Podcasts about Regent University

In a world defined by uncertainty-funding cuts, global instability, and constant change-what if doubt isn't something to overcome, but something to lead with?In this episode, I sit down with Marc A. Pitman, founder of Concord Leadership Group and a leading voice in nonprofit leadership, fundraising, and executive coaching.With more than two decades of experience coaching CEOs and training over 25,000 leaders across the globe, Marc brings a deeply practical and refreshingly human approach to leadership. He is also the author of Ask Without Fear! and his latest book, The Surprising Gift of Doubt.At a time when nonprofit leaders are facing unprecedented challenges such as shrinking funding streams, rising demand for services, team burnout, and global instability, Marc offers a powerful reframe: doubt is not a liability. It's a leadership advantage.In this conversation, we explore how leaders can navigate ambiguity without losing clarity, make thoughtful decisions without perfect information, and foster trust even when the future feels uncertain. Marc shares practical frameworks, coaching insights, and real-world examples to help nonprofit professionals turn uncertainty into a source of strength rather than stress.Whether you're leading an organization, managing a team, or responsible for fundraising in a volatile environment, this episode will challenge how you think about confidence, control, and what it truly means to lead.

Israel, the Next Generation, and You Dr. Susan Michael with Former Congresswoman and Dean of Regent University Michele Bachman Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

"There is literally nowhere else on the face of the earth I'd rather you go than to me." ~ Dr. Julia SaduskyWhy do so many well-meaning Catholic parents freeze when it comes to talking to their kids about sex?What do you actually say when your child comes home asking about their classmate's parents?How do you talk to your kids about pornography before they encounter it?In episode 99 of This Whole Life, Pat and Kenna welcome back Dr. Julia Sadusky, licensed clinical psychologist, author, and one of the most trusted Catholic voices in the space of sexual formation. Julia wrote not one but two books to help Catholic parents have these conversations well: one for kids ages zero to nine, and one for teens. This episode is the one your group chat has been needing.Julia doesn't make this scary or clinical. She walks Pat and Kenna through the common obstacles that stop parents cold, and then gives them real tools. Actual scripts. Practical language for everything from explaining genitalia to a toddler, to responding when your child asks why their friend has two dads, to having the pornography conversation before it becomes a crisis.The goal isn't a perfect talk. The goal is a relationship where your child knows you are the first place they go.Dr. Julia Sadusky is a licensed clinical psychologist, author, speaker, and adjunct professor based in Littleton, Colorado. Her clinical work and research focus on sexual and gender development and trauma-informed care. She holds a bachelor's from Ave Maria University and a master's degree and doctorate in clinical psychology from Regent University.Episode 99 Show NotesReflection QuestionsChapters:(00:47) — Introduction and welcome(07:30) — Highs and Hards: life lately(11:10) — Why Julia wrote the books(16:53) — The biggest obstacles parents face(24:09) — Why your child's reaction in the moment doesn't measure your success(31:34) — It's not one talk — it's a thousand small moments(36:20) — What to say when your child asks about two dads(43:30) — Talking to your kids about pornography before they encounter it(47:59) — A vision of hope for parents(50:30) — Challenge by ChoiceLinks and Resources:Start Talking to Your Kids About Sex (Ages 0–9) — Dr. Julia SaduskyStart Talking to Your Kids About Sex (Teens) — Dr. Julia SaduskyDr. Julia Sadusky — WebsiteSupport the showThank you for listening, and a very special thank you to our community of supporters!Visit us online at thiswholelifepodcast.com, and send us an email with your thoughts, questions, or ideas.Follow us on Instagram & FacebookInterested in more faith-filled mental health resources? Check out the Martin Center for IntegrationMusic: "You're Not Alone" by Marie Miller. Used with permission.

