a delightful laugh, and a go-getter with a list of impressive accomplishments, but what I most admire about her is her faithfulness to the Lord during hard times. These include being a gifted musician though deaf in one ear, loving running and races but dealing with debilitating injuries, and having the deep desire to be married but remaining single for longer than anticipated. Carly refuses to let life's troubles get her down for too long; she deliberately chooses to seek Jesus, trust Him, and be grateful. You'll be encouraged by her EXTRAordinary life. Notes: Carly mentions several resources that she has found very helpful. I've listed these below. The One University at https://theoneuniversity.com/ Podcast: The Heart of Dating by Kait Warman LifeSkills course, a Christian Counseling course that meets in cities around the world, at https://www.lifeskillsintl.org/

Barbara has had her faith tested and has stayed strong trusting in the Lord's love and provision. Her God stories include meeting her husband, Warren, with whom she has worked in campus ministry for over 40 years, and adopting two daughters who now are moms themselves. You'll hear the astounding story of her oldest daughter Claire, an abortion survivor, and you'll glean from Barbara's expertise as a Strengths coach. She leads team workshops that focus on "what is great about you," and her podcast, "Embrace Your Strengths" features inspiring stories of all kinds of people using their strengths to impact their worlds of influence. Barbara's website, which includes her strengths coaching and a link to her podcast, "Embrace Your Strengths," can be found at http://www.barbaraculwell.com/. Plus, listen to her podcast on your favorite podcast app. Her daughter's website and book, Survivor, can be found at http://www.claireculwell.com/

Kathy looks for daily miracles - large and small - in her life and encourages us to do the same. She has experienced unbelievable yet documented healing from a brain tumor and Crohn's disease. She and her family of 12 include joyfully-welcomed twins with down-syndrome. She has a strong faith that she's asked God for, and He has given it in abundance. You'll be encouraged by her stories!

Steve is honest about his "epic failures" and grateful that God has intervened in his life to surprisingly use these downfalls to help him flourish. You'll hear about his heart to help others answer questions about the Christian faith, and learn about how he got that 3-inch gash on his noggin. Steve mentions the book, Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis. He also appreciates the insights into Christianity presented by the organization, Stand to Reason. Check them out at https://www.str.org/

Debbie sees following Christ as a “wild ride” with a faithful, loving Companion. She has devoted her life to growing in her relationship with God and, even though she has experienced some difficult trials these past few years, she has remained stalwart in her faith and has seen God's extraordinary provision. To know Debbie is to love her sweet big smile, her caring heart, and her peaceful spirit. Podcast notes: In the podcast, Debbie mentions a quote by author and speaker, Karen Burton Mains, and these verses from the Bible, "Cast all your cares on Him for He cares for you" (1 Peter 5:7), "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:6-7) and from the Living Bible version, "Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God's peace, which exceeds anything we can understand." Debbie also mentions the verse from John 16:33: "In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world" and Hebrews 13:5, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.”

You can't miss Jeff's giant heart for people and his love of learning and teaching, especially about theology, which he has lived out while walking through some painful circumstances such as his daughter, Sophia, only living 13 days, and his wife of 30 years being diagnosed with and treated for stage 3+ cancer. Jeff is a deep thinker, and his ideas on education are refreshing and uplifting. He certainly enriched my heart for education and my students when he was my boss at Horizon Prep. He is now the Head of School at Calvin Christian School in Escondido, California. Jeff mentions some valuable resources: the song, "Imago Dei" by Sean Feucht, the books Its Not About Me by Max Lucado and The Great Divorce by C.S. Lewis (which is an intriguing story about heaven, and is not about marriage), and the podcast entitled, "Timothy Keller Sermons Podcast by Gospel in Life." He also recommends the book by Paul David Tripp, Awe: Why It Matters for Everything We Think, Say, and Do.

