Podcasts about Marvin Olasky

SEASON 10 FINALE! Oscar wasn't just an atheist, he was a zealot. The absence of an earthly father in his life simply reinforced the truth, that Christians were stupid, and they needed to be put in their place. There was no Father in heaven looking down from above. All this world had to offer was chaos. But as Oscar pursued earthly pleasures there were some questions that just couldn't be answered... Perhaps he did have a loving father, after all? Show notes @ https://compelledpodcast.com/episodes/oscar-navarro ++++++++++++ Compelled is a seasonal podcast using gripping, immersive storytelling to celebrate the powerful ways God is transforming Christians around the world. These Christian testimonies are raw, true, and powerful. Be encouraged and let your faith be strengthened! Want to help make new episodes? Either make a one-time gift, or become a Monthly Partner at: https://compelledpodcast.com/donate Perks of being a Monthly Partner include: EARLY ACCESS to each new Compelled episode 1 week early! FULL LIBRARY of our unedited, behind-the-scenes interviews with each guest... over 100+ hours of additional stories and takeaways! Become a Monthly Partner by selecting the "Monthly" option during check-out.  Show notes, emails, and more at: https://compelledpodcast.com Read the Compelled book of testimonies, endorsed by Lee Strobel, Marvin Olasky, and more: ⁠https://compelledpodcast.com/book Compelled is a member of the Proclaim Podcast Network. Listen to other like-minded podcasts with faithful stories, thoughtfully told at https://proclaim.fm Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Granger Smith was a country music icon who was living a star-studded life performing sold-out concerts across America. But when tragedy struck, everything came tumbling down, and Granger had to confront head-on… Who exactly was the God of the Bible? Show notes @ https://compelledpodcast.com/episodes/granger-smith ++++++++++++ Compelled is a seasonal podcast using gripping, immersive storytelling to celebrate the powerful ways God is transforming Christians around the world. These Christian testimonies are raw, true, and powerful. Be encouraged and let your faith be strengthened! Want to help make new episodes? Either make a one-time gift, or become a Monthly Partner at: https://compelledpodcast.com/donate Perks of being a Monthly Partner include: EARLY ACCESS to each new Compelled episode 1 week early! FULL LIBRARY of our unedited, behind-the-scenes interviews with each guest... over 100+ hours of additional stories and takeaways! Become a Monthly Partner by selecting the "Monthly" option during check-out.  Show notes, emails, and more at: https://compelledpodcast.com Read the Compelled book of testimonies, endorsed by Lee Strobel, Marvin Olasky, and more: ⁠https://compelledpodcast.com/book Compelled is a member of the Proclaim Podcast Network. Listen to other like-minded podcasts with faithful stories, thoughtfully told at https://proclaim.fm Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Christina  Hello, everyone, I'm Christina Darnell, the managing editor of MinistryWatch. Welcome to the MinistryWatch podcast. In today's extra episode, I talk with Warren Smith about some news items that are slightly (even significantly) outside of our normal charity and philanthropy “beat.” So, Warren, what's up first? Warren I subscribe to Kate Bowler's Substack and read this week that she had spoken at Church of the Resurrection in Kansas City. When she wrote that this United Methodist congregation had 25,000 members, I was a bit incredulous. Christina United Methodist churches do not usually grow that large, especially these days. Warren So, I did some fact-checking, and she is right, though most online sources also say that weekly attendance at the church is closer to 6,000. Still, that is big. The church is centrist in theology and has so far managed to stay in the United Methodist Church without suffering a meltdown in attendance, though its growth has flattened in recent years. I am going to keep my eye on the church. It will be an interesting bellwether for the future of the UMC. Christina Moving on, there's a leadership transition coming up at a significant Christian organization. Warren After nearly six years of service, Kevin Van Horne has stepped down as Executive Director of International Fellowship of Evangelical Students/ USA. His last day was Friday, May 15, 2026. According to a statement from the organization, “Kevin led IFES/USA through a season of significant change, helping to serve our global fellowship and partners well. We are deeply grateful for his leadership and for the ways God has worked through him.” Dave Shepherd (Director of Finance) has been appointed to serve as Interim Executive Director. IFES was a MinistryWatch Shining Light Award winner in 2023 and has maintained excellent ratings from us since then. Christina Warren, I know you are always interested in demographics and statistics. But something special caught your attention this week. Warren That's right, and before I say what that was, let me as some rhetorical questions. What is the most significant problem facing America and the world? Nuclear winter? Global warming? Artificial intelligence? I would submit for your consideration the coming depopulation of the earth. For at least 30 years, most reputable demographers have been saying that the world population growth is slowing and will likely top out soon. By the year 2100 the world will be in the midst of a significant population decline. Christina And one thing that caught your attention is just how much this population decline will impact all areas of life on earth. Warren That's right. This decline will have enormous implications for every aspect of life. Cities built for millions of people will disappear, leaving a rotting infrastructure. Economic growth will be impossible. We are already seeing towns in the Midwest and West disappear. That trend will accelerate. Christina I've got to admit, Warren, that that sounds a bit melodramatic. Warren I think it's fair to be skeptical, but population demographics is one area of social science that has pretty sound prediction models. Birth rates have fallen to record lows, and they don't change that much from year to year. So it's actually pretty easy to predict what the population will be in the future. And the numbers don't look good. But if these predictions seem a bit melodramatic to you, I suggest reading a new article from The Atlantic, The Great Depopulation. A world with a shrinking and aging population will offer great opportunities for ministry, but for almost every country on the planet, it will be a culturally wrenching reality. Christina On May 17, an event called ReDedicate 250 brought speakers to the National Mall in Washington. The speakers included Eric Metaxas, Mark Driscoll, Sean Feucht, and Greg Locke – all men we've written about here at MinistsryWatch. Warren That's right. They are a part of what some are now calling the Dissident Christian Right. Christina What does that mean? Warren They are not quite Christian Nationalist, but not mainstream evangelical, either. Most assessments have judged the event as kind of a bust. A few thousand people attended, but DCR pundits had predicted many more. For example, The Christian Post reported that Robert Jeffress predicted the gathering “could be the nation's largest religious gathering in more than 50 years.” It is not clear what the attendance figures for this event forbode for the DCR movement, but the weak attendance was a surprise to me and to many who have been following the movement. Christina And there was a notable passing last week. Warren My friend Bob Woodson died last week at the age of 89. If you do not know about Bob's life and the legacy he leaves behind, I recommend reading John Stonestreet's excellent tribute. It was an honor for me to be a part of the Colson Center team that presented Bob with a Wilberforce Award in 2018. He was sui generis. One of one. I will miss him personally, and our country will miss his leadership. I helped arrange a trip for him to The King's College in 2010 to do a live interview with Marvin Olasky. That interview is worth a listen, and you can find it here. Christina Warren, you've mentioned before, that you are a fan of Carey Nieuwhof's leadership podcast. This week he dropped one of his most personal episodes ever. Warren He recounts how, about 20 years ago, he experienced a period of profound burnout. It is part of a two-part series on how to avoid burning out. I strongly recommend it. You can find the first episode here. Christina Warren, we need to wrap things up here. Any final thoughts before we go? Warren I'll be in Knoxville this week attending an event hosted by my former colleagues and good friends at The Colson Center for Christian Worldview. If you'd like to have lunch with me on Friday, let me hear from you. I'll be doing similar lunches in Denver and Colorado Springs in June. Let me know if you would like to join us. My email is wsmith@ministrywatch.com. Christina That brings to a close this EXTRA episode of the podcast. The producer for today's program is Jeff McIntosh. I'm Christina Darnell, along with Warren Smith. Until next time, may God bless you.

Cain Kellerman became addicted to heroin as a 10-year-old boy and saw his life quickly spiral out of control. He had no hope for his future and he simply stopped caring about anything. And even if his life did have a purpose, how could he break free from his addictions? Show notes @ https://compelledpodcast.com/episodes/cain-kellerman The Kellermans are in need of a new septic drain field. It will cost them $8,000. Will you pray about contributing toward their need here? https://www.givesendgo.com/kellerman-septic-fund ++++++++++++ Compelled is a seasonal podcast using gripping, immersive storytelling to celebrate the powerful ways God is transforming Christians around the world. These Christian testimonies are raw, true, and powerful. Be encouraged and let your faith be strengthened! Want to help make new episodes? Either make a one-time gift, or become a Monthly Partner at: https://compelledpodcast.com/donate Perks of being a Monthly Partner include: EARLY ACCESS to each new Compelled episode 1 week early! FULL LIBRARY of our unedited, behind-the-scenes interviews with each guest... over 100+ hours of additional stories and takeaways! Become a Monthly Partner by selecting the "Monthly" option during check-out.  Show notes, emails, and more at: https://compelledpodcast.com Buy the Compelled book of testimonies, endorsed by Lee Strobel, Marvin Olasky, and more: ⁠https://compelledpodcast.com/book Compelled is a member of the Proclaim Podcast Network: https://proclaim.fm Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Janet was a brand-new Christian who joined a group of young people who also claimed to follow Jesus and live in Christian community. But when she discovered they would not let her leave, Janet grew confused… until Jesus provided a way of escape. Show notes @ https://compelledpodcast.com/episodes/janet-d ++++++++++++ Compelled is a seasonal podcast using gripping, immersive storytelling to celebrate the powerful ways God is transforming Christians around the world. These Christian testimonies are raw, true, and powerful. Be encouraged and let your faith be strengthened! Want to help make new episodes? Either make a one-time gift, or become a Monthly Partner at: https://compelledpodcast.com/donate Perks of being a Monthly Partner include: EARLY ACCESS to each new Compelled episode 1 week early! FULL LIBRARY of our unedited, behind-the-scenes interviews with each guest... over 100+ hours of additional stories and takeaways! Become a Monthly Partner by selecting the "Monthly" option during check-out.  Show notes, emails, and more at: https://compelledpodcast.com Read the Compelled book of testimonies, endorsed by Lee Strobel, Marvin Olasky, and more: ⁠https://compelledpodcast.com/book Compelled is a member of the Proclaim Podcast Network. Listen to other like-minded podcasts with faithful stories, thoughtfully told at https://proclaim.fm Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For years, Ramona and her husband served in churches together. On the outside, it looked like they had a picture-perfect marriage, but in reality, Ramona was carrying a dark secret. Her husband was emotionally and physically abusive, and Ramona had lost all hope... until one day she realized that the source of true Hope had been with her all along. Show notes @ https://compelledpodcast.com/episodes/ramona-chirko ++++++++++++ Compelled is a seasonal podcast using gripping, immersive storytelling to celebrate the powerful ways God is transforming Christians around the world. These Christian testimonies are raw, true, and powerful. Be encouraged and let your faith be strengthened! Want to help make new episodes? Either make a one-time gift, or become a Monthly Partner at: https://compelledpodcast.com/donate Perks of being a Monthly Partner include: EARLY ACCESS to each new Compelled episode 1 week early! FULL LIBRARY of our unedited, behind-the-scenes interviews with each guest... over 100+ hours of additional stories and takeaways! Become a Monthly Partner by selecting the "Monthly" option during check-out.  Show notes, emails, and more at: https://compelledpodcast.com Read the Compelled book of testimonies, endorsed by Lee Strobel, Marvin Olasky, and more: ⁠https://compelledpodcast.com/book Compelled is a member of the Proclaim Podcast Network. Listen to other like-minded podcasts with faithful stories, thoughtfully told at https://proclaim.fm Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Otis was a drug addict, but he simultaneously knew who Jesus was, and cried out for deliverance multiple times. On several occasions, he would go through rehab and get clean and even live a successful life... but always in his own strength... until succumbing to temptation once again. Could the Holy Spirit intervene and save his wretched soul? Show notes @ https://compelledpodcast.com/episodes/otis-dorsey ++++++++++++ Compelled is a seasonal podcast using gripping, immersive storytelling to celebrate the powerful ways God is transforming Christians around the world. These Christian testimonies are raw, true, and powerful. Be encouraged and let your faith be strengthened! Want to help make new episodes? Either make a one-time gift, or become a Monthly Partner at: https://compelledpodcast.com/donate Perks of being a Monthly Partner include: EARLY ACCESS to each new Compelled episode 1 week early! FULL LIBRARY of our unedited, behind-the-scenes interviews with each guest... over 100+ hours of additional stories and takeaways! Become a Monthly Partner by selecting the "Monthly" option during check-out.  Show notes, emails, and more at: https://compelledpodcast.com Read the Compelled book of testimonies, endorsed by Lee Strobel, Marvin Olasky, and more: ⁠https://compelledpodcast.com/book Compelled is a member of the Proclaim Podcast Network. Listen to other like-minded podcasts with faithful stories, thoughtfully told at https://proclaim.fm Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Josh Howard became an unlikely missionary to India after his family fell apart. But today, Josh has had a front-row seat watching God multiply disciples in unprecedented ways. Show notes @ https://compelledpodcast.com/episodes/josh-howard Josh's links: https://theignitenetwork.org/ https://discipleship.org/ Josh's newest book ++++++++++++ Compelled is a seasonal podcast using gripping, immersive storytelling to celebrate the powerful ways God is transforming Christians around the world. These Christian testimonies are raw, true, and powerful. Be encouraged and let your faith be strengthened! Want to help make new episodes? Either make a one-time gift, or become a Monthly Partner at: https://compelledpodcast.com/donate Perks of being a Monthly Partner include: EARLY ACCESS to each new Compelled episode 1 week early! FULL LIBRARY of our unedited, behind-the-scenes interviews with each guest... over 100+ hours of additional stories and takeaways! Become a Monthly Partner by selecting the "Monthly" option during check-out.  Show notes, emails, and more at: https://compelledpodcast.com Buy the Compelled book of testimonies, endorsed by Lee Strobel, Marvin Olasky, and more: ⁠https://compelledpodcast.com/book Compelled is a member of the Proclaim Podcast Network: https://proclaim.fm Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Will Allen grew up believing he was a Christian. But he had a secret. All throughout his childhood, he fantasized about being a girl. Then, as an adult, he followed through with that desire and surgically altered his body to appear as a woman for 30 years... until Will realized that Christ had to be Lord of *ALL* of his life Show notes @ https://compelledpodcast.com/episodes/will-allen ++++++++++++ Compelled is a seasonal podcast using gripping, immersive storytelling to celebrate the powerful ways God is transforming Christians around the world. These Christian testimonies are raw, true, and powerful. Be encouraged and let your faith be strengthened! Want to help make new episodes? Either make a one-time gift, or become a Monthly Partner at: https://compelledpodcast.com/donate Perks of being a Monthly Partner include: EARLY ACCESS to each new Compelled episode 1 week early! FULL LIBRARY of our unedited, behind-the-scenes interviews with each guest... over 100+ hours of additional stories and takeaways! Become a Monthly Partner by selecting the "Monthly" option during check-out.  Show notes, emails, and more at: https://compelledpodcast.com Read the Compelled book of testimonies, endorsed by Lee Strobel, Marvin Olasky, and more: ⁠https://compelledpodcast.com/book Compelled is a member of the Proclaim Podcast Network. Listen to other like-minded podcasts with faithful stories, thoughtfully told at https://proclaim.fm Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hannah Overton was a mother of 5 who was falsely accused of murder, and sentenced to life in prison. Yet instead of growing bitter, she chose to flourish where God had placed her. Show notes @ https://compelledpodcast.com/episodes/hannah-overton ++++++++++++ Compelled is a seasonal podcast using gripping, immersive storytelling to celebrate the powerful ways God is transforming Christians around the world. These Christian testimonies are raw, true, and powerful. Be encouraged and let your faith be strengthened! Want to help make new episodes? Either make a one-time gift, or become a Monthly Partner at: https://compelledpodcast.com/donate Perks of being a Monthly Partner include: EARLY ACCESS to each new Compelled episode 1 week early! FULL LIBRARY of our unedited, behind-the-scenes interviews with each guest... over 100+ hours of additional stories and takeaways! Become a Monthly Partner by selecting the "Monthly" option during check-out.  Show notes, emails, and more at: https://compelledpodcast.com Read the Compelled book of testimonies, endorsed by Lee Strobel, Marvin Olasky, and more: ⁠https://compelledpodcast.com/book Compelled is a member of the Proclaim Podcast Network. Listen to other like-minded podcasts with faithful stories, thoughtfully told at https://proclaim.fm Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

55 years ago, Charlie stepped out of the Apollo 16 Spacecraft and became the 10th human to ever set foot on the moon. But back on earth, his marriage was falling apart, he was a stranger to his sons, and something desperately needed to change. Show notes @ https://compelledpodcast.com/episodes/charlie-dotty-duke ++++++++++++ Compelled is a seasonal podcast using gripping, immersive storytelling to celebrate the powerful ways God is transforming Christians around the world. These Christian testimonies are raw, true, and powerful. Be encouraged and let your faith be strengthened! Want to help make new episodes? Either make a one-time gift, or become a Monthly Partner at: https://compelledpodcast.com/donate Perks of being a Monthly Partner include: EARLY ACCESS to each new Compelled episode 1 week early! FULL LIBRARY of our unedited, behind-the-scenes interviews with each guest... over 100+ hours of additional stories and takeaways! Become a Monthly Partner by selecting the "Monthly" option during check-out.  Show notes, emails, and more at: https://compelledpodcast.com Read the Compelled book of testimonies, endorsed by Lee Strobel, Marvin Olasky, and more: ⁠https://compelledpodcast.com/book Compelled is a member of the Proclaim Podcast Network. Listen to other like-minded podcasts with faithful stories, thoughtfully told at https://proclaim.fm Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As you can read elsewhere on MinistryWatch, the Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives is now 25 years old. Despite the good intentions of those who founded it, the office – like many government entities – has outlived its usefulness and needs to end. Resources mentioned in today's program: David Kuo's 2006 book Tempting Faith. 2001 Cato commentary “The Federalist Case Against Faith-Based Initiatives” by Robert Levy. 2001 Cato briefing paper “Corrupting Charity: Why Government Should Not Fund Faith-Based Charities” by Michael Tanner. Richard Land, longtime president of the Southern Baptist Convention's Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission and now Executive Editor of The Christian Post expressed strong reservations, famously warning that government “shekels” would bring “government's shackles.” Marvin Olasky, a key intellectual figure behind “compassionate conservatism” and an advisor to George W. Bush during his Texas governorship, played a role in conceptualizing the original Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives, as early as 2002 began to have concerns about the office. The producer for today's program is Jeff McIntosh. Until next time, may God bless you.

Brandy Seago grew up in a family that was flawed, but still hers. But as her broken family was slowly whittled away, Brandy realized that a picture-perfect family might not exist, yet a perfect Father, really did. Show notes @ https://compelledpodcast.com/episodes/brandy-seago ++++++++++++ Compelled is a seasonal podcast using gripping, immersive storytelling to celebrate the powerful ways God is transforming Christians around the world. These Christian testimonies are raw, true, and powerful. Be encouraged and let your faith be strengthened! Want to help make new episodes? Either make a one-time gift, or become a Monthly Partner at: https://compelledpodcast.com/donate Perks of being a Monthly Partner include: EARLY ACCESS to each new Compelled episode 1 week early! FULL LIBRARY of our unedited, behind-the-scenes interviews with each guest... over 100+ hours of additional stories and takeaways! Become a Monthly Partner by selecting the "Monthly" option during check-out.  Show notes, emails, and more at: https://compelledpodcast.com Read the Compelled book of testimonies, endorsed by Lee Strobel, Marvin Olasky, and more: ⁠https://compelledpodcast.com/book Compelled is a member of the Proclaim Podcast Network. Listen to other like-minded podcasts with faithful stories, thoughtfully told at https://proclaim.fm Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Andy and Jamie Stewart, were expecting their first child when they received the crushing news that their baby was not going to survive Jamie's pregnancy, let alone a delivery. How could they trust a God who would let this happen? ++++++++++++ Compelled is a seasonal podcast using gripping, immersive storytelling to celebrate the powerful ways God is transforming Christians around the world. These Christian testimonies are raw, true, and powerful. Be encouraged and let your faith be strengthened! Want to help make new episodes? Either make a one-time gift, or become a Monthly Partner at: https://compelledpodcast.com/donate Perks of being a Monthly Partner include: EARLY ACCESS to each new Compelled episode 1 week early! FULL LIBRARY of our unedited, behind-the-scenes interviews with each guest... over 100+ hours of additional stories and takeaways! Become a Monthly Partner by selecting the "Monthly" option during check-out.  Show notes, emails, and more at: https://compelledpodcast.com Buy the Compelled book of testimonies, endorsed by Lee Strobel, Marvin Olasky, and more: ⁠https://compelledpodcast.com/book Compelled is a member of the Proclaim Podcast Network: https://proclaim.fm Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When Brandon was just a punk rock kid from the Pacific Northwest he had an encounter with God that opened up his eyes to his need for a Savior. But then 18 years later, Brandon was confronted with the greatest trial of his life where Christ showed Himself once again, in an entirely new way. Show notes @ https://compelledpodcast.com/episodes/brandon-hendriks ++++++++++++ Compelled is a seasonal podcast using gripping, immersive storytelling to celebrate the powerful ways God is transforming Christians around the world. These Christian testimonies are raw, true, and powerful. Be encouraged and let your faith be strengthened! Want to help make new episodes? Either make a one-time gift, or become a Monthly Partner at: https://compelledpodcast.com/donate Perks of being a Monthly Partner include: EARLY ACCESS to each new Compelled episode 1 week early! FULL LIBRARY of our unedited, behind-the-scenes interviews with each guest... over 100+ hours of additional stories and takeaways! Become a Monthly Partner by selecting the "Monthly" option during check-out.  Show notes, emails, and more at: https://compelledpodcast.com Read the Compelled book of testimonies, endorsed by Lee Strobel, Marvin Olasky, and more: ⁠https://compelledpodcast.com/book Compelled is a member of the Proclaim Podcast Network. Listen to other like-minded podcasts with faithful stories, thoughtfully told at https://proclaim.fm Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Stu Fuhlendorf was a staunch atheist with a tremendous success record in the marketplace... but he was also an alcoholic. During a booze-filled trip around the world, he couldn't shake the idea... what if God actually was real? Show notes @ https://compelledpodcast.com/episodes/stu-fuhlendorf ++++++++++++ Compelled is a seasonal podcast using gripping, immersive storytelling to celebrate the powerful ways God is transforming Christians around the world. These Christian testimonies are raw, true, and powerful. Be encouraged and let your faith be strengthened! Want to help make new episodes? Either make a one-time gift, or become a Monthly Partner at: https://compelledpodcast.com/donate Perks of being a Monthly Partner include: EARLY ACCESS to each new Compelled episode 1 week early! FULL LIBRARY of our unedited, behind-the-scenes interviews with each guest... over 100+ hours of additional stories and takeaways! Become a Monthly Partner by selecting the "Monthly" option during check-out.  Show notes, emails, and more at: https://compelledpodcast.com Read the Compelled book of testimonies, endorsed by Lee Strobel, Marvin Olasky, and more: ⁠https://compelledpodcast.com/book Compelled is a member of the Proclaim Podcast Network. Listen to other like-minded podcasts with faithful stories, thoughtfully told at https://proclaim.fm/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ali had been a practicing Muslim in Iran for his entire life. But after the Iranian government violently cracked down on Ali and his friends, he became disillusioned with Islam and moved to America. Ali was exposed to the God of the Bible who appeared to be radically different than any other god Ali had heard of before. Show notes @ https://compelledpodcast.com/episodes/ali ++++++++++++ Compelled is a seasonal podcast using gripping, immersive storytelling to celebrate the powerful ways God is transforming Christians around the world. These Christian testimonies are raw, true, and powerful. Be encouraged and let your faith be strengthened! Want to help make new episodes? Either make a one-time gift, or become a Monthly Partner at: https://compelledpodcast.com/donate Perks of being a Monthly Partner include: EARLY ACCESS to each new Compelled episode 1 week early! FULL LIBRARY of our unedited, behind-the-scenes interviews with each guest... over 100+ hours of additional stories and takeaways! Become a Monthly Partner by selecting the "Monthly" option during check-out.  Show notes, emails, and more at: https://compelledpodcast.com Read the Compelled book of testimonies, endorsed by Lee Strobel, Marvin Olasky, and more: ⁠https://compelledpodcast.com/book Compelled is a member of the Proclaim Podcast Network. Listen to other like-minded podcasts with faithful stories, thoughtfully told at https://proclaim.fm Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Christi Hottman Lawson was a faithful wife and mother serving the Lord where He had placed her. Then one night, her peaceful life was brought to a screeching halt and she was forced to consider... how would a just God ask her to respond to the drunk driver who had brought her so much pain? Show notes @ https://compelledpodcast.com/episodes/christi-lawson ++++++++++++ Compelled is a seasonal podcast using gripping, immersive storytelling to celebrate the powerful ways God is transforming Christians around the world. These Christian testimonies are raw, true, and powerful. Be encouraged and let your faith be strengthened! Want to help make new episodes? Either make a one-time gift, or become a Monthly Partner at: https://compelledpodcast.com/donate Perks of being a Monthly Partner include: EARLY ACCESS to each new Compelled episode 1 week early! FULL LIBRARY of our unedited, behind-the-scenes interviews with each guest... over 100+ hours of additional stories and takeaways! Become a Monthly Partner by selecting the "Monthly" option during check-out.  Show notes, emails, and more at: https://compelledpodcast.com Read the Compelled book of testimonies, endorsed by Lee Strobel, Marvin Olasky, and more: ⁠https://compelledpodcast.com/book Compelled is a member of the Proclaim Podcast Network. Listen to other like-minded podcasts with faithful stories, thoughtfully told at https://proclaim.fm Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As a young child, Jaime Kent saw his entire world fall apart in just a matter of minutes. Yet as his earthly family imploded, little did he know a Heavenly Father was watching from above. Show notes: https://compelledpodcast.com/episodes/jaime-kent ++++++++++++ Compelled is a seasonal podcast using gripping, immersive storytelling to celebrate the powerful ways God is transforming Christians around the world. These Christian testimonies are raw, true, and powerful. Be encouraged and let your faith be strengthened! Want to help make new episodes? Either make a one-time gift, or become a Monthly Partner at: https://compelledpodcast.com/donate Perks of being a Monthly Partner include: EARLY ACCESS to each new Compelled episode 1 week early! FULL LIBRARY of our unedited, behind-the-scenes interviews with each guest... over 100+ hours of additional stories and takeaways! Become a Monthly Partner by selecting the "Monthly" option during check-out.  Show notes, emails, and more at: https://compelledpodcast.com Buy the Compelled book of testimonies, endorsed by Lee Strobel, Marvin Olasky, and more: ⁠https://compelledpodcast.com/book Compelled is a member of the Proclaim Podcast Network: https://proclaim.fm Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Evelyn's husband, Rick, was the Commander of the Space Shuttle Columbia in 2003. While Evelyn knew that her husband always faced dangers inherent with being an astronaut, she was eventually confronted with a moment where she would have to trust the Lord no matter what. Show notes: https://compelledpodcast.com/episodes/evelyn-husband-thompson ++++++++++++ Compelled is a seasonal podcast using gripping, immersive storytelling to celebrate the powerful ways God is transforming Christians around the world. These Christian testimonies are raw, true, and powerful. Be encouraged and let your faith be strengthened! Want to help make new episodes? Either make a one-time gift, or become a Monthly Partner at: https://compelledpodcast.com/donate Perks of being a Monthly Partner include: EARLY ACCESS to each new Compelled episode 1 week early! FULL LIBRARY of our unedited, behind-the-scenes interviews with each guest... over 100+ hours of additional stories and takeaways! Become a Monthly Partner by selecting the "Monthly" option during check-out.  Show notes, emails, and more at: https://compelledpodcast.com Buy the Compelled book of testimonies, endorsed by Lee Strobel, Marvin Olasky, and more: ⁠https://compelledpodcast.com/book Compelled is a member of the Proclaim Podcast Network: https://proclaim.fm Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Season 10 launching on Feb. 10th! // Celebrate what God did in 2025! // Hear Compelled's vision for 2026! What God allowed us to do in 2025: Record 20 new testimonies! Release 11 original Compelled stories! Remaster 32 testimonies from our archives! Compelled was downloaded 909,419 times in 2025! Launch Compelled on national radio! (170 stations, 34 states, 500,000 weekly listeners) Launch the Compelled book! (over 20,000 copies sold!) Launch our 501(c)3 nonprofit, ⁠Compelled Ministries⁠! Continue nurturing the ⁠Proclaim Podcast Network⁠ and launch a new member, the ⁠Surround Bible⁠! Our vision for 2026: Relaunch Season 10 on Feb. 10th (10 new episodes) Release Season 11 during mid-August (10 new episodes) Cultivate and nurture the Proclaim Podcast Network Build a podcast studio for Compelled (a 200 sq. ft. converted Home Depot shed) We've raised 97% of our 2026 Fundraising Goal, with $2,170 remaining. If you'd like to donate towards our episodes for 2026 then visit ⁠compelledpodcast.com/donate⁠ 4 ways to be involved: Pray God would give us wisdom and creativity as we select and edit our 20 episodes this year. Join our Compelled Insider email list for the behind-the-scenes news from our team: ⁠CompelledPodcast.com⁠ Join our prayer team. Just email us and we'll add you. Keep telling your friends about Compelled! Show notes @ https://compelledpodcast.com/episodes/bts-state-of-compelled-2026 ++++++++++++ Compelled is a seasonal podcast using gripping, immersive storytelling to celebrate the powerful ways God is transforming Christians around the world. These Christian testimonies are raw, true, and powerful. Be encouraged and let your faith be strengthened! Want to help make new episodes? Either make a one-time gift, or become a Monthly Partner at: https://compelledpodcast.com/donate Perks of being a Monthly Partner include: EARLY ACCESS to each new Compelled episode 1 week early! FULL LIBRARY of our unedited, behind-the-scenes interviews with each guest... over 100+ hours of additional stories and takeaways! Become a Monthly Partner by selecting the "Monthly" option during check-out.  Show notes, emails, and more at: https://compelledpodcast.com Buy the Compelled book of testimonies, endorsed by Lee Strobel, Marvin Olasky, and more: ⁠https://compelledpodcast.com/book Compelled is a member of the Proclaim Podcast Network: https://proclaim.fm Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Deepa Sukumar was a Hindu medical student with a successful career ahead of her, but she was actually struggling with anxiety, self-worth, and a total lack of peace. Then one night, when she was at the end of her rope and ready to end her life, God knocked on the door of her heart. Show notes: https://compelledpodcast.com/episodes/deepa-sukumar ++++++++++++ Compelled is a seasonal podcast using gripping, immersive storytelling to celebrate the powerful ways God is transforming Christians around the world. These Christian testimonies are raw, true, and powerful. Be encouraged and let your faith be strengthened! Want to help make new episodes? Either make a one-time gift, or become a Monthly Partner at: https://compelledpodcast.com/donate Perks of being a Monthly Partner include: EARLY ACCESS to each new Compelled episode 1 week early! FULL LIBRARY of our unedited, behind-the-scenes interviews with each guest... over 100+ hours of additional stories and takeaways! Become a Monthly Partner by selecting the "Monthly" option during check-out.  Show notes, emails, and more at: https://compelledpodcast.com Buy the Compelled book of testimonies, endorsed by Lee Strobel, Marvin Olasky, and more: ⁠https://compelledpodcast.com/book Compelled is a member of the Proclaim Podcast Network: https://proclaim.fm Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Greg Stier grew up in a crime-infested part of Denver surrounded by gangs, violence, and unbridled hatred. Greg was small and mild-mannered and just didn't fit in with his family of thugs and criminals. In the world's eyes it may have seemed Greg's family was hopeless, but Greg would discover there is a power in Heaven that can change and transform… even an entire family. Show notes: https://compelledpodcast.com/episodes/greg-stier ++++++++++++ Compelled is a seasonal podcast using gripping, immersive storytelling to celebrate the powerful ways God is transforming Christians around the world. These Christian testimonies are raw, true, and powerful. Be encouraged and let your faith be strengthened! Want to help make new episodes? Either make a one-time gift, or become a Monthly Partner at: https://compelledpodcast.com/donate Perks of being a Monthly Partner include: EARLY ACCESS to each new Compelled episode 1 week early! FULL LIBRARY of our unedited, behind-the-scenes interviews with each guest... over 100+ hours of additional stories and takeaways! Become a Monthly Partner by selecting the "Monthly" option during check-out.  Show notes, emails, and more at: https://compelledpodcast.com Buy the Compelled book of testimonies, endorsed by Lee Strobel, Marvin Olasky, and more: ⁠https://compelledpodcast.com/book Compelled is a member of the Proclaim Podcast Network: https://proclaim.fm Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

At the age of 19, Ron was sentenced to almost 500 years in prison. Ron lashed out with rage and violence, eventually becoming a prison gang leader, until he was locked up in solitary confinement and told he would stay there until the day he died.  Condemned by society and separated from humanity, Ron knew that he was utterly alone... or was he?  Show notes: https://compelledpodcast.com/episodes/ron-adkins ++++++++++++ Compelled is a seasonal podcast using gripping, immersive storytelling to celebrate the powerful ways God is transforming Christians around the world. These Christian testimonies are raw, true, and powerful. Be encouraged and let your faith be strengthened! Want to help make new episodes? Either make a one-time gift, or become a Monthly Partner at: https://compelledpodcast.com/donate Perks of being a Monthly Partner include: EARLY ACCESS to each new Compelled episode 1 week early! FULL LIBRARY of our unedited, behind-the-scenes interviews with each guest... over 100+ hours of additional stories and takeaways! Become a Monthly Partner by selecting the "Monthly" option during check-out.  Show notes, emails, and more at: https://compelledpodcast.com Buy the Compelled book of testimonies, endorsed by Lee Strobel, Marvin Olasky, and more: ⁠https://compelledpodcast.com/book Compelled is a member of the Proclaim Podcast Network: https://proclaim.fm Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For years, Garrett chased women, drugs, alcohol, and his own pleasures. But after being radically saved he began serving the Lord as the pastor of a growing church.  Yet Garrett carried a dark secret, a remnant of his past that he just couldn't shake. As Garrett would discover, the same Jesus who came to save sinners also came to deliver the saints. Show notes: https://compelledpodcast.com/episodes/garrett-kell ++++++++++++ Compelled is a seasonal podcast using gripping, immersive storytelling to celebrate the powerful ways God is transforming Christians around the world. These Christian testimonies are raw, true, and powerful. Be encouraged and let your faith be strengthened! Want to help make new episodes? Either make a one-time gift, or become a Monthly Partner at: https://compelledpodcast.com/donate Perks of being a Monthly Partner include: EARLY ACCESS to each new Compelled episode 1 week early! FULL LIBRARY of our unedited, behind-the-scenes interviews with each guest... over 100+ hours of additional stories and takeaways! Become a Monthly Partner by selecting the "Monthly" option during check-out.  Show notes, emails, and more at: https://compelledpodcast.com Buy the Compelled book of testimonies, endorsed by Lee Strobel, Marvin Olasky, and more: ⁠https://compelledpodcast.com/book Compelled is a member of the Proclaim Podcast Network: https://proclaim.fm Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After Kathleen's 2-year-old son suddenly fell ill and lay on death's door, she cried out to God asking for healing. But her son's condition was fading fast and Kathleen feared the worst. Only a miracle could save him. Show notes: https://compelledpodcast.com/episodes/kathleen-lansing ++++++++++++ Compelled is a seasonal podcast using gripping, immersive storytelling to celebrate the powerful ways God is transforming Christians around the world. These Christian testimonies are raw, true, and powerful. Be encouraged and let your faith be strengthened! Want to help make new episodes? Either make a one-time gift, or become a Monthly Partner at: https://compelledpodcast.com/donate Perks of being a Monthly Partner include: EARLY ACCESS to each new Compelled episode 1 week early! FULL LIBRARY of our unedited, behind-the-scenes interviews with each guest... over 100+ hours of additional stories and takeaways! Become a Monthly Partner by selecting the "Monthly" option during check-out.  Show notes, emails, and more at: https://compelledpodcast.com Buy the Compelled book of testimonies, endorsed by Lee Strobel, Marvin Olasky, and more: ⁠https://compelledpodcast.com/book Compelled is a member of the Proclaim Podcast Network: https://proclaim.fm Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hormoz Shariat once chanted "Death to America!" in the streets of Tehran, Iran, but after doubts crept into his heart about Islam he was forced to reckon with what he truly believed about God. His conclusions and ensuing actions would eventually lead the Iranian government to branding him as an enemy of the state. Show notes: https://compelledpodcast.com/episodes/hormoz-shariat ++++++++++++ Compelled is a seasonal podcast using gripping, immersive storytelling to celebrate the powerful ways God is transforming Christians around the world. These Christian testimonies are raw, true, and powerful. Be encouraged and let your faith be strengthened! Want to help make new episodes? Either make a one-time gift, or become a Monthly Partner at: https://compelledpodcast.com/donate Perks of being a Monthly Partner include: EARLY ACCESS to each new Compelled episode 1 week early! FULL LIBRARY of our unedited, behind-the-scenes interviews with each guest... over 100+ hours of additional stories and takeaways! Become a Monthly Partner by selecting the "Monthly" option during check-out.  Show notes, emails, and more at: https://compelledpodcast.com Buy the Compelled book of testimonies, endorsed by Lee Strobel, Marvin Olasky, and more: ⁠https://compelledpodcast.com/book Compelled is a member of the Proclaim Podcast Network: https://proclaim.fm Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Fred was once a successful insurance salesman, but became a homeless drug addict, completely in bondage to heroin and other substances. Casey had a promising military career, but had become a hopeless alcoholic, and no matter how many recovery programs she went to, she always landed back at the bottom of a bottle. Both of them were desperately looking for their next fix... but could never find what they wanted... until they fixed their eyes upon Jesus. Show notes: https://compelledpodcast.com/episodes/fred-casey-weymouth ++++++++++++ Compelled is a seasonal podcast using gripping, immersive storytelling to celebrate the powerful ways God is transforming Christians around the world. These Christian testimonies are raw, true, and powerful. Be encouraged and let your faith be strengthened! Want to help make new episodes? Either make a one-time gift, or become a Monthly Partner at: https://compelledpodcast.com/donate Perks of being a Monthly Partner include: EARLY ACCESS to each new Compelled episode 1 week early! FULL LIBRARY of our unedited, behind-the-scenes interviews with each guest... over 100+ hours of additional stories and takeaways! Become a Monthly Partner by selecting the "Monthly" option during check-out.  Show notes, emails, and more at: https://compelledpodcast.com Buy the Compelled book of testimonies, endorsed by Lee Strobel, Marvin Olasky, and more: ⁠https://compelledpodcast.com/book Compelled is a member of the Proclaim Podcast Network: https://proclaim.fm Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In 2005, Jim Payne deployed to the Middle East as part of a Navy SEAL platoon, alongside 15 of his closest friends and brothers-in-arms. During their deployment, his team suffered devastating losses in the mountains of Afghanistan in an incident detailed in the best-selling book and hit movie “Lone Survivor”. As Jim grappled with crippling grief, it was all he could do to cling to the One who offered any glimmer of hope. Show notes: https://compelledpodcast.com/episodes/jim-payne ++++++++++++ Compelled is a seasonal podcast using gripping, immersive storytelling to celebrate the powerful ways God is transforming Christians around the world. These Christian testimonies are raw, true, and powerful. Be encouraged and let your faith be strengthened! Want to help make new episodes? Either make a one-time gift, or become a Monthly Partner at: https://compelledpodcast.com/donate Perks of being a Monthly Partner include: EARLY ACCESS to each new Compelled episode 1 week early! FULL LIBRARY of our unedited, behind-the-scenes interviews with each guest... over 100+ hours of additional stories and takeaways! Become a Monthly Partner by selecting the "Monthly" option during check-out.  Show notes, emails, and more at: https://compelledpodcast.com Buy the Compelled book of testimonies, endorsed by Lee Strobel, Marvin Olasky, and more: ⁠https://compelledpodcast.com/book Compelled is a member of the Proclaim Podcast Network: https://proclaim.fm Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

At age 15, Catherine Zoller was sentenced to 8 years in prison for grand theft auto, larceny, arson, truancy, and more. But when she escaped custody and started hitchhiking across the nation she was picked up by a country pastor who would share a message with her that would transform her life. Show notes: https://compelledpodcast.com/episodes/catherine-zoller ++++++++++++ Compelled is a seasonal podcast using gripping, immersive storytelling to celebrate the powerful ways God is transforming Christians around the world. These Christian testimonies are raw, true, and powerful. Be encouraged and let your faith be strengthened! Want to help make new episodes? Either make a one-time gift, or become a Monthly Partner at: https://compelledpodcast.com/donate Perks of being a Monthly Partner include: EARLY ACCESS to each new Compelled episode 1 week early! FULL LIBRARY of our unedited, behind-the-scenes interviews with each guest... over 100+ hours of additional stories and takeaways! Become a Monthly Partner by selecting the "Monthly" option during check-out.  Show notes, emails, and more at: https://compelledpodcast.com Buy the Compelled book of testimonies, endorsed by Lee Strobel, Marvin Olasky, and more: ⁠https://compelledpodcast.com/book Compelled is a member of the Proclaim Podcast Network: https://proclaim.fm Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As a young boy, Ken Freeman was beaten, neglected, and molested for years. Anyone ever claiming to love him simply wanted to abuse him. But then one day, Ken was introduced to the love of a Perfect Father, and his life would never be the same.  Show notes: https://compelledpodcast.com/episodes/ken-freeman/ ++++++++++++ Compelled is a seasonal podcast using gripping, immersive storytelling to celebrate the powerful ways God is transforming Christians around the world. These Christian testimonies are raw, true, and powerful. Be encouraged and let your faith be strengthened! Want to help make new episodes? Either make a one-time gift, or become a Monthly Partner at: https://compelledpodcast.com/donate Perks of being a Monthly Partner include: EARLY ACCESS to each new Compelled episode 1 week early! FULL LIBRARY of our unedited, behind-the-scenes interviews with each guest... over 100+ hours of additional stories and takeaways! Become a Monthly Partner by selecting the "Monthly" option during check-out.  Show notes, emails, and more at: https://compelledpodcast.com Buy the Compelled book of testimonies, endorsed by Lee Strobel, Marvin Olasky, and more: ⁠https://compelledpodcast.com/book Compelled is a member of the Proclaim Podcast Network: https://proclaim.fm Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This is Part 2 of Josh and Amy Glasscock's story. We'll hear how Josh's cystic fibrosis has worsened and irreparably damaged his lungs. Soon, they'll be confronted with several life and death decisions. Only God will be able to carry them through the storms ahead. Listen to Part 1 in Episode #38 "Chronically Sick. Abundantly Alive. - Josh & Amy Glasscock, Part 1" Show notes: https://compelledpodcast.com/episodes/josh-amy-glasscock-pt-2 ++++++++++++ Compelled is a seasonal podcast using gripping, immersive storytelling to celebrate the powerful ways God is transforming Christians around the world. These Christian testimonies are raw, true, and powerful. Be encouraged and let your faith be strengthened! Want to help make new episodes? Either make a one-time gift, or become a Monthly Partner at: https://compelledpodcast.com/donate Perks of being a Monthly Partner include: EARLY ACCESS to each new Compelled episode 1 week early! FULL LIBRARY of our unedited, behind-the-scenes interviews with each guest... over 100+ hours of additional stories and takeaways! Become a Monthly Partner by selecting the "Monthly" option during check-out.  Show notes, emails, and more at: https://compelledpodcast.com Buy the Compelled book of testimonies, endorsed by Lee Strobel, Marvin Olasky, and more: ⁠https://compelledpodcast.com/book Compelled is a member of the Proclaim Podcast Network: https://proclaim.fm Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As a child, Josh Glasscock was diagnosed with a rare genetic disease called cystic fibrosis, which has no cure and always causes death in its victims. But instead of shutting down and resigning himself to a defeated existence doomed to die, Josh and his wife Amy believe that God has called them to live a full and abundant life. Show notes: https://compelledpodcast.com/episodes/josh-amy-glasscock-pt-1/ ++++++++++++ Compelled is a seasonal podcast using gripping, immersive storytelling to celebrate the powerful ways God is transforming Christians around the world. These Christian testimonies are raw, true, and powerful. Be encouraged and let your faith be strengthened! Want to help make new episodes? Either make a one-time gift, or become a Monthly Partner at: https://compelledpodcast.com/donate Perks of being a Monthly Partner include: EARLY ACCESS to each new Compelled episode 1 week early! FULL LIBRARY of our unedited, behind-the-scenes interviews with each guest... over 100+ hours of additional stories and takeaways! Become a Monthly Partner by selecting the "Monthly" option during check-out.  Show notes, emails, and more at: https://compelledpodcast.com Buy the Compelled book of testimonies, endorsed by Lee Strobel, Marvin Olasky, and more: ⁠https://compelledpodcast.com/book Compelled is a member of the Proclaim Podcast Network: https://proclaim.fm Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For years, Laura Perry Smalts rejected God and hated her own body. She thought that she would find answers by transgendering herself into a “man”. But after living as what the culture would say was a transgender man for almost 10 years, she realized that the Creator of the universe had a far greater plan for her life. Her mother, Francine, joins us to share her perspective throughout Laura's journey as well. Show notes: https://compelledpodcast.com/episodes/laura-perry ++++++++++++ Compelled is a seasonal podcast using gripping, immersive storytelling to celebrate the powerful ways God is transforming Christians around the world. These Christian testimonies are raw, true, and powerful. Be encouraged and let your faith be strengthened! Want to help make new episodes? Either make a one-time gift, or become a Monthly Partner at: https://compelledpodcast.com/donate Perks of being a Monthly Partner include: EARLY ACCESS to each new Compelled episode 1 week early! FULL LIBRARY of our unedited, behind-the-scenes interviews with each guest... over 100+ hours of additional stories and takeaways! Become a Monthly Partner by selecting the "Monthly" option during check-out.  Show notes, emails, and more at: https://compelledpodcast.com Buy the Compelled book of testimonies, endorsed by Lee Strobel, Marvin Olasky, and more: ⁠https://compelledpodcast.com/book Compelled is a member of the Proclaim Podcast Network: https://proclaim.fm Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Atticus Carr was a young man steeped in New Age philosophy and Hindu mysticism. But then one night, for inexplicable reasons, he began reading the Bible which opened his eyes to the truth. Show notes: https://compelledpodcast.com/episodes/atticus-carr/ ++++++++++++ Compelled is a seasonal podcast using gripping, immersive storytelling to celebrate the powerful ways God is transforming Christians around the world. These Christian testimonies are raw, true, and powerful. Be encouraged and let your faith be strengthened! Want to help make new episodes? Either make a one-time gift, or become a Monthly Partner at: https://compelledpodcast.com/donate Perks of being a Monthly Partner include: EARLY ACCESS to each new Compelled episode 1 week early! FULL LIBRARY of our unedited, behind-the-scenes interviews with each guest... over 100+ hours of additional stories and takeaways! Become a Monthly Partner by selecting the "Monthly" option during check-out.  Show notes, emails, and more at: https://compelledpodcast.com Buy the Compelled book of testimonies, endorsed by Lee Strobel, Marvin Olasky, and more: ⁠https://compelledpodcast.com/book Compelled is a member of the Proclaim Podcast Network: https://proclaim.fm Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Doug Stuart welcomes back James Whitford, founder of Watered Gardens and the True Charity Initiative, for an in-depth discussion on his new book, The Crisis of Dependency: How Our Efforts to Solve Poverty Are Trapping People in It, and What We Can Do to Foster Freedom Instead. James shares the journey from launching a small local ministry in Joplin, Missouri, to spearheading a national movement focused on transforming how we address poverty.Diving into the roots of toxic charity and the pitfalls of well-intended handouts, James explains how our charitable efforts often create cycles of dependency—rather than empowering those in need. He unpacks the principles of true charity: it should be privately funded, outcome-driven, and challenge-oriented, always respecting the dignity and agency of every individual.Doug and James also explore practical steps for compassionate, effective giving, the important role of relationships in overcoming poverty, and how churches and organizations can shift from relief-based to empowerment-based ministry. With references to Frédéric Bastiat, John Stuart Mill, and powerful personal anecdotes, this episode challenges listeners to rethink what it means to truly help—and to foster real freedom in their communities.Crisis of Dependency Book Description:Millions in the U.S. are trapped in cycles of poverty due to well-meaning but misguided charitable models. In The Crisis of Dependency, James Whitford, Founder of Watered Gardens Ministries, shares how our compassion often perpetuates the very problems we aim to solve. Through personal stories, firsthand experience, and research, he reveals that handouts offer temporary relief but deepen dependency.James has worked for decades with those struggling with homelessness and poverty and after a brief stint of living on the streets, he recognized that what most people in poverty need isn't material aid alone, but a path to self-sufficiency. Inspired by thought leaders like Marvin Olasky and Robert D. Lupton, and drawing from his own ministry, Whitford reimagined charity as one that restores dignity through relationship and accountability. His work has transformed lives by helping individuals build the skills and mindset needed for long-term success.This book offers a blueprint for those who want to move beyond transactional charity. James invites readers to embrace approaches that challenge the status quo and cultivate meaningful, sustainable change in communities.Audio Production by Podsworth Media - https://podsworth.com Use code LCI50 for 50% off your first order at Podsworth.com to clean up your voice recordings and also support LCI!Full Podsworth Ad Read BEFORE & AFTER processing:https://youtu.be/vbsOEODpQGs  ★ Support this podcast ★

Yusuf Agoro grew up as a Muslim. But when he was a teenager, he placed his faith in Jesus. His devout Muslim parents, relatives, and mosque ordered him to recant. Could his brand-new faith stand firm? Show notes: https://compelledpodcast.com/episodes/yusuf-agoro/ ++++++++++++ Compelled is a seasonal podcast using gripping, immersive storytelling to celebrate the powerful ways God is transforming Christians around the world. These Christian testimonies are raw, true, and powerful. Be encouraged and let your faith be strengthened! Want to help make new episodes? Either make a one-time gift, or become a Monthly Partner at: https://compelledpodcast.com/donate Perks of being a Monthly Partner include: EARLY ACCESS to each new Compelled episode 1 week early! FULL LIBRARY of our unedited, behind-the-scenes interviews with each guest... over 100+ hours of additional stories and takeaways! Become a Monthly Partner by selecting the "Monthly" option during check-out.  Show notes, emails, and more at: https://compelledpodcast.com Buy the Compelled book of testimonies, endorsed by Lee Strobel, Marvin Olasky, and more: ⁠https://compelledpodcast.com/book Compelled is a member of the Proclaim Podcast Network: https://proclaim.fm Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Doug and Selah Helms saw their world turned upside down when a terrible car accident left their 17-year-old son, Peter, with a traumatic brain injury. They would face the greatest trial of their life and their faith in the Lord would be tested to the limit. Show notes: https://compelledpodcast.com/episodes/doug-selah-helms/ ++++++++++++ Compelled is a seasonal podcast using gripping, immersive storytelling to celebrate the powerful ways God is transforming Christians around the world. These Christian testimonies are raw, true, and powerful. Be encouraged and let your faith be strengthened! Want to help make new episodes? Either make a one-time gift, or become a Monthly Partner at: https://compelledpodcast.com/donate Perks of being a Monthly Partner include: EARLY ACCESS to each new Compelled episode 1 week early! FULL LIBRARY of our unedited, behind-the-scenes interviews with each guest... over 100+ hours of additional stories and takeaways! Become a Monthly Partner by selecting the "Monthly" option during check-out.  Show notes, emails, and more at: https://compelledpodcast.com Buy the Compelled book of testimonies, endorsed by Lee Strobel, Marvin Olasky, and more: ⁠https://compelledpodcast.com/book Compelled is a member of the Proclaim Podcast Network: https://proclaim.fm Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Julian Weber was a family man with everything the American Dream could offer - a loving wife, 4 children, a beautiful home, a great job, and even leadership in his church. But when his identity was stripped away, his idyllic life soon followed. He became addicted to painkillers, alcohol, and pornography - and everything he held precious was destroyed. Only a Savior could bring him peace. Show notes: https://compelledpodcast.com/episodes/julian-weber ++++++++++++ Compelled is a seasonal podcast using gripping, immersive storytelling to celebrate the powerful ways God is transforming Christians around the world. These Christian testimonies are raw, true, and powerful. Be encouraged and let your faith be strengthened! Want to help make new episodes? Either make a one-time gift, or become a Monthly Partner at: https://compelledpodcast.com/donate Perks of being a Monthly Partner include: EARLY ACCESS to each new Compelled episode 1 week early! FULL LIBRARY of our unedited, behind-the-scenes interviews with each guest... over 100+ hours of additional stories and takeaways! Become a Monthly Partner by selecting the "Monthly" option during check-out.  Show notes, emails, and more at: https://compelledpodcast.com Buy the Compelled book of testimonies, endorsed by Lee Strobel, Marvin Olasky, and more: ⁠https://compelledpodcast.com/book Compelled is a member of the Proclaim Podcast Network: https://proclaim.fm Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jason and David Benham (a.k.a The Benham Brothers) share the remarkable story of growing up as identical twins, becoming professional baseball players, and working today as successful real estate entrepreneurs. But everything took a twist when they were told their national reality TV show would be canceled unless they renounced their beliefs in the Bible. Show notes: https://compelledpodcast.com/episodes/benham-brothers/ ++++++++++++ Compelled is a seasonal podcast using gripping, immersive storytelling to celebrate the powerful ways God is transforming Christians around the world. These Christian testimonies are raw, true, and powerful. Be encouraged and let your faith be strengthened! Want to help make new episodes? Either make a one-time gift, or become a Monthly Partner at: https://compelledpodcast.com/donate Perks of being a Monthly Partner include: EARLY ACCESS to each new Compelled episode 1 week early! FULL LIBRARY of our unedited, behind-the-scenes interviews with each guest... over 100+ hours of additional stories and takeaways! Become a Monthly Partner by selecting the "Monthly" option during check-out.  Show notes, emails, and more at: https://compelledpodcast.com Buy the Compelled book of testimonies, endorsed by Lee Strobel, Marvin Olasky, and more: ⁠https://compelledpodcast.com/book Compelled is a member of the Proclaim Podcast Network: https://proclaim.fm Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Texas State Senator Brian Birdwell was at the Pentagon on September 11, 2001 when American Airlines flight 77 crashed just yards away from him, instantly engulfing his body in flames. Brian was faced with certain death but also with complete peace in knowing that his faith was already placed in a Savior. His story is raw, true, and filled with miracles. ++++++++++++ Compelled is a seasonal podcast using gripping, immersive storytelling to celebrate the powerful ways God is transforming Christians around the world. These Christian testimonies are raw, true, and powerful. Be encouraged and let your faith be strengthened! Want to help make new episodes? Either make a one-time gift, or become a Monthly Partner at: https://compelledpodcast.com/donate Perks of being a Monthly Partner include: EARLY ACCESS to each new Compelled episode 1 week early! FULL LIBRARY of our unedited, behind-the-scenes interviews with each guest... over 100+ hours of additional stories and takeaways! Become a Monthly Partner by selecting the "Monthly" option during check-out.  Show notes, emails, and more at: https://compelledpodcast.com Buy the Compelled book of testimonies, endorsed by Lee Strobel, Marvin Olasky, and more: ⁠https://compelledpodcast.com/book Compelled is a member of the Proclaim Podcast Network: https://proclaim.fm Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Virginia Prodan was an attorney in Communist Romania defending Christians in court during the 1980s. Her success angered the Romanian government, and they marked her for assassination. Virginia was alone and unprotected… until God intervened… Show notes at: https://compelledpodcast.com/episodes/virginia-prodan ++++++++++++ Compelled is a seasonal podcast using gripping, immersive storytelling to celebrate the powerful ways God is transforming Christians around the world. These Christian testimonies are raw, true, and powerful. Be encouraged and let your faith be strengthened! Want to help make new episodes? Either make a one-time gift, or become a Monthly Partner at: https://compelledpodcast.com/donate Perks of being a Monthly Partner include: EARLY ACCESS to each new Compelled episode 1 week early! FULL LIBRARY of our unedited, behind-the-scenes interviews with each guest... over 100+ hours of additional stories and takeaways! Become a Monthly Partner by selecting the "Monthly" option during check-out.  Show notes, emails, and more at: https://compelledpodcast.com Buy the Compelled book of testimonies, endorsed by Lee Strobel, Marvin Olasky, and more: ⁠https://compelledpodcast.com/book Compelled is a member of the Proclaim Podcast Network: https://proclaim.fm Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Exactly 20 years ago this week, Hurricane Katrina slammed into New Orleans with a fury the city had never seen before. Fannie was there in the middle of the storm, where she experienced both fear for her life... and... the profound peace of God. Show notes @ https://compelledpodcast.com/episodes/fannie-scott ++++++++++++ Compelled is a seasonal podcast using gripping, immersive storytelling to celebrate the powerful ways God is transforming Christians around the world. These Christian testimonies are raw, true, and powerful. Be encouraged and let your faith be strengthened! Want to help make new episodes? Either make a one-time gift, or become a Monthly Partner at: https://compelledpodcast.com/donate Perks of being a Monthly Partner include: EARLY ACCESS to each new Compelled episode 1 week early! FULL LIBRARY of our unedited, behind-the-scenes interviews with each guest... over 100+ hours of additional stories and takeaways! Become a Monthly Partner by selecting the "Monthly" option during check-out.  Show notes, emails, and more at: https://compelledpodcast.com Buy the Compelled book of testimonies, endorsed by Lee Strobel, Marvin Olasky, and more: ⁠https://compelledpodcast.com/book Compelled is a member of the Proclaim Podcast Network: https://proclaim.fm Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Gracia Burnham was serving as a missionary in the Philippines when she and her husband, Martin, were kidnapped by Muslim terrorists. They spent over a year in the jungle as hostages enduring hardships of all kinds, including constant shortage of drinking water, near starvation, and 17 gun battles. Even more difficult than the physical challenges were the questions Gracia wrestled with. How could God still love her? How could she forgive those who had so horribly mistreated her?   God worked in miraculous ways through Gracia's time in captivity to change her heart, all for His glory. ++++++++++++ Compelled is a seasonal podcast using gripping, immersive storytelling to celebrate the powerful ways God is transforming Christians around the world. These Christian testimonies are raw, true, and powerful. Be encouraged and let your faith be strengthened! Want to help make new episodes? Either make a one-time gift, or become a Monthly Partner at: https://compelledpodcast.com/donate Perks of being a Monthly Partner include: EARLY ACCESS to each new Compelled episode 1 week early! FULL LIBRARY of our unedited, behind-the-scenes interviews with each guest... over 100+ hours of additional stories and takeaways! Become a Monthly Partner by selecting the "Monthly" option during check-out.  Show notes, emails, and more at: https://compelledpodcast.com Buy the Compelled book of testimonies, endorsed by Lee Strobel, Marvin Olasky, and more: https://compelledpodcast.com/book Compelled is a member of the Proclaim Podcast Network: https://proclaim.fm Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shortly after Jonathan Pacheco was married, he unexpectedly found himself in the middle of the biggest trial of his life: leukemia. Given only months to live, he discovered rest and peace in the Lord and surrendered himself to God's will... when God worked yet another miracle. ++++++++++++ Compelled is a seasonal podcast using gripping, immersive storytelling to celebrate the powerful ways God is transforming Christians around the world. These Christian testimonies are raw, true, and powerful. Be encouraged and let your faith be strengthened! Want to help make new episodes? Either make a one-time gift, or become a Monthly Partner at: https://compelledpodcast.com/donate Perks of being a Monthly Partner include: EARLY ACCESS to each new Compelled episode 1 week early! FULL LIBRARY of our unedited, behind-the-scenes interviews with each guest... over 100+ hours of additional stories and takeaways! Become a Monthly Partner by selecting the "Monthly" option during check-out.  Show notes, emails, and more at: https://compelledpodcast.com Buy the Compelled book of testimonies, endorsed by Lee Strobel, Marvin Olasky, and more: https://compelledpodcast.com/book Compelled is a member of the Proclaim Podcast Network: https://proclaim.fm Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jonathan Pacheco was severely disabled at birth when his spinal cord was nearly severed, and he has lived his entire life in a motorized wheelchair.  Jonathan shares what his journey of faith has looked like as he has come to grips with God's sovereignty in all things, including his disability and more. Show notes @ https://compelledpodcast.com/episodes/jonathan-pacheco-pt-1 ++++++++++++ Compelled is a seasonal podcast using gripping, immersive storytelling to celebrate the powerful ways God is transforming Christians around the world. These Christian testimonies are raw, true, and powerful. Be encouraged and let your faith be strengthened! Want to help make new episodes? Either make a one-time gift, or become a Monthly Partner at: https://compelledpodcast.com/donate Perks of being a Monthly Partner include: EARLY ACCESS to each new Compelled episode 1 week early! FULL LIBRARY of our unedited, behind-the-scenes interviews with each guest... over 100+ hours of additional stories and takeaways! Become a Monthly Partner by selecting the "Monthly" option during check-out.  Show notes, emails, and more at: https://compelledpodcast.com Buy the Compelled book of testimonies, endorsed by Lee Strobel, Marvin Olasky, and more: https://compelledpodcast.com/book Compelled is a member of the Proclaim Podcast Network: https://proclaim.fm Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jonathan Carswell grew up in a Christian home and could explain the Gospel forwards and backwards... but it held no actual power in his personal life. Then one day, the scales fell off his eyes, and Jonathan saw Jesus for who He truly was... which put into motion a revolution in the world of Christian publishing. Show notes @ https://compelledpodcast.com/episodes/jonathan-carswell Also, in this episode… the Compelled Book has finally arrived! It's a powerful collection of 7 Christian testimonies, endorsed by Lee Strobel, Marvin Olasky, Ginger Hubbard, and others! From doubt to transformation, crisis to truth, Compelled tells real-life stories of sin, surrender, and the Savior who changes everything. LIMITED TIME: Buy 1, Get 1 FREE! Through the end of July, get a copy of Compelled for yourself and for a friend! Just add 2 copies to your cart, then use the promo code “COMPELLED” at checkout to get your 2nd copy for FREE! Buy here: https://us.10ofthose.com/product/9781837280544/compelled-paperback BUY IN BULK FOR RIDICULOUSLY LOW PRICE When you purchase 100 or more copies, you only pay $2.49/book! And shipping is only $1 for the entire order! Again, buy here: https://us.10ofthose.com/product/9781837280544/compelled-paperback ++++++++++++ Compelled is a seasonal podcast using gripping, immersive storytelling to celebrate the powerful ways God is transforming Christians around the world. These Christian testimonies are raw, true, and powerful. Be encouraged and let your faith be strengthened! Want to help make new episodes? Either make a one-time gift, or become a Monthly Partner at: https://compelledpodcast.com/donate Perks of being a Monthly Partner include: EARLY ACCESS to each new Compelled episode 1 week early! FULL LIBRARY of our unedited, behind-the-scenes interviews with each guest... over 100+ hours of additional stories and takeaways! Become a Monthly Partner by selecting the "Monthly" option during checkout.  Show notes, emails, and more at: https://compelledpodcast.com Compelled is a member of the Proclaim Podcast Network: https://proclaim.fm Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The mission of MinistryWatch is to help Christian donors become more faithful stewards of the resources God has entrusted to them. With a mission like that, it's easy to see why Dana and Bill Wichterman's new book got my attention. The book is Stewards Not Owners: The Joy of Aligning Your Money With Your Faith. Over the years, I've read a lot of books about this topic, from Randy Alcorn's Money, Possessions and Eternity to Jay Richards' Money, Greed, and God. Other books I often recommend on the topic of stewardship include When Helping Hurts by Brian Fikkert and Steve Corbett, and Marvin Olasky's The Tragedy of American Compassion. These books are classics of the genre. But I honestly think that Dana and Bill's new book is the book I would recommend  to someone who wants to read just one book on the topic. Their new book is relatively short and highly readable, but it doesn't “dumb down” the deep biblical principles involved. Also, it includes lots of stories of men and women who have lived out the principles they espouse. Those stories make the book come alive, and make the abstract principles seem credible and achievable. Bill Wichterman has spent his career in law and politics, including as Special Assistant to the President in the White House. Bill is the author of the book Dying to Live: Finding Joy In Giving Yourself to God, and the influential essay “The Culture: Upstream from Politics.” He is co-founder of Wedgwood Circle and board president of Faith and Law. Bill holds an M.A. in Political Theory from The Catholic University of America. Dana works for Impact Foundation (Impactfoundation.org), a donor-advised fund specializing in helping Christians align their charitable capital with their unique calling to partner with Kingdom-oriented for-profit companies. Their new book is Stewards Not Owners: The Joy of Aligning Your Money With Your Faith. And, as I promised earlier, we have a way for you to get your own copy of this book. Bill and Dana have donated nearly 200 books to MinistryWatch, and we are going to make them available to you for a gift of any size during the month of July. So, if you would like your own copy of this book, just go to MinistryWatch.com and hit the donate button at the top of the page. We'll get your book in the mail immediately. The producer for today's program is Jeff McIntosh. I'm your host Warren Smith. Until next time, may God bless you.

In this episode, Dan Hugger speaks with Marvin Olasky, executive editor for News and Global at Christianity Today and the founder and chairman of Zenger House. They discuss many of the news stories that won the 2025 Zenger Prizes. What is the state of journalism today? How does honoring excellence in journalism encourage better journalism? […]

The Bulletin welcomes award-winning investigative reporter Caitlin Dickerson for a conversation with Marvin Olasky about her experience in Columbia's Darién Gap. Find us on YouTube. In this special episode of The Bulletin, Executive Editor Marvin Olasky leads a conversation with Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Caitlin Dickerson. Dickerson spent weeks on the ground in the Darién Gap, a dangerous jungle passageway from Columbia to Panama that immigrants from all across the world take by foot as they make their way to the United States.  GO DEEPER WITH THE BULLETIN: Read her article in The Atlantic, “70 Miles in Hell” Join the conversation at our Substack. Find us on YouTube. Rate and review the show in your podcast app of choice. ABOUT THE GUEST:  Caitlin Dickerson is an award-winning investigative reporter and feature writer for The Atlantic. She won the 2023 Pulitzer Prize for explanatory reporting. Over the course of more than a decade in journalism, Dickerson has also been awarded a Peabody, Edward R Murrow, Livingston, and Silvers-Dudley Prize for her writing and reporting. Before joining The Atlantic, she spent nearly five years as a reporter at The New York Times and five years as a producer and investigative reporter for NPR. Dickerson has reported on immigration, history, politics, and race in four continents and dozens of American cities. She is currently writing a book for Random House about the systemic impact of deportation on American society.  ABOUT THE BULLETIN: The Bulletin is a weekly (and sometimes more!) current events show from Christianity Today hosted and moderated by Clarissa Moll, with senior commentary from Russell Moore (Christianity Today's editor in chief) and Mike Cosper (director, CT Media). Each week, the show explores current events and breaking news and shares a Christian perspective on issues that are shaping our world. We also offer special one-on-one conversations with writers, artists, and thought leaders whose impact on the world brings important significance to a Christian worldview, like Bono, Sharon McMahon, Harrison Scott Key, Frank Bruni, and more. The Bulletin listeners get 25% off CT. Go to https://orderct.com/THEBULLETIN to learn more. “The Bulletin” is a production of Christianity Today Producer: Clarissa Moll Associate Producer: Leslie Thompson Editing and Mix: Kevin Morris Music: Dan Phelps Executive Producers: Erik Petrik and Mike Cosper Senior Producer: Matt Stevens Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices