Let Me Tell You a Story with Steve and Becky Lyles

Pines in the WastelandAuthor Barb Sulfridge, lover of mountains and forests, talked with us about her journey through the wilderness of suffering and sorrow to find hope and peace as well as joy. Her new book recounts a nearly 40-year journey of learning to depend on God when life did not turn out the way she hoped or planned.https://www.backwoodsbarb.com/(Podcast sound effects source: ⁠⁠http://www.freesfx.co.uk⁠⁠)

When God Steps InDevotional author Earline Kline joined us to talk about how God has led her through several decades of life, how she got started writing devotionals, and how she and her husband became prison volunteers...including some of her adventures "on the inside."https://meditationsofmyheart.wordpress.com/(Podcast sound effects source: ⁠⁠⁠http://www.freesfx.co.uk⁠⁠⁠)

Creation Care & the ChristianTri Robinson, a man who's traveled the world and worn many hats over the years, graciously joined us to talk about his latest book, “A Journey of Gratitude: Traversing Four Seasons of Life.” We covered a lot of topics in this podcast, including his experience teaching in a gifted-and-talented program, reviving a family homestead, starting a church, and fulfilling his and his wife, Nancy's, dream of creating a beautiful Idaho ranch where they enjoy and example stewardship of the land.https://timberbuttehomestead.com/https://cowboyandpreacher.com/(Podcast sound effects source: ⁠⁠http://www.freesfx.co.uk⁠⁠)

High-Elevation EducationSeveral years ago, our guest, Dr. Bryan Williams, and others saw a need for higher education in the mountains of central Idaho and began the process of establishing McCall College. We talked with Dr. Williams about the college as well as his many other interests, including his special love for bioethics.http://mccallcollege.org(Podcast sound effects source: ⁠⁠http://www.freesfx.co.uk⁠⁠)

Life Is Precious This podcast features two special ladies, both named Cathy, who graciously share their pregnancy trauma/s with us. Through ignorance and pain, they sought solutions to unwanted pregnancies that they both now regret. Yet, they've experienced God's forgiveness and emotional healing and want to share the peace and joy they've found with others who suffer the same regrets. (Podcast sound effects source: ⁠⁠http://www.freesfx.co.uk⁠⁠)

Greener Grass Syndrome Infidelity nearly destroyed Nancy and Ron Anderson's marriage 40+ years ago, a story they share in a book titled "Avoiding the Greener Grass Syndrome: How to Grow Affair-Proof Hedges Around Your Marriage." In this Let Me Tell You a Story episode, through laughter and tears, they talk about the intentional steps they took to rebuild their relationship and regain love and respect for each other. Whether all is well in your marriage or you're attempting to restore a broken one, the Andersons have much to say to spur couples toward marital harmony. http://nancycanderson.com/ (Podcast sound effects source: ⁠⁠http://www.freesfx.co.uk⁠⁠)

Empty Arms In recent podcasts, we've talked with several people about the trauma and pain of losing a child. Another Becky (we're on a roll!) joined us this time to discuss how very difficult that time is and how friends and family supported her through the healing process. And how we can do the same for grieving couples and families. https://www.emptyarmsbereavement.org/ Podcast sound effects source: ⁠http://www.freesfx.co.uk⁠

Journey to Joy Our longtime friends Linda and Bob talk about deep losses in their family and how they found healing, followed by a sweet friend named Terri who shares a poem she wrote, which beautifully chronicles the losses she and her husband, Larry, experienced. Although both couples' trauma was exceedingly painful, they eloquently relay the process and steps needed to walk through grief and come out the other side with even stronger marriages and faith. https://www.griefshare.org/ (Podcast sound effects source: ⁠http://www.freesfx.co.uk⁠)

Christmas Ridge, Colorado Patti Shene, author of "Cathy's Christmas Confession," a Christmas Ridge Romance, Book Three, joined us to talk about her contribution to the series. Her fun novella features a colorful cast of characters, including a heroine and hero who are challenged to step out of their comfort zones. If you'd like to enter a drawing for a $50 Amazon card, you can do so by registering for Patti's newsletter at -- https://tinyurl.com/2p82kx9 (deadline midnight December 6, 2024) Or go to her website: https://pattishene.com/ See the book: https://pattishene.com/pattis-christmas-novella