Dr. Matt Fretwell is a global leader, trainer, and author with over 20 years of experience empowering organizations, denominations, and individuals through gospel-centered transformation and innovative leadership. He currently serves as the Spiritual Director in Residency at World Relief and is an adjunct professor at several institutions, including Regent University, where he received the Faculty Award of Excellence in Scholarship in 2022. Dr. Fretwell specializes in organizational growth, strategic partnerships, church planting, leadership development, and fostering multicultural engagement. His work spans the non-profit, academic, and business sectors, where he has consistently driven sustainable change, increased impact, and advanced cross-cultural initiatives. As an advocate for integral mission, multiplication, and spiritual formation, Dr. Fretwell has trained leaders across the globe, developed curriculum, and cultivated growth strategies for organizations with thousands of staff and volunteers. He is an author of over 12 publications, including the three volumes of Multiplying Jesus, Church Planting By Making Disciple-Makers, and a 2024 Lausanne IV Congress white paper contributor. Dr. Fretwell's passion lies in equipping others to lead with authenticity, innovation, and a gospel-centered focus, making an impact in their communities and beyond.

Israel and Lebanon wrap summit aimed at neutralizing Hezbollah, while Trump signals Iran talks. Antisemitism surges in Europe, and faith leaders urge Christians to stand for the Gospel at 'Make Heaven Crowded' event at Regent University.

WATCH ANGELS AND DEMONS: www.cbn.com/supernatural On today's Quick Start podcast: NEWS: A DOJ review alleges pro-lifers were unfairly targeted, citing bias in FACE Act enforcement and leading to a major settlement for Mark Houck after his arrest and acquittal FOCUS STORY: The “Make Heaven Crowded” tour stops at Regent University, igniting bold evangelism as students respond to the call to live out their faith publicly MAIN THING: Europe's economic vision is faltering, with rising poverty in Germany and France while Americans gain ground, raising questions about what went wrong LAST THING: Revelation 22:13 — “I am the Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the end.” SHOW LINKS Radical Revelations with Raj Nair https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/radical-revelations/id1888511250 Faith in Culture: https://cbn.com/news/faith-culture Heaven Meets Earth PODCAST: https://cbn.com/lp/heaven-meets-earth NEWSMAKERS POD: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/newsmakers/id1724061454

This week, Aaron, David, and Mike dig into the 2026 Family Structure Index, which reveals our state has dropped from #29 to #30 in the US for family stability. This is an economic and safety crisis for our families that no government program can fix, but the Church is uniquely equipped to address. The guys also shed light on the new parasite that Ohio is inviting into our communities through predatory sports gambling apps. They discuss the recent press conference at the Ohio Statehouse, where CCV stood alongside a coalition of lawmakers, public health experts, and former athletes to announce a major overhaul of Ohio’s sports betting laws: The Save Ohio Sports Act. After the news, David and Mike are joined by Dr. Mark David Hall, Professor in Regent University’s Robertson School of Government. Hall demolishes the secular myths surrounding America’s founding and unmasks the truth: our nation was built on the objective reality of human sin and the necessity of biblical justice. This conversation empowers every believer to reject the godless Utopianism of the Left and stand firmly on our Christian heritage. Tune in now or queue up your commute podcast! More about Mark David Hall Mark David Hall is a Professor in Regent University’s Robertson School of Government and Director of Religious Liberty in the States. He earned a BA in political science from Wheaton College and a PhD in government from the University of Virginia. He has written, edited, or co-edited fifteen books, including Did America Have a Christian Founding? Separating Modern Myth from Historical Truth.

John 20:11-21:25; Matthew 9:27-34Join SU President, Gail Martin and guest Richard Parker, policy executive, as they discuss a new week's readings in the book of John.You can subscribe to the daily Bible reading God, Encounter with God, via print, email or online at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.ScriptureUnion.org⁠⁠  Featured Guest: Richard Parker, policy executiveRichard Parker is a seasoned public relations, advocacy, and policy executive with managerial experience at the global, federal, and state levels and knowledge of the private and non-profit sectors. He has managed both domestic and international public relations, government relations, advocacy, and policy operations in high-profile government and non-profit agencies. Mr. Parker is a Senior Advisor to the U.S. Global Leadership Coalition (USGLC) and a Principal and co-founder of RAMP Solutions, a strategic communications and public and government affairs advisory firm that helps global humanitarian, corporate, and public sector organizations tell their stories with greater impact. Mr. Parker served as the Assistant Administrator for Legislative and Public Affairs at the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) from 2019 to 2021, having been unanimously confirmed for the position by the U.S. Senate to manage the corporate brand and all public and congressional relations for the agency. He was previously the Vice President of External Affairs at Food for the Hungry, a global non-profit humanitarian organization working in 20 countries to end extreme poverty. He was also Vice President of External Affairs at Project Concern International overseeing the organization's global brand, marketing strategies, media relationships, online presence, and advocacy and government relations efforts. Mr. Parker previously served as the Director of Communications at the USGLC working with top Fortune 500 Companies and NGOs to educate Americans about the importance of global engagement. He joined the USGLC after serving as Director of Communications for the Peace Corps, where he oversaw the creative, digital, marketing, press, and video production offices within the agency. Prior to his time at the Peace Corps, Mr. Parker served at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief and the President's Malaria Initiative were created, and he also served in communications, marketing, and policy roles for the office of the Secretary of Health and Human Resources for the Commonwealth of Virginia, the American Red Cross, and Levi Strauss & Co. Mr. Parker holds a Master's degree in public policy from Regent University and a Bachelor's degree in business management from North Carolina State University. He serves on the Boards of the C.S. Lewis Institute and Concordia, as well as the Steering Committee for the Modernizing Foreign Assistance Network.

Leading in Parenting: Special Patreon Release with Arlene Pellicane   Titus 3:1 (AMP) “Remind people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready and willing to do good,"   *Transcription Below*   Arlene Pellicane is a speaker and author of several books including Parents Rising, 31 Days to a Happy Husband and Calm, Cool, and Connected: 5 Digital Habits for a More Balanced Life.   She is also the co-author of Growing Up Social: Raising Relational Kids in a Screen-Driven World (with Dr. Gary Chapman).     Arlene has been a featured guest on the Today Show, Fox & Friends, Focus on the Family, FamilyLife Today, The 700 Club, and Turning Point with Dr. David Jeremiah.  She writes regularly for Proverbs 31 Ministries  and Girlfriends in God.  Arlene earned her BA from Biola University and her Masters in Journalism from Regent University.  Arlene lives in San Diego with her husband James and their three children Ethan, Noelle, and Lucy.  To learn more, visit www.ArlenePellicane.com    Arlene Pellicane's Website Arlene Pellicane's Podcast   Books by Arlene Pellicane: Parents Rising 31 Days to a Happy Husband 31 Days to Becoming a Happy Wife 31 Days to Becoming a Happy Mom 31 Days to a Younger You Calm, Cool, and Connected: 5 Digital Habits for a More Balanced Life Growing up Social by Dr. Gary Chapman and Arlene Pellicane   Thank You to Our Sponsors: Chick-fil-A East Peoria and Cultivate What Matters   Just for Fun and Highly Recommended by Laura Lara Casey's Product: The Kid's Bundle (Write the Word for kids - have you seen this yet? It is awesome!!!) Lara Casey's 2020 6-months Powersheets...Not exaggerating: these are changing my life!!!    Connect with The Savvy Sauce on Facebook or Instagram or Our Website    Please help us out by sharing this episode with a friend, leaving a 5-star rating and review, and subscribing to this podcast!   Gospel Scripture: (all NIV) Romans 3:23 “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,”   Romans 3:24 “and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.”   Romans 3:25 (a) “God presented him as a sacrifice of atonement, through faith in his blood.”    Hebrews 9:22 (b) “without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.”    Romans 5:8 “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”    Romans 5:11 “Not only is this so, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.”    John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”   Romans 10:9 “That if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”    Luke 15:10 says “In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”   Romans 8:1 “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus”   Ephesians 1:13–14 “And you also were included in Christ when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation. Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God's possession- to the praise of his glory.”   Ephesians 1:15–23 “For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is like the working of his mighty strength, which he exerted in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every title that can be given, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way.”   Ephesians 2:8–10 “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith – and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God – not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God‘s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.“   Ephesians 2:13 “But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ.“   Philippians 1:6 “being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”   *Transcription*   Music: (0:00 – 0:08)   Laura Dugger: (0:09 - 1:53) Welcome to The Savvy Sauce, where we have practical chats for intentional living. I'm your host, Laura Dugger, and I'm so glad you're here.   I want to say a huge thank you to today's sponsors for this episode, Chick-fil-A East Peoria and Savvy Sauce Charities.   Are you interested in a free college education for you or someone you know? Stay tuned for details coming later in this episode from today's sponsor, Chick-fil-A East Peoria. You can also visit their website today at Chick-fil-A.com forward slash East Peoria.   If you've been with us long, you know this podcast is only one piece of our nonprofit, which is the Savvy Sauce Charities.  Don't miss out on our other resources. We have questions and content to inspire you to have your own practical chats for intentional living. And I also hope you don't miss out on the opportunity to financially support us through your tax-deductible donations. All this information can be found on our recently updated website, thesavvysauce.com.   I'm thrilled to welcome back author and speaker Arlene Pellicane. In her warm and welcoming way, she's going to share about parenting from a biblical perspective and give us practical steps to take to ensure as parents, we are leaders of the home and not followers of our children.    Here's our chat.   Welcome back to The Savvy Sauce, Arlene.   Arlene Pellicane: (1:54 - 1:55) It's great to be with you again. How fun.   Laura Dugger: (1:55 - 2:02) Well, in case our friends listening didn't hear your first episode, can you just catch us up on who you are and what you do?   Arlene Pellicane: (2:03 - 2:30) Sure. We talked about growing up social, raising relational kids in a screen-driven world. So, I just try to help families get a hold of that technology, so it doesn't take over your house.  And so, I speak and write books. My books include 31 Days to a Happy Husband, Growing Up Social, and 31 Days to Becoming a Happy Mom. I have three kids. My husband, James, and I have been married for 21 years.  And our kids are now in high school, junior high, and elementary school. And they go boy, girl, girl.   Laura Dugger: (2:31 - 2:39) And let's even go one step further and go back a little bit in your history. What type of home were you raised in?   Arlene Pellicane: (2:41 - 3:25) I am an only child. So, my husband would say he's the last of four that I was raised in a very spoiled home. That's what he would say.  So, I was the only child. I had cousins who lived in the same neighborhood. So that was really nice.  So I never felt lonely. And apparently I didn't ask my parents for a sibling. So, they were like, okay, we're happy with one.  We'll just keep it this way. And so, I had cousins that were very close in age to me in the neighborhood that I played with. And so, I had a very happy childhood and a good childhood.  I will say my sweet mom, she's so funny. She's super social. She just loves people. So, I was always the kid that was waiting on the curb like, please, mom, come pick me up. Because she was probably talking to someone and couldn't get me soon enough.   Laura Dugger: (3:26 - 3:34) That's amazing. Have you carried on that style now that you're raising your own family? Or have you chosen to do some things differently?   Arlene Pellicane: (3:34 - 4:50) I think a lot of the ways I parent are very much like how my mom and dad were.  My mom and dad were very open, very relational, talking, hugging, and involved in what I did. I was a cheerleader.  And if I came home, she'd be awake with hot chocolate at midnight after a game. Or something like that. So, I think that idea of being relational.  And there were rules and there were boundaries. But it was a very relational home. I think we definitely have that.  And my home was very joyful. And we try to make our home very joyful. So probably the most distinctive difference is the way we handle chores and just being tougher.  My mom and dad and I were caterers. Like, oh, if you need something, we'll do that for you. Where my husband is like, uh-uh.  You can do that yourself. And I think that's good. Because the first time I did laundry was in college.  I mean, that's pretty late. I remember being in college and thinking, what in the world do I do with this quarter and this laundry? I have no idea. And so, my husband has helped us to instill that the kids, you know, as soon as, like, my youngest is in fifth grade.  But even by second or third grade, she was doing her own laundry. So, I think that's good. My husband has helped us to see that learning how to do chores at a young age is a positive thing.   Laura Dugger: (4:50 - 5:14) I think it's just so interesting to hear because we all have a different approach.  So I love hearing both of those stories. And now you're also a working mom. And I know that some of our listeners have mentioned how grateful they are to hear from fellow Christians who have chosen to work while also raising their children. So, has this been natural for you or was it a struggle at times?   Arlene Pellicane: (5:15 - 6:18) Yeah. And I have to say, you know, I am a working mom with a lot of flexibility because I speak and I write. But my schedule is at home, and I am my own boss. So, I can say to myself, oh, let's go to the field trip. You know, I can do