Hello everyone! The week of September 15, I will be taking a pause. Listen to the audio to find out why! However, I want to recommend Matt Carlson's message, “For - To - Thru” given on the Sunday (September 6) he was commissioned to be a co-pastor at Generation Church in South Oceanside. You will resonate with his story and also appreciate his pointers about the freedom that is found in the gospel of Jesus. Christianity should not be a religion, but a relationship with God, not about following rules, but about following Jesus. Here are the links to the podcast: Spotify, Apple, Google. You can also listen and get links on my website, www.extraordinary.live.

Kalli Hendrickson is a delight, especially with her easy laugh and sincere heart. She is a gifted artist, art teacher at Santa Fe Christian Schools, and entrepreneur, and she's in the process of writing and illustrating a children's book. As a teen, Kalli's life was hit with sorrow and fear and she was voted “Shyest” by her high school peers, but God knew,  and He gave her a new identity in Him. She is living His story of joy instead of sadness, of trust instead of shyness, and she now loves helping people find the story God is writing for them. You'll hear some EXTRAordinary ways God has revealed Himself to Kalli, who follows a charismatic church tradition. Isn't the Body of Christ intriguing - we all have so much to learn from each other, and God's stories in our lives help us all grow and expand our knowledge of the Almighty. I know you'll be invigorated and challenged by Kalli's stories and insights. In the podcast, Kalli mentions the song, “No Longer Slaves” by Jonathan and Melissa Helser, and the book, Running With Horses: The Quest for Life at Its Best by Eugene Peterson.  Kalli's website can be found at www.mkhart.net.

Hayley and Micah Lyle live an extraordinary life centered around an authentic and deeply personal relationship with Jesus. Part 2 of their interview continues with valuable life lessons learned after college. You'll hear how they began dating (and some excellent tips on that daunting subject), about their beautiful outdoor wedding and reception (complete with fancy porta-potty, but of course!), which took place amid unpredictable Covid policies, and finally, their dreams of working together coming to fruition. Hear the podcast on Spotify, Apple, Google, Stitcher, or on my website, www.extraordinary.live. On the website, you can also read Hayley's short story about Raj, an Untouchable, that inspired her to write his autobiography. 

Hayley and Micah Lyle live an extraordinary life centered around an authentic and deeply personal relationship with Jesus. Hear their stories about God's supernatural work in their lives during good times and hard times including stories of being freed from a gaming addiction, joining together in a revival at their Christian high school, witnessing miracles at UC Berkeley, and seeing God work in unexpected ways at a Bible school in Germany and at a non-profit fighting against labor trafficking in India. Get ready for some impacting insights! Hear the podcast on Spotify, Apple, Google, Stitcher, or on my website, www.extraordinary.live. On the website, you can also read Hayley's short story about Raj, an Untouchable, that inspired her to write his autobiography.

Dom is a talented musician who was offered several major recording contracts as a teen. But he was wise enough to see where that road could lead. Instead, through a series of interesting turns, he is currently the Pastor of Worship and Families at Seacoast Community Church. Be aware, though, that his definition of worship is down-to-earth. It's simple and intentional, living out Jesus to our world, which is desperate for Him. You'll love his story, and you'll be enlightened about how easy and practical true worship can be and encouraged to simply, practically, and literally love your neighbor. Dom takes his definition of worship from the Message version of Romans, 12:1 - "So here's what I want you to do, God helping you: Take your everyday, ordinary life—your sleeping, eating, going-to-work, and walking-around life—and place it before God as an offering." He and his family live out this directive, and you'll learn about practical ways you can do the same. Check out Dom's podcast with Matt Carlson, "Grow Love Live"! Dom also mentions the book, Family on Mission, by Mike and Sally Breen.

In this interview, you'll hear about how God can use clogged sinks in Rome and the importance of not comparing yourself to others. I admire Lauren's strong sense of belief. She is unwavering and is compelled by Christ's love to tell others about Him. Lauren has served on Cru staff in Kansas, Rome, and now, San Diego. She admits her personality can sway toward being anxious; yet, this trait is countered by a strong sense of trust and belief in Jesus. You'll see these opposites played out in her stories, all told in her confident and humble manner, full of faithfulness.