And Then You Were Gone Becky Avella graciously agreed to discuss the painful loss of four children through miscarriage plus talk about the book she wrote to help other families who've faced the same trauma. Her transparency and sweet spirit, along with her suggestions for healing and ways to support anyone who's lost a loved one, are sure to encourage listeners, whether female or male. Becky on Amazon: https://tinyurl.com/43ec2ur4 (Podcast sound effects source: ⁠http://www.freesfx.co.uk⁠)

Temper Tantrums Ever had an angry moment (or several) you'd rather not talk about? Or buried resentment deep inside? Our guest, author Kathy Collard Miller, shares stories from her life and from others who contributed to her latest book. Then she shows us from the Bible how Jesus handled similar situations. I highly recommend "Managing Anger--Jesus Style" for everyone, whether your temperament is set on slow simmer or leans toward the volcanic. :-) https://kathycollardmiller.com/ (Podcast sound effects source: ⁠http://www.freesfx.co.uk⁠)

Movement Matters Katy Nelson's enthusiasm for bringing smiles and movement to older adults is contagious. She has a special love for helping those with memory loss. In addition, she offers lots of tips for caregivers--not just how to help their loved ones but reminders to care for their own well-being. https://knc-movementmatters.net/ (Podcast sound effects source: http://www.freesfx.co.uk)

To Russia and Back Our longtime friend, Lee Eddy, has taught the Bible in churches in America, Russia and Latvia and has a deep desire to see relationships healed. Russia is where he developed the materials for his Pure Man Ministry. Along with discussing that focus, we talk about his Face to Face (counseling) Ministry and Great Romance (marriage) Ministry. Although the subject matter is serious, Lee has a great sense of humor, and we had plenty of laughs throughout the podcast. https://crossandswordministries.com/

Cop Culture Larry Miller's law enforcement career spanned several decades and taught him much about human nature, especially about himself. He and his wife, Kathy, shared with us how police work affected their marriage and family and the changes they had to make to survive. https://kathycollardmiller.com/

A Fun Ride In her 40-year radio career, Bridget Bonde has adapted to numerous technological advances as well as studio format and music style changes. We had a great time asking about her DJ experiences and the ups and downs of hosting solo radio shows in the Treasure Valley. (Podcast sound effects source: http://www.freesfx.co.uk)

The Wonderful World of Worms Our guest, Agronomist Jerry Arledge, was privileged to spend many years in Latin America learning from farmers and working with them to increase crop yields. Together, they developed techniques that included the lowly earthworm and resulted in amazing harvests. You'll enjoy Jerry's enthusiasm for his work and the people he met along the way.

A Day in the Life of a Union Steward We had a fun talk with our friend Larry who serves his coworkers as a union steward. Whether you have experience with unions or not, you'll enjoy Larry's unique, honest perspective and sense of humor. (Podcast sound effects source: http://www.freesfx.co.uk)

Roller Derby, Anyone? How fun to talk with Cyndy Radovich about her new passion, roller derby competition. If you're like the two of us, you know little or nothing about the sport. Here's a quick explanation told with Cyndy's wonderful enthusiasm plus a short introduction to Becky's latest novel in the Children of the Light series, Crimson Arches. https://tvrderby.com/ (Podcast sound effects source: http://www.freesfx.co.uk)

Smiles & Sweets Cyndy Radovich, owner of Sweet Zola's, a Boise candy shop, loves her work and loves her employees, a special group of young people finding their place in the work force. Her enthusiasm is contagious and you'll come away with a smile on your face! :-)

Warhawk Air Museum Carson Spear, executive director of the Warhawk Air Museum in Nampa, Idaho, talked with us about the museum's 35-year history and all the amazing activities and opportunities available there today. We also asked about his combat experience as a platoon leader in Southern Baghdad, where he was deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom II and awarded a Bronze Star and a Purple Heart. https://warhawkairmuseum.org/ (Podcast sound effects source: http://www.freesfx.co.uk)

