Viral Jesus

Welcome back to What If I'm Wrong? A show where we might not give you the answers, but we will ask some really good questions. On today's episode, we're joined by Becky Castle Miller who studies emotions in the Bible! This month, we are starting a brand new series on Theology! What could you be getting wrong about the Bible? - and this week we are discussing: What Am I Getting Wrong about Emotions in the Bible? Heather shares about the word theology and how anyone who calls themselves a Christian, is engaging in theology.  Join host Heather Thompson Day and submission specialist Haley Hoskins as they explore the topic of emotions in the Bible. In Day in the Bible, Heather looks at what the Bible actually is, its composition and how to navigate reading the Bible. Have a story to share? Email us at whatifimwrongpod@gmail.com. Host Bio:  Dr. Heather Thompson Day is an interdenominational speaker, an ECPA bestseller, and has been a contributor for Religion News Service, Christianity Today, Newsweek and the Barna Group.  Heather was a communication professor for 13 years teaching both graduate and undergraduate students in Public Speaking, Persuasion, and Social Media. She is now the founder of It Is Day Ministries, a nonprofit organization that trains churches, leaders, and laypeople in what Heather calls Cross Communication, a gospel centered communication approach that points you higher, to the cross, every time you open your mouth.  Heather's writing has been featured on outlets like the Today Show, and the National Communication Association. She has been interviewed by BBC Radio Live and The Wall Street Journal.  She believes her calling is to stand in the gaps of our churches. She is the author of 9 books; including It's Not Your Turn, I'll See You Tomorrow, and What If I'm Wrong? Shop our Merch! Heather's Social Media Heather's Instagram Heather's Website  Heather's TikTok Heather's YouTube  Haley's Social media Haley's Instagram Becky's Social Media Becky's Instagram What If I'm Wrong Social Media What If I'm Wrong Instagram  What If I'm Wrong YouTube What If I'm Wrong Tik Tok Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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Welcome back to What If I'm Wrong? A show where we might not give you the answers, but we will ask some really good questions. On today's episode, we're joined by Becky Thompson. Becky is a USA Today bestselling author and the founder of the Midnight Mom Devotional online community, a ministry gathering almost 2 million women in nightly prayer. Her ministry focuses on restoring peace to the anxious momma's heart, inviting women into an encounter with God's presence, and teaching about the life-changing power of prayer. Through her ten published books, public speaking, and online courses, Becky connects the hearts of women to the hope found in Jesus alone. Becky resides in northwest Oklahoma with her husband, Jared, and their three children. This month, we are in a series on Mental Health. What could you be getting wrong about these struggles you are battling? - and this week we are discussing: How Do I Find Healing Rest? Heather shares about rest and how we need to prioritize rest to recover strength. Rest isn't what you earn after healing— It's one of the ways healing actually begins. Join host Heather Thompson Day and submission specialist Haley Hoskins as they explore the topic of rest. In Day in the Bible, Heather explores the commandment on Sabbath. Exodus 20:10 “On it you shall not do any work, neither you, nor your son or daughter, nor your male or female servant, nor your animals, nor any foreigner residing in your towns.” Have a story to share? Email us at whatifimwrongpod@gmail.com. Host Bio:  Dr. Heather Thompson Day is an interdenominational speaker, an ECPA bestseller, and has been a contributor for Religion News Service, Christianity Today, Newsweek and the Barna Group.  Heather was a communication professor for 13 years teaching both graduate and undergraduate students in Public Speaking, Persuasion, and Social Media. She is now the founder of It Is Day Ministries, a nonprofit organization that trains churches, leaders, and laypeople in what Heather calls Cross Communication, a gospel centered communication approach that points you higher, to the cross, every time you open your mouth.  Heather's writing has been featured on outlets like the Today Show, and the National Communication Association. She has been interviewed by BBC Radio Live and The Wall Street Journal.  She believes her calling is to stand in the gaps of our churches. She is the author of 9 books; including It's Not Your Turn, I'll See You Tomorrow, and What If I'm Wrong? SKIMS Co-Founder Reel Heather's Social Media Heather's Instagram Heather's Website  Heather's TikTok Heather's YouTube  Haley's Social Media Haley's Instagram Becky's Social Media Becky Thompson Becky's Book: Healing Rest What If I'm Wrong Social Media What If I'm Wrong Instagram  What If I'm Wrong YouTube What If I'm Wrong Tik Tok Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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Welcome back to What If I'm Wrong? A show where we might not give you the answers, but we will ask some really good questions. On today's episode, we're joined by Kat Armstrong, Kat is an author and Bible teacher. Her latest Bible study series is Mountains and Valleys.  This month, we are in a series on Mental Health. What could you be getting wrong about these struggles you are battling? - and this week we are discussing: What I Learned In Therapy. Heather shares that self-care isn't just about binge-watching your favorite show or indulging in snacks — true self-care is about practices that genuinely refresh and restore you. Join host Heather Thompson Day and submission specialist Haley as they explore the topic of therapy. In Day in the Bible, Heather highlights how Jesus often withdrew to quiet places for solitude and renewal, showing us the importance of stepping away to be refreshed. Have a story to share? Email us at whatifimwrongpod@gmail.com. Host Bio:  Dr. Heather Thompson Day is an interdenominational speaker, an ECPA bestseller, and has been a contributor for Religion News Service, Christianity Today, Newsweek and the Barna Group.  Heather was a communication professor for 13 years teaching both graduate and undergraduate students in Public Speaking, Persuasion, and Social Media. She is now the founder of It Is Day Ministries, a nonprofit organization that trains churches, leaders, and laypeople in what Heather calls Cross Communication, a gospel centered communication approach that points you higher, to the cross, every time you open your mouth.  Heather's writing has been featured on outlets like the Today Show, and the National Communication Association. She has been interviewed by BBC Radio Live and The Wall Street Journal.  She believes her calling is to stand in the gaps of our churches. She is the author of 9 books; including It's Not Your Turn, I'll See You Tomorrow, and What If I'm Wrong? Heather's Social Media Heather's Instagram Heather's Website  Heather's TikTok Heather's YouTube  Haley's Social Media Haley's Instagram Kat's Social Media Kat Armstrong What If I'm Wrong Social Media What If I'm Wrong Instagram  What If I'm Wrong YouTube What If I'm Wrong Tik Tok Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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Welcome back to What If I'm Wrong? A show where we might not give you the answers, but we will ask some really good questions. Heather and Haley dive into a powerful and personal conversation about anxiety. Haley opens up about her own struggles with anxiety and how it impacted her daily life, offering an honest glimpse into a reality many people silently face. She also shares a powerful testimony of how the Lord brought healing and peace into her life, reminding listeners that hope is possible—even in the midst of mental health battles. This month, we are in a series on Mental Health. What could you be getting wrong about these struggles you are battling? - and this week we are discussing: Anxiety is ruining my life. Heather shares research-backed insights on how the words we speak—especially words of gratitude—can actually begin to rewire our brains. Did you know that stress and joy can't coexist in the same moment? Learn how choosing gratitude can change your mental landscape. Join host Heather Thompson Day and submission specialist Haley as they explore the topic of anxiety. In Day in the Bible, Heather reads 15 bible verses to calm our spirits and be unafraid. Join us for an episode filled with truth, hope, and practical encouragement. You're not alone—and you're not without tools. Have a story to share? Email us at whatifimwrongpod@gmail.com. Host Bio:  Dr. Heather Thompson Day is an interdenominational speaker, an ECPA bestseller, and has been a contributor for Religion News Service, Christianity Today, Newsweek and the Barna Group.  Heather was a communication professor for 13 years teaching both graduate and undergraduate students in Public Speaking, Persuasion, and Social Media. She is now the founder of It Is Day Ministries, a nonprofit organization that trains churches, leaders, and laypeople in what Heather calls Cross Communication, a gospel centered communication approach that points you higher, to the cross, every time you open your mouth.  Heather's writing has been featured on outlets like the Today Show, and the National Communication Association. She has been interviewed by BBC Radio Live and The Wall Street Journal.  She believes her calling is to stand in the gaps of our churches. She is the author of 9 books; including It's Not Your Turn, I'll See You Tomorrow, and What If I'm Wrong? Heather's Social Media Heather's Instagram Heather's Website  Heather's TikTok Heather's YouTube  Haley's Social Media Haley's Instagram What If I'm Wrong Social Media What If I'm Wrong Instagram  What If I'm Wrong YouTube What If I'm Wrong Tik Tok Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“I thought I'd see you by now,” I cried out to God. I was watching my son come out of the water at the beach. He was laughing until he wasn't. He couldn't see me. I watched him scan the sand for my chair.  “Mom!” He shouted while starting to panic. He thought that he was lost. But he wasn't lost at all.   He had stopped watching me, but I never stopped watching him.  To get the full written transcript to this devotional including the discussion questions that can be used in small groups go to HeatherThompsonDay.com/links and click “get weekly devotional” and enter your email. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome back to What If I'm Wrong? A show where we might not give you the answers, but we will ask some really good questions. On today's episode, we're joined by Vimbo Watson for a lively group chat where she opens up about her past journey as a single woman. Vimbo shares valuable insights and empowering tips, emphasizing that life doesn't begin at marriage—you're already living it. Later in the show, Heather's husband, Seth Day, joins us to tackle submission questions. Seth Day is an assistant professor of Learning Frameworks at Odessa College, and author of I'll See You Tomorrow. This month, we are starting a new series on Mental Health. What could you be getting wrong about these struggles you are battling? - and this week we are discussing: What Could I be Getting Wrong about My Depression? Heather shares insights from her research, explaining that depression isn't just a brief spell of sadness or something you can simply "snap out of"—it's a prolonged period marked by deep hopelessness. Join host Heather Thompson Day and submission specialist Haley as they explore the topic of depression. In Day in the Bible, Heather points out multiple characters we see in Scripture who also battle depression. She reaffirms listeners that their lives have value and that help is available for those who are struggling. Have a story to share? Email us at whatifimwrongpod@gmail.com. Host Bio:  Dr. Heather Thompson Day is an interdenominational speaker, an ECPA bestseller, and has been a contributor for Religion News Service, Christianity Today, Newsweek and the Barna Group.  