Towards Understanding is a full-length feature interview radio program hosted by Clayton Bjelan. The show contains a mix of interviews based around the understanding and living out of Christian faith and those just doing remarkable things in our world. It focuses on three key groups of people - The Known, The Overcomer and The Unknown. 89.9 | TheLight | PositiveMedia | LightFM | MelbourneÂ

Dementia affects hundreds of thousands of Australians and touches the lives of countless families, yet many misconceptions remain about what it is and how best to respond. Professor Henry Brodaty AO joins Clayton to discuss the latest understanding of dementia, the importance of early intervention, brain health and prevention, and how families and carers can better support those living with the condition. Together they explore the challenges, opportunities and hope emerging from decades of research and care.Professor Henry Brodaty AO is one of Australia's leading experts in ageing, mental health and dementia. He is Scientia Professor of Ageing and Mental Health at UNSW Sydney and has spent decades advancing dementia research, improving care and supporting people living with dementia and their families. In 2026, he was named Senior Australian of the Year in recognition of his extraordinary contribution to dementia research, advocacy and care.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As the world marks the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks, Clayton revisits his conversation with Gennelle Guzman-McMillan, the last known survivor to be rescued from the rubble of the World Trade Center. Trapped for more than 27 hours beneath the collapsed towers, Gennelle shares her extraordinary story of survival, faith and hope in the face of overwhelming darkness. Together they reflect on resilience, purpose and the lessons that emerged from one of history's most significant tragedies.Gennelle as working on the 64th floor of the World Trade Center's North Tower when the September 11 attacks occurred. After the towers collapsed, she became the last known survivor to be rescued from the rubble. Her remarkable story of survival, recovery and faith has inspired people around the world and continues to offer hope to those facing their own difficult circumstances.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Who are the people trusted to advise presidents, prime ministers and global leaders? Phoebe Saintilan-Stocks joins Clayton to share insights from conversations with chiefs of staff to some of the world's most influential decision-makers, exploring leadership, influence, trust and what happens behind the scenes of power.Phoebe is the founder of Missing Perspectives, a media platform dedicated to elevating women's voices and stories around the world. A former policy adviser who has worked across government, human rights and international organisations, her work explores the intersection of media, power and leadership. She is the author of The Right Hand.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Many people experience rejection, but for some, even minor criticism or perceived disapproval can feel overwhelming. Rebecca Challoner joins Clayton to explore Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD), discussing its impact on relationships, self-worth and everyday life, and how greater understanding can help people navigate these intense emotional responses with greater awareness and compassion.Rebecca is an ADHD coach, speaker and advocate who helps people better understand the emotional and practical challenges associated with ADHD. Through her work, she is passionate about increasing awareness of Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria and supporting individuals to build healthier relationships, greater resilience and a stronger sense of self-understanding.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Artificial intelligence is transforming the way we work, learn and live, but how do we use these powerful tools wisely? Daniel Sih joins Clayton to explore the opportunities and challenges of AI, the importance of human wisdom and discernment, and how we can embrace innovation without losing sight of what matters most. Together they discuss technology, attention, productivity and the uniquely human qualities that remain essential in a rapidly changing world.About Daniel SihDaniel Sih is an author, speaker and the founder of Spacemakers, an organisation that helps busy people regain focus, reduce overwhelm and make room for what matters most. His work explores the intersection of technology, productivity and human flourishing, including the impact of digital habits, healthy technology use and artificial intelligence. Daniel is the co-author of Wise AI and is passionate about helping individuals, families and leaders navigate technology with wisdom and purpose.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What happens when life repeatedly takes turns you never wanted and never expected? Vaneetha Rendall Risner joins Clayton to share her journey through disability, grief, loss and an unwanted divorce, reflecting on how faith can survive even the most painful seasons. Together they explore disappointment, suffering, resilience and the hope that can still be found when life looks very different from the one we imagined.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Airports are places of reunions, farewells, celebrations and crises, where some of life's most significant moments unfold. Martyn Scrimshaw joins Clayton to share what years of chaplaincy at Melbourne Airport have taught him about people, resilience and the power of being present in moments of uncertainty. Together they explore the unexpected encounters and life lessons.Martyn serves as Head Chaplain at Melbourne Airport, supporting travellers, airport staff and families through some of life's most challenging and meaningful moments. Through years of listening, caring and walking alongside people in times of crisis and transition, Martyn's experiences inspired the SBS drama series The Airport Chaplain.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