No More Anger Author Kathy Collard Miller not only writes award-winning, bestselling books—more than 60 of them, she also blogs and records videos and speaks around the country and the world on subjects we all can relate to. In addition, Kathy and her husband, Larry, provide faith-based lay counseling for individuals as well as couples. https://kathycollardmiller.com/ (Podcast sound effects source: http://www.freesfx.co.uk)

WHY RWANDA? When we learned Bill Miller has made several trips to Rwanda, we had to ask why. In this podcast, we talk about what first caught his interest in such a beautiful but faraway country. He's been privileged to serve a school there by training teachers how to teach the children English. In turn, they've taught him how to become a better trainer. (Podcast sound effects source: http://www.freesfx.co.uk)

Christian Chapter Book Author Wendy Mattox's enthusiasm for kids and books for kids shines in this podcast. Her three series include stories about time-traveling twins, a boy who shrinks, and an animal spy team. Wendy describes her stories, which can be read in any order, as books kids love and parents trust. Wendy's website: https://www.wendyannmattox.com/  Podcast sound effects source: http://www.freesfx.co.uk

Utopia Abandoned Laurie Bower joins Steve and Becky to talk about the latest book in her Utopian Series. This one is titled "Utopia Abandoned" and features a beautiful city beneath the treacherous wasteland that lies outside the dome. We talk with Laurie about the skill and research required to write dystopian fantasy and conclude with her reading the first chapter of "Utopia Abandoned" for listeners' enjoyment. https://llbower.com/ (Podcast sound effects source: http://www.freesfx.co.uk)

Crimson Arches Here's your chance to hear Becky read the prologue to the second book in her "Children of the Light" series, Crimson Arches. Like Shadow Ranch, the first book in the series, this one is named after the ranch where the story is set and continues to focus on modern-day polygamy. Steve follows her reading with questions and comments sure to entertain. :-) (Podcast sound effects source: http://www.freesfx.co.uk)

Cold Turkey, Warm Culture "Cold Turkey" follows an American schoolteacher's sometimes fun, sometimes frustrating romp through Istanbul, a metropolis bustling with welcoming, warmhearted citizens--who speak another language. Talking with the novel's author, Jodi Cowles, who experienced many of the same ups and downs when she was a foreign aid worker, was definitely on the fun side. With a subtitle like "How Much Chaos, Crowds, and Colorful Adventure Can One Woman Take?" you can understand why the book is a great read for explorers, travelers, teachers and those who enjoy clean comedy with a hint of romance. https://www.jodicowles.com/

Cruisin' with the Lyles We had a fun time interviewing Steve's brother, Don, and sister-in-law, Karen, about the many ocean cruises they've enjoyed. If you've ever been on an ocean cruise or hope to someday go on one, you'll enjoy their descriptions of places they've gone, sights they've seen, friends they've made, and the myriad of fun things to do on a cruise ship and shore trips.

Hands of Gold Award-winning author Roni Robbins talks with us about her novel, Hands of Gold, a fictionalized account of her Jewish grandfather's immigration to America. His journey was long and arduous, and his life in the USA not easy. All too soon, he learned it's not a land of milk and honey and the streets are not paved with gold. But he was a survivor and made the best of it with hard work, humor, and the support of his loving wife and family. https://ronirobbins.com/ Podcast sound effects source: http://www.freesfx.co.uk

Walking the Terminal We like to talk with people who have unusual occupations. Our interviewee for podcast #143, Warren Milanowski, retired from 39 years of airline work and stepped into a new role, one he'd never before considered. Tune in to learn all about it.

Zaidy's War Four Armies, Three Continents, Two Brothers. One Man's Impossible Story of Endurance. Martin Bodek penned his grandfather's WWII story, and quite a story it is. The author and his book can be found on social media, anywhere books are sold online, and at martinbodek.com.