Heather was a communication professor for 13 years teaching both graduate and undergraduate students in Public Speaking, Persuasion, and Social Media. She is now the founder of It Is Day Ministries, a nonprofit organization that trains churches, leaders, and laypeople in what Heather calls Cross Communication, a gospel centered communication approach that points you higher, to the cross, every time you open your mouth.  Heather's writing has been featured on outlets like the Today Show, and the National Communication Association. She has been interviewed by BBC Radio Live and The Wall Street Journal.  She believes her calling is to stand in the gaps of our churches. She is the author of 9 books; including It's Not Your Turn, I'll See You Tomorrow, and What If I'm Wrong? Mayoclinic article Oak Health Foundation Heather's Social Media Heather's Instagram Heather's Website  Heather's TikTok Heather's YouTube  Haley's Social media Haley's Instagram Seth's Social Media Seth's Instagram Vimbo's Social Media Your Single Spark What If I'm Wrong Social Media What If I'm Wrong Instagram  What If I'm Wrong YouTube What If I'm Wrong Tik Tok Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome back to What If I'm Wrong? A show where we might not give you the answers, but we will ask some really good questions. On today's episode Kila Johnson joins us for submission discussions. Kila is a lifestyle content creator passionate about sharing her faith and the incredible ways God has moved in her life. Through everyday moments and personal stories, she hopes to inspire and encourage others to see His goodness in their own journey. This month, we're diving deep into passion—What are you so passionate about that you are willing to suffer for and through?—and this week we are discussing: Purpose in a World that Doesn't Seem to Care. Heather shares a powerful reframe on the meaning of hope—not just as a feeling or expectation for something good, but as a predictor of resilience. Backed by over 2,000 research studies, she explains that people who choose to hope—whether in the middle of divorce, addiction, loneliness, or waiting—are the ones most likely to thrive and endure. Join host Heather Thompson Day and submission specialist Haley as they explore finding purpose in a dark and confusing world. In Day in the Bible, Heather highlights a profound truth: sometimes God is waiting on YOU! Have a story to share? Email us at whatifimwrongpod@gmail.com. Host Bio:  Dr. Heather Thompson Day is an interdenominational speaker, an ECPA bestseller, and has been a contributor for Religion News Service, Christianity Today, Newsweek and the Barna Group.  Heather was a communication professor for 13 years teaching both graduate and undergraduate students in Public Speaking, Persuasion, and Social Media. She is now the founder of It Is Day Ministries, a nonprofit organization that trains churches, leaders, and laypeople in what Heather calls Cross Communication, a gospel centered communication approach that points you higher, to the cross, every time you open your mouth.  Heather's writing has been featured on outlets like the Today Show, and the National Communication Association. She has been interviewed by BBC Radio Live and The Wall Street Journal.  She believes her calling is to stand in the gaps of our churches. She is the author of 9 books; including It's Not Your Turn, I'll See You Tomorrow, and What If I'm Wrong? Heather's Social Media Heather's Instagram Heather's Website  Heather's TikTok Heather's YouTube  Haley's Social media Haley's Instagram Kila's Social Media Kila's Instagram What If I'm Wrong Social Media What If I'm Wrong Instagram  What If I'm Wrong YouTube What If I'm Wrong Tik Tok

Welcome back to What If I'm Wrong? A show where we might not give you the answers, but we will ask some really good questions. On today's episode Mike Planeta joins us for submission discussions. Mike Planeta is a Christian above all else, a sinner that is saved by Jesus. He takes pride in his family and friends! Also a former Professional Baseball Player and College Basketball Player. After his sports career he went on to open his own gym. In 2021, he was a contestant on the Bachelorette and was thrown into the social media world. Mike uses his social media to talk about Jesus, family, travel and fitness.  This month, we're diving deep into passion—What are you so passionate about that you are willing to suffer for and through?—and this week we are discussing: The Dark Side of Finding Your Purpose. Heather shares about the concept of "faith" in a new light, based on an excerpt from her book, emphasizing that faith is not about having all the right answers, but trusting in something greater. Join host Heather Thompson Day and submission specialist Haley as they explore the challenges and obstacles that arise when finding your purpose.  In Day in the Bible, Heather concludes by reflecting on the story of Joseph from Genesis 45, exploring how our true purpose may not be tied to achievements or positions, but to the relationships and unity we build along the way. Have a story to share? Email us at whatifimwrongpod@gmail.com. “Set the reality and then set the boundary” “This is Kingdom Stuff” Host Bio:  Dr. Heather Thompson Day is an interdenominational speaker, an ECPA bestseller, and has been a contributor for Religion News Service, Christianity Today, Newsweek and the Barna Group.  Heather was a communication professor for 13 years teaching both graduate and undergraduate students in Public Speaking, Persuasion, and Social Media. She is now the founder of It Is Day Ministries, a nonprofit organization that trains churches, leaders, and laypeople in what Heather calls Cross Communication, a gospel centered communication approach that points you higher, to the cross, every time you open your mouth.  Heather's writing has been featured on outlets like the Today Show, and the National Communication Association. She has been interviewed by BBC Radio Live and The Wall Street Journal.  She believes her calling is to stand in the gaps of our churches. She is the author of 9 books; including It's Not Your Turn, I'll See You Tomorrow, and What If I'm Wrong? Heather's Social Media Heather's Instagram Heather's Website  Heather's TikTok Heather's YouTube  Haley's Social media Haley's Instagram Mike's Social Media Mike Planeta's Instagram What If I'm Wrong Social Media What If I'm Wrong Instagram  What If I'm Wrong YouTube What If I'm Wrong Tik Tok

Welcome back to What If I'm Wrong? A show where we might not give you the answers, but we will ask some really good questions.  This month, we're exploring the topic of passion—what are you so passionate about that you are willing to suffer for? And this week we are talking about: When Your Purpose Shifts: Navigating Change Over Time. What happens when everything you thought you were working toward no longer fits who you are? When the thing that once gave your life direction begins to feel distant, unfamiliar, or even empty? Purpose isn't always a fixed destination—it can be a season, a phase, or a stepping stone. Join host Heather Thompson Day and submission specialist Haley as they discuss navigating change. In Day in the Bible, Heather reflects on Matthew 5:16 which reads, "Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven." Heather challenges us to give glory to God by loving our neighbors, caring, serving and living out our faith on Purpose. Have a story to share? Email us at whatifimwrongpod@gmail.com. Host Bio:  Dr. Heather Thompson Day is an interdenominational speaker, an ECPA bestseller, and has been a contributor for Religion News Service, Christianity Today, Newsweek and the Barna Group.  Heather was a communication professor for 13 years teaching both graduate and undergraduate students in Public Speaking, Persuasion, and Social Media. She is now the founder of It Is Day Ministries, a nonprofit organization that trains churches, leaders, and laypeople in what Heather calls Cross Communication, a gospel centered communication approach that points you higher, to the cross, every time you open your mouth.  Heather's writing has been featured on outlets like the Today Show, and the National Communication Association. She has been interviewed by BBC Radio Live and The Wall Street Journal.  She believes her calling is to stand in the gaps of our churches. She is the author of 9 books; including It's Not Your Turn, I'll See You Tomorrow, What If I'm Wrong?, and upcoming book What If I'm Wrong?: Navigating the Waves of Fear and Failure. Heather's Social Media Heather's Instagram Heather's Website  Heather's TikTok Heather's YouTube  Haley's Social media Haley's Instagram What If I'm Wrong Social Media What If I'm Wrong Instagram  What If I'm Wrong YouTube What If I'm Wrong Tik Tok

Welcome back to What If I'm Wrong? A show where we might not give you the answers, but we will ask some really good questions.  This month, we're exploring the topic of passion—what are you so passionate about that you are willing to suffer for? And this week we are asking: What if you're wrong about your purpose? What if everything you've believed about your purpose turns out to be a misconception? How do you cope when your sense of purpose shifts or crumbles, and what can it teach you about yourself moving forward? Join host Heather Thompson Day and submission specialist Haley as they dive into a thought-provoking discussion about purpose. In Day in the Bible, Heather explores that Luke, a physician, wrote 27% of the New Testament, focusing on Jesus' healing ministry. She challenges us to reconsider our purpose, noting that God often calls unlikely people to do His work. Whether you're a nurse, teacher, or in another field, Heather asks, "What if you're wrong about your purpose?" urging us to be open to God's call, even if we don't feel equipped. Have a story to share? Email us at whatifimwrongpod@gmail.com. Host Bio:  Dr. Heather Thompson Day is an interdenominational speaker, an ECPA bestseller, and has been a contributor for Religion News Service, Christianity Today, Newsweek and the Barna Group.  Heather was a communication professor for 13 years teaching both graduate and undergraduate students in Public Speaking, Persuasion, and Social Media. She is now the founder of It Is Day Ministries, a nonprofit organization that trains churches, leaders, and laypeople in what Heather calls Cross Communication, a gospel centered communication approach that points you higher, to the cross, every time you open your mouth.  Heather's writing has been featured on outlets like the Today Show, and the National Communication Association. She has been interviewed by BBC Radio Live and The Wall Street Journal.  She believes her calling is to stand in the gaps of our churches. She is the author of 9 books; including It's Not Your Turn, I'll See You Tomorrow, and What If I'm Wrong? Heather's Social Media Heather's Instagram Heather's Website  Heather's TikTok Heather's YouTube  Haley's Social media Haley's Instagram What If I'm Wrong Social Media What If I'm Wrong Instagram  What If I'm Wrong YouTube What If I'm Wrong Tik Tok

