Podcast appearances and mentions of Mercy Ships

The turkey... the house guests... the pile of dishes...  It's easy to get caught up in the Thanksgiving chaos and forget to pause and reflect on what matters most.  

Years ago, Mercy Ships was serving in Guatemala when we met an energetic 109-year-old lady named Juana.  

Listen live on the FIVEAA Player. Follow us on Facebook, X and Instagram. Subscribe on YouTubeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

One day, a woman stopped by a Mercy Ships booth at a medical conference.

Here at Mercy Ships, it takes an incredible team to bring hope and healing, including our dedicated volunteers and supporters. 

It's Monday, November 17th, A.D. 2025. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 140 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Adam McManus Catholic cathedral bombed in Bangladesh On November 7, a Catholic cathedral and school in Dhaka, Bangladesh, were bombed hours before a worship event that drew bishops from across the country, reports International Christian Concern. A suspect on a motorbike threw two homemade bombs at the church — one exploded near the gate, and another landed near the property, failing to detonate. Thankfully, no one was injured in the attack.  The incident did not deter 500 Catholics from attending the worship event the following morning at St. Mary's Cathedral, nor did it deter students from returning to school at St. Joseph School the following Monday.  Police investigators arrested a suspect and identified him as a member of a banned student political party. They have been initiating violent protests against the government, but more recently, their attacks have shifted toward churchgoers as they prepare for the February 2026 election.  St. Mary's Cathedral plans to take legal action and punish the perpetrator.  One churchgoer said, “Anxiety grips many of us while going to church.” And Bulbul Rebeiro with the Catholic Bishops' Conference of Bangladesh, said, “We are peace-loving people, but these incidents are frightening us.”  Bangladesh ranks 24th on the Open Doors' World Watch List of the countries most dangerous for Christians. Gen Z protests in Mexico City, storming presidential palace AUDIO: Sounds of rioting against police Those are the sounds of rioters who stormed the barricades outside the presidential palace in Mexico City on Saturday as an anti-cartel protest descended into chaos, reports The Daily Mail. Mobs of frustrated, mostly Gen Z Mexican protestors traded blows with cops and screamed slogans about how corruption and cartel killings have spiraled out of control in their country. Thousands of people filled the streets of the nation's capital and marched to the palace, which is the official residence of President Claudia Sheinbaum, the liberal politician who took office last October. The demonstration, largely organized by young activists and supported by older supporters of opposition movements, was the culmination of citizens' frustration with the government's inability to stop violence and provide economic opportunity. Pablo Vazquez, Mexico City's chief of police, said 20 people were arrested and are set to be charged with battery, assault and robbery, reports Bloomberg. Vazquez added that 60 of his police officers were injured, 40 of whom had to be sent to the hospital for treatment.  Trump supports Christian foster parents against pro-LGBT states President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Thursday aimed at “modernizing” the child welfare system in the United States, including a guarantee to side with foster families discriminated against by states for their religious convictions, reports LifeSiteNews.com. For example, Heath and Lydia Marvin, a Christians couple in Massachusetts who have fostered eight children under the age of four since 2020, lost their license to foster children because they refused to sign an agreement to “affirm” the alleged LGBT status of any children placed in their care.  LYDIA MARVIN: “We have been an active foster family in Massachusetts for the past four and a half years, and lost our license earlier this year due to new discriminatory policies against Christian families in Massachusetts. So grateful to be here and have the [Trump] administration's support for foster care, but also specifically for Christian families and faith-based organizations to continue caring for those who are most vulnerable in our communities.” Her husband Heath offered his support for the Trump administration as well. HEATH MARVIN: “It's so neat to hear the President and First Lady talking about both foster care and just the need that exists across the country for that, but also specifically, how Christians are twice as likely to be a part of foster care and to adopt.  They recognize that there are states that are putting policies in place that actually drive Christians out of foster care.” In Leviticus 18:22,  the Bible affirms heterosexuality, saying, "You shall not lie with a male as with a woman; such a thing is an abomination." High school Worldview listener upset no reference to Veterans Day Last Tuesday was Veterans Day. Genevieve, a high school listener to The Worldview, was disappointed that we failed to acknowledge that special day. President Donald Trump issued a proclamation. He noted, “The story of America is written with the courage, honor, and dedicated service of our veterans.  Through their sacrifice, the fires of freedom burn brightly, our Republic secured, and our way of life made possible.  “For nearly 250 years, their unyielding spirit has carried our Nation through every trial and triumph, ensuring that liberty endures for all time.  This Veterans Day, we show our gratitude and recommit to honor their service, uphold their legacy, and give every veteran the loyalty, respect, and support they have earned and so dearly deserve.” Genevieve, we apologize for the oversight. Michelle Obama: America not ready for female president Former First Lady Michelle Obama has shut down the idea she might one day run for president. While speaking to actress Tracee Ross this month at the Brooklyn Academy of Music, Obama insisted the United States is “not ready for a woman” to lead, reports TheWrap.com. Listen. ROSS: “Think that that impacts the room that we've made for a woman to be President.” OBAMA: “Well, as we saw in this past election, sadly, we ain't ready. That's why I'm like, ‘Don't even look at me about running, because you all are lying. You're not ready for a woman. (cheers) You are not. So, don't waste my time. “You know, we got a lot of growing up to do. And there's, sadly, a lot of men who do not feel like they can be led by a woman, and we saw it. What was the question?” (laughter) Perhaps America was not ready for Kamala Harris to be president. Mercy Ships surgeon saves baby's life by removing gigantic tumor And finally, a British surgeon removed a life-threatening tumor from a baby's neck that was as big as her entire face, reports GoodNewsNetwork.org. The lump has been growing since she was just five months old, but when her mother, Aminata, took her to the local hospital in Sierra Leone, West Africa, doctors told her she was too young for surgery. By the time Memunatu was ten months old, her family began to fear the worst until her mother bumped into a volunteer who works for Mercy Ships, a healthcare charity that operates hospitals aboard ships. Providentially, the Global Mercy ship was docked in Freetown, the capital of Sierra Leone. When the staff saw how the tumor would eventually suffocate her, they immediately agreed to perform surgery aboard their ship for free. Earlier this year, she was admitted and prepped for the meticulous four-hour surgery performed by Royal London Hospital's Head and Neck Surgeon, Dr. Leo Cheng. He successfully removed the tumor, effectively saving Memunatu's life. In Acts 20:35, Jesus said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” If you'd like to make a donation to help the ongoing work of Mercy Ships, look for the special link in our transcript today at www.TheWorldview.com. Close And that's The Worldview on this Monday, November 17th, in the year of our Lord 2025. Follow us on X or subscribe for free by Spotify, Amazon Music, or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus. Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

What does it take to turn a life of struggle into one of purpose? In this episode, we have a heart-to-heart with Caroline Gutierrez, a rising nursing student whose journey is a powerful testament to the healing power of faith. From overcoming ADHD and substance abuse to discovering her true calling, Caroline shares how her Catholic faith provided a foundation for sobriety and a path toward serving others. We'll explore her transformative experience volunteering with the Christian non-profit Mercy Ships in Madagascar, and how her time on a hospital ship brought her personal story of resilience full circle. Join us as we hear how Caroline's faith-driven commitment to service is now shaping her into a compassionate healthcare leader, and how her story can inspire us all to find purpose in our own challenges. Topics covered: faith and recovery, Christian testimony, sobriety and faith, Mercy Ships volunteer, nursing student, ADHD and faith, Christian non-profit, service and purpose, global health, faith journey, overcome alcoholism, power of faith, how can God help me, can God help with addiction

Here at Mercy Ships, we're following the 2,000-year-old model of Jesus to bring hope and healing.

In Sierra Leone, Mercy Ships volunteers stopped at the Freetown Hospital.

My guest today Robert Corley Chief Operating Officer of Mercy Ships, offers a refreshing perspective rooted in authenticity and service. His journey from the Navy to leading a global nonprofit is a testament to the power of purpose-driven leadership. At the heart of Robert's leadership is a commitment to serving those who serve others. Robert's personal mission is to serve and influence for the good of God, country, and the world. He believes in utilizing his strengths and talents to uplift those around him, a philosophy that aligns seamlessly with Mercy Ships' mission. Episode Minutes: Minute 3: Career Journey and Leadership Philosophy Minute 9: Empowerment and Autonomy at Mercy Ships Minute 15: Personal Mission and Purpose Minute 21: Lessons in Authentic Leadership To find out more about my work, please visit www.danawilliamsco.com LinkedIn Instagram My Book -The Internal Revolution:Lead Authentically and Build Your Personal Brand from Within Email: hello@danawilliamsco.com The Strengths Journal™ is the only Gallup-certified, purpose-driven daily planner that helps you actively use your strengths to plan your days. Get Your copy here

Walter Pretorius tells us about the amazing work the Mercy Ships does in providing medical care for the most vulnerable people in sub-Saharan Africa as well as training and equipping medical personal from the countries that they work in.

Since 1978, the Mercy Ships organization has served patients in parts of the world where medical resources are difficult to access. In that time, Mercy Ships doctors, nurses and technicians, all volunteers, have performed more than 100,000 surgeries with their fleet of state-of-the-art floating hospitals. In this meaningful episode, host Jon Wood speaks with Katie Vaughn-Bates, Sterile Processing Educator at the University of Rochester and recipient of the HSPA Foundation's Mercy Ships Scholarship. Vaughn-Bates shares her account of living and working as a mission volunteer. She provides insight into the application process and discusses the similarities and differences of sterile processing activities on a vessel. (Spoiler alert: The technical work is much the same; the interactions with surgeons and patients are not.) Listen to hear about life aboard the Africa Mercy and learn how you can help bring hope and healing to those in need. ABOUT OUR GUEST Katie Vaughn-Bates, Sterile Processing Educator, URMC Ortho Surgical Center Katie Vaughn-Bates, CRCST, CHL, CIS, CER, has more than 12 years of experience in sterile processing and currently serves as the SP Educator at the University of Rochester Medical Center's Orthopaedic Surgery Center. She focuses on instrument care, reprocessing and compliance, helping to ensure best practices are followed to support patient safety and positive surgical outcomes. Earn CE Now

When Emmanuel first heard about Mercy Ships, he was interested in the idea of trying something new.

Mercy Ships inviterer til inspirasjonssamling i Ålesund i slutten av november og søker etter meir mannskap. Per Magne Brakstad er nyleg tilbake etter tre månader ombord på Mercy Ships i Sierra Leone. Etter Brakstad vart pensjonist såg han muligheita til å gjere dette, og då han såg på lista over kva mannskap det var behov for, så såg han at det også kunne vere ein stad for han. Sjølv har han praktisk erfaring og utdanna bilmekaniker, så dermed søkte han på ei stilling med desse oppgåvene. Høyr heile intervjuet med Per Magne Brakstad.

Would you join me today in a prayer for patients receiving surgery on Mercy Ships' hospital ships? 

Years ago, when Mercy Ships was just getting started, a natural disaster left a group of refugees struggling to survive.

Our mission at Mercy Ships is bringing hope and healing to people in need.

Listen to this powerful story from a Mercy Ships volunteer surgeon: 

In this episode of the High Impact Man Podcast, hosts Nevin Gorky (Defib) and Troy Klinger (Dial Up) welcome Pastor Ken Franklin, also known as Shredder. The conversation explores Shredder's transformative fitness journey, his background, and the significance of community and faith in personal growth. Shredder shares his experiences with F3, his childhood challenges, and his journey into youth ministry and mission work with Mercy Ships. The discussion also touches on the cultural and historical context of England, providing insights into Shredder's life and the impact of faith on his journey. In this engaging conversation, the speakers explore themes of faith, redemption, and the transformative power of community. They share personal stories of divine intervention, the challenges of pastoral leadership, and the importance of courageous love in overcoming life's obstacles. The discussion also highlights the impact of the F3 community on personal growth and the journey of starting a podcast to share these experiences with others.

Back in the 80s, a woman named Barb saw a printed ad for Mercy Ships.

In this episode of the Lolita Loca Cruise Podcast, host Tony interviews Emma Le Teace, a prominent cruise content creator and entrepreneur. They discuss Emma's experiences with solo cruising, the best cruise lines for solo travelers, and the social dynamics of cruising. Emma shares her charitable efforts with Captain Hudson, a plush toy that raises money for Mercy Ships, and reflects on the increasing interest in cruising among younger generations. The conversation also touches on Emma's recent trip to Alaska, her business ventures in the cruise industry, and practical tips for packing and enjoying a cruise.  

In this episode, we sit down with filmmaker Tracy Trost, the director and producer behind “The Mercy Ships” series on Angel Studios.  Tracy shares the powerful story of floating hospitals bringing life-changing surgeries and compassionate care to communities across Africa.  From Sierra Leone to Madagascar, he reveals how ordinary volunteers such as electricians, cooks, baristas, […] L'articolo S2 E4 | The Theology of True Beauty -The Beauty of Divine Mercy: The Mercy Ships' Tracy Trost on Hope and Healing proviene da Radio Maria.

In the developing countries where Mercy Ships serves, medical care is out of reach for millions.

Mercy Ships' mission sounds like it shouldn't work. 

En 1978, la organización misionera Mercy Ships lanzó su primer barco hospital, el MV Anastasis, para llevar atención médica gratuita a comunidades costeras sin acceso a hospitales. Los archivos de Mercy Ships International registran que, en una de sus primeras misiones al Pacífico Sur, atendieron a una mujer que llevaba más de una década sin poder caminar debido a una infección no tratada. Con antibióticos y fisioterapia, la paciente recuperó la movilidad y volvió caminando a su aldea. Lo más impactante fue que pidió una Biblia para aprender más sobre el Dios de quienes la habían ayudado. Un voluntario comentó: “Ella no solo volvió a caminar físicamente; caminó hacia una nueva vida en Cristo”. Así es el Señor: llega al “puerto” de nuestra necesidad con provisión para el cuerpo y para el alma. A veces Su ayuda parece llegar por mar, otras por tierra o aire, pero siempre arriba en el momento justo. Tal vez hoy estás esperando un “barco” que traiga respuesta. Confía, porque Dios sabe dónde encontrarte. La Biblia dice en el Salmo 107:20: “Envió su palabra, y los sanó, y los libró de su ruina” (RV1960).

One day in Liberia, a Mercy Ships eye surgeon named Dr. Strauss visited a local church.

 BOWADX, a company founded in 2013 by Chad Davis, has come a long way from its humble beginnings in a small garage. Today, it has evolved into a global enterprise, catering to archery enthusiasts around the world, with our lifestyle archery gear being shipped to more than 30 countries and all across the United States. At BOWADX, we take pride in our strong grounding in faith, which is reflected in many of our products. Our commitment to making a positive impact extends beyond our business goals. We are dedicated to giving back to the community and helping those in need. A portion of each sale goes towards supporting various charitable organizations, including Operation Smile, Feed The Children, Mercy Ships, St. Jude's, Cure International, Compassion, World Vision, HHA USA, local and non-local food banks, and many more. ​We are passionate archers ourselves, and we design our gear with a focus on meeting the needs of hardcore archery enthusiasts, as well as those who simply enjoy the occasional arrow release. For our returning customers, we want to express our gratitude for your ongoing support and loyalty. To those who are new to our website, we sincerely appreciate the opportunity to serve you. We hope that your first purchase from BOWADX brings you joy and satisfaction, and we look forward to being part of your archery journey. www.bowadx.com  www.taurususa.com www.cva.com www.himtnjerky.com www.murrelloptics.com www.jumpmedic.com www.christianoutdoors.org www.citrusafe.com www.elimishieldhunt.com www.mossyoak.com  

Tertius was living the dream as a wealthy plastic surgeon until God called him to serve the world's poorest on a mobile hospital boat with Mercy Ships. That surrender has taken him on a wild adventure impacting thousands of lives across many nations. Check out www.mercyships.org | www.tertius26.org---

Did you know that Mercy Ships has its own very school on board? 

A friend of Mercy Ships recently inherited a beautiful collection of fine jewelry.

What could be better than two friends volunteering with Mercy Ships?

When 13-year-old Ibrahim arrived at Mercy Ships, the left side of his face was tremendously swollen.

A few weeks ago, Mercy Ships wrapped up our field service in Sierra Leone.

You may have heard Mercy Ships' slogan is “bringing hope and healing” — but what does that actually mean for those we serve?

At a Mercy Ships screening, a woman sat alone at the end of a bench.

Happy 4th of July from Mercy Ships!

You may know that Mercy Ships provides free surgery to those in need.

Guest: Eugene Ampadu | Bob Moffitt speaks with Eugene Ampadu who shares stories of how he has used videography and journeying with people to tell heartfelt stories of the life changing transformations through interaction with the staff on board Mercy Ships, which reaches people in a nation with a mobile world class hospital, people who experience healing for tumors, bowed legs, cleft lip and palette's, removal of benign tumors, and more. August was a young boy who had a lump on his chin which grew into a tumor the size of a baby's head, and yet his healing impacted his life among peers, family and community. MercyShipsVideoSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

One day, a Mercy Ships nurse named Dieke was caring for a woman recovering on the ward. 

Providing free surgery is at the heart of Mercy Ships' mission — but what happens when we come across conditions that surgery can't fix?

From East Texas roots to healthcare systems nationwide, Juan Ramos is proving just how far a career in SPD can take you. In this week's episode of Everything is Cleaner in Texas, hosts Hank Balch and Dusty Glass sit down with Juan to trace his journey from CSR tech to Mercy Ships volunteer to seasoned SPD consultant. With equal parts heart and hustle, Juan breaks down the real story behind consulting: what it is, what it's not, and how it can drive sustainable change in your department. Whether you're exploring the path to consulting or just curious what it's all about, this episode is packed with wisdom, real-world experience, and that signature Texas know-how! A special thanks to our sponsor, STERIS IMS, for making this series possible! Their commitment to education and excellence in the Sterile Processing industry has been instrumental in bringing this series to life. Make sure to follow us on LinkedIn and Facebook so you never miss a new episode! After finishing this interview, earn your 1 CE credit immediately by passing the short quiz linked below each week. Visit our CE Credit Hub at https://www.beyondcleanmedia.com/ce-credit-hub to access this quiz and over 350 other free CE credits.  #BeyondClean #STERISIMS #EverythingIsCleanerInTexas #SterileProcessing

Learn about an organization that brings many cultures and nations together to discover and apply their CliftonStrengths as they pursue a unique mission.View the complete transcript for this webcast, along with audio and video, at https://www.gallup.com/cliftonstrengths/en/691238/called-to-serve-strengths-based-teamwork-aboard-mercy-ships.aspxLearn more or purchase the new CliftonStrengths® for Leaders report: www.gallup.com/cliftonstrengths/en/403427/cliftonstrengths-for-leaders.aspxAre you enjoying this podcast? Make sure you follow us or leave a comment or review, so more people can learn about their natural talents.Other ways to stay connected:Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/cliftonstrengthsFollow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cliftonstrengths/Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/CliftonStrengthFollow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CliftonStrengthsFor more information about strengths, visit gallup.com/cliftonstrengthsSubscribe to our CliftonStrengths Newsletter: https://www.gallup.com/cliftonstrengths/en/348236/cliftonstrengths-newsletter.aspx

Learn about an organization that brings many cultures and nations together to discover and apply their CliftonStrengths as they pursue a unique mission.View the complete transcript for this webcast, along with audio and video, at https://www.gallup.com/cliftonstrengths/en/691238/called-to-serve-strengths-based-teamwork-aboard-mercy-ships.aspxLearn more or purchase the new CliftonStrengths® for Leaders report: www.gallup.com/cliftonstrengths/en/403427/cliftonstrengths-for-leaders.aspxAre you enjoying this podcast? Make sure you follow us or leave a comment or review, so more people can learn about their natural talents.Other ways to stay connected:Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/cliftonstrengthsFollow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cliftonstrengths/Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/CliftonStrengthFollow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CliftonStrengthsFor more information about strengths, visit gallup.com/cliftonstrengthsSubscribe to our CliftonStrengths Newsletter: https://www.gallup.com/cliftonstrengths/en/348236/cliftonstrengths-newsletter.aspx

For the first time in television history, entertainment and ministry come together with the incredible new series THE MERCY SHIPS brought to you by Angel Studios. Did you know over 50% of the world's population lives near a coast, the Mercy Ships are the best way to reach people in need with safe, state-of-the-art medical care. In places without access to medical care, there are children and adults suffering and dying from treatable causes. Without help, 1 in 11 will die before age 5. The Mercy Ships  reach these vulnerable children and families and provide the hope and healing they have been praying for. These incredible hospital ships are filled with state-of-the-art medical equipment and a volunteer crew of doctors, nurses, medical staff, technicians, teachers, physical therapists, and other caring people driven by mercy to help make the world a better, healthier place for all. You can catch the new television streaming series THE MERCY SHIPS on the Angel Studios streaming app beginning on June 18th. The Angel Studios app is available on AppleTV+, Google TV, ROKU or go to http://angel.com to watch. Also go to THEMERCYSHIPS.TV and join the mailing list to keep updated about this uplifting and inspiring new TV series.  For those of you who want to know more about the ministry of THE MERCY SHIPS head over to http://MERCYSHIPS.ORG for more information on how you can help or maybe the Lord is calling you to aboard an adventure of a lifetime to help those less fortunate. #mercyships #anglestudios #tvseries #entertainment #celebrity #ministry #healing #doctors #nurses #ships #hospital #hospitalship #mercy #faith #volunteering

For the first time in television history, entertainment and ministry come together with the incredible new series THE MERCY SHIPS brought to you by Angel Studios. Did you know over 50% of the world's population lives near a coast, the Mercy Ships are the best way to reach people in need with safe, state-of-the-art medical care. In places without access to medical care, there are children and adults suffering and dying from treatable causes. Without help, 1 in 11 will die before age 5. The Mercy Ships  reach these vulnerable children and families and provide the hope and healing they have been praying for. These incredible hospital ships are filled with state-of-the-art medical equipment and a volunteer crew of doctors, nurses, medical staff, technicians, teachers, physical therapists, and other caring people driven by mercy to help make the world a better, healthier place for all. You can catch the new television streaming series THE MERCY SHIPS on the Angel Studios streaming app beginning on June 18th. The Angel Studios app is available on AppleTV+, Google TV, ROKU or go to http://angel.com to watch. Also go to THEMERCYSHIPS.TV and join the mailing list to keep updated about this uplifting and inspiring new TV series.  For those of you who want to know more about the ministry of THE MERCY SHIPS head over to http://MERCYSHIPS.ORG for more information on how you can help or maybe the Lord is calling you to aboard an adventure of a lifetime to help those less fortunate. #mercyships #anglestudios #tvseries #entertainment #celebrity #ministry #healing #doctors #nurses #ships #hospital #hospitalship #mercy #faith #volunteering

God's call on Connie Czepiel's life began as a teenager when the Lord began to break her heart for people suffering in other countries. With a passion for the medical field, Connie joined the Air Force, but God (and the military) had other plans. Connie was educated in finance - something she never anticipated. After a divorce, and as a single mother of three, Connie acquired work as a contracted finance manager, and it took her around the world. She could have chosen to wallow in hurt and bitterness. Instead, Connie decided to put her eyes on Jesus.Today, at 76, Connie is an author in the Blue Ridge mountains of North Carolina. She has plenty of stories to draw from as her humanitarian work has taken her to Madagascar, Vietnam, New Guinea, Nepal, Liberia and many more. She served with the Peace Corps in Botswana, and she's worked for organizations such as MAF, Mercy Ships, and Samaritan's Purse. Needless to say, this is an episode of adventure and encouragement. Connie wants you to know this: it's never to late to pursue your dreams.Listen in and be encouraged.Connie's written four books. We encourage you to check them out on Amazon.Connie is available for interviews, workshops, and speaking engagements. To connect with her: kommertje2012@gmail.com

"So teach us to number our days, that we may get a heart of wisdom." - Psalm 90:12 If you're a few years from retirement and your savings aren't quite where you want them, you might feel like you've run out of time. But maybe you don't need a time machine to solve the problem. Today, Matt Bell joins us with some encouraging words about beefing up retirement savings.Matt Bell is the Managing Editor at Sound Mind Investing, an underwriter of Faith & Finance. The Surprising Power of Working a Little LongerIn 2018, a Stanford study called The Power of Working Longer made a compelling discovery: delaying retirement by just three to six months can have the same impact on retirement readiness as saving an additional 1% of income every year for 30 years.Yes, really.This is largely due to two factors:Higher Social Security Benefits – For every month you delay past full retirement age, your benefit increases by 2/3 of 1% (8% annually). Better Annuity Rates – The older you are when purchasing an annuity, the more monthly income you'll receive for the same investment.But there's a caveat: the study is based on specific assumptions that may not match your financial situation.What the Study Assumes—and Why It MattersThe Stanford study uses a fictional worker named “John” who:Started saving at age 36Saved 6% of income and received a 3% matchRetired at 66 and claimed Social Security immediatelyUsed all savings to buy an inflation-indexed annuityIn reality, your income, savings rate, Social Security timing, and withdrawal strategy may differ widely. Not to mention, indexed annuities like the one in the study are no longer widely available. So while the study provides encouragement, its specifics shouldn't be universally applied.If you can delay claiming Social Security, it can significantly boost your lifelong income. For example, waiting until age 70 instead of 66 could result in a monthly check that's 24% higher. You'd need to live roughly 12 more years to “break even,” but many retirees today are living well into their 80s and beyond.Social Security is essentially a government-backed, inflation-adjusted annuity, making it a powerful foundation for retirement income.More Benefits to Working LongerBeyond Social Security, staying employed offers additional financial and emotional perks:More Contributions – Additional working years allow you to save more and delay withdrawals.Shorter Retirement Span – Fewer retirement years mean your nest egg doesn't have to stretch as far.Health & Community – Work often provides routine, purpose, and social interaction—elements many retirees miss.Working longer isn't just a financial decision—it impacts your time, relationships, and expectations. If you've long looked forward to travel, family time, or volunteering, extending your career might feel like a loss. That's why it's essential to consider both the math and the meaning.Couples should prayerfully approach retirement planning together. Decisions about timing affect both spouses, especially when only one is working. Unequal expectations can lead to tension, so it's essential to:Talk openly about your hopes and concernsUnderstand your financial picture as a teamChoose unity over independence in decision-makingThis is one of the most crucial decisions you'll make as a couple.How Much Do You Really Need?You may have heard that you need 70–80% of your pre-retirement income. That's a good rule of thumb, but it's far better to run the numbers yourself. Some costs (like commuting or saving for retirement) may go down. Others (like healthcare or travel) may go up. The best approach? Create a post-retirement budget based on your unique goals and lifestyle.If you're behind on retirement savings, don't panic—and don't go it alone. Tools on the Social Security website can help you run scenarios based on your age and income. Brokerages like Fidelity or Schwab offer annuity estimators. Most importantly, seek wise counsel and pray through your decisions with your spouse.If you'd like to read the full article from Sound Mind Investing that we discussed during this episode, read Matt's article titled Retirement Preparedness—What a Difference a Little Time Can Make at SoundMindInvesting.com. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I now have the money from my tax return to pay my property taxes, due in two installments—one in May and one six months later. Should I go ahead and pay it all now since I have the funds, or is there a wise short-term investment I could consider in the meantime?Is there a reliable resource or organization that can provide information on charities that are requesting donations, such as groups like America Cares, CARE, or Mercy Ships?What are your thoughts on the cryptocurrency XRP? Is it something worth considering?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi's New Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)Sound Mind InvestingRetirement Preparedness — What a Difference a Little Time Can Make by Matt Bell (Sound Mind Investing Article)Social Security Administration (SSA.gov)ECFA | Charity Navigator | Ministry WatchFidelity | Charles SchwabWisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money (Pre-Order)Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach.

This week, Jesse is joined by two special guests - Jaz and Maisie, both of whom have recently returned from spending time with Mercy Ships. Being a missionary isn't the norm, so being a missionary on a boat is even more unusual...Find out more about Mercy Ships at https://www.mercyships.org.uk/get-involved/volunteer/FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: www.instagram.com/thewayukFOLLOW US ON TIK TOK: www.tiktok.com/@thewayukWant to know more? Find a church that has things happening for young people. Visit https://achurchnearyou.com/youth[In partnership with CofE Digital Projects]╔═╦╗╔╦╗╔═╦═╦╦╦╦╗╔═╗║╚╣║║║╚╣╚╣╔╣╔╣║╚╣═╣╠╗║╚╝║║╠╗║╚╣║║║║║═╣╚═╩══╩═╩═╩═╩╝╚╩═╩═╝

Welcome aboard! This week we talk with Emma and Matt about The Cruise Maps and The Cruse Globe! We also chat about Emma's YouTube channel and some of the amazing fundraising she has done.  Here is a link to her video about Mercy Ships. This is a show not to be missed.  Word of the Day - Maps Cruise News - By Back To The Mouse.com Check out Back To the Mouse .com Find us on Social Media More of Michelle More of Doug The Original Rope Drop Radio   Royal Caribbean Luggage Tag Holders https://amzn.to/3YswFmX   NCL Luggage Tag Holders https://amzn.to/3yeJm9X   Celebrity Luggage Tag Holders https://amzn.to/3Scmq21   Magnetic Hooks https://amzn.to/3SiwTsH   2 Pack Pop Up Laundry Hampers https://amzn.to/3WimSgy

In this episode, Sheri is joined by Emma LeTeace. You may know her as Emma Cruises on YouTube and the web. Emma started her website in 2016 when she was just 22, and since then she's created over 500 YouTube Videos, shared 200+ live streams with her community and, 1000+ website articles- all about cruise travel! Emma shares her most recent projects with the Cruise Globe, Cruise Maps, Captain Hudson, and her work with Mercy Ships! Download our shore day bag checklist and more cruise packing and planning checklists & videos by joining the CruiseTipsTV Academy at https://academy.cruisetipstv.com