Adoption Adventure After several years of marriage and still no children in their home, Andrea and Adam Graham decided to look into adoption alternatives. They are now the proud parents of cute little EJ, but their journey to parenthood wasn't easy. The long process required persistence, flexibility and faith. https://nightlight.org/snowflakes-embryo-adoption-donation/ (Podcast sound effects source: http://www.freesfx.co.uk)

The Irresponsible Reader We often invite authors to talk with us on this podcast, but today we're speaking with one of the many people authors value the most—readers! H.C. Newton is not only an avid, and I mean avid reader, he hosts a blog and a website called The Irresponsible Reader that's all about books and their authors. You can read his reviews and connect with him here -- hc.newton@gmail.comhttp://irresponsiblereader.comhttps://twitter.com/HCNewtonhttps://www.facebook.com/irresponsiblereaderhttps://www.goodreads.com/HCNewton

The Secret Life of a Secret Service Agent Bob West's career with the United States Secret Service is long over, but you'll enjoy his memories of the days when he conducted criminal investigations and protected U.S. political leaders and their families as well as visiting foreign heads of state. Want to know which president he most enjoyed serving? Take a listen. :-) (Podcast sound effects source: http://www.freesfx.co.uk)

Old Time Radio with Adam Graham We usually bring authors to our podcast to highlight their books, but we talked with Adam about his books and his podcasting because he's a prolific podcaster, with five old-time radio podcasts to monitor. You can find them under these names: Great Detectives, The Old Time Dragnet Show, The Old Time Radio Superman, The Amazing World of Radio, and The War. Feeling nostalgic for the good ol' days? Take a listen. Website: https://www.greatdetectives.net/detectives/ (Podcast sound effects source: Adam Graham)

What's In Your Howl? Author Doug Gamble has written a beautifully illustrated story for young children that features an armadillo and a coyote who learn to appreciate each other's differences. We had a fun conversation with Doug and are sure you'll enjoy our talk as much as we did. https://www.xulonpress.com/bookstore/index.php?keyword=what%27s+in+your+howl&searchtype=title&qfunction=search&record_per_page=40 (Podcast sound effects source: http://www.freesfx.co.uk)

Idaho Black Bear Rehabilitation Terri and Larry Limberg spent several years transporting young black bears around the West. Tune in to learn the whys and hows of such a potentially dangerous endeavor -- and to learn about the Idaho Black Bear Rehab program. https://www.bearrehab.org/

We were privileged to interview Oren Schneider, author of "The Apprentice of Buchenwald: The True Story of the Teenage Boy Who Sabotaged Hitler's War Machine," and know you'll enjoy learning about his amazing grandfather's survival tactics. Here are a few lines from the back-cover blurb. Using their last reserves of wealth and influence to escape extermination, the Rosenbergs go underground to avoid the Gestapo. Eventually exposed, captured, and taken to Buchenwald, the largest concentration camp in Germany, Alexander and his father collaborate to survive one day at a time. A chaotic chain of events puts young Alexander at the heart of a massive armament sabotage scheme. When his father is gravely injured and disappears after an air bombing, it is up to industrious Alexander to create leverage and use wartime machinations and raw talent to save his father's life. https://apprenticeofbuchenwald.com/ (Podcast sound effects source: http://www.freesfx.co.uk)

The Road to Karachi When Drew Brown came to our house to help us with audio equipment, we learned something about him and his family that piqued our curiosity and generated lots of questions. Join us to learn where they've journeyed so far and where they're headed in the future. It's a fun story! https://drewallenbrown.com/ https://chogglobal.org/team/dsbrown/ (Podcast sound effects source: http://www.freesfx.co.uk)

In episode #133, Steve and Becky talk about her latest novel, the first in the Children of the Light series, and finish off with Becky reading the Shadow Ranch prologue -- just to wet your appetite for the rest of the story. :-)

Our guest, Richard Matteson, has been with us before, and we always enjoy talking with him. This time, we discuss some of the "80 universal principles of life" he writes about in his new book. Toward the end of the podcast, we asked him to read an excerpt titled the "Peace Principle." I think we can all agree this war-weary world is in need of a good dose of peace. :-)  

Raptor Rapture Considered a sport by some and an art form by others, falconry has been practiced for hundreds of years in the United States and in other countries. Many have called the sport a "bond with the wild." It can be both exciting and disappointing, and requires much dedication and hard work. (Podcast sound effects source: http://www.freesfx.co.uk)