Welcome back to What If I'm Wrong? A show where we might not give you the answers, but we will ask some really good questions.  This month, we're diving deep into relationships—friendships, romantic connections, and family dynamics—and this week we are asking: What if jealousy isn't as bad as we think? Jealousy often gets a bad reputation, but is it always a toxic emotion, or could it be a natural, even helpful, response in relationships? Join host Heather Thompson Day and submission specialist Haley as they discuss how jealousy shows up in romantic and professional settings, breaking down the psychology behind it. In Day in the Bible, Heather explores the scripture Numbers 12:1, where Miriam and Aaron's jealousy over Moses' marriage to a Cushite woman reveals their underlying insecurity and feelings of betrayal, not racial prejudice. This passage highlights the importance of understanding cultural context Have a story to share? Email us at whatifimwrongpod@gmail.com. Host Bio:  Dr. Heather Thompson Day is an interdenominational speaker, an ECPA bestseller, and has been a contributor for Religion News Service, Christianity Today, Newsweek and the Barna Group.  Heather was a communication professor for 13 years teaching both graduate and undergraduate students in Public Speaking, Persuasion, and Social Media. She is now the founder of It Is Day Ministries, a nonprofit organization that trains churches, leaders, and laypeople in what Heather calls Cross Communication, a gospel centered communication approach that points you higher, to the cross, every time you open your mouth.  Heather's writing has been featured on outlets like the Today Show, and the National Communication Association. She has been interviewed by BBC Radio Live and The Wall Street Journal.  She believes her calling is to stand in the gaps of our churches. She is the author of 9 books; including It's Not Your Turn, I'll See You Tomorrow, and What If I'm Wrong? Heather's Social Media Heather's Instagram Heather's Website  Heather's TikTok Heather's YouTube  Haley's Social media Haley's Instagram What If I'm Wrong Social Media What If I'm Wrong Instagram  What If I'm Wrong YouTube What If I'm Wrong Tik Tok

Welcome back to What If I'm Wrong? A show where we might not give you the answers, but we will ask some really good questions. On today's episode Scarlett Longstreet joins us again for submission discussions. Her non Christian background and realism makes this a well rounded analysis you won't want to miss. Scarlett Longstreet is a writer and content creator based in Detroit. She shares perspectives on divorce, copareting, relationships, and millennial womanhood.  This month, we're diving deep into relationships—friendships, romantic connections, and family dynamics—and this week we are asking: What if ‘The One' Doesn't Exist? In relationships, the concept of soulmates is often seen as undeniable—but what if it's not as simple as we think?  Join host Heather Thompson Day and submission specialist Haley as they explore whether ‘the one' truly exists. They question whether God has divinely appointed one perfect partner for each person or if love is shaped by free will, personal growth, and the choices we make along the way. In Day in the Bible, Heather discusses the symbolism of barrenness in the first century and how understanding these implications change how we read God's call to Abraham in Genesis 12. Have a story to share? Email us at whatifimwrongpod@gmail.com. Host Bio:  Dr. Heather Thompson Day is an interdenominational speaker, an ECPA bestseller, and has been a contributor for Religion News Service, Christianity Today, Newsweek and the Barna Group.  Heather was a communication professor for 13 years teaching both graduate and undergraduate students in Public Speaking, Persuasion, and Social Media. She is now the founder of It Is Day Ministries, a nonprofit organization that trains churches, leaders, and laypeople in what Heather calls Cross Communication, a gospel centered communication approach that points you higher, to the cross, every time you open your mouth.  Heather's writing has been featured on outlets like the Today Show, and the National Communication Association. She has been interviewed by BBC Radio Live and The Wall Street Journal.  She believes her calling is to stand in the gaps of our churches. She is the author of 9 books; including It's Not Your Turn, I'll See You Tomorrow, and What If I'm Wrong? Heather's Social Media Heather's Instagram Heather's Website  Heather's TikTok Heather's YouTube  Haley's Social media Haley's Instagram Scarlett's Social Media Scarlett Longstreet's Instagram What If I'm Wrong Social Media What If I'm Wrong Instagram  What If I'm Wrong YouTube What If I'm Wrong Tik Tok

Welcome back to What If I'm Wrong? A show where we might not give you the answers, but we will ask some really good questions.  On today's episode Scarlett Longstreet joins submission discussions. Her non Christian background and realism makes this a well rounded analysis you won't want to miss. Scarlett Longstreet is a writer and content creator based in Detroit. She shares perspectives on divorce, coparenting, relationships, and millennial womanhood.  This month, we're diving deep into relationships—friendships, romantic connections, and family dynamics—and this week we are asking: What if ‘The One' Doesn't Exist? In relationships, the concept of soulmates is often seen as undeniable—but what if it's not as simple as we think?  Join host Heather Thompson Day and submission specialist Haley as they explore whether ‘the one' truly exists. They question whether God has divinely appointed one perfect partner for each person or if love is shaped by free will, personal growth, and the choices we make along the way. In Day in the Bible, Heather discusses the symbolism of barrenness in the first century and how understanding these implications change how we read God's call to Abraham in Genesis 12. Have a story to share? Email us at whatifimwrongpod@gmail.com. This month, we're diving deep into relationships—friendships, romantic connections, and family dynamics—and this week we are asking: What if Compromise isn't Always the Answer? In relationships, compromise is often seen as essential, but what if it's actually a misguided approach?  Join host Heather Thompson Day and co-host Haley as they dive into the idea that compromise isn't always the best approach in relationships. Is it possible that holding firm on your values and needs can be healthier than meeting someone halfway? In Day in the Bible, Heather reflects on John 15 and why love—not compromise—is central to the Christian faith. Have a story to share? Email us at whatifimwrongpod@gmail.com. Host Bio:  Dr. Heather Thompson Day is an interdenominational speaker, an ECPA bestseller, and has been a contributor for Religion News Service, Christianity Today, Newsweek and the Barna Group.  Heather was a communication professor for 13 years teaching both graduate and undergraduate students in Public Speaking, Persuasion, and Social Media. She is now the founder of It Is Day Ministries, a nonprofit organization that trains churches, leaders, and laypeople in what Heather calls Cross Communication, a gospel centered communication approach that points you higher, to the cross, every time you open your mouth.  Heather's writing has been featured on outlets like the Today Show, and the National Communication Association. She has been interviewed by BBC Radio Live and The Wall Street Journal.  She believes her calling is to stand in the gaps of our churches. She is the author of 9 books; including It's Not Your Turn, I'll See You Tomorrow, and What If I'm Wrong? Heather's Social Media Heather's Instagram Heather's Website  Heather's TikTok Heather's YouTube  Haley's Social media Haley's Instagram Scarlett's Social Media Scarlett Longstreet's Instagram What If I'm Wrong Social Media What If I'm Wrong Instagram  What If I'm Wrong YouTube What If I'm Wrong Tik Tok

Welcome to the very first episode of What If I'm Wrong? A show where we might not give you the answers, but we will ask some really good questions.  This month, we're diving deep into relationships—friendships, romantic connections, and family dynamics—and asking: What if we've been doing relationships wrong all along? Is it reasonable for married couples to live separately? Are long-distance relationships always doomed? What happens when relationships challenge traditional gender roles? We're not here to give answers, but we are here to ask some really good questions. Join host Heather Thompson Day and co-host Haley as they break down what it really means to love someone, react to shocking submission stories—including a dad dating his daughter's best friend—and explore how Jesus' communication style was built on asking great questions. Plus, don't miss the first-ever Day in the Bible segment, where we challenge how we think about faith, relationships, and the power of asking instead of answering. Have a story to share? Email us at whatifimwrongpod@gmail.com. Host Bio:  Dr. Heather Thompson Day is an interdenominational speaker, an ECPA bestseller, and has been a contributor for Religion News Service, Christianity Today, Newsweek and the Barna Group.  Heather was a communication professor for 13 years teaching both graduate and undergraduate students in Public Speaking, Persuasion, and Social Media. She is now the founder of It Is Day Ministries, a nonprofit organization that trains churches, leaders, and laypeople in what Heather calls Cross Communication, a gospel centered communication approach that points you higher, to the cross, every time you open your mouth.  Heather's writing has been featured on outlets like the Today Show, and the National Communication Association. She has been interviewed by BBC Radio Live and The Wall Street Journal.  She believes her calling is to stand in the gaps of our churches. She is the author of 9 books; including It's Not Your Turn, I'll See You Tomorrow, and What If I'm Wrong? Heather's Social Media Heather's Instagram Heather's Website  Heather's TikTok Heather's YouTube  Haley's Social media Haley's Instagram What If I'm Wrong Social Media What If I'm Wrong Instagram  What If I'm Wrong YouTube What If I'm Wrong Tik Tok

Welcome to a brand new show called "What If I'm Wrong?" with Dr. Heather Thompson Day! What if more important than being right is how we handle being wrong? What is faith is an invitation into mystery? Heather is here to be your guide through real-life questions! This podcast is your invitation to embrace change, challenge your assumptions, and deepen your spiritual and relational journey. Each episode is a safe space to explore Bible study, hear powerful submission stories, and learn how asking the right questions can lead to profound transformation. Whether you're looking to grow spiritually, rethink your beliefs, or simply find a community that encourages open-minded growth, you'll find a place here. Join Dr. Heather as your guide through personal growth, deep questions, and meaningful conversations that will leave you thinking—and evolving—long after the episode ends.