One in seven Christians around the world experiences persecution for their faith, yet many Australian Christians know little about what life is like for believers living under pressure. Nathan Holland joins Clayton to explore the stories behind the 2026 World Watch List, including the growing challenges facing Christians in places like Nigeria, Syria and across Asia. Together they discuss resilience, faith under pressure, and what it means to move from distant sympathy to active solidarity with the persecuted Church.Nathan works with Open Doors Australia, helping connect Australian Christians with the realities facing the persecuted Church around the world. Through speaking, podcasting and advocacy, he shares the stories of believers living under pressure and encourages others to stand with them through prayer, awareness and practical support.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The internet has opened up incredible opportunities for young people, but it has also introduced new challenges for parents and families. Susan McLean joins Clayton to discuss the realities of growing up in a digital world, exploring online safety, social media, cyberbullying and the practical steps parents can take to help children and teenagers navigate life online with confidence and resilience. Susan is one of Australia's leading experts in cybersafety and youth wellbeing. A former police officer and the first Victorian Police Officer appointed to a cyber safety role, she has spent more than two decades helping parents, schools and communities understand the opportunities and risks young people face online.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sometimes the experiences that shape us most are the ones we never planned. Ian Reilly joins Clayton to reflect on how a teaching opportunity in Samoa transformed his understanding of culture, community and compassion, influencing the course of his life and career in ways he never expected. Together they explore the lessons learned through cross-cultural living, innovation, leadership and seeing the world through someone else's eyes.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What happens after the initial shock begins to fade after a crisis, but life still doesn't feel normal again? Adriel Booker joins Clayton to discuss the often-overlooked season between crisis and recovery, exploring grief, change, uncertainty and the challenge of finding hope when the future feels unclear. Together they reflect on the quiet work of healing and how we can navigate life's in-between spaces with courage and faith as focused on in Adriel's book "Tethered to Hope".See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Clayton spoke to Shelby Abbott is an author and campus minister. Shelby spoke about his book, Why We're Feeling Lonely (and What We Can Do About It, which explores common causes of loneliness among young adults, specifically about digital isolation, porn & casual sex, increased anger & tribalism and depression & anxiety. Shelby talks about the opportunities for healing from these areas in our lives.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How do culture, politics and faith influence one another? Historian, and author of 'Jesus and John Wayne', Kristin Kobes Du Mez joins Clayton to explore the forces that shape religious communities, the relationship between belief and cultural identity, and what history can teach us about the challenges facing faith in the modern world. Kristin specifically focuses on the influence of white-evangelicals in the American culture & politics.About Kristin Kobes Du Mez:Kristin Kobes Du Mez is a historian, author and professor at Calvin University. Kristin examines the historical movements, ideas and cultural influences that have shaped generations of Christians and continue to impact society today.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What does it mean to truly belong? Anna Dombkins joins Clayton to explore adoption, family and the life-changing impact of giving children a place to call home. Drawing on her family's own adoption journey, Anna reflects on the joys and challenges of building a family across cultures, while also sharing why supporting vulnerable mothers is a vital part of helping children thrive.About Anna Dombkins:Anna Dombkins is an Australian writer, school counsellor and advocate for vulnerable children and families. Together with her husband Mark, she adopted three of their six children from Tanzania and later co-founded Forever Projects, a charity that supports women living in poverty so they can provide for their children and build independent futures. Through both her personal experience and her work, Anna is passionate about helping children and families experience belonging, stability and hope.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Modern slavery can feel like a problem from another era, yet millions of people around the world remain trapped in trafficking, forced labour and exploitation. Peter Williams joins Clayton to discuss the realities of modern slavery today, the work being done to protect vulnerable people, and why justice requires more than simply being aware of the problem.About Peter Williams:Peter Williams serves as Regional President for Asia Pacific at International Justice Mission (IJM), where he leads efforts to protect people living in poverty from trafficking and forced labour. A former Crown Prosecutor in New Zealand, Peter has spent more than fifteen years helping shape IJM's work across Asia and around the world. Passionate about justice and deeply influenced by his Christian faith, he is committed to equipping individuals, churches and communities to play a meaningful role in protecting the vulnerable and pursuing lasting change.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In a crumbling Soviet Union, the Petrosyan family finds themselves as outcasts - wherever they go. Hear Violetta & Ivan talk with Clayton about how their Armenian heritage marked them out for discrimination, first in their home country of Azerbaijan and then in Russia. After finding their eternal hope through a church planted by American missionaries, the hostilities of everyday life push them to seek refuge in the United States. In the shadow of exile, hope became their home. Violetta and her family's story inspired the movie, 'Between Borders'.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Maureen Martin shares with Clayton how the bedrock of her faith enabled her to face the challenges, including (in a 6 month period) the death of her son & her husband's horse-riding accident that resulted in brain damage. Her story encourages us that no matter what life throws at you, there can be a purposeful future up ahead as we trust in God. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

CHECK: Dave Adamson is a speaker, author, and digital ministry leader who has spent more than two decades helping churches communicate clearly, disciple people effectively, and reach beyond their walls through digital platforms. After nearly a decade as a TV reporter with Channel TEN in Melbourne, Australia, Dave moved to the US in 2008 to work at the intersection of church, media, and digital culture. He led online communities at two of Outreach Magazine’s largest churches before becoming the social media and online pastor at North Point Ministries in Atlanta, Georgia, founded by Andy Stanley. There, he helped shape digital strategies reaching more than a million people each month. Dave returned to Australia in 2020 and now leads the Australian team for the YouVersion Bible App, partnering with churches to help more Australians engage with Scripture every day. Dave is the best-selling author of 52 Hebrew Words Every Christian Should Know, 52 Names of God in Hebrew, and MetaChurch. He speaks regularly at churches and conferences around the world and teaches weekly to an online audience of over a million people. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Support the podcast and help keep these conversations going:https://donate.thelight.com.au/ Magnus is the founder and CEO of Mary’s Meals International, a global charity providing daily meals to over 3 million of the world’s poorest children in their place of education. His journey began in 1992 when, moved by the Bosnian conflict, he and his brother delivered aid from Scotland to Bosnia. This effort grew into the registered charity Scottish International Relief, which later evolved into Mary’s Meals in 2002 after a pivotal encounter with a family in Malawi. Magnus started his career as a fish farmer in Argyll, Scotland. His vision that every child should have enough to eat and access to education has transformed Mary’s Meals into a worldwide movement operating in 16 countries. He has received numerous honours, including being named a CNN Hero (2010), receiving an OBE in the New Year’s Honours list (2011), and being recognised as one of TIME magazine’s 100 Most Influential People (2015). Magnus is also the author of bestselling books, including The Shed That Fed a Million Children (updated as The Shed That Fed 2 Million Children) and Give: Charity and the Art of Living Generously. Magnus remains deeply committed to ending child hunger through education. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Clayton spoke to Robert Rogers. In 2003, Robert experienced a deep tragedy. After 8 years as a father, nearly 12 years as a husband, Robert's life completely changed one night on his family's way home from a wedding in which he and the family got caught out in a wild flash flood. Sadly Robert was the only one to survive, with his wife and 4 children drowned. Through his immediate trust in God, Robert has risen above adversity and freely shares his compelling message of knowing God and living a life of no regrets. Have a pack of tissues with you as you listen to Robert's story. (Robert now heads up mightyintheland.comDonate here: https://donate.thelight.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Clayton chatted with Hilda John, who has been serving vulnerable communities through DAIA (Development Association for Integrated Activity) since its inception in 2002. With a professional background as a civil engineer in India, she stepped away from a successful technical career to pursue her true calling, serving people in need, bringing a wealth of leadership, professional expertise, and deep compassion for low socio-economic communities. DAIA was founded in 2002 by her father, Mr. Gell Joseph. The organisation emerged from his vision to empower and support disadvantaged communities in Tamil Nadu. What began as simple medical camps gradually grew into a broader mission. Initially focused on supporting individuals living with HIV/AIDS, DAIA has since expanded significantly to address critical needs such as literacy, education, and women’s empowerment. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Clayton chatted to Lauren Novak (an award-winning journalist) specialising in coverage of education, parenting, family violence and child safety. But, it was her personal journey of understanding why motherhood causes havoc with your life that led her to write the book Meltdown: Why motherhood makes us angry and what to do about it. Clayton and Lauren talk through the discoveries, the reserach and the opportunities of this period of time.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Clayton chatted to singer, songwriter Bay Turner, whose love for music was first ignited by a gas station mixtape he’d listen to from the passenger seat to and from his dad’s house. Turner’s parents divorced when he was an infant, and when his father moved out to the Texas Hill Country, his weekends were always bookended by a car ride with his dad, which imporved and ignited his love of music.Clayton and Bay also talk about Bay's botched surgery that meant he would never be able to sing again until a miracle happened.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Neil Walshe is a creative director in advertising and creator of the Losing Sound. Neil chatted to Clayton about his desire to see the addiction to pokies in Australia reduce. Australia has 20% of the worlds pokies while having less than 1% of the worlds population. Neil is now urging the Australian government and gaming authorities to take this crucial step of making a sound when players lose. Find out more about the story at: losingsound.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kareena Shaw was a registered nurse for 20 years when she first heard Dr Andrew Browning AM speak about the plight of new mothers in Ethiopia living with obstetric fistula. Kareena felt compelled to volunteer, to which Dr Browning replied that he really needed midwives. As simple as that, Kareena decided to retrain as a midwife with the sole purpose of volunteering with Barbara May Foundation. Since then, Kareena and her husband Brad have volunteered in Ethiopia and Tanzania, including playing key roles in establishing Kivulini Maternity Centre in Arusha. Today, Kareena continues to return to East Africa to help strengthen maternity services, train midwives, and support the management of maternal emergencies. Her passion remains the same as when she first heard Dr Browning speak: that no woman should lose her life in childbirth, and every mother deserves safe, dignified care. Hear her conversation with Clayton.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sheridan Voysey chatted to Clayton about establishing and running the Friendship Lab's mission is to empower adults with the wisdom and skills to make their friendships thrive and its dream is to see every adult have at least three '2am friends'. This is a chat everyone needs to hear.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Common Grace speaks and acts for justice in multiple areas across Australian society. Ahead of Reconciliation week Clayton spoke to Common Grace's Safina Stewart is a proud Wuthathi and Mabuiag Island woman who grew up cross culturally in New Zealand, Papua New Guinea and Australia. Safina is passionate about culture, education, the arts, justice and faith. Safina shares about the opportunities for all to particpate in Reconciliation.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Clayton spoke with NZ/Australian entrepreneur David Bussau who gave a $50 loan to a struggling farmer named Ketut 50 years ago, who was facing the unimaginable. His crops had failed, and with no way to repay his land lease, he was forced to hand over his eldest child to the landowner as collateral. That small loan allowed Ketut’s wife to buy a sewing machine and begin a home business. Their child was returned. Their family was restored. And their future was rewritten. Through that $50 Opportuinity International was born. Hear David's story of using his gifts to impact the world (including over 42million people).See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kari Hoffmann is the mother of Landen Hoffmann, the young boy who survived a 39 foot fall from a third-floor balcony at the Mall of America in 2019 (he had been thrown off by a stranger). A story that made headlines around the world. In the midst of that unimaginable moment, Kari turned to her faith, crying out to God and asking everyone in the mall to pray. What followed was a series of undeniable miracles that defied science and left even medical professionals in awe. Kari shares with Clayton about that day, the months to follow and life now in her family.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Timothy Wainwright, based in Sydney, NSW, is a seasoned fire and emergency management professional with over 30 years of experience. As the Executive Director of Operation Fire Support, he leads global initiatives to enhance community safety through innovative fire prevention strategies. Timothy has held significant roles in both government and non-government organizations, receiving numerous awards, including citations for rescue and the National Emergency Medal. A passionate advocate for fire safety, he has completed eight Fire Support Missions in Israel since 2019, successfully protecting lives and property in challenging environments.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Daniel Reynaud is Emeritus Professor of History at Avondale University. He was the inaugural Visiting Historian at the Anzac Memorial in Sydney and is recognised as an authority on Anzac social history, including cinema, spirituality and food. Reynaud is the author and co-presenter of eight award-winning documentaries on the Anzacs and religion. He has written across multiple genres including academia, poetry translation and journalism, and published many books.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Paul Singer was appointed Chief Executive Officer of Soldier On in 2025. As a veteran and having worked closely with the Defence community, Paul is passionate about the values of service, resilience, and community that Soldier On embodies. He is dedicated to supporting veterans and their families lead meaningful and healthy lives. Soldier On's mission is to deliver life-changing support services, programs and activities, to serving and ex-serving Defence personnel and their families across Australia.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dick Tibbits is a licensed professional mental health counsellor, a hospital administrator and a professional sports coach, who is currently a performance coach to some of the world’s elite motorsports racers. Following a devastating job loss, Tibbits suffered the impact of deep resentment – experiencing fatigue, weight gain and the onset of high blood pressure. He investigated whether forgiveness could have measurable health benefits, and presents his research in Forgive to Live: How Forgiveness Can Save Your Life. His research demonstrated that the act of forgiveness reaps huge rewards for your health, lowering the risk of heart attack; improving cholesterol levels and sleep; and reducing pain, blood pressure, and levels of anxiety, depression and stress. He shares how his faith in Jesus helps him, but that forgiveness is always a choice, whatever your faith pespective.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Amy Brown, former head of Investment NSW, explained to Clayton how she found herself at the centre of what can best be described as a political firestorm, involving an intense public inquiry and an avalanche of media coverage and speculation. As a leader who has always been very open about her Christian faith, she told Clayton that she had to work out pretty quickly what that faith really meant in the context of such a stressful, public and high-stakes situation.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Cheng Lei is a Chinese Australian journalist working for Sky News. In 2020 while Australia-China relations hit bottom, she was incarcerated for over three years by the Chinese government on charges of leaking state secrets. Diplomatic efforts led to her release in October, 2023. Lei spoke with Clayton about the torture technics in detention, the reasons for her incarceration and the ability to survive to eventually see her kids again (and now live differently).See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chris Cipollone has a passion for bringing a deep and authentic faith to the everyday experiences of life. Originally training as a teacher, Chris went on to spend over a decade as a church pastor in Sydney, Australia. He is Founding Director of Life To The Full, a not-for-profit organisation that aims to help people flourish in faith and life. Clayton chatted to Chris about his book 'Here to Love'.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

John Lennox is an Emeritus Professor of Mathematics at the University of Oxford and Emeritus Fellow in Mathematics and the Philosophy of Science at Green Templeton College. He is also an Associate Fellow of the Said Business School. He is particularly interested in the interface of science, philosophy and theology. Lennox has been part of numerous public debates defending the Christian faith against well-known atheists including Richard Dawkins, Christopher Hitchens and Peter Singer. He is the author of a number of books, and chatted to Clayton about his book, 'Science and God: Do You Have to Choose?'See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nikki Lee is a 33-year-old Aussie living with multiple medical conditions and disabilities (including Alagille Syndrome) – surviving a liver transplant twenty years ago – she is passionate about sharing God’s story through her life. She is the author of Alagille Girl, a memoir about resilience, healing and God’s grace.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Justine Toh is Senior Research Fellow at the Centre for Public Christianity. She has a PhD in Cultural Studies from Macquarie University. Justine is the author of the book Achievement Addiction, where she aims to answer the question of "why do we constantly strive for our significance - and could you quit the habit if you tried?". Justine & Clayton discuss the current Western culture of achievement addiction and talk about possible solutions for our daily lives.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This International Women's Day, Clayton chats to a very special guest, Kate, who works for Dignity Freedom Network (DFN). DFN raises awareness and support for women's ministry in South Asia. Kate is always seeking opportunities to ‘be a voice for those who have no voice’ and share how these exploited and impoverished women are finding freedom and hope. Kate says it is a privilege to represent these precious women and invites listeners to consider partnering with DFN's International Women’s Day campaign, so more at-risk girls are saved from a life of abusive sexual servitude, and more abused women can recover their God-given dignity.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Josh Reid is National Director of Jesus Club Community - an organisation that helps local churches start their own ministry with adults with intellectual disabilities through their flagship program, Jesus Club.Here how Jesus Club operates, the opportunity for your local community and the impact Jesus Club is having on participants!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Clayton invited a very unique guest into the studio to interview this week. The rapper known as 360 has cemented himself as one of Australia’s most iconic and beloved rappers since breaking onto the scene in the early 2010s. More recently he has done a 180 on his life and boldly proclaiming his faith in Jesus.Renowned for his raw honesty, sharp lyricism and emotionally charged storytelling, he has built a career defined by both commercial success and cultural impact. He is a multi-platinum, ARIA Award–winning and yet life became about addiction to drugs and living the lifestyle of a 'famous muso'. 360 shares honestly and openly about ALL of the difficult times, his battle to be clean and ultimately his recent acceptance of Jesus.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg Sheridan is one of Australia's best-known journalists. How Christians Can Succeed Today is his ninth book. He chatted to Clayton about the book, which is about rediscovering the radical, transcendent and downright weird message of Jesus, being the third title in Greg's bestselling trilogy about Christianity in the modern world.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kathleen Folbigg was wrongfully convicted in 2003 of murdering her four infant children. She was pardoned in 2023 after twenty years in prison, following a long campaign for justice by her supporters, she had her convictions overturned on appeal a few months later. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Peggy Callahan is the producer & co-director of the film Mission: Joy. She explained how His Holiness the Dalai Lama and Archbishop Tutu give them unprecedented access to their unlikely friendship as they shared different religions and found (neuroscience-backed wisdom) to help each of us live with more joy, despite hardship. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Edwin Keshish-Abnous is an Iranian-born theologian and media leader, currently serving as Executive Director of Heart4Iran at 24/7 satellite Christian TV. Not only does it provide free studio production to hundreds of partners, but it also provides free broadcast, free in-country follow-up, and free Bible distribution inside Iran. To this date, Heart4Iran has helped launch over 300 house churches across Iran. Clayton chatted to Edwin about the miraculous growth of Christianity in Iran where God is at work. With decades of experience in Farsi-language broadcasting and discipleship, Edwin is widely known for his work in contextual theology and for equipping Persian-speaking Christians worldwide. His insights draw from both academic training and firsthand experience of faith under pressure in Iran.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dani Treweek, who has grappled with a theology of singleness for the past 16 years, spoke to Clayton about the fact that it is frustrating that both society and the contemporary evangelical church see singleness as a state of lacking and deficiency, grounded in what it is not. Dani is the founding director of the Single Minded Ministry, and was excited to share with Clayton that she has brought together the encouraging insights from her PhD research into a new book called The Meaning of Singleness, that was launched earlier this year.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"Into the Spotlight" is a documentary following one season of the annual Spotlight Musical Theatre production at Highland Park United Methodist Church in Dallas, Texas (HPUMC). The Spotlight program is a part of the church's Belong Disability Ministry (BDM), and the annual musical is unique because participants with disabilities lead the creation of a full-length musical showcasing their passions and ideas. Clayton chatted with a number of people involved in the program:Michelle is the Executive Director of Generosity and Impact Ministries at HPUMC and is the senior leadership team member overseeing HPUMC's BDM and its Spotlight Musical Theatre program. Michelle served as a producer on the "Into the Spotlight" film and was instrumental in making the vision behind the documentary come to life. Jacob is one of the breakout stars of the Spotlight production featured in the documentary. Since filming, Jacob has gotten involved in many of Belong's programs and was invited to join the ministry's Advisory Committee.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Clayton chatted to the founder of the Table Talk Project, Neil Milton. Neil's passion for valuing time at the table comes through as he explains the importance of having intentional family conversations around the dinner table.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Growing up in the slums of Manila, Sherwin got sponsored by an INA supporter and gained access to education, which enabled him to rise to become the Director of Vineyard of His Grace Ministries, where he now oversees all of INA’s country-level programming. His work focuses on empowering the most marginalised women and children to escape extreme poverty. Sherwin is also a passionate Christian communicator who speaks powerfully about breaking the cycle of poverty and the hope his ministry brings. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tina leads service delivery at ChimeIn Recovery Services, bringing her compassionate, practical approach, dedication and significant experience working with participants seeking psychosocial or addiction recovery support. Tina shares her story of despair, hope and now providing hope for others. In 2011, Tina was inducted into the WA International Women’s Hall of Fame for her contribution to mental health and addiction support. Her successful career was forged following a vicious cycle of drug addiction and mental health struggles over two decades ago. Tina’s lived experience is the cornerstone of her ability to aid and inspire others. She possesses a unique ability to connect with, understand, advocate and empower others, while also educating the wider community and reducing the stigma associated with addiction. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.