Becoming Unshakeable Lysa Beltz has experienced marriage, divorce, re-marriage, a blended family, the ups and downs of relationships, scarcity, and abundance.  She's had tough seasons and times of great blessing. Through it all, God has been her foundation and she's seen Him move in ways that can only be described as supernatural. In her books and in her life, she uses what she's learned to help those she touches with her faith. https://www.lysabeltz.com/ CoachLysa@lysabeltz.com (Podcast sound effects source: http://www.freesfx.co.uk)

Podcast 129: Love at First Varoom DJ Everett has been racing cars for over 30 years and also been a race announcer for more than a dozen years. He announces at race tracks as well as for television and DVDs. Along with two other racing enthusiasts, DJ hosts a podcast called “Turn 5 Live,” where the three men discuss Northwest and West Coast racing events and results. Even if you’re like us and don’t know much about the sport, you’ll enjoy DJ's story. Turn 5 Live Podcast: https://www.facebook.com/watch/Turn5Live/ Podcast sound effects source: http://www.freesfx.co.uk

Betwixt and Between Thanks to the craziness of 2020, we were able to catch our guest between countries. Marie has studied and worked with a charity organization in Asia and is now headed to a far different country to do similar work. Listeners will enjoy her humor and international perspective. email story@beckylyles.com for more info (Podcast sound effects source: http://www.freesfx.co.uk)  

THROUGH THE CLOUDS Our guest on Podcast #127 is Ron Hilbrands, a friend who has flown airplanes in remote parts of the world for an organization called Mission Aviation Fellowship. He served as a pilot/mechanic in both Indonesia and the Kingdom of Lesotho. (I had to look up Lesotho, pronounced Li-soo-too, and learned it’s a beautiful yet small country inside of South Africa.) Later in his 36-year career with MAF, Ron left flying to manage their Mobilization Department. We asked him to join us on Let Me Tell You a Story to share some of his overseas adventures.

HEAVEN CAME DOWN Daughter of a Scottish immigrant and a third-generation American, Beatrice Carroll grew up on Long Island, New York. At age 17, she enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and served during the Vietnam War. After the Marine Corps, her life spiraled downward into the disease of addiction, leaving her lost, alone and homeless, living on the streets in Los Angeles, California. But on May 12, 1982, a surprise encounter changed her life forever. Today, she serves as a psychotherapist who specializes in women’s issues and addictions. Her desire is to create a safe, beautiful place for women to heal and realize their amazing worth.

In Sickness and in Health Henry Charlier is the husband of Lori Charlier who talked with us on Podcast #118 about the anxiety, panic attacks and depression she endured for several years. In addition to being Lori’s husband and a dad to three great kids, Henry is also a biochemistry professor, a Sunday school teacher and an avid hunter and fisherman. He’s a busy man, yet he kindly volunteered to talk with us about the flip side of depression, the caretaker’s perspective. (Podcast sound effects source: http://www.freesfx.co.uk)    

Around the World in 32 Years Our guest on podcast #124 is Becky’s cousin Wes Carey who spent 32 years in the U.S. Navy. He’s a great storyteller, so we twisted his arm to share some of his experiences with us. We had a lot of fun visiting with him, and we know you’ll enjoy hearing his stories too. https://nonprofitstorytellingconference.com/ http://501videos.com/ https://moviemondays.com/

Prisoners of Hope Series This podcast is not our norm, but if you’d like to hear how Becky’s latest series about a religious cult came about, take a listen.

“D” Word No. Three Recent guests have talked about DEPRESSION and DRUG ADDICTION, and now Richard Matteson shares his experience and insights regarding DIVORCE. He’s worked as a businessman, a leadership trainer, a teacher, a personal coach, and a singles pastor, and has written a column for a family magazine titled “Beginning Again.” On this podcast, he talks about how to divorce-proof a marriage as well as how to survive divorce and all that goes with it.

Another "D" Word Podcast 118 featured a guest who talked about depression. Our guest for podcast 121, Cathy Whitmore, discussion drug addiction and the events in her life that led to long-term incarceration. Her story has a happy ending, so be sure to listen all the way to the end. :-) (Podcast sound effects source: http://www.freesfx.co.u (www.jshaw.co.uk) of Freesound.org