Matt Davis is the Principal at Horizon Prep in Rancho Santa Fe where he directs the elementary, middle school, and high school. But be sure to call these the Grammar, Logic and Rhetoric Schools because it's a Classical Christian school. I was an English teacher there for 9 years and loved working with Matt. In fact, everyone does because he is beyond gracious - as you'll note at the end of the podcast - plus humble, kind, responsible, dedicated, and wise. You'll hear some fun and insightful stories about how God has worked in his life such as meeting his wife as they collided for a frisbee, being hired at HP through a friend of a friend of a friend, and climbing 14,500+ foot Mt. Whitney multiple times - why not?!

Myra is intentional about living her life for Jesus in both happy and tough circumstances. She and her husband even worked at a Christian orphanage while on their honeymoon in Thailand. And when life has dealt some hard to explain hands, she has stuck with Jesus, hanging on to trust Him and His plans and to feel only the comfort He can give. We'll hear about a few of those events today. Thanks, Myra, for sharing your valuable stories with us.

Lyn and Andrew's story has it all: romance, dog stories, and fascinating locales such as Namibia, Greece, the UK, and …Texas. They both worked with Cru on European university campuses. Now, they are busy designing an app called Toucan Together for Cru's Family Life ministry in the UK that aims to boost relationship wellness with beneficial biblical principles. You can't help but enjoy and admire this delightful young couple. And here's a plug for the mobile device app, which I am loving. It features an interactive relationship health survey, educational modules on communication, handling conflict, loving, money, and growing, along with authentic and encouraging testimonials by real couples. It can be used individually or paired with a partner. It is truly totally awesome and fully confidential! Check it out at the Apple App Store! https://apps.apple.com/us/app/toucan-relationship-advice/id1252586096

Marie Wolfe Grunzke is my darling niece who packs a lot of wisdom. She thinks deeply about life and choices due to the impact of her relationship with Jesus. You'll hear about an impromptu teaching gig in China, an answer to her plea to God, “Do you really love me?” and her desire to control situations but her decisions to, instead, hand those over to God. Thank you, Marie!

Kristen exudes warmth, thoughtfulness, and a love of adventure - the latter is mandatory since she will soon be sailing around Indonesia with her husband and teenage children. Kristen is anchored in the love of Christ, and she shares extraordinary stories which include some keen losses in childhood, dealing with depression, and developing a love of helping teens through her work with the Christian organization Young Life. Her story is authentic and reassuring; she is an ordinary person whom Jesus is making EXTRAordinary. The quote Ellen reads is from Recovering from Losses in Life by H. Norman Wright.

Diagnosed with a brain tumor 13 years ago after losing hearing in one ear, Mark was discouraged and angry at God. The tumor affected so many areas of his life: his ability to hear, see, speak, and walk, his love of tennis and his athletic abilities, his career as a lawyer, and providing for his dear wife and son. I hope Mark's profound and hopeful words will deeply affect your life as much as they have mine.

Fellow UT Vol, Jade Newton, grew up in Chicago as an only child. Her compassionate heart for the Lord and for others shines through in her forthright and confident manner, love of serving and mission trips, and insistence on fully following God and having a real relationship with Him, instead of treating Christianity as a religion or as a one-time commitment. Her stories will inspire you and "spur you on toward love and good deeds" (Hebrews 12:4).

Alessandro grew up in Italy traveling with his parents who are magicians. He was a Fashion Week photographer in Milan, but after a job photographing orphans in Uganda, he had a change of heart and decided to work for Cru's Agape Studenti and use his art to introduce Italians to Christian themes through high-caliber films. You'll enjoy his fascinating story and his winsome Italian accent! To see the beautiful short film, Altro Mare, mentioned in this episode, go to this URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ha7RztKZT6M. The Rwanda movie, Unforgiveable, can be viewed at en.imperdonabile.it

Chelsea Street is a millennial whose EXTRAordinary stories revolve around her relationships: with Jesus, her family, her community, and her workplace. She lives out her faith and is determined to keep learning and growing during difficult times. Life has not been easy, but she is enthusiastic, authentic, and wise. You'll enjoy the WOW factor of her stories!