Podcast appearances and mentions of hope story

It was exciting the first time I landed at LaGuardia Airport in New York City. There's the skyline of Manhattan out the window, and water all around us as the plane touched down on the runway. It was only after I had landed that my host in New York told me how they built LaGuardia Airport. He said, "Oh, they built it on the garbage of New York." Landfill in the bay created a base on which an airport could be built. I'm Ron Hutchcraft and I want to have A Word With You today about "Recycling Your Personal Garbage." It's amazing what they can do with garbage, isn't it? They recycle what seems vile and useless and they make it into something useful. That's the very kind of miracle God's been doing for people for a long time, and He wants to do it for you. In a past summer God used the brokenness, the courage of a team of young Native Americans to bring unprecedented numbers of reservation young people to a commitment to Jesus Christ. I've seen it for like 32 summers. Some of the most powerful moments we experienced with our "On Eagles' Wings" team were when some of these young people, representing some 20 or more different tribes, stood in the middle of Indian villages and shared what they call their Hope Story. They poured out the pain of some horrific backgrounds, and then the incredible hope they have found in Jesus Christ. And kids who listen to no one listened to them, and over the summer hundreds gave themselves publicly to Jesus Christ. One night, at a reservation outreach, Mary shared her heart-wrenching story of sexual abuse and the drugs and alcohol she used to sedate her pain. It's a story that's always hard for her to tell, but one which powerfully turns young people's hearts to Jesus. After telling her story at a second outreach, Mary came to me and said, "I can't believe how God uses the stuff I've been through to change so many lives." That's it. Garbage, recycled by God, to help other people find life and find hope. In Genesis 50:20, our word for today from the Word of God, Joseph summarizes the perspective God has given him on the junk of his life. He's been nearly murdered by his brothers as a teenager, he's been sold into slavery, unjustly imprisoned in a foreign land, but ultimately rescued by God and made the assistant Pharaoh of Egypt, the second most powerful man in the world. In that position, his God-directed plans to prepare for a coming famine, saves many lives in Egypt and even the lives of the brothers who betrayed him many years before. No betrayal and he never would have been in Egypt. No Egypt and many would have died, possibly even his own family. So here's Joseph's summary of it all, explained to his brothers: "You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish...the saving of many lives." See, that's what God wants to do with all the garbage of your life - make it into something that can touch and heal many other lives. If you'll release all that junk, all that pain to Jesus, He alone can heal it and He alone can redeem it, and He'll make it into a magnet for some other hurting lives. If you harbor it, it's just going to make you hard and bitter and largely useless in a wounded world. But if you surrender all that garbage to Jesus, He can turn it into a beautiful compassion, because you know how it feels. And that will cause many other struggling people to identify with you, to open their hearts to you, to trust you, and perhaps to let you lead them to your Jesus. He's the One who was "a man of sorrows," the Bible says, "familiar with suffering" who "took up our infirmities and carried our sorrows." And the Bible says it is, "by His wounds we are healed" (Isaiah 53:4-5). Or in the words of a broken young native woman who has experienced His healing, He will "use the things you've been through to change so many lives."

In this heartwarming episode of Story Time with Jordan, we share an incredible story of hope and transformation through Impact Nations' Afghan Refugee Training Program. Meet Khed, a father who fled Afghanistan with his family, risking everything to provide a better future for his newborn daughter. Facing language barriers, poverty, and uncertainty in Delhi, India, Khed's journey is nothing short of extraordinary.Through Impact Nations' culinary training program, Khed discovered new skills, blended Afghan and Indian cuisine to create innovative dishes, and earned a coveted position at a renowned restaurant in Delhi. Today, he is a celebrated chef, living in a comfortable home, providing for his family, and mentoring new culinary students from his community.This is more than a story of survival—it's a story of dignity, restoration, and empowerment. Your support through the Impact Nations Gift Catalog made this transformation possible, and together, we're changing lives, one story at a time.#ImpactNations #AfghanRefugees #LifeTransformed #HopeInAction #ChangingLives #GospelInAction #SkillsTraining #CulinaryTraining #VocationalPrograms #SmallBusiness #RefugeeSupport #HumanDignity #MissionDriven #DoubleYourImpact #GiveHope #ImpactStories #ChristianNonprofit #JesusInAction

Sermon: The Hope Story Series: The Christmas Story Click here to view the sermon slides GOSPEL  |  DISCIPLE  |  INFLUENCE For more information about Five Stones Church, please visit https://www.fivestoneschurch.org. To receive prayer, send in your prayer request at prayer@fivestoneschurch.org.  Connect: https://www.fivestoneschurch.org/connect Giving: https://www.fivestoneschurch.org/giving Past Sermons: https://www.fivestoneschurch.org/past-sermons Get Equipped: https://www.fivestoneschurch.org/equip Social Media Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fivestoneschurch Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/5stoneschurch

Ever feel like your health struggles are insurmountable hurdles? Well, Lauren's story will make you rethink that. From the pits of thyroid hell to being superwell at 47, she's sharing her firsthand experience on navigating gut and thyroid issues with wisdom and grace. Lauren and I chat about the critical role of hormonal balance, the necessity of regular blood work, and the life-changing patience required for long-term health management. Lauren's path wasn't quick or easy, but her dedication to a holistic approach blend with a bit of pharmaceuticals highlights a balanced route to wellness. She didn't stop at just fixing herself; she took her newfound health insights and transformed them into a successful business, "Well Inspired Travels," merging wellness with luxury travel. Inspired by her father's battle with cancer and her husband's professional sports career, Lauren curates wellness journeys that have a profound impact on high-net-worth individuals and professional athletes alike. Join us as we uncover how Lauren's setbacks were actually setups for a thriving career in wellness travel and how she has used her personal struggles to empower others with the knowledge to reclaim their health. Connect with Lauren Pronger: Website: www.laurenpronger.com Instagram: @lauren_pronger Shop ALL of Dr. Amie's Fixxr® Supplements: betterlifedoctor.com LET'S GET YOUR LIFE BACK...Connect with Dr. Amie Hornaman Book a free application call: https://dramiehornaman.com/pages/book-a-call FREE DOWNLOADS… What Are the Optimal Lab Ranges? What Steps Can I Take? Don't know where to start...don't know which labs are useful? And what to do when you get your results? “How To” Guide For Supplements Here's your Fixxr® supplement timeline and guide. Fix Your Thyroid and Adrenals To Fix Your Life Check your symptoms of hypothyroidism and know OPTIMAL thyroid lab values. Learn why you are being told you're “NORMAL” by your doctor. Can Supplements Help with Hypothyroidism? Grab this thorough guide to help you select the most advantageous supplements that will best suit your health circumstances. RATE, REVIEW AND FOLLOW ON APPLE PODCASTS Show your love for Amie and The Thyroid Fixer Podcast! If you're enjoying our journey together, I'd be thrilled if you could take a moment to rate and review the show on Apple Podcasts. Your support helps me reach and help more people just like you, guiding them towards their optimal selves! Just click HERE, scroll all the way down, give us those 5 stars, and share what you enjoy about my episodes in a review. Haven't subscribed yet? Make sure to follow The Thyroid Fixer Podcast to catch all the new episodes that come out every week. Follow HERE and never miss out on a moment of the journey! CONNECT WITH ME ON SOCIAL MEDIA: Join my exclusive Facebook Group, Dr. Amie…The Thyroid Fixer®...Love Your Mirror, for a Community of HOPE and Support in your thyroid journey. https://www.facebook.com/groups/dramie/ Like me on Facebook: Amie Hornaman Nutrition and Functional Medicine Subscribe on Youtube: Dr. Amie Hornaman Follow me on Instagram: @dramiehornaman

It's time to share your testimony with the world! Our world is broken and desperately in need of the hope and healing power of Jesus. For those of us in Christ, we can share our own Hope Story and point others to the Way, Truth, and Life! But HOW do we do this practically? My friends Ron and Doug Hutchcraft join me in today's episode to discuss just that!ORDER MY BOOK HERE: www.kirby-kelly.com/you-can-be-freeYOUR HOPE STORY: https://yourhopestory.com/

If my son wants to be sure he has his sons' attention, all he has to do is start telling a story about when he was a kid or a teenager. They are suddenly all ears - and probably taking notes. Our son has some doozies to tell, believe me - from his days as, shall we say, a "challenging" child. They love to hear stories from his life - and mine, for that matter. We may not always be great listeners - but when someone starts telling their story, we're in. Which may tell us something about how to communicate the only Story on the planet that can change an eternity. I'm Ron Hutchcraft and I want to have A Word With You today about "The Glory of Your Story." In many ways, it's getting tougher to have conversations about Jesus with people, isn't it. Their guard is up when there's a hint of you trying to lobby them for your faith... change them... convert them. But there's a way to talk about your Jesus naturally, compellingly, non threateningly. Wrap His story in your story. Our word for today from the Word of God, in Psalm 107:2, says, "Let the redeemed of the Lord tell their stories." In a Gospel hardened culture, that directive has never been more important or strategic. When Jesus went into Samaria, He was in hostile territory for a Jew. He didn't go charging into the Samaritan village and start preaching. No, He reached a Samaritan - that woman at the well that came thirsting for water and left with a "spring of eternal life" deep in her soul. And she went back to that village telling her story of the most amazing conversation of her life. And John tells us that "many of the Samaritans from that town believed in Him because of the woman's testimony" (John 4:39). Mark tells us about a demon-possessed man that Jesus delivered. Jesus told him to "go home to your own people and tell them how much the Lord has done for you...So the man began to tell in the Decapolis how much Jesus had done for him. And all the people were amazed" (Mark 5:19, 20). That's the glory of your Jesus-story! People can argue with your beliefs, but they can't argue with your story. When the blind man told the hostile religious leaders, "Once I was blind, now I can see," no one could argue. Peter tells us to be ready to tell about "the hope that you have" (1 Peter 3:15). If you know Jesus, you have a Hope Story. About the difference Jesus has made and is making in your life. You are living proof that a husband or wife can change... a mom or dad... an angry person... a control freak. You are proof that an addicted person can change...a self-centered person...a depressed person. Because of Jesus. Think about it. If it weren't for Jesus, what would your lonely times be like? Your depressed times? Your times when everything's out of control? How about when you get bad news from the doctor? Or you're standing by the casket? Your Hope Story is the most natural way for you to bring up your Jesus. And how do you get to the Gospel? You just weave into your story the message, the discoveries that changed your life. The fact that you were trying to do life away from God. That Jesus came to bridge the canyon your sin created between you and God. But what He did on that cross and that empty tomb opened the way to a life-changing relationship with God and could do the same for them. In short, you tell how HIS story changed YOUR story - and could change THEIR story forever! That, my friend, is the glory of your story!

Andy Merrick – Andy talks about *hope on it’s birthday

You will LOVE this interview with Gemma.Not only does she have the most engaging accent ever, but she also shares her raw and unfiltered journey through insomnia.Many of you will resonate with her story and find solace knowing you're not alone.Gemma went from being a lifelong lover of sleep to fearing she was going to lose her mind. She dives into:How insomnia blindsided herWhat kept it lingeringWhat lead to a reset and what caused a relapseHer path from sleep obsession to sleep freedomWhen you're going through insomnia, you can feel like a whole different person. You know it's not who you really are, but you don't know how to get out of it.Tune in to hear how Gemma found her way out and why you can, too.Subscribe to The Mind. Body. Sleep.™ Podcast:Apple | SpotifyWork with Beth:

Mr. T. Murdoch. "Face." And the man with the plan, Hannibal Smith. If you're a child of the '80s, you'll recognize those names - as "The A Team." I can tell you the Hutchcraft boys never missed a show. These guys came to the rescue of people who couldn't find anybody to help, assignments that seemed virtually impossible. But their leader, Hannibal Smith, always had a plan that seemed almost unbelievable. He didn't always explain his plan - he just gave his men their assignments. And, of course, it was always mission accomplished! And Hannibal would celebrate that unlikely victory with his trademark expression - "I love it when a plan comes together." So do I. Especially when it's from the MASTER Planner! I'm Ron Hutchcraft and I want to have A Word With You today about "Rescue in Seat 9B." Apparently, the word "random" does not appear in heaven's dictionary. Ephesians 1:11, our word for today from the Word of God, says, we have been "predestined according to the plan of Him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of His will." And Peter makes clear that "He is not wanting anyone to perish" (2 Peter 3:9). His plan often comes together around the rescue of one lost soul. And that plan can be astonishing at times. My son was supposed to go with me on a recent ministry trip. The day before, he had to cancel because of illness. I was in seat 9A. He was to be in 9B. At the last minute a young mother named Cindy ended up being assigned there. We had a few laughs about the window seat guy usually coming last and pretzels for dinner. As we flew, she asked about what I do. I mentioned radio and writing and our work with Native Americans. When I asked about her trip, she told me she and her three sisters do a special fun trip together each year. Her tone changed when she said, "This year will be just two of my sisters." The other sister had died tragically a few months before, and Cindy was still struggling with grief. That was my first hint that a divine plan might be coming together here. I told her about suddenly losing the love of my life since I was 19 - the day my precious Karen died of a heart attack. Cindy and I were in that club no one wants to join - those grieving over the loss of a loved one. But God was answering the 3-open prayer I've learned to pray, based on Colossians 4:3-4 - "Pray that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ...Pray that I may proclaim it clearly as I should." Three "opens" - "Lord, open a door," then "Lord open their heart." Then, "open my mouth." I shared my Hope Story about the anchor that the unlosable love of Jesus gave me when my world was falling apart. How I knew He loved me because He actually died to forgive the sinning I've done against Him. And how I found hope in His victory over death. Her eyes were moist. She said, "I used to believe things like that when I was a teenager. Until the most important person in my life died - my dad. And I walked away from God." Then she blew me away. "My dad was Native American - and here I am sitting next to you." And then, looking at my turquoise watch, she said, "He had a watch just like that!" Our verse for today says, "He works out everything in conformity with the purpose of His will." Down to my watch! I said, "Cindy, you know Who assigned our seats today? It wasn't American Airlines. God wanted to tell you how much He loves you." Before we landed, surrounded by a plane packed with passengers, we had prayed together to the God she had left. Who pursued her to Seat 9B. My friend, if you know Jesus, start praying that amazing 3- open prayer - open a door, open their heart, open my mouth. And be amazed with how you become part of God-moments to help someone go to heaven. This is our mission. This is our calling. And you will love it when you see His plan coming together. To bring someone lost to the Cross through you.

This new episode is something really special - we've got arguably our favorite Hutchcraft on the show today, Ron Hutchcraft. Did you know you have one of the best M.A.D. tools with you all the time? It's your Hope Story, and it's powerful in Jesus' hands! Recently, Ron and Doug hosted a six-session video series called, “Your Hope Story.” “Your Hope Story” is all about how to use your story to lead others to Christ. Ron and the bros interact with some of the interviews that are featured in "Your Hope Story,” and land us with some truly helpful principles for sharing Christ with people in your world. If this sounds like something you or your church would like to engage with, go to YourHopeStory.com or check it out on RightNowMedia.org Connect with us on social media and / or email:Twitter - @GoMADPodcastFacebook - facebook.com/gomadshowInstagram - @gomadshowYouTube - @gomadshowEmail - gomadshow@hutchcraft.comOr find out more about us on our website: gomadpodcast.comEnjoy the show? We'd love it if you took a moment to leave a review on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/go-m-a-d/id1593068456Thank you for listening and Go M.A.D. today!

Great time catching up with my brother Lennox Barnett. If you haven't yet please listen to his incredible story on the Hungover Pastor Podcast.

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/571  Presented by: Northern Rockies Adventures, Angler's Coffee, Drifthook Fly Fishing, Togens Fly Shop Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors      Ryan Johnston, the visionary behind Cast Hope, unveils the transformative impact of his program on the lives of youth facing adversity. Not only will Ryan share heartwarming stories of change and growth, but he'll also reveal expert strategies for steelhead fishing. Learn how to navigate the challenges of the fish barrel roll, master the timing for jumping fish, and handle the thrill of a running fish. This episode is packed with insights that promise to enhance your fishing skills and inspire you to make a difference. Don't miss out on this captivating journey with Ryan Johnston—tune in now to elevate your fishing game and discover how you can contribute to a meaningful cause this season. Episode Chapters with Ryan Johnston on Cast Hope 7:00 - Ryan shares the inspiring journey of Cast Hope, born from a desire to use his gifts for the betterment of his community, sparked by a sermon he couldn't shake. Starting with a simple idea to donate guided fishing trips to kids facing tough times, Cast Hope blossomed into a nonprofit that now spans four regions, serving over 700 kids. 16:38 - Their vision is to cover 10 to 12 regions across the country to impact as many kids as they can. He encourages people to donate through their website at casthope.org/donate. 18:08 - He recounts an inspiring story from their specialized trip, the Heritage Trout Challenge, where older kids go on a journey across California to catch specific native trout species. A particularly moving moment involved a teenager named Obie, who, during a trip to catch coastal cutthroat trout, experienced the ocean for the first time. Despite living just two and a half hours away, Obie had never seen the ocean before, highlighting the transformative power of these experiences in opening new worlds for these children. 21:57 - He shares more heartwarming stories of transformation and connection through the medium of fishing. Ryan highlights the powerful narratives featured on their website, notably mentioning Jordy and Christina, two individuals whose lives were significantly altered by their engagement with Cast Hope. 36:58 - Ryan categorizes California's steelhead scene into three distinct groups, each offering unique experiences for anglers, which are valley steelhead, mountain steelhead, and coastal steelhead. 37:48 - He reminisces about the early 2000s, a time when the coastal steelhead scene was largely uncharted territory for fly fishers. Back then, anglers like Ryan could explore and fish in relative solitude, discovering new spots and techniques without the crowds seen today. 40:58 - He shares insights into the effective technique of side drifting from a boat, a method that allows for extended drifts and optimizes the time flies spend in the prime fishing zone. This approach, Ryan explains, is especially effective in rivers like the Eel, where runs can be a hundred yards long, allowing for a drift that keeps the flies in the 'zone' for an extended period. 42:38 - He delves into the intricacies of avoiding spooking the fish, the importance of water clarity, and how to execute a proper hook set for coastal steelhead, which are known for their size and strength. 47:08 - We get into the nitty-gritty of steelhead fishing tactics with Ryan, focusing on the leader setup for effective drifting techniques. He also delves into the strategy of locating steelhead, emphasizing the importance of mobility and observation. The approach is to fish quickly, moving on if a spot doesn't yield results after a few attempts, but to slow down and fish methodically upon hooking a fish. 51:45 - Ryan highlights the significance of upsizing micro spawn flies for better visibility and effectiveness in catching larger steelheads, with shrimp pink and steelhead orange being his go-to colors. 53:15 - Further, Ryan debunks common myths surrounding fly patterns for steelhead, emphasizing that the color and size of the egg pattern often outweigh the specific design of the fly. 54:45 - He takes us through his remarkable experiences fishing in Oregon, particularly on the Nestucca River, comparing it with his time on California's waters. 59:46 - He shares the unexpected success of his first book, "A Reel Job: Short Stories & Thoughts from the River". Released in 2022, he initially wrote the book for himself, with modest hopes of selling enough copies to cover his expenses. To his surprise, the book resonated widely, garnering praise from readers across the globe and selling over 2000 copies. Encouraged by the positive feedback and continuous requests for more, he has penned a sequel titled "Reelly?! - Unbelievable Fishing Stories & Guide Thoughts," set to launch in March. This upcoming book, featuring a cover designed by Derek Deyoung and his wife, promises another engaging collection of guide stories and extraordinary experiences from Ryan's 21 years on the water. 1:02:23 - Currently, he guides for Bigfork Anglers. They specialize in fishing the Flathead River in the valley and then the lower Clark Fork. 1:02:53 - He shares his preference for the type of boat he uses for steelhead fishing in California. He has been a longtime advocate for Hyde Drift Boats, particularly highlighting his transition to a Hyde skiff about six years ago. This lower profile, lighter boat offers significant advantages on the water, particularly in terms of maneuverability and reduced physical strain. 1:04:17 - He shares his transition from suburban life in Chico, California, to a more spacious and serene existence in Somers, Montana, near Flathead Lake. Moving to Montana has been a significant change for his family, offering them an incredible sense of space and freedom. Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/571  

Oh, for goodness sake, it was the polar vortex again! There I was, digging out the sweaters again, and turning up the thermostat to help the Propane Dealers Retirement Fund. And hoping the weatherman was wrong about snow and ice. But, you know, I had no right to gripe. I mean, some cities ran out of salt for their streets this past winter. My poor friends in places like Chicago, Philadelphia, Cleveland, Detroit, Boston, New York - they were "whomped" with storm after storm this past winter. And then we've got friends in places like western New York where they just get mountains and mountains of snow during the winter. If you had just moved to one of those snow-swamped places, it would have been easy to say, "It's always going to be winter. This much snow is never going to melt. It's just going to keep coming." I'm Ron Hutchcraft and I want to have A Word With You today about "Sick of Winter, Ready for Spring." Nope. It won't always be winter. There's hope. And hope has a name - spring. No matter how high the snowdrifts were, how endless the parade of winter storms, spring always comes. And that helps me grasp just what that precious word "hope" is all about. Hope-less means things can never change. But hope means things you've never been able to change can change because hope has a name. His name is Jesus. He's the One of whom the Bible says in our word for today from the Word of God, Hebrews 6:19, "We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure." As a follower of Jesus, I can be - for the hope-starved people around me - living proof that He could change what I could never change. Because of Jesus, a parent can change. A husband or wife can change. A family can change. Because of Jesus, a temper can change, a life of depression, or a fear of death. Jesus changes control freaks, chronic worriers, fearful people, and people who have always been defined by their pain. There's a magnet in us that attracts people to our Jesus. It's not our beliefs, the meetings we go to, the bad things we don't do. It's our hope. The Bible says folks will want to know "the reason for the hope you have" (1 Peter 3:15). When you meet Jesus, you experience the ultimate makeover miracle: "If anyone is in Christ," the Bible says, "he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!" (2 Corinthians 5:17). So we have hope to give! Hope of Jesus changing our dark side, our fears, our relationships, our eternity. So the most powerful tool I have to open a heart to Jesus is my story - My Hope Story. Because what people want to know about Jesus is, "What difference does He make?" Your Hope Story tells about how your stressful times are different because of Jesus, your lonely times, your sad times, your wounded times. The difference Jesus makes when there's bad news from the doctor, when your family's in chaos, when the one you were counting on walks out the door, or when you stand by the casket of the one you love. People can argue with your beliefs. They can't argue with your Hope Story. Once you were "blind." Now you "can see." The only explanation is Jesus. I always want to be looking for natural opportunities to share some part of how my life is different because of Jesus. As you listen to a person's story, the door opens for you to tell your story. And how His story - His dying for you - has changed your story and could change theirs forever. I am, and all my spiritual brothers and sisters are, living proof that it doesn't always have to be winter. Spring comes when Jesus comes. And maybe you've never experienced that hope for yourself. Today Jesus stands ready to give you the new beginning that your heart is hungry for. I'd love to introduce you to Him and help you know how to get started with Him. Just go to our website as soon as you can today ANewStory.com. It's time for spring.

You may remember when the word window just referred to that opening in a wall that kind of, you know, you covered with glass? Well, NASA changed all that. A window is still an opening, but the folks at Cape Canaveral use that word to refer to that brief period of time where everything is right for the launch: the wind is okay, the weather's okay, they've checked it at the Cape, they've checked it down range, and the atmospherics are okay for communication. The conditions have been predicted for the time of return and they look good, too. But the window will pass soon. If you're going to get this thing off the ground, go when the window's open. I'm Ron Hutchcraft and I want to have A Word With You today about "The Christmas Window." Our word for today from the Word of God comes from Luke 2 beginning at verse 16. This might be a dimension of Christmas that we often miss; maybe with tragic consequences. "So the shepherds hurried off and found Mary, and Joseph, and the baby who was lying in a manger. And when they had seen Him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child. And all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them." Now, notice it says they had seen Him and then they spread the word. The first people to ever celebrate Christmas saw it as a time for telling. That was their first response! "Man, it's time to spread this good news!" Now, 2 Corinthians 5:20 tells you what your lifetime assignment for Jesus is, "We are Christ's ambassadors." Whatever you do for a living, or go to school for, your highest calling is that you're an ambassador for Jesus Christ. If the people in your world are ever going to hear about Him, it's going to be through you. See, He's assigned you to this particular little tribe that's around where you work, or go to school, or live, or recreate. That's your territory as a "missionary." Your environment might change. You may move, but your assignment doesn't. You are His ambassador wherever He puts you. Christmas, I think, is the best window of the year for telling about your Jesus. Hearts are softer this time of year. People are open. Christ is kind of like everywhere. You can't even go to the mall without hearing songs about Him. It's never easier to talk about Jesus than it is during the Christmas season. But the Devil? Oh, he loves to see us so consumed with Christmas busyness that he keeps us distracted when the window in lost hearts is the most open. Think about it. Who is there this Christmas, in this countdown to Christmas, that you need to communicate Christ to? They need to hear about your Jesus. This Christmas season would be the time to tell them about the One who promised peace, and brought peace to your heart. Maybe it's time to take that person out to lunch. Maybe it's time to give them a Christian recording of some kind or contemporary worship music. Share with them the songs that really mean a lot to you. Most of all, tell your Hope Story; write down your Hope Story. If you do Christmas cards, put it in the cards. Look for opportunities to tell your personal Hope Story of the difference Jesus is making in your life. Maybe you need to invite them to an event that will be a good place for lost people to go and some place "seeker friendly." They're ready to hear Christmas music, it's that time of year! Everybody wants to hear that. Invite them to your home afterwards. Don't just go to the concert. Invite them to your home to fellowship and talk about what was sung and what was said about Jesus there. My wife and I had great opportunity to make progress in communicating our Jesus to our friends by that alone. Just invite them to a concert or a Christmas event and have them over afterwards and talk about what we all felt. Jesus said that it was "harvest time." He said the harvest is plentiful. And I've asked farmers, I've asked what harvest means to them and they say, "ready." Well, I think someone around you is ready because it's Christmas. They desperately need your Lord, and they may be more ready than ever before. If you're ever going to launch an effort to take that person to heaven with you, would you do it now while the Christmas window is open?

This was a very special Hope Story Circle — our 100th! We invited all of our past guest storytellers, and everyone who has attended our Hope Story Circles, and we had a lovely group of people. We asked the storytellers if anything had come up for them from having shared their story with us? And, we asked those hearing the stories to share if anything had come up for them, having experienced the stories — was there a thread they could identify? Then, in the break-out rooms, we invited people to share a title of a story that they would like to hear, or that they would like to tell. After returning, they all typed them into the chat and upon a countdown, all entered them together in a waterfall! The connections that people have experienced in our Hope Story Circles have been deep and many have been long-lasting. We laughed, we cried, we celebrated our connections, and honored one among us who is an activist for peace in the Israel-Palestine conflict. For now, our Hope Story Circles are going on pause. We invite you to go back and listen to the many podcasts with all of our wonderful storytellers. And follow us at www.peacealliance.org/calendar - see what might emerge next to support our wonderful community in all that we each do in the furtherance of peace. Much love to all — Terry, Liz and Jelena

Jake Graydon is a filmmaker, and he told a story of creating his very first film. At first, he asked his brother to help him with his idea, but his brother was too busy. So he decided to write it himself, and after completing the script, decided he wanted to direct his film — he had grown so fond of the characters and the story, that he didn't want to hand it off to anyone else. He created his film, had a great deal of support and wonderful actors to carry his unique story about love and family connection. He entered his film into festivals, and one — a Horror Film Festival — resulted in great acclaim. He received so much positive feedback, it has inspired him to continue. Even The Darkness Has Arms is his film - please, view it. He loves filmmaking, and he loves storytelling — and the question for the group was about how we connect with others based on the human connection, not focusing on what separates or divides us, but on what brings us together. Check the calendar of events at www.peacealliance.org/calendar, join us at our next Hope Story Circle and share your emerging stories. Our next one will be October 14th, and will be our 100th Hope Story Circle! We are planning a virtual celebration where we will invite all of those who have been our guests — following which, we will put a pause on the Hope Story Circles, for now. Please join us!

Captain Bill Collier is a retired helicopter pilot who flew in Viet Nam, for the CIA in Laos, the North Slope of Alaska, and in Marshall testing in the early 1990's. Over time, he wrote three memoirs about his adventures as a helicopter pilot, and as he did so, he realized that for most of his life he had been a pawn of the Military Industrial Complex. He became angry. He lost friends in Viet Nam. He lost friends in Iraq. Both wars were based on lies. He's had thousands of friends murdered by our government by unjust and unwarranted wars. What can we do to prevent it? He has some clear ideas of what can be done, starting with taking 1% of the Defense Budget and dedicating it to peace. That would be equivalent to $24 million a day. Imagine what you could do in your community with a slice of that pie? Imagine what a Department of Peacebuilding might provide to support spending of these funds? The break-out rooms were rich with ideas of how to solve our problems, with just 1% of the Defense budget. Check the calendar of events at www.peacealliance.org/calendar, join us at our next Hope Story Circle and share your emerging stories!

Bryan shared an inspiring story about neurodiversity, at home and in the workplace. As a parent of neurodiverse children, and as a Coach for Leaders in workplaces that involve technology and all of the different kinds of personalities and skills that exist, he has developed ways to approach those differences. In particular, he shared a Conflict Map as a tool to help people communicate through conflict. He also shared a Conflict Protocol with four sections to help people and groups find ways to work through conflict effectively, and come to solutions that respect everyone and their views. He provided a series of articles he has published, in addition to this podcast, to share. Check the calendar of events at www.peacealliance.org/calendar, join us at our next Hope Story Circle and share your emerging stories!   Article 1: Resolving conflict at work while incorporating neurodiverse awareness: How to ensure conflict doesn't erode employee trust or performance https://qz.com/resolving-conflict-at-work-while-incorporating-neurodiv-1850224161 Article 2. Bedtime Scrum and 6 practices to support neurodiversity at home or work: How one executive leverages his experience at home and work
 https://qz.com/bedtime-scrum-and-6-practices-to-support-neurodiversity-1850085741 Article 3. A father of 4 neurodivergent children brings his learnings to work: 3 tools to support workers with Autism spectrum, ADHD, or Dyslexia https://qz.com/a-father-of-4-neurodivergent-children-brings-his-learni-1850008481 Podcast: How Tech is Embracing Neourodiversity and Fostering Different Perspectives
 https://techblogwriter.co.uk/lucid-bryan-stallings/


Lloyd Gordon told layers of stories around his business of the last 37 years — Estate Sales. From a long career as a performer, he got into this endeavor by sheer coincidence and for his appreciation of art and antiques that he held from his youth. At one point, he was encouraged to look positively on the service he provides, realizing that he is helping people at a very difficult time in their lives. He told one particular story about a young teenage girl who wanted to buy a knit cloche that Lloyd's grandmother had made when escaping Italian concentration camps. He shared the story with the girl, and now that story will be told again and again as she wears the knit cloche. We all have special memories attached to things that are in our possession. The stories carry forward, and keep people alive in our hearts and memories. Check the calendar of events at www.peacealliance.org/calendar, join us at our next Hope Story Circle and share your emerging stories!

Todd Scholl told a wonderful story about a young woman named Sophie Scholl, who began an information campaign against the Nazis in Germany during World War II. She was arrested and convicted of treason, and executed for her actions. Yet, her actions were of conscience and of heart, even with the limited tools that she had. Todd is a teacher, and in sharing this story with his students, he encouraged them to use all of the tools that they had that Sophie didn't — phones, cameras, social media, internet — to tell important stories. His students did, and an educational conference held in Turkey requested to use their video as the keynote. The power of telling stories, in addition to the need for our teachers to be supported in whole health and mindfulness, was the topic of Todd's story. How might each of us have an impact, with the tools that we have? Check the calendar of events at www.peacealliance.org/calendar, join us at our next Hope Story Circle and share your emerging stories!

Annette Karr told a beautiful story of connection. As a guest of NPR, she joined an in-person meeting with a person of differing ideological views to have a conversation. NPR is holding these kinds of connecting meetings around the country, often via zoom, called One Small Step. The facilitators provide prompts to the two guests, and Annette's experience was that it was a sacred space. She and her partner found many things that they connected about, and the entire experience was rich, rewarding and positive. How might each one of us seek to find common ground and connection before focusing on the differences? Check the calendar of events at www.peacealliance.org/calendar, join us at our next Hope Story Circle and share your emerging stories!

Jim Natal joined us today to share two poems from his many published collections. A multi-year Pushcart Prize nominee in poetry and a long-time literary presenter, he is co-founder of indie publisher Conflux Press. His poems sparked conversations about how artistic expression reflects society, and how each of us responds to art in different ways. The stories told in his poems are beautiful, and took us on a journey that opened our hearts. Check the calendar of events at www.peacealliance.org/calendar, join us at our next Hope Story Circle and share your emerging stories!  

Crystel Patterson has reinvented herself, becoming an author of a series of children's books. It was truly a plot twist, as she had a fulfilling career in technology consulting, never considered herself a writer, nor had a passion for writing.  The occasions that planted this seed had to do with her two young boys. Her 8-year old, after George Floyd's murder, asked the question: Why do police keep killing black people? Those were his words, and they stuck with Crystel. She didn't know how to respond. Her younger, 3-year old son had memorized a book and recited it as it was read to him. She realized that these simple books had the power to change thought, and to plant seeds. She set out to write a series of children's books with positive messaging for young children of color, with inspiration based on real people. This inspiration crosses over to children of every color and ethnicity, and even adults whose children are touched by these books have said that they wished books like this existed when they were children. Writing is now Crystel's passion, and it answers the question for her: What are you doing for others? Check the calendar of events at www.peacealliance/calendar, join us at our next Hope Story Circle and share your emerging stories!

RJ Jennings shared a story of his personal journey, as a black male growing up in the South side of Chicago and then moving to live with other family in a different state, and how his life changed. It's a story about early perceptions planting strong and negative ideas, and how kind mentorship shifted his thinking. Finding people who set better examples, and demonstrated possible paths forward that might redirect his thinking, changed his life completely. His is a heartfelt and tender story, that inspired people in the break-out rooms deeply. We invite you to listen, and hold the importance of mentorship, setting examples, and showing love to the young people in your life. Check the calendar of events at www.peacealliance.org/calendar, join us at our next Hope Story Circle and share your emerging stories!

Steffani Salter shared a story about an experiment with trust. In the past, she has experienced the pain and frustration that resulted from broken trust, promises made and broken, and the up and down pattern of creating trust and then having it broken. Who can you trust? She began an experiment to only trust herself. The story and the reactions from the breakout rooms were compelling and inspiring. Who are you able to trust, and how deeply are you able to trust yourself?  Check the calendar of events at www.peacealliance.org/calendar, join us at our next Hope Story Circle and share your emerging stories!

In the first chapter of his book, “The Homes of Hope Story,” Sean Lambert describes Netflix's rise to greatness. While the competition focused on retail, Netflix obsessed over serving its viewers by bringing content directly to them. Today, they dominate the media space. Learn more about how a service mindset transformed Sean's work at Youth with a Mission, and how to find more opportunities for service in your life.Guest Links:Sean's LinkedInYWAM San Diego/BajaHomes of Hope InternationalThe Homes of Hope Story: It Matters to This One by Sean Lambert Credits: Lisa Nichols, Host; Scott Crosby, Executive Producer; Jenny Heal, Guest Coordinator; Kendall Brewer, Leadership Programs; Joe Szynkowski, Marketing Support

Sequan Prude's life gave him many challenges. His beginnings were a little rough, from a broken home and parents that both had their own demons, he went to 8 elementary schools, 6 junior high schools and 7 high schools. This rough start led him to make some choices that resulted in his incarceration for more than fourteen years. During that time, he had a few awakenings, and gained a college education, the achievement of which was successful in a personal goal to make his grandmother proud, as valedictorian at the top of his class. On a path of forgiveness, the last part was to learn to forgive himself as part of healing, realizing that although he had made some really bad choices in his life and had done things that he needed to pay for, that he could give himself some sort of grace that it took a lot to make the changes that he has made. The inquiry was about balancing accountability individually, with the collective responsibility to we owe as society — and how to balance those things. Check the calendar of events at www.peacealliance.org/calendar, join us at our next Hope Story Circle and share your emerging stories!

General grew up with music and then moved into dance. He has danced in many dance companies, danced and sang on the Broadway stage in CATS, toured with Phantom of the Opera, Miss Saigon and other shows. He has always leaned in on the arts, and took opportunities that were presented to express himself artistically. At one point, the opportunity came to teach dance, and that has continued. He now is an associate professor of dance at West Virginia University. The break-out rooms explored the question of how to find joy in the arts, as a healer, a teacher or a creator. General has lived his life to express the joy he feels in expressing himself artistically, and we all have joy in what we came here to do. Check the calendar of events at www.peacealliance.org/calendar, join us at our next Hope Story Circle and share your emerging stories!  

Jan Fox-Petersen experienced grief early in her life, when she lost a beloved grandmother at age six. The grief, along with other events that transpired, made her lose her voice, and her will to be heard. It took years and much work to get past these barriers, and she is now a relationship coach and restorative practices advocate in Wichita, inspiring people with principles of restorative practices, Non-violent communication, compassion and empathy. The shares following the break-outs were as personal and inspiring as Jan's remarkable story. Check the calendar of Events at www.peacealliance.org/calendar, join us at our next Hope Story Circle and share your emerging stories!

Marianne Simon shared a deeply personal story about the evolution of her thoughts about her next steps in life. When she began thinking about finding another man to share her life with after being a widow for six years, after 26 years of marriage, she realized that it was not about finding the next ‘big thing' in her life - be it another man, or where her career would go next in this chapter of her life. Rather, it was about being open to the fire side of her spirit that had remained quiet for so long. It was about saying ‘yes.' If you didn't have to focus on your next ‘big thing' what would you say ‘yes' to, today? Check the calendar of Events at www.peacealliance.org, join us at our next Hope Story Circle and share your emerging stories!

When Jeff Wallach began to plan the story he might tell, he began with change. This story morphed into a story of survival, and about his passion for full expression. In his home, within his own four walls, he was loved and supported, and felt safe. Outside of those walls, he was under attack from bullies, bigotry, and bad humans. In middle school, a teacher advised him to get out of his shell, he was seen as painfully shy — and recommended that he volunteer at an animal shelter, or a theatre. His mother took him to a community theatre that very weekend, and he found a home and a passion that has lasted for the rest of his life. Making a living as an actor, director, choreographer and teacher, performing arts has been his passion and continues to be. He strives to be a beacon for kids to see who they are, and to shine brightly with glitter and sparkle. How are you living your life, authentically, with full exposure? Check the calendar of Events at www.peacealliance.org, join us at our next Hope Story Circle and share your emerging stories!

Karlie Everhart began with a Maya Angelou quote - “you may not control all the events that happen to you, but you can decide not to be reduced by them.” Her story was about her experiences that began with her feeling as though she was not enough, and collecting evidence to support that feeling. While outward perceptions may have been of a very successful woman in her 20's, and while she was a strong achiever in many ways, she still felt as though she were not enough. Returning to graduate school for her Masters degree in Spiritual Psychology, she began to work with Freedom to Choose, and in doing so, participated in conversations with people in prisons. This has revealed many things to her, and in talking to one inmate who reminded her of her own birth father, she had an awakening allowing her to release the past feelings of being not enough. Check the calendar of Events at www.peacealliance.org, join us at our next Hope Story Circle and share your emerging stories!

Jerry Downs is an accomplished photographer and artist, and brought a story about the importance of allowing creativity. The fifth in a family of eleven children, when he wasn't doing well in his first year of school having not attended preschool or kindergarten and not knowing how to read or do simple arithmetic, his teacher met with his parents. Their decision was that until he learned to read, he was not to be allowed to draw at all. Drawing had been his life, and his identity until that time. Looking back, he felt compassion for his parents, and for his teacher in giving that direction, seeing that they were doing the best that they could. Still, his life expression has been to release creativity and create connection. From his book, Why You Were Born, which is available for free download from his website: “We are all in this together. It's the reason we were all born. All the answers reside within you. Listen.” Check the calendar of Events at www.peacealliance.org, join us at our next Hope Story Circle and share your emerging stories!  

We began the New Year of Hope Story Circles with Marie Murtagh. Marie shared a story about personal evolution, and how she once saw herself as small and limited based on her perceptions and circumstances, and has expanded. Especially during the time of Covid, she took on a journey of observation, reflection and study. She felt physically different, and saw that the pillars of society once thought to be unshakable lose their strength. Exploring new thoughts of complexity and simplicity, she found ways to expand and now knows that her mission is to serve. What wisdom do each of us have to bring forward? Check the calendar of Events at www.peacealliance.org, join us at our next Hope Story Circle and share your emerging stories! 

Kevin Winkler shared a story about transitions. His perspective is that when we are going through transitions in life, we don't really see them as a transition — and after time passes, we have more clarity. His transitions from childhood in rural Oklahoma to living in San Diego, and through three careers — from a dancer, to a career in library science with the New York Public Library, and in his current career as an author of several books related to the performing arts, have all been connected by his passions and evolving interests. What transitions have you experienced, and what did you learn about it later? Check the calendar of Events at www.peacealliance.org - join us at our next Hope Story Circle and share your emerging stories!

It's the holiday season and the boys are taking care of spreading happiness (and socks) to all the boys and girls of the world while Santa takes care of the toys. John and Mark had a fun appearance on the PIX11 Morning Show, served as judges at the Emerging Leaders Business Competition, had an appearance on News12 as they talked about the upcoming kickoff of the 12 Days of Giving and so much more! Plus Mark had an interesting conversation with Professor Jared Allen from Texas Tech University that you'll want to hear about. Also, the guys appeared on Fox and Friends and they talk about why it's important to them that they are open minded to ALL platforms when it comes to spreading happiness. Plus the usual mainstays like good news, bad jokes, John's love life and more. Enjoy! Business to highlight: Hope Story https://hopestory.org/ Hope Story is a team of medical professionals and storytellers. We believe that stories have the ability to provide hope to others and change the world. At our core, we exist to help people learn to tell their stories and help them find opportunities to share them with people that need to hear them the most. We help medical professionals deliver hopeful stories to their patients. We help parents raising children with Down syndrome leverage their unique story to bring hope to parents whose child has received a Down syndrome diagnosis. We connect parents whose child has received a new Down syndrome diagnosis to parents who have a child with Down syndrome so that they can receive, encouragement, support, and hope. We believe a little bit of hope can go a long way. Support Existing parents New Diagnosis Medical Professionals  Hope Story helps medical professionals deliver a Down syndrome diagnosis with confidence, accuracy, and hope. In addition, we help move Down syndrome from the textbook to the hearts of medical professionals by helping them develop a personal relationship with a family raising a child with Down syndrome. Finding John's Crazy Socks: https://johnscrazysocks.com/  Hosted by John & Mark Cronin, co-founders of John's Crazy Socks. Visit John's Crazy Socks here: https://johnscrazysocks.com Follow @johnscrazysocks on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and TikTok. The Spreading Happiness Podcast is produced by Launchpad 516 Studios. For show ideas, guest inquiries, general feedback, sponsorships and media inquiries, drop an email: thespreadinghapinesspodcast@lp516.com Information about Speaking Engagements with John and Mark: https://johnscrazysocks.com/pages/speaking-engagements-1  Subscribe to The Spreading Happiness Podcast on Apple Podcasts and get notified of new episodes, every Tuesday! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-spreading-happiness-podcast/id1611218712 

Nancy Melius has lived a rich and varied life, with several different careers evolving over time. Beginning as a dancer, with success on a national tour of CATS and ‘Gypsy' on Broadway, she moved into fashion design, then interior design, all along building her business acumen and skills. It became important that she combined her creative and business skills in everything that she pursued. She now supports her family business, both with her father and sister, in managing Oheka Castle in Long Island, and various properties with her husband. Having lived internationally as well as having toured in the United States, her perspective has grown and been informed by her life experiences. How have your experiences defined you, and how do you feel you are seen in the world? Check the calendar of Events at www.peacealliance.org - join us at our next Hope Story Circle and share your emerging stories!

It is common to feel a loss of self after a concussion when you lose so many things you used to be able to do - but there is hope. This week, Cristabelle speaks with Silvie from The Concussion Community. Silvie struggled for years to find the right help and understand what was going on with her. Her concussion was even misdiagnosed as anxiety. The regular doctors she visited couldn't address her symptoms, so she wasn't getting help from them. Eventually, Silvie found the right concussion treatments and she is here to share what she has learned from her journey, offering hope to listeners to know that rebuilding your life is possible. 0:00 Intro 4:30 Hope Story with Cristabelle 14:05 Sylvie's Concussion Journey 19:15 Misdiagnosed with Anxiety 21:10 Looking for Help 25:30 Rebuilding Life 29:30 Concussion Community 32:25 Getting Treatment 38:00 Hope for Everyone 41:30 Words of Hope Connect with Silvie: @theconcussioncommunity | theconcussioncommunity.com CONNECT Join the online community & monthly zoom support group: hopeafterheadinjury.com/community Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms! Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com Hope After Head Injury: @hopeafterheadinjury | hopeafterheadinjury.com Brain Injury Bible Study: @braininjurybiblestudy | hopeafterheadinjury.com/brain-injury-bible-study Thank you to Council on Brain Injury for supporting this podcast by providing a microphone as part of their grant program to the brain injury community. Check out the amazing work done by CoBI at: councilonbraininjury.com This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: hopeafterheadinjury.com/hopesurvives

Marie Ukeye told a beautiful story about her mother. Born in Rwanda in 1934 as one of seven children, she was supported to go to school by her father, a school teacher. When she married, she had eleven children, beginning at age 18 with the last when she was 47. During the genocide in Rwanda in 1994, she lost three of her children, and then lost two more to HIV/AIDS. She proceeded to mother her nine orphaned grandchildren. Through it all, Marie recalls that she was very busy — built buildings that she rented, ran businesses. Even now, she recently built a store with the intent to leave it to her remaining five grandchildren that still live with her. Her strength through it all, and her joy — Marie shared that she laughs a lot! — came from the love that she gives and receives. What is the strong force that propels your purpose? There were very tender and happy shares following the break-out rooms. Check the calendar of Events at www.peacealliance.org - join us at our next Hope Story Circle and share your emerging stories!

I recently found out about an incredible organization that is shining a light amidst the dark reality of sex trafficking and sexual trauma. That organization is called Kairos Hope.  Kairos Hope is a Christian recovery home (located in the Missouri) for survivors of sexual trauma. They help women find freedom through Biblical instruction and clinical mental health counseling. Their program is completely free to residents and lasts 6-9 months. The work that Kairos Hope is doing is powerful, effective and so very needed. I first heard about this organization and their mission when a beautiful girl named Miranda Coulson spoke at a local church. Miranda is joining me on the show today, along with the executive director and founder of Kairos Hope, Eryka Mabus McMillan, to talk about the Kairos Hope story.  Don't miss this episode full of hope and healing!  Find today's show notes and links at KatieHedrick.com/146 ————————— **SPECIAL DISCOUNT** Enroll in the Faith Fueled Breakthrough™ Course for just $99 when you use the code: HOPE | FaithFueledBreakthrough.com  Never miss an episode! | KatieHedrick.com/VIP  Step Into Joy Sisterhood | KatieHedrick.com/Community  Connect with Katie | Send an email to Katie@KatieHedrick.com

Joel Kimmel is a friend of the Peace Alliance, and brought a message about the power of words. By shifting from a mindset and language of ‘Doing' to a mindset and language of ‘Being,' he offered, we can open up greater possibilities of connection. Instead of 'tell me more,' say 'say more about that.' Instead of ‘forcing' (a doing action), use ‘allowing' (a being action). Instead of 'to-do lists,' create 'to have happen lists.' Listen in on more detail of ‘Being' and ‘Doing' and hear how the group reacted with a joyful and peace-filled response from the break-out rooms. Check the calendar of Events at www.peacealliance.org - join us at our next Hope Story Circle and share your emerging stories!

It was shocking and it came on the day my Dad went to heaven. I flew in; I couldn't make it back in time before he took his last breath. But we had some great conversations before he died. And that was the day that my Mother made an announcement. She said, "You have a brother." Okay, here I am a grown man with children of my own. Now, I knew I'd had a baby brother who died when he was six months old, and that's how all of us came to know Jesus as a result of the tragedy that went into our family through that. But that was the day I learned about a brother I never knew about all those years. Now, there's some complicated circumstances that would explain why I didn't know. But the fact is, my Dad and Mom had never told me about this brother by another mother. Since then I've had a chance to meet that brother I never knew about, and wow, what a blessing. And it's so enriched both of our lives, along with our wives as well. But it was a story I'd never heard. It was a story I wish I had heard. It was a story that changed my life. But it was a story that I almost never heard. I'm Ron Hutchcraft and I want to have A Word With You today about "They Need to Hear Your Story." You have a story! You have a story to tell that literally lives depend on; that can change lives forever. But you can't sit on it! Our word for today from the Word of God comes from Matthew 28. What an exciting chapter! It's the resurrection of Jesus. The angel has just appeared to these crest-fallen women who think the body of their Savior was stolen. He said, "He is not here; he has risen!" Now listen to these words, "Then go quickly and tell his disciples, 'He has risen from the dead�' So, the women hurried away from the tomb, afraid yet filled with joy, and ran to tell his disciples." Now, what good is a story, especially if it's good news and you don't tell it? Well, this is the good news about a death-crushing, life-changing Savior who conquered death that morning. The greatest fear we all have. The story you've got to tell is the story you probably know so well if you've been around Christian things very long. You know about Jesus dying on the cross to carry the wrath of God upon Him for all our sin, to set us free, to make it possible for us to be free and clean and forgiven and heaven-bound. And He's powerful enough to walk out of His grave under His own power. I mean, your Jesus is the greatest love a person can experience; a love that would die for you. The greatest power a person can experience; a power that can conquer death. Wow! Don't you want to tell that story to someone? You know it; they don't. We're living in a post Christian world; people around us probably aren't going to go to a religious meeting to hear a religious speaker talk on a religious subject in a religious place. They may be surrounded by Christian resources, and TV and radio, and websites. But they don't know about all that. They have yet to find out what Jesus did on the cross for them. And the only way they're going to know is if you tell them the story you know so well. They desperately need to hear about that. They desperately need to hear about a Jesus who is alive, who changes people, who does things that no one else can do and saves lives. It may be old hat to you about the sin and Christ dying for sin. But it's life-saving news for somebody you know. The words of the angel on that resurrection morning were, "You've come and seen. Now, go and tell." That's Jesus' command to you. "Go and tell!" And you have a Hope Story. You are living proof that Jesus is alive, because He's done things in your life that no one else could have done. Right? He has fixed what no one else could fix. He's changing what no one else could change. He's providing hope where nothing else could. You have a Hope Story my brother or sister, and that story of what Jesus did on the cross and how He's changed you? Well, that could be the difference between life and death and heaven and hell for somebody in your world. Would you tell them the story you know? Give them the good news! You have a life-changing story to tell. But what good is a story if you don't tell it?

Azim Khamisa is living a spiritual journey following a tragedy of losing his son to gun violence; watch this NBC Nightly News Video to learn about it. His message about peace, purpose and leadership through forgiveness was heartfelt and powerful. The important news that he shares is that violent behavior is learned, and empathic and compassionate behavior is also learned. Through the Tariq Khamisa Foundation, begun in honor of his late son, he has touched hundreds of thousands of people, many of whom are young students, before they make decisions that may lead to violence. Tony, the man who was only 14 when he shot and killed Tariq, spent decades in prison and now volunteers for the Tariq Khamisa Foundation, speaking with Azim about the power of forgiveness. Check the calendar of Events at www.peacealliance.org - join us at our next Hope Story Circle and share your emerging stories!  

Carol is a dancer, choreographer, dance teacher and director living in New York City. She brought a multi-layered story of how her three C's — Community, Connection and Center — guide her in her current teaching paths that take her in three directions. She teaches adults with special needs, she teaches professional dancers, and she teaches high-school age kids, in three different forums each week. From her own personal history in performing, as a competitive gymnast as a child to a professional dancer as an adult, she has found that being heart-driven brings her back to these three C's with one additional C — Consistency. Listen to this story, and feel your heart open wide. Check the calendar of Events at www.peacealliance.org - join us at our next Hope Story Circle and share your emerging stories!

Ari Cowan brought a multi-layered story to share, that began with his learning the practice of meditation at age 13 from his mother, who was a Yogi, and then being on a path to be an Air Force pilot at age 15. That path was not taken, and he continued in his life to be guided by meditation. A significant event was when he created the PAR model of violent behavior modification, and ran a pilot of the model at Clallam Bay Correctional facility in Washington State. He had low expectations given the circumstances under which the pilot was being run, hoping for a 2.5-5% reduction in violence. The results were an astounding 100%! Come and listen to this remarkable story, including ways to meditate for the good of all people, and the skills to execute a power swap, a key component to shifting the script of violence, which he sees as a health issue. Check the calendar of Events at www.peacealliance.org - join us at our next Hope Story Circle, and share your emerging stories!

Jerilyn Stapleton is a long-time friend and colleague in the Peace Alliance. She was on her way to Chicago for a National NOW conference, and had several challenges in traveling, not the least of which was inadvertently leaving her drivers license at home. Flying out of Burbank, CA, she easily used her SAG Film Society card as identification. Flying out of Chicago, however, she encountered obstacles. It's a story of being seen, being recognized, and how much our society relies on these small pieces of paper to make each of us a real person. Thankfully, she was able to complete her travels, having met new friends along the way. Check the calendar of Events at www.peacealliance.org - join us at our next Hope Story Circle, and share your emerging stories!

With the recent SCOTUS reversal of Roe v Wade, Judy told a multi-generational story. Beginning with her Grandmother, who chose to get a divorce more than 100 years ago, and all of the steps that had to be taken to allow that to legally occur. She then went on to live a bohemian life, surrounded by art and music, and by political-social debates and conversations, including the topic of birth control even at that time. Fast forward to Judy's own life in the 1960's as a young woman, falling in love with Joel, and wanting to get birth control. She was refused by the older, white, male Ob Gyn at her all-female college, and had to find another route. This history of restrictions, in contrast and parallel with the recent decision, led to conversations about where we can find hope, when circumstances cause constraint. Check the calendar of Events at www.peacealliance.org - join us at our next Hope Story Circle, and share your emerging stories.

Barbara Thorngren says that she is a steward of the 7-acre property called Avalon, where she has lived for 30 years. Initially drawn by a giant maple tree, there are now chickens, goats, ducks. Since her husband passed in 2016, she has been creating the Barn Studio, a 60x25 space, as a place to make a massive mess, instruments and sound healing. After attending Spirit Seminary, she became an interfaith spiritual minister in 2021, and has invited people into Avalon on spiritual retreats, experiences, a hub. The conversation focused on the importance of connecting with nature, and how healing it can be — and Barbara advised everyone that even a small blade of grass can be the focus. We can be in nature in our imaginations. Check the calendar of Events at www.peacealliance.org - join us at our next Hope Story Circle, and share your emerging stories.

Liz Gannon Graydon told a story about preparing for her third act in life, as defined by the timings from Jane Fonda's memoir. She is reaching a place where she wants to move from being the Sage on the Stage, to being a Guide on the Side (La Sarmiento), and to mentor others with the wisdom of the elders. What wisdom might you offer those around you, whether they be younger or older? What can we all offer one another? Check the calendar of Events at www.peacealliance.org - join us at our next Hope Story Circle, and share your emerging stories!

Rick Smith is a father of three (including Noah who has Down syndrome), a blogger, an advocate, and the founder of Hope Story! Like so many of us in the DS community, his child's diagnosis was delivered with an “I'm so sorry,” followed by the doctor offering anti-depressants to his wife. And now, 11 years later, Rick is on a mission to change what happens in the delivery room by educating medical professionals about what it means to live with Down syndrome through his non-profit, Hope Story. Today we're chatting about dads who advocate, releasing expectations for ALL of your children, what doctors need to know, and even a few tangents about social media advocacy etiquette (trust us - you'll relate). You can join Rick by becoming a Hope Advocate (connect with new parents + doctors in your area) with code THELUCKYFEW for a FREE Hope Kit that gives you all the tools you need. Oh and Happy Father's Day to all you dads out there shouting the worth of your kiddos! -- SHOW NOTES Follow Rick and his family on Instagram and Facebook Check out hopestory.org Become a Hope Advocate and use promo code THE LUCKY FEW to get the Hope Kit for FREE. Follow Hope Story on Instagram and Facebook Learn more about Hope Story's partnership with medical professionals Read Rick's blog on noahsdad.com LET'S CHAT Email hello@theluckyfewpodcast.com with your questions and Good News for future episodes. HELP US SHIFT THE NARRATIVE Interested in partnering with The Lucky Few Podcast as a sponsor? Email hello@theluckyfewpodcast.com for more information! --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/theluckyfewpod/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/theluckyfewpod/support