Today's episode is our last episode of Viral Jesus.  125 episodes, thousands and thousands of downloads, and three years have brought us to this necessary ending. Viral Jesus was created to help us remember the power of our social networks. In this last conversation, Heather wants to talk directly to you, the listener, and remind you that you have influence.  Create the podcast. Write the blog. Email the book agent. Don't stop creating. Someone is watching, listening, and learning from what you've experienced. Don't stop believing that your being faithful with what God has placed in your hand, truly matters. It's not about whether or not we finish our race first. It's about running in obedience and faithfulness to the race set before us. That's what we hope you take away from Viral Jesus. In this life, with your gifting, leave it all on the track. Host Bio Heather Thompson Day is an associate professor of communication at Andrews University in Berrien Springs, Michigan. She is the author of eight books, including I'll See You Tomorrow and It's Not Your Turn. Reach out to Heather on X, the app formerly known as Twitter at @HeatherTDay and on Instagram @heatherthompsonday. Receive Heather's weekly inspirational email every Friday at 7pm EST; sign up at www.heatherthompsonday.com/links. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today's episode with Natalie Boonstra Lilly is such an empowering conversation. Natalie shares her heart behind her latest book Insecure: My Story. She opens up about her deformity, and how it impacted her childhood and self-esteem.  Heather and Natalie also discuss how you know when you are supposed to share your story, waiting on God to open doors, and why it is important to find safe spaces when sharing intimate experiences publicly for the first time.  Heather also adds a tool to your toolkit with the suggestion of adding Manychat to your platform. Guest Bio At ten years old, Natalie Lilly was diagnosed with the extremely rare Madelung's deformity and has grappled with insecurities throughout her life. But she knows God says she is fearfully and wonderfully made and strives to help others find the freedom she's found in who Jesus says she is. Natalie is a master's student, author, public speaker, and pastor's wife. She is the author of Insecure: My Story. Host Bio Heather Thompson Day is an associate professor of communication at Andrews University in Berrien Springs, Michigan. She is the author of eight books, including I'll See You Tomorrow and It's Not Your Turn. Reach out to Heather on X, the app formerly known as Twitter at @HeatherTDay and on Instagram @heatherthompsonday. Receive Heather's weekly inspirational email every Friday at 7pm EST; sign up at www.heatherthompsonday.com/links. “Viral Jesus” is a production of Christianity Today  Executive Producer: Matt Stevens  Host: Heather Thompson Day  Producer: Loren Joseph  Associate Producer: McKenzie Hill  Director of Operations for CT Media: Matt Stevens  Audio Engineer: Loren Joseph Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today's episode with Drew Dyck encapsulates why we started this show. Heather had never met Drew in person, but his writing and Twitter have impacted her real life. It is incredible how our online presence can bring about real-life friendships and foster spiritual growth.  Heather and Drew discuss Drew's latest book Just Show Up. Drew wants to remind you that God isn't expecting you to do everything, or to change overnight. The gospel is an invitation to Just Show Up and engage with people and our own lives right where we are.  Heather also breaks down the latest Instagram algorithm update and explains why bait engagement is different from calls to action.  Guest Bio Drew Dyck (M.A. Theology) is the author of multiple books, including Your Future Self Will Thank You: Secrets To Self Control From The Bible And Brain Science (2019), and Just Show Up: How Small Acts of Faithfulness Change Everything (2023). Drew is an editor at Moody Publishers and the former managing editor of Leadership Journal. His work has appeared in numerous publications, including Christianity Today, Relevant Magazine, The Gospel Coalition, and CNN.com. Drew grew up in Canada and now lives in the Portland area with his wife, Grace, and their three children. They attend The Well Church Church in Portland. Connect with Drew at DrewDyck.com or follow him on Twitter @drewdyck. Host Bio Heather Thompson Day is an associate professor of communication at Andrews University in Berrien Springs, Michigan. She is the author of eight books, including I'll See You Tomorrow and It's Not Your Turn. Reach out to Heather on X, the app formerly known as Twitter at @HeatherTDay and on Instagram @heatherthompsonday. Receive Heather's weekly inspirational email every Friday at 7pm EST; sign up at www.heatherthompsonday.com/links. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Have you ever wondered why you behave the way you do? Dr. Gary Lawrence says he thinks it has to do with the patterns of rejection we navigated in childhood. We all experience rejection, but we all survive that rejection differently. Dr. Gary believes that he has found some helpful tools that can help us break free of toxic patterns we may be repeating. In today's episode Heather and Gary discuss how we can identify, isolate, and eliminate the root cause of most of our problems with rejection. Heather also talks to creators about how to navigate the reality of not being cited for your work. Guest Bio Dr. Gary Lawrence is the author of ‘Rejection Junkies'. He and his wife Sylvia have spent their lives successfully leading others to “identify, isolate, and eliminate” the root cause of the emotional turmoil in their lives. Over 23 years of serving as the founder and director of New Life Dynamics Christian Counseling Center and 20 years as the host of his own radio show, Life Mastery Counseling with Dr. G, he has personally met with and coached more than 6000 clients and has overseen the counseling of another 10,000. He also serves on television, stage, and radio.  Host Bio Heather Thompson Day is an associate professor of communication at Andrews University in Berrien Springs, Michigan. She is the author of eight books, including I'll See You Tomorrow and It's Not Your Turn. Reach out to Heather on X, the app formerly known as Twitter at @HeatherTDay and on Instagram @heatherthompsonday. Receive Heather's weekly inspirational email every Friday at 7pm EST; sign up at www.heatherthompsonday.com/links. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today's episode is a must listen. Mary DeMuth is the author of We Too: How the Church can Respond Redemptively to Sexual Abuse, and spends the first half of this conversation walking Heather through her own story. Mary is committed to equipping churches with tools to be able to navigate these conversations with grace.  Mary and Heather also discuss how Scripture is a redemptive story that can encourage the most burdened, which is why Mary is so passionate about Bible reading.  Heather and Mary also navigate the importance of knowing the story of Scripture, which can help shape your own story in both grace and truth. Guest Bio Mary DeMuth is an international speaker, podcaster, and author of nearly 50 books, fiction and nonfiction, including We Too: How the Church can Respond Redemptively To The Sexual Abuse Crisis and her latest book, 90-Day Bible Reading Challenge. Mary lives in Texas with her husband of 33 years and is mom to three adult children. Learn more at marydemuth.com.  Host Bio Heather Thompson Day is an associate professor of communication at Andrews University in Berrien Springs, Michigan. She is the author of eight books, including I'll See You Tomorrow and It's Not Your Turn. Reach out to Heather on X, the app formerly known as Twitter at @HeatherTDay and on Instagram @heatherthompsonday. Receive Heather's weekly inspirational email every Friday at 7pm EST; sign up at www.heatherthompsonday.com/links. “Viral Jesus” is a production of Christianity Today  Executive Producer: Matt Stevens  Host: Heather Thompson Day  Producer: Loren Joseph  Associate Producer: McKenzie Hill  Director of Operations for CT Media: Matt Stevens  Audio Engineer: Loren Joseph Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today's episode highlights the work that is being done by Christians for the incarcerated. Heather sits down with the first female president of Prison Fellowship, Heather Rice Minus and discusses what work still needs to be done outside of prisons, and in our communities, to help incarcerated individuals transition after serving their sentence.  During today's episode Heather also provides an update on Viral Jesus and requests your prayer for the future of the show. Guest Bio Heather Rice Minus is the President and CEO of Prison Fellowship. Host Bio Heather Thompson Day is an associate professor of communication at Andrews University in Berrien Springs, Michigan. She is the author of eight books, including I'll See You Tomorrow and It's Not Your Turn. Reach out to Heather on X, the app formerly known as Twitter at @HeatherTDay and on Instagram @heatherthompsonday. Receive Heather's weekly inspirational email every Friday at 7pm EST; sign up at www.heatherthompsonday.com/links. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today's episode is for the person navigating a season of loss or grief, and trying to figure out how long this ache will last.  JS Park is a chaplain who has served for nearly 10 years and has held pain for thousands of patients and their families. He believes that our need to rush past pain, only suffocates our grief, and that grief is a voice that needs to be heard.  During today's episode Heather also provides an update on her life ministry, and professional journey.  Guest Bio J.S. Park is a hospital chaplain, author, and online educator. For eight years he has been an interfaith chaplain at a thousand-plus-bed hospital that is designated a Level 1 Trauma Center. J.S. has an MDiv, completed in 2010, and a BA in Psychology. He also has a sixth-degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do. He is also the author of As Long As You Need. Host Bio Heather Thompson Day is an associate professor of communication at Andrews University in Berrien Springs, Michigan. She is the author of eight books, including I'll See You Tomorrow and It's Not Your Turn. Reach out to Heather on X, the app formerly known as Twitter at @HeatherTDay and on Instagram @heatherthompsonday. Receive Heather's weekly inspirational email every Friday at 7pm EST; sign up at www.heatherthompsonday.com/links. “Viral Jesus” is a production of Christianity Today Executive Producer: Matt Stevens Host: Heather Thompson Day Producer: Loren Joseph Associate Producer: McKenzie Hill Director of Operations for CT Media: Matt Stevens Audio engineering by Loren Joseph Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Are there certain questions you don't feel like you can ask in church about the Bible? For today's episode Heather sits down with Dr. Andrew Farley, a pastor and radio show host, asks him questions he often gets during his live radio show every night about the Bible. Andrew believes in grace, freedom, and the new covenant. If you have felt that religion offered you very little grace, less freedom, and didn't talk very much about the beauty of the New Covenant, today's episode is for you.  During today's episode Heather also sits down with Brady Shearer for your social toolkit. Brady Shearer is the director of Pro Church Tools and church software platform Nucleus. He helps churches navigate the biggest communication shift in 500 years.  Guest Bio Dr. Andrew Farley is a bestselling author of nine books including The Grace Message, The Naked Gospel, and Twisted Scripture. He most recently launched the “Heartbeat of Faith” podcast on pray.com and released his newest book, 101 Bible Questions. He serves as president of The Grace Message, hosts a live, call-in radio program every weeknight, is the lead pastor of The Grace Church, and has been recognized with several awards for his excellence in teaching. Andrew lives in Texas with his wife Katharine and their son Gavin. Host Bio Heather Thompson Day is an associate professor of communication at Andrews University in Berrien Springs, Michigan. She is the author of eight books, including I'll See You Tomorrow and It's Not Your Turn. Reach out to Heather on X, the app formerly known as Twitter at @HeatherTDay and on Instagram @heatherthompsonday. Receive Heather's weekly inspirational email every Friday at 7pm EST; sign up at www.heatherthompsonday.com/links. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Is there such a thing as Good Baggage? For today's episode Heather sits down with Ike Miller and discusses the baggage that we experience in our past that sometimes impacts our present and future. But, is it possible that seeing our parents' parent, or do marriage, or live out their faith, can reveal to us how we can do things differently? Ike believes that his upbringing is what gave him a passion to pursue a different path for himself. What if some baggage can be good? On today's social toolkit, Heather discusses Elyse Meyers and her apparent social media break after being targeted by Operation Watermelon. Operation Watermelon is where a group of internet users target a single creator and try to take over their platform by commenting en masse on the tragedy impacting the middle east between Israel and Palestine. Elyse Meyers shutdown her Tik Tok with over 7 million followers and many users suspect it is because she was targeted by this peer pressure tactic. Should influencers make statements on cultural issues? Heather discusses her thoughts on this and adds a tool to your social toolkit. Guest Bio Ike Miller is the founding and lead pastor of Bright City Church in Durham NC. Ike writes regularly about the intersection of theology and mental health. His newest book is titled Good Baggage. Host Bio Heather Thompson Day is an associate professor of communication at Andrews University in Berrien Springs, Michigan. She is the author of eight books, including I'll See You Tomorrow and It's Not Your Turn. Reach out to Heather on X, the app formerly known as Twitter at @HeatherTDay and on Instagram @heatherthompsonday. Receive Heather's weekly inspirational email every Friday at 7pm EST; sign up at www.heatherthompsonday.com/links Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Welcome to part two of our two part series on technology, church and culture. For today's episode Heather sits down with Brad Hill who is the Chief Solutions Officer at GLOO, where they've just developed a new initiative that helps churches navigate AI. What is AI? How is it impacting church culture? And should we be concerned as Christians about its potential? Heather gets answers to these questions and more during today's conversation. Heather also discusses deepfake videos and AI manipulation as it relates to the Princess Catherine cancer video during today's social toolkit. Here is an article Heather found by the Washington Post about conspiracy theories and AI.  Guest Bio Brad Hill is the Chief Solutions Officer at Gloo, a technology platform for ministry leaders that recently launched its new AI & the Church Initiative to empower the Big C Church to navigate and engage AI responsibly. With partners like Barna, Carey Nieuwhof, YouVersion, and more, they're initiating a connected conversation around AI and faith for Christians. Brad has been deeply involved in solving technology challenges for the Church for over 20 years.  Host Bio Heather Thompson Day is an associate professor of communication at Andrews University in Berrien Springs, Michigan. She is the author of eight books, including I'll See You Tomorrow and It's Not Your Turn. Reach out to Heather on X, the app formerly known as Twitter at @HeatherTDay and on Instagram @heatherthompsonday. Receive Heather's weekly inspirational email every Friday at 7pm EST; sign up at www.heatherthompsonday.com/links. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Welcome to part one of our two part series on Technology, Church and Culture. On today's episode Heather finally has a conversation she has been wanting to have since season 1, and that is on the topic of pornography. According to the Youth Pornography Addiction Center, 93 % of boys and 62% of girls are exposed to internet pornography before the age of 18. To discuss porns impact and what resources may be available to help a user who wants to quit, Heather sits down with John Michael Bout and Jacob Valk who created the documentary Into the Light, which helps people navigate and break free porn addiction. Heather also sits down with investigative reporter on technology and culture, Taylor Lorenz to discuss the 12-page bill, known as the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act, aimed to "protect the national security of the United States from the threat posed by foreign adversary controlled applications" like TikTok. Taylor walks us through what we need to know about the Tik Tok ban and adds another tool to our social toolkit, You can order her latest book, Extremely Online here. Guest Bio Jacob Valk holds a degree in Advertising from Mohawk College and a B.A. in Humanities from Brock University. He worked various roles in advertising/film in Toronto, co-produced the documentaries Ordinary Commission and Into The Light, and runs the podcast Chats Under The Sun. He is finishing an M.Div. at SBTS in Louisville, Kentucky, where he lives and works at the ReCenter homeless shelter.  John-Michael Bout holds a B.A. in Classics from Brock University and is working on an M.Div. at SBTS in Louisville, Kentucky. He co-produced Ordinary Commission and Into The Light. He is married to his lovely wife Jessica with their two sons Roman and Andrew.  Host Bio Heather Thompson Day is an associate professor of communication at Andrews University in Berrien Springs, Michigan. She is the author of eight books, including I'll See You Tomorrow and It's Not Your Turn. Reach out to Heather on X, the app formerly known as Twitter at @HeatherTDay and on Instagram @heatherthompsonday. Receive Heather's weekly inspirational email every Friday at 7pm EST; sign up at www.heatherthompsonday.com/links. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Welcome to part four of our four part series, Advice From a Woman. In this episode, Heather sits down with Rachel Marie Kang and talks about the relatively invisible matter of little losses. Life is full of love, but it is also full of loss. Like paper cuts to the heart, every big and seemingly insignificant loss--the loss of friendships, faith, dreams, health, community, and everything in between--grieves us more than we think it will, and often more than we let on. Rachel Marie Kang invites you to see and be seen in the midst of your sorrow, your suffering--your story. Heather also sits down with our social media expert, Brady Shearer, to talk through what tips and best practices he would recommend before someone starts a Youtube channel. Brady Shearer is the director of Pro Church Tools, a company that trains churches and leaders on how to navigate the biggest communication shift in 500 years.  Guest Bio Rachel Marie Kang is a New York native, born and raised just outside New York City. A mixed woman of African American, Native American (Ramapough Lenape Nation), Irish, and Dutch descent, she holds a degree in English with Creative Writing, and a minor in Bible. She is founder of The Fallow House and her writing has been featured in Christianity Today, Ekstasis, Proverbs 31 Ministries, She Reads Truth, and (in)courage. Rachel is the author of Let There Be Art and The Matter of Little Losses. Host Bio Heather Thompson Day is an associate professor of communication at Andrews University in Berrien Springs, Michigan. She is the author of eight books, including I'll See You Tomorrow and It's Not Your Turn. Reach out to Heather on X, the app formerly known as Twitter at @HeatherTDay and on Instagram @heatherthompsonday. Receive Heather's weekly inspirational email every Friday at 7pm EST; sign up at www.heatherthompsonday.com/links. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It is time for part three of our four-part series, Advice From a Woman. Today, Christian women face multiple tensions between home and work, navigating complex gender dynamics in the workplace, and social pressure to hold together picture-perfect lives. Joanna Meyer addresses a critical gap in Christian women's discipleship by speaking to the roles we play in public and professional life. Heather also adds another tool to your social toolkit as she discusses social media and how your employer or potential employer may be using it to learn more about who you are. The lines between our private and public lives can blur when we log online. Heather gives you a tip she thinks you should remember every time you post. Guest Bio Joanna Meyer is director of public engagement at the Denver Institute for Faith & Work, where she leads public events, hosts the Faith & Work Podcast, and founded Women, Work, & Calling. Her latest book is called Women, Work, and Calling, step into your place in God's world. Host Bio Heather Thompson Day is an associate professor of communication at Andrews University in Berrien Springs, Michigan. She is the author of eight books, including I'll See You Tomorrow and It's Not Your Turn. Reach out to Heather on X, the app formerly known as Twitter at @HeatherTDay and on Instagram @heatherthompsonday. Receive Heather's weekly inspirational email every Friday at 7pm EST; sign up at www.heatherthompsonday.com/links. Some links we discuss in this episode: Viral reel: https://www.instagram.com/reel/CsWHNOJgi_G/ Christianity Today Article: https://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2023/october/wilkin-women-ministry-leaders-church-staff-wages-lifeway.html Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It is time for part two of our four part series, Advice from a Woman. Today Heather sits down with Kristen LaValley. Kristen explains the problem with formulaic Christianity. Eventually God allows something to enter our lives that we never saw coming, and can't put into a box. We have a choice in those experiences to either let our understanding of God crumble, or let go of all our preconceived formulas. Also, if you are an aspiring author, and wanting to know how important social media is to your book proposal, Heather has some advice for you on today's social toolkit. Guest Bio Kristen LaValley is a writer and storyteller whose words offer a refreshing perspective on faith and spirituality. She offers insights that intersect doubt and belief, hope and suffering, beauty and heartache. With a deep love for the Christian faith and willingness to explore its complexities, Kristen's writing offers nuanced conversations that challenge readers to think deeply and wrestle with important questions. Kristen lives in Massachusetts with her husband, Zach, and their five children. Her latest book is called Even If He Doesn't. Host Bio Heather Thompson Day is an associate professor of communication at Andrews University in Berrien Springs, Michigan. She is the author of eight books, including I'll See You Tomorrow and It's Not Your Turn. Reach out to Heather on X, the app formerly known as Twitter, at @HeatherTDay and on Instagram @heatherthompsonday. Get Heather's weekly inspirational email delivered to your inbox every Friday night at 7 p.m. EST. Sign up now at: www.heatherthompsonday.com/links. Viral Jesus is a production of Christianity Today Host and creator: Heather Thompson Day Executive Producer: Ed Gilbreath Producer: Loren Joseph Mix Engineer: Alex Carter Director of CT Podcasts: Mike Cosper Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In honor of Women's History Month, today we begin a new four-part series called “Advice from a Woman.” In each episode, Heather will speak to a different thought leader to get her best advice on how to keep growing, praying, and choosing God in our everyday faith journeys. On today's show Heather sits down with Jenn Schultz, the author of She's Not Your Enemy. Jenn says we lose something when, by default, we view other women as our competition. She walks us through strategies that will empower us to move beyond feelings of jealousy, insecurity, and self-protection. Her insights will help us reject unhealthy habits of comparison, as we pursue cultures of community and cooperation. Social Toolkit: Just Like That But first… Did you know that while 84 percent of all social media influencers are women, they are still making up to 30 percent less per post than men do, even when they have similar audience size and engagement rates? On today's Social Toolkit, Heather puts on her communication professor hat and shares with you a tool to help you with negotiation. It's called the power of likability. Guest Bio Jenn Schultz writes and speaks about messy faith, shaking off shame, and pursuing God's purpose confidently. She is a wife and mom who reads too many books at once and loves decaf coffee. Jenn's new book is She's Not Your Enemy: Conquering Our Insecurities So We Can Build God's Kingdom Together. Find her @jennschultzauthor on social media and at jennschultzauthor.com. Host Bio Heather Thompson Day is an associate professor of communication at Andrews University in Berrien Springs, Michigan. She is the author of eight books, including I'll See You Tomorrow and It's Not Your Turn. Reach out to Heather on X, the app formerly known as Twitter, at @HeatherTDay and on Instagram @heatherthompsonday. Get Heather's weekly inspirational email delivered to your inbox every Friday night at 7 p.m. EST. Sign up now at: www.heatherthompsonday.com/links. Viral Jesus is a production of Christianity Today Host and creator: Heather Thompson Day Executive Producer: Ed Gilbreath Producer: Loren Joseph Mix Engineer: Alex Carter Director of CT Podcasts: Mike Cosper Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

According to Charles Spurgeon, “Religion which costs a man nothing is usually worth nothing.” In her missionary and humanitarian ministry to Iran—including its persecuted Christians and scattered diaspora—Lana Silk has been learning the meaning of costly religion. This episode features Heather's inspiring conversation with Lana. Lana Silk, the daughter of Lazarus and Maggie, serves as the USA chief executive officer of Transform Iran. In this role, she actively seeks to bring freedom to the people of Iran, transforming the nation into one which bears the image of Christ. Through ministry and humanitarian aid, she hopes that Transform Iran will create divine change in the lives of the Iranian people. Lana was born and raised in Iran before emigrating to the UK where she completed her education at Imperial College, London, gaining an honors degree in computer engineering. She later did postgraduate studies in marketing communication strategy. With over 20 years marketing experience across all media, Lana has a passion to see small businesses and startups gain their voice in a competitive environment. She has also worked as a church minister, worship leader, and most recently a college chaplain, where she took further post-graduate studies in working with youth, with a focus on mental health and safeguarding. She is trilingual and considers it her life calling to represent and advocate for the people of Iran in the West. Lana currently makes the USA the base of operations for Transform Iran. She and her husband live in Ohio with their three children. About Transform Iran For more than 30 years, Transform Iran—formerly 222 Ministries—served on the front lines of the Iranian Diaspora, sharing the love of Christ, training leaders, and providing aid to the persecuted. God has given Transform Iran a unique position in the Middle East to meet the spiritual needs of many Iranians. In addition to spiritual support, Transform Iran provides humanitarian relief, including emergency food and shelter, medical care, and legal help for asylum, among other forms of practical aid to Iranians who have been forced to leave their country. For information, visit transformiran.com. Social Toolkit: Video Rules But before Heather sits down with Lana, it's time for Social Toolkit. This week Heather gives us a brief commentary on YouTube, Reels, and TikTok and the rise of video as a dominant medium for content. How's your video competence? With social media algorithms increasingly favoring video, Heather encourages creators in the Viral Jesus community to stay alert to trends and how they might ultimately affect their content creation and discovery. Host Bio Heather Thompson Day is an associate professor of communication at Andrews University in Berrien Springs, Michigan. She is the author of eight books, including I'll See You Tomorrow and It's Not Your Turn. Reach out to Heather on X, the app formerly known as Twitter, at @HeatherTDay and on Instagram @heatherthompsonday. Get Heather's weekly inspirational email delivered to your inbox every Friday night at 7 p.m. EST. Sign up now at: www.heatherthompsonday.com/links. Viral Jesus is a production of Christianity Today Host and creator: Heather Thompson Day Executive Producer: Ed Gilbreath Producer: Loren Joseph Mix Engineer: Alex Carter Director of CT Podcasts: Mike Cosper Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week Heather is joined by journalist Paul Kix, whose bestselling book You Have to Be Prepared to Die Before You Can Begin to Live takes readers on a sweeping tour of the chaotic streets of Birmingham, Alabama, in the spring of 1963. It's the story of the pivotal ten-week campaign of marches, nonviolent resistance, and overnight jail stays that helped turn the tide on Jim Crow segregation. Who can forget the gut-wrenching photos and video clips from Birmingham during these days? The images of young Black students being assaulted by police dogs and water cannons went viral decades before the Internet was available to go viral on. Paul walks Heather through his research on Birmingham, on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and on King's Southern Christian Leadership Conference organization. He also calls attention to the important contributions of Civil Rights Movement leaders such as Rev. Fred Shuttlesworth (whose chracteristic maxim became the book's title) and Dr. King's chief of staff, Wyatt Tee Walker, who were often overshadowed by MLK's immense fame. Paul's book reveals how those ten weeks in Birmingham changed the trajectory of American politics, religion, and race relations.Sixty years later, the Birmingham story would also have a profound impact on Paul Kix's view of his marriage and family. As a white man, married to a Black woman, with a daughter and twin sons who identify as Black, he was deeply affected by the 2020 murder of George Floyd as well as other incidents that appeared to devalue the lives of Black people. Out of his personal wrestling with those events, and hard questions from his kids, Paul found himself called to remember Birmingham 1963. When Paul originally started digging into the work of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, he was not a practicing Christian. But the faith of the men who led during the Civil Rights Movement, didn't just inspire him intellectually, it also inspired him spiritually. This poignant interview sits at the intersection of faith and social justice. Heather also welcomes back our resident social media expert, Brady Shearer, to discuss another tool for your Social Toolkit. This week, Brady shares ideas for repurposing weekly sermons into condensed content for podcasts and YouTube. Guest Bio Paul Kix is a journalist and author whose last book was The Saboteur, a bestselling and critically acclaimed true story of the most daring man in World War II. His writing has also appeared in The New Yorker, The Atlantic, GQ, and ESPN The Magazine, among other publications. His latest book , You Have to Be Prepared to Die Before You Can Begin to Live, is the subject of this episode of the podcast. He lives in Connecticut with his family. Host Bio Heather Thompson Day is an associate professor of communication at Andrews University in Berrien Springs, Michigan. She is the author of eight books, including I'll See You Tomorrow and It's Not Your Turn. Reach out to Heather on X, the app formerly known as Twitter, at @HeatherTDay and on Instagram @heatherthompsonday. Get Heather's weekly inspirational email delivered to your inbox every Friday night at 7 p.m. EST. Sign up now at: www.heatherthompsonday.com/links. Viral Jesus is a production of Christianity Today Host and creator: Heather Thompson Day Executive Producer: Ed Gilbreath Producer: Loren Joseph Mix Engineer: Alex Carter Director of CT Podcasts: Mike Cosper Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Welcome to the final episode of our three-part “Listening to Black Creators” series for Black History Month. On today's show, Heather gets to sit down with Kevin Olusola, a member of the three-time Grammy Award-winning vocal ensemble Pentatonix. Kevin shares his story, which he credits solely to God and his call to “radical reliance.” Oh, Kevin acknowledges that he had to do his part by putting in the work to become a masterful musician; however, it was God who ultimately opened doors and provided incredible coincidences of timing that really were not coincidences at all.In this episode you will learn how Kevin went from medical school at Yale, to performing cello beatboxing for Yo-Yo Ma, to creating a viral video that landed him on a reality television show and eventually led to him becoming the fifth member of Pentatonix. This story is so wild only God could have orchestrated it. But first, it's time for Social Toolkit. Heather continues walking us through some of the obstacles facing Black creators online. Today, she focuses on algorithm bias and pay discrepancies. Guest Bio Kevin Olusola is a member of the Grammy Award-winning musical group Pentatonix, grew up in the small town of Owensboro, Kentucky, the son of a Nigerian psychiatrist and a Grenadian nurse. At an early age, Kevin began learning piano, cello, and saxophone. He performed at Carnegie Hall twice as soloist on the cello and saxophone and has appeared on NPR's From the Top. Kevin enrolled at Yale University where he studied pre-med and East Asian Studies. He spent 18 months in Beijing becoming fluent in Chinese as a part of his Yale fellowship. While in college, Kevin began developing “cello boxing,” his innovative blending of intricate beatboxing with classical cello performances. And in 2009, he won second place in the “Celebrate and Collaborate with Yo-Yo Ma” international competition. Ma would call Kevin's cello-boxing version of “Dona Nobis Pacem” both “inventive and unexpected.” In 2011, Kevin's “Julie-O” cello boxing YouTube video was featured by CBS, AOL, Huffington Post, and the Washington Post, among others. Kevin was also named one of 100 “History Makers in the Making” by NBC's TheGrio and was hand-chosen by Quincy Jones to represent him in concert at the 2012 Montreux Jazz Festival alongside Bobby McFerrin and Chick Corea. Host Bio Heather Thompson Day is an associate professor of communication at Andrews University in Berrien Springs, Michigan. She is the author of eight books, including I'll See You Tomorrow and It's Not Your Turn. Reach out to Heather on X, the app formerly known as Twitter, at @HeatherTDay and on Instagram @heatherthompsonday. Get Heather's weekly inspirational email delivered to your inbox every Friday night at 7 p.m. EST. Sign up now at: www.heatherthompsonday.com/links. Viral Jesus is a production of Christianity Today Host and creator: Heather Thompson Day Executive Producer: Ed Gilbreath Producer: Loren Joseph Mix Engineer: Alex Carter Director of CT Podcasts: Mike Cosper Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On today's episode Heather gets to sit down with author, speaker, and activist Ally Henny to discuss Ally's latest book, I Won't Shut Up: Finding Your Voice When the World Tries to Silence You. Citing studies and anecdotal experience, Ally explains that in our society Black women are often made to feel like their very existence is too loud. Ally then walks us through some of the societal ways in which women are silenced, invites us to think critically about the presentations of women in Scripture, and challenges us to find our voice when the world tries to squelch it. This episode is Part 2 of our three-part “Listening to Black Creators” series and speaking candidly to the Viral Jesus community in our Social Toolkit segment, Heather discusses the obstacles and injustices facing many Black creators on digital canvases such as TikTok and YouTube. From being cheated out of proper credit for their ideas to pay discrepancies in the field, Black creators are routinely dealing with the same systemic inequities that exist offline in their social networks. Heather challenges us to be mindful of “erasure.” Guest Bio Ally Henny is a writer, speaker, advocate-minister, and vice president of The Witness: A Black Christian Collective, an organization committed to encouraging, engaging, and empowering Black Christians toward liberation from racism. She completed her MDiv from Fuller Seminary with an emphasis in race, cultural identity, and reconciliation, and she hopes to lead a church someday. Ally has been leading conversations about race on her social media and blog, The Armchair Commentary, since 2014, and her posts reach millions each month. She is a proud Chicago Southsider. Also Mentioned in This Episode •Here's some backstory on how the Black teen creator of the Renegade dance was denied proper credit for her IP. •The Renegade dance scandal was first exposed by journalist Taylor Lorenz, who specializes in the digital culture and social media beats. She appeared on Viral Jesus last fall. •Check out Part 1 of the “Listening to Black Creators” series for Heather's conversation with K.A. Ellis. Host Bio Heather Thompson Day is an associate professor of communication at Andrews University in Berrien Springs, Michigan. She is the author of eight books, including I'll See You Tomorrow and It's Not Your Turn. Reach out to Heather on X, the app formerly known as Twitter, at @HeatherTDay and on Instagram @heatherthompsonday. Get Heather's weekly inspirational email delivered to your inbox every Friday night at 7 p.m. EST. Sign up now at: www.heatherthompsonday.com/links. Viral Jesus is a production of Christianity Today Host and creator: Heather Thompson Day Executive Producer: Ed Gilbreath Producer: Loren Joseph Mix Engineer: Alex Carter Director of CT Podcasts: Mike Cosper Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On today's episode Heather visits with theologian and author K.A. Ellis—the initials stand for “Karen Angela”—to kick off our three-part series for February, “Listening to Black Creators.” Mrs. Ellis, who was 42 when she married her husband Carl, talks about the experiences of single women in the church, as well as the true meaning of the word widow (it's not just about the death of a spouse). She also offers practical wisdom for how to trust God's faithfulness and Christ's sufficiency when the way forward is anything but clear. K.A.'s latest book is called Fannie Lou Hamer: The Courageous Woman Who Marched for Dignity. The beautifully illustrated tome is ostensibly written to introduce children to the famed Civil Rights heroine, but older readers will also be captivated by this colorful retelling of Hamer's story. In just 24 pages, K.A. captures an indelible portrait of Hamer—the faithful Christian and defender of human dignity. And don't forget to check out the talk by K.A. that blew Heather away. Her message on “Loving the Widow” was given at The Gospel Coalition's 2018 Women's Pre-Conference in Indianapolis, Indiana. In the message, K.A. references the book Spiritual Widowhood by Andy Mendonsa. Elsewhere in the show, Heather also checks in with our favorite social media wiz Brady Shearer to get more tools for our Social Toolkit. Brady is the CEO of Pro Church Tools. His company helps churches navigate the biggest communication shift in 500 years. Guest Bio K.A. Ellis (Karen Angela Ellis) specializes in topics centering around World Christianity and Ethics, and she's passionate about preparing the next generations to live faithfully under anti-Christian hostility. Mrs. Ellis teaches and disciples young people at her local church on Bible and Global Christianity, and is the Director of the Edmiston Center at Reformed Theological Seminary in Atlanta, Georgia. She is also the Robert Cannada Fellow in World Christianity at Reformed Theological Seminary. Host Bio Heather Thompson Day is an associate professor of communication at Andrews University in Berrien Springs, Michigan. She is the author of eight books, including I'll See You Tomorrow and It's Not Your Turn. Reach out to Heather on X, the app formerly known as Twitter, at @HeatherTDay and on Instagram @heatherthompsonday. Get Heather's weekly inspirational email delivered to your inbox every Friday night at 7 p.m. EST. Sign up now at: www.heatherthompsonday.com/links. Viral Jesus is a production of Christianity Today Host and creator: Heather Thompson Day Executive Producer: Ed Gilbreath Producer: Loren Joseph Mix Engineer: Alex Carter Director of CT Podcasts: Mike Cosper Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On today's episode Heather is joined by Kat Armas. Kat is a Cuban American theologian and author who specializes in seeing Scripture in new ways. Her lens for engaging with the Bible reminds us that there is always so much more to Scripture than we notice at first glance. This week there's also more of our new segment Friends in the Kitchen, featuring celebrity chef Danielle Kartes. Today, Danielle is sharing her delicious Chicken Piccata recipe, which you can find on her blog here. Guest Bio Kat Armas is a Cuban American writer and podcaster from Miami, Florida. She holds a dual MDiv and MAT from Fuller Theological Seminary and is currently pursuing a ThM at Vanderbilt Divinity School. Her first book, Abuelita Faith: What Women on the Margins Teach Us About Wisdom, Persistence and Strength, sits at the intersection of women, de-colonialism, the Bible, and Cuban identity. She also explores these topics and more on her podcast, The Protagonistas, which centers the voices of Black, Indigenous, and other women of color in theological spaces. Kat is currently living outside of Nashville where she preaches regularly at Gracepointe church. Her second book, Sacred Belonging: A 40-day Devotional on the Liberating Heart of Scripture is available right now. Host Bio Heather Thompson Day is an associate professor of communication at Andrews University in Berrien Springs, Michigan. She is the author of eight books, including I'll See You Tomorrow and It's Not Your Turn. Reach out to Heather on X, the app formerly known as Twitter, at @HeatherTDay and on Instagram @heatherthompsonday. Get Heather's weekly inspirational email delivered to your inbox every Friday night at 7 p.m. EST. Sign up now at: www.heatherthompsonday.com/links. Viral Jesus is a production of Christianity Today Host and creator: Heather Thompson Day Executive Producer: Ed Gilbreath Producer: Loren Joseph Mix Engineer: Alex Carter Director of CT Podcasts: Mike Cosper Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On today's episode Heather visits with researcher and licensed social worker Holly Oxhandler to discuss Holly's latest book, The Soul of the Helper, in which she encourages caregivers and caretakers (both professional and nonprofessional) to recognize their need for stillness, rest, and spiritual renewal. Holly says helpers are prone to trying do it all and are likely candidates for burnout. She identifies seven stages that can help us see the sacred within ourselves, and that once we can see the sacred within ourselves, we can better see it in others. Heather is also back with our new segment for January called Friends in the Kitchen, featuring celebrity chef Danielle Kartes. You may recognize Danielle from her regular appearances on The Kelly Clarkson Show. Food and foodies are popular subjects among the Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube creators and influencers, so get ready to take notes. And if you like this segment, make sure to email us at HellotoHeather@gmail.com and let us know. Danielle's latest cookbook is Butter, Flour, Sugar, Joy. And you can find her quesadilla recipe here: https://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/podcasts/viral-jesus/holly-oxhandler-soul-of-helper.html Guest Bio Dr. Holly Oxhandler is the associate dean for research and faculty development and an associate professor at Baylor University's Diana R. Garland School of Social Work. Holly studies religion/spirituality, health and mental health, and is especially interested in whether and how mental and behavioral health therapists discuss their client's religious/spiritual beliefs in treatment. Her latest book is called The Soul of the Helper: Seven Stages to Seeing the Sacred Within Yourself So You Can See It in Others. Host Bio Heather Thompson Day is an associate professor of communication at Andrews University in Berrien Springs, Michigan. She is the author of eight books, including I'll See You Tomorrow and It's Not Your Turn. Reach out to Heather on X, the app formerly known as Twitter at @HeatherTDay and on Instagram @heatherthompsonday. Receive Heather's weekly inspirational email every Friday at 7pm EST; sign up at www.heatherthompsonday.com/links. Viral Jesus is a production of Christianity Today Host and creator: Heather Thompson Day Executive Producer: Ed Gilbreath Producer: Loren Joseph Mix Engineer: Alex Carter Director of CT Podcasts: Mike Cosper Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On today's episode Heather visits with Madison Prewett Troutt to discuss dating, waiting, and falling in love. You may recognize Madison from season 24 of The Bachelor, where she was a finalist. Madison made national news when she shared on the show that she was a virgin and saving herself for marriage. She later eliminated herself from the competition. Fans fell in love with Madison and her commitment to her Christian faith. Now she has written a book about dating and singleness to encourage other women. The Love Everybody Wants: What You're Looking For Is Already Yours is available wherever you buy Christian books. This week Heather also debuts a new segment that will run all month called Friends in the Kitchen, featuring celebrity chef Danielle Kartes. Heather and Danielle connected at a conference last year and became fast friends. You may recognize Danielle from her regular appearances on The Kelly Clarkson Show. If you do, you'll know why there's no one better to talk recipes, friendship, and current events with than this spirited woman. As for why she's doing a food segment on Viral Jesus? Heather says she started cooking regularly over the Christmas break and discovered how much she loves it. She also knows that food and food photography is a popular subject among the creators and influencers out here in the land of Instagram and TikTok. So get your taste buds ready! If you like this segment, make sure to email us at HellotoHeather@gmail.com and let us know you'd like us to bring you more recipes and more of Danielle. You can find Danielle's recipe and this episode's complete show notes here: https://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/podcasts/viral-jesus/madison-prewett-troutt-love-everybody-wants.html Guest Bio Madison Prewett Troutt first stood out for her stance on relationships during her season on The Bachelor. Since completing the program, young women have continued to turn to Madi for relationship advice, which she talks about frequently on her social channels (3.2 million social followers). She was single as she started writing The Love Everybody Wants and married her husband Grant Troutt last fall as she finished the manuscript. Although she shares for the first time some of their love story, her book isn't a manual for how to get a boyfriend or a manifesto for getting married. It's about understanding the foundations of love and your self-worth. Host Bio Heather Thompson Day is an associate professor of communication at Andrews University in Berrien Springs, Michigan. She is the author of eight books, including I'llSee You Tomorrow and It's Not Your Turn. Reach out to Heather on X, the app formerly known as Twitter at @HeatherTDay and on Instagram @heatherthompsonday. Receive Heather's weekly inspirational email every Friday at 7pm EST; sign up at www.heatherthompsonday.com/links. Viral Jesus is a production of Christianity Today Host and creator: Heather Thompson Day Executive Producer: Ed Gilbreath Producer: Loren Joseph Mix Engineer: Alex Carter Director of CT Podcasts: Mike Cosper Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week, in the final installment of our Meditation Monday devotions for 2023, Heather explains why Christmas is an appropriate time to be finishing this series. “Biblically speaking, there are 400 years of silence between the book of Malachi, which closes out the prophetic ministry of the Old Testament, and the words the angel spoke to Zachariah, who would be the father of John the Baptist, the cousin of Jesus. Christmas is a reminder of the fulfillment of all the promises that happened despite that 400 years of silence.” Though we now have the benefit of seeing God's faithfulness on the other side of those 400 years of silence, it is challenging–often exasperatingly so–to have to wait on the fulfillment of God's promises in real time. How do we maintain our faith in the midst of deafening silence? How do we keep following God when it's not clear where he's leading us? Heather continues: “In the first chapter of John's Gospel, when the disciples are approached by Jesus, they say to him, ‘Rabbi, where are we going?' Come, he replies, and you will see. I think of this often. Even the disciples who walked with Jesus in the flesh often didn't know where they were going. Apparently, that is part of what it means to follow Jesus.” Listen to Heather's thoughtful message right now. And if it encourages you, please share it with others. Host Bio Heather Thompson Day is an associate professor of communication at Andrews University in Berrien Springs, Michigan. She is the author of eight books, including I'll See You Tomorrow and It's Not Your Turn. Reach out to Heather on X, the app formerly known as Twitter at @HeatherTDay and on Instagram @heatherthompsonday. Get Heather's weekly inspirational email delivered to your inbox every Friday night at 7 PM EST. Sign up now at: www.heatherthompsonday.com/links. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices