Podcasts about Ordinary Heroes

Today, on the 25th anniversary of 9/11, let us be full of love.-- Chief Joseph Pfeifer was the first FDNY chief to arrive at the World Trade Center on 9/11. He watched the first plane hit the North Tower, took command of the initial response, and that morning, he also lost his younger brother, Lieutenant Kevin Pfeifer.

"When you're in need, you realize you need help. And when you're successful, you realize you got help all along." — James FarrinIn a world obsessed with digital efficiency and quick fixes, the real currency of a meaningful life remains independent thought, presence, and intentional effort.In this episode of Gratitude Through Hard Times, host Chris Schembra sits down with James "Jim" Farrin, founder, President, and CEO of the Law Offices of James Scott Farrin. Jim reflects on growing up across 10 countries in 17 years, applying rigorous business principles to plaintiff representation, and taking on one of the largest civil rights litigations in U.S. history. He breaks down why authentic leadership requires intentional culture, why high metrics can distort purpose, and how focusing on service frees leaders from personal despair.10 Memorable Quotes:"When you're in need, you realize you need help. And when you're successful, you realize you got help all along." — James Farrin"In a time of despair, turning attention outwards and focusing on the people you serve sets you free and gets you out of your own head." — James Farrin"Culture is either defined intentionally by leadership or by the strongest personality in the room." — James Farrin"Real currency in a meaningful life remains independent thought, presence, and intentional effort." — Chris Schembra"When a measure becomes a target, it ceases to be a good measure." — Chris Schembra (referencing Goodhart's Law)"No man is an island. We need people, we've always needed people, and we need them more than ever." — James Farrin"Our clients aren't superheroes—they're ordinary people who overcome adversity through faith, perseverance, and getting the right help." — James Farrin"In a world of everlasting change, find the constants and savor the constancy around you." — Chris Schembra"We must step out of the tyranny of the 'or' and into the genius of the 'and'." — Chris Schembra (quoting Jim Collins)"Gratitude doesn't change your circumstances; it changes your capacity to carry them." — Chris Schembra10 Key Takeaways:Navigating Constant Transition: Lessons from living across 10 countries in 17 years on leaning into family constants, building adaptability, and trusting that new chapters always work out.Turning Despair Into Empathy: How refocusing on the suffering of marginalized clients during high-stakes civil rights litigation removed personal worry and provided purpose.Building Culture via "The JSF Way": Translating abstract corporate values into 24 concrete, daily behaviors that are actively practiced, evaluated, and reinforced firm-wide.Establishing a "South Star": Defining explicitly what an organization will not tolerate—such as greed, lack of accountability, self-centeredness, and "being a jerk".Avoiding Goodhart's Law in Business Growth: Recognizing when aggressive numerical growth targets (like 15% annual growth) risk outkicking quality, and shifting focus back to client-centric meaning.The Power of Confident Humility: Drawing inspiration from military leaders and achieving high-level legal success while maintaining unpretentious humility and honoring team contributions.Resisting Digital & AI Isolation: Preserving human-to-human empathy and direct client relationships instead of outsourcing core human care to automated chatbots and scripts.Fire Bullets, Then Cannonballs: Testing small strategic initiatives before making multi-million dollar or firm-wide commitments.Finding Modern Heroism in Ordinary People: Celebrating everyday perseverance, vulnerability, and resilience over performative social media achievements.Sustaining Unsaid Gratitude: Creating regular operational space to acknowledge the mentors, family members, and team members who make collective success possible.About our Guest:James "Jim" Scott Farrin is the founder, President, and CEO of the Law Offices of James Scott Farrin, one of the largest plaintiff's firms in the Carolinas. Since opening his doors in Durham, North Carolina in September 1997, Jim has grown the firm to more than 60 attorneys serving clients across North and South Carolina, recovering over $2 billion in compensation for more than 78,000 injured people. His practice areas include personal injury, workers' compensation, Social Security disability, and civil rights litigation, and he is best known in the legal community for applying rigorous business principles to the practice of law itself, an approach that has been the subject of guest lectures at his alma mater's Master of Judicial Studies Program.Jim's path to the courtroom is not a conventional one. The oldest of five children, he spent his childhood in 10 different countries over 17 years while his father worked internationally for Colgate-Palmolive and other global brands, before returning to the United States for his last two years of high school at Phillips Exeter Academy in New Hampshire. He went on to earn a B.A. in Philosophy from Trinity College in Hartford, where he was elected to Phi Beta Kappa, and a J.D. with honors from Duke University School of Law. He began his career at a corporate firm in California, but found the work lacking in meaning and nearly left the law entirely. In 1995 he returned to Durham, joined a plaintiffs' firm, and remembers to this day the first personal injury client he handed a settlement to. He has not looked back.Jim played a leading role in In re Black Farmers Discrimination Litigation, one of the largest civil rights cases in United States history. He is a member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum, the American Association for Justice's Leaders Forum, the North Carolina Advocates for Justice, the Public Justice Foundation, and the North Carolina Bar Association. He has been recognized on Business North Carolina's Power List for Law, named among North Carolina's Most Influential Leaders, and honored with a 2021 Diversity & Inclusion Award.

Send us Fan MailSend us Fan MailIn this captivating episode of Living the Dream with Curveball, we welcome Steve Vesce, an accomplished author and historian, who takes us on a journey through the life of Harry L. Hopkins, an unsung hero of the 20th century. Steve's award-winning book, *Ordinary Man*, delves into the remarkable story of Hopkins, who evolved from a modest social worker in Iowa to Franklin D. Roosevelt's closest confidant and a key architect of the New Deal and World War II strategy.Steve shares his passion for history and reveals the sparks that ignited his desire to tell Hopkins' story, including the profound challenges and triumphs that shaped this extraordinary figure. As listeners will learn, Hopkins played a crucial role in navigating America through the Great Depression and the tumult of World War II, showcasing incredible emotional intelligence and grit despite facing personal trials.Throughout the episode, Steve discusses the lesser-known aspects of Hopkins' life, including his pivotal interactions with Winston Churchill and Joseph Stalin, and how his vision and leadership helped forge alliances that changed the course of history. He reflects on the significance of duty and moral integrity, emphasizing how these qualities defined the Greatest Generation and continue to resonate today.Join us for an enlightening conversation that not only highlights the impact of one ordinary man but also serves as a reminder of the power of individual action in the face of adversity.What You'll Learn in This Episode:- The life and legacy of Harry L. Hopkins- Insights into the Great Depression and World War II- The importance of emotional intelligence in leadership- How Hopkins influenced key global relationships- The enduring lessons from the Greatest GenerationFor more information on Steve Vesce and his work, visit www.stevevesce.com and explore his award-winning book, *Ordinary Man*, available now.Support the show

Erin Brockovich (2000) (directed by Steven Soderbergh) is based on the true story of Erin Brockovich, a legal assistant without formal training, who uncovers one of the most significant environmental lawsuits in U.S. history: the case against Pacific Gas and Electric for contaminating groundwater in Hinkley, California. The film, which features an Oscar-winning performance by Julia Roberts in the title role, explores the role of lawsuits in exposing truth and gaining compensation for victims, the gendered dynamics of legal advocacy, and the challenges of taking on entrenched power structures in society.Timestamps:0:00     Introduction1:59       Who is Erin Brockovich?3:11       Obstacles to holding corporations accountable5:49      How Erin Brockovich overcomes those obstacles8:10      Imbalance of power and resources14:40    Hinkley, California18:00    Accessing records21:16     Tort reform, punitive damages, and proportionality27:10     States and environmental regulation32:22    Causation and attribution science37:30    Whistleblowers              41:17      Finding the “smoking gun”42:53    The practice of law and parentingFurther reading:Banks, Sedina “The ‘Erin Brockovich Effect': How Media Shapes Toxics Policy,” 26 Environs Env't L. Poly' J. 219 (2003)Brockovich, Erin and Eliot, Marc, Take It from Me: Life's a Struggle but You Can Win (2002)Chen, Sarah Small, “Toxic Film: Analyzing the Impact of Films Depicting Major Contamination Events on the Regulation of Toxic Chemicals,” 35 Georgetown Env't L. Rev. 561 (2023)"'Erin Brockovich' Made their Town Famous: They Still Don't Have Clean Water,” Wash. Post (Dec. 27, 2024)Martens, Daniel L. “Chromium, Cancer, and Causation: Has a Death-Blow Been Dealt Chromium Cases in California?” 16 Natural Resources & Env't 264 (2002)McCann, Michael McCann & Haltom, William, “Ordinary Heroes vs. Failed Lawyers – Public Interest Litigation in Erin Brockovich and Other Contemporary Films,” 33 Law & Soc. Inquiry 1045 (2008)“Still Toxic After All These Years,” Grist (Jan. 29, 2019)Law on Film is created and produced by Jonathan Hafetz. Jonathan is a professor at Seton Hall Law School. He has written many books and articles about the law. He has litigated important cases to protect civil liberties and human rights while working at the ACLU and other organizations. Jonathan is a huge film buff and has been watching, studying, and talking about movies for as long as he can remember. For more information about Jonathan, here's a link to his bio: https://law.shu.edu/profiles/hafetzjo.htmlYou can contact him at jonathanhafetz@gmail.comYou can follow him on X (Twitter) @jonathanhafetz You can follow the podcast on X (Twitter) @LawOnFilmYou can follow the podcast on Instagram @lawonfilmpodcast

Time:MorningMinister:Rev. Dave DeboerTexts:Exodus 1

Acts 11:19-26 Sermon Audio Ordinary Heroes Chris Thomas

Sunday Celebration Service, May 3rd, 2026 Pastor Jeff shares his sermon message titled "Ordinary Heroes for a Heroic Mission."

LET THE SPIRIT CARRY ME (1993) PEARL IN THE SHELL (1984) EVERLASTING LOVE (1989) ORDINARY HEROES (2009) THE ONE TO LOVE YOU (2019) LET THE PEOPLE HAVE THEIR SAY (1998) JUST LOOK AT YOU NOW (2005) LIFT ME UP (1992) HIDE & SEEK (1984) THINGS CAN ONLY GET BETTER (1985) NEW SONG (1983) WHAT IS LOVE ? (1983)

Send a textGet ready to do history! Karen Johnson takes Markus and Antwuan beyond the compilation of names and dates to examine how history is created. In her book Ordinary Heroes of Racial Justice: A History of Christians in Action, Karen presents four case studies that help readers understand race dynamics in the United States. Through the exploration of racial justice in the United States, Karen helps us understand the significance of history, its impact on our current times, and provides inspiration for living out faith and justice. _____________________________Podcast Subscription LinksApple Podcast: coloredcommentary.com/appleSpotify: coloredcommentary.com/spotifyGoogle Podcasts: coloredcommentary.com/googleStitcher: coloredcommentary.com/stitcherIHeart Radio: coloredcommentary.com/iheartradio

Joseph Plumb Martin reveals the brutal reality behind the American Revolution and the true price of liberty. Discover how an ordinary teenage soldier endured starvation, freezing winters, and battlefield chaos to help secure American independence. The American Revolution is often told through the stories of famous founders and celebrated generals, but the survival of the new nation depended on thousands of ordinary soldiers who endured unimaginable hardship. This episode of America's Founding Series explores the life of Joseph Plumb Martin, a teenage Continental Army soldier whose firsthand account exposes the hunger, sacrifice, and perseverance that ultimately secured American liberty. His story serves as a powerful reminder that freedom was not granted by speeches or declarations but earned through years of suffering and unwavering commitment. What You'll Learn How Joseph Plumb Martin enlisted at just sixteen and spent seven grueling years in the Continental Army The harsh realities of Revolutionary War camps including starvation, firecakes, and boiling leather to survive Why the brutal winter at Morristown nearly destroyed Washington's army The chaos and extreme heat of the Battle of Monmouth and the legendary moment that inspired Molly Pitcher Why Martin's memoir stands as one of the most powerful firsthand accounts of the American Revolution This episode reveals the forgotten story of the ordinary soldier whose endurance made American independence possible and challenges listeners to reconsider the true cost of liberty.

“Can you have reconciliation in the present if you are not acknowledging what has happened in the past?” — Dr. Karen J. Johnson Historian and professor Karen J. Johnson joins us on the podcast to discuss how the practice of history draws us forth into courage and action. How can the study of history teach us to grow in our skills of courage and hope? Historian and professor Karen J. Johnson joins us on the podcast to discuss her recent book Ordinary Heroes of Racial Justice: A History of Christians in Action. Karen's calling as a history professor shines through as she teaches us about the tools of doing history and how this work can inform our everyday lives. Karen shares her thoughts on the way history can impact on our experience of faith, which we see firsthand through Karen's own integration of scholarship and faith. Her book highlights four important stories of racial justice work in 20th century America, and Karen draws out some lessons from these stories that we can take along with us. In addition — I'm pleased to tell you that InterVarsity Press is offering a discount on Ordinary Heroes of Racial Justice for listeners of this podcast. Just use the code IVPWSAP25 for 25% off and free shipping when you purchase the book at ivpress.com. You can find a link to the book and the discount code in the show notes. And if you listen to the end of the credits you'll hear an excerpt from our conversation where Karen offers her thoughts on not waiting for the perfect time to have kids. So jump right in! We're so glad you're here. — Ann Boyd For show notes or more information please visit our article at The Well. If you'd like to support the work of InterVarsity's Women Scholars and Professionals, including future podcasts such as this episode, you can do so at givetoiv.org/wsap. Thank you for listening!

In this episode, Krista Bontrager interviews three ordinary moms who stepped up with basic apologetics training to equip families and defend the faith: Jen Beitel started a local family ministry (U.N.I.T.E.D.), Alicia Moss teaches women in her church on cultural issues, and Michelle Lazor curates wholesome, worldview-aligned books through her online book club, Mud Hen Mama. This is an inspiring look at how everyday believers—no PhDs required—are making a real difference for the Kingdom of God.

Is our gospel big enough to handle race? In this episode of the Culture, Faith, and Politics podcast, Pat Kahnke sits down with Dr. Karen Johnson, historian and professor at Wheaton College, to talk about her new book, Ordinary Heroes of Racial Justice. Dr. Johnson's scholarship explores how Christians have both shaped and resisted racial injustice in America. Together, we unpack stories of ordinary believers who stood against systemic racism, examine how evangelicals often struggle to see structures and systems, and wrestle with the question of whether personal salvation alone can carry the weight of Jesus' gospel of the kingdom. Along the way, we explore topics like: Why many white evangelicals reduce racism to individual prejudice while Black evangelicals emphasize systems. How redlining and housing policies continue to shape American life. The fractured history of the “social gospel” vs. “personal salvation” — and why the Bible won't let us separate justice from righteousness. What it means to “do history” with love, humility, and awe. This is a conversation for anyone wondering how faith intersects with race, justice, and American history — and for those tired of being told that seeking justice means you've sacrificed the gospel.

from John 4:1-30, 39-42 Paul Tripp says, “the Bible isn't a book of heroes. No, it's the story of One Hero. Everyone else was flawed and needy, only made usable and strong by the grace and power of God.” For these nine weeks we will be invited into the lives of those, who by grace … Continue reading "(August 10, 2025) “Ordinary Heroes: The Woman at the Well”"

from Acts 4:36-37 Paul Tripp says, “the Bible isn't a book of heroes. No, it's the story of One Hero. Everyone else was flawed and needy, only made usable and strong by the grace and power of God.” For these nine weeks we will be invited into the lives of those, who by grace and … Continue reading "(August 3, 2025) “Ordinary Heroes: Barnabas”"

from Acts 16:11-15 Paul Tripp says, “the Bible isn't a book of heroes. No, it's the story of One Hero. Everyone else was flawed and needy, only made usable and strong by the grace and power of God.” For these nine weeks we will be invited into the lives of those, who by grace and … Continue reading "(July 27, 2025) “Ordinary Heroes: Lydia”"

from John 1:35-42 Paul Tripp says, “the Bible isn't a book of heroes. No, it's the story of One Hero. Everyone else was flawed and needy, only made usable and strong by the grace and power of God.” For these nine weeks we will be invited into the lives of those, who by grace and … Continue reading "(July 20, 2025) “Ordinary Heroes: Andrew”"

from 1 Samuel 20:12-17 Paul Tripp says, “the Bible isn't a book of heroes. No, it's the story of One Hero. Everyone else was flawed and needy, only made usable and strong by the grace and power of God.” For these nine weeks we will be invited into the lives of those, who by grace … Continue reading "(July 13, 2025) “Ordinary Heroes: Jonathan”"

In this episode, Dr. David Jeremiah shares encouragement that God can use you no matter your past. Explore how Hebrews 11 reveals God's power to work through anyone willing to trust Him. Donate here to support outreaches that are sharing the truth about Jesus to Canada! Visit our website to discover new resources that will help you grow closer to Jesus every day. Connect with us on social media: YouTube | Instagram | Facebook | TikTok Follow Dr. David Jeremiah: Facebook | Instagram | Podcast | YouTube

from Esther 4:9-17 Paul Tripp says, “the Bible isn't a book of heroes. No, it's the story of One Hero. Everyone else was flawed and needy, only made usable and strong by the grace and power of God.” For these nine weeks we will be invited into the lives of those, who by grace and … Continue reading "(July 6, 2025) “Ordinary Heroes: Esther”"

from Ruth 1:15-17 Paul Tripp says, “the Bible isn't a book of heroes. No, it's the story of One Hero. Everyone else was flawed and needy, only made usable and strong by the grace and power of God.” For these nine weeks we will be invited into the lives of those, who by grace and … Continue reading "(June 22, 2025) “Ordinary Heroes: Ruth”"

from Judges 6:11-18 Paul Tripp says, “the Bible isn't a book of heroes. No, it's the story of One Hero. Everyone else was flawed and needy, only made usable and strong by the grace and power of God.” For these nine weeks we will be invited into the lives of those, who by grace and … Continue reading "(June 29, 2025) “Ordinary Heroes: Gideon”"

from Matthew 1:18-25 Paul Tripp says, “the Bible isn’t a book of heroes. No, it’s the story of One Hero. Everyone else was flawed and needy, only made usable and strong by the grace and power of God.” For these nine weeks we will be invited into the lives of those, who by grace and … Continue reading "(June 15, 2025) “Ordinary Heroes: Joseph”"

Ordinary Heroes

Every single member of God's kingdom is a prized recruit.

This week we're going back to the Enterprise.ing archives and re-airing episode number 36, “John O'Leary on Celebrating ‘Ordinary Heroes'”. John's incredible story is being made into a movie and in anticipation of its release this fall, we wanted to share this special episode again. “But you don't need to meet your heroes to be moved by them. And our whole work today, if I can try to condense it, is not so much to say, "Hey, people rise, come on, rise people." It's really to say, "Rise in order to elevate others."” The views expressed by Enterprise.ing® presenters or guests are those of the presenter or guest and not, necessarily, of Enterprise Bank & Trust or its affiliates. All content, related materials and third party website links are for informational purposes only and do not constitute an endorsement by Enterprise Bank & Trust. Enterprise Bank & Trust does not make any warranty, express or implied, including warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose, and specifically disclaims any legal liability or responsibility for accuracy, completeness or usefulness of any information presented. Enterprise Bank & Trust is not under any obligation to update or correct any materials or content provided in connection with this podcast. All statements and opinions are subject to change without notice. ©2024 Enterprise Bank & Trust. All Rights Reserved.

In this powerful narrative from the Bible, the story of David, Nabal, and Abigail offers profound insights into finding true satisfaction in our fast-paced and overwhelming lives. David, anointed to be the next king of Israel, was on the run and in dire need of provisions. When he sought help from Nabal, a wealthy but foolish man, he was met with insults and rejection. This pushed David to the brink of taking violent revenge. However, Abigail, Nabal's wise and humble wife, intervened by offering peace and provisions, reminding David of God's protection and his dependence on God. Abigail's actions point us towards Jesus, who offers true peace and satisfaction. This story challenges us to examine what we are feeding our hearts and to seek lasting fulfillment in Jesus rather than temporary fixes. By practicing peace, humility, and dependence on Him, we can transform our hearts and find true satisfaction. Follow and subscribe to stay updated with our latest content: Youtube  | Facebook | Instagram | Central Wired Website

Jake continues our series "Ordinary Heroes" (September 15, 2024). Follow and subscribe to stay updated with our latest content: Central Wired Website | Facebook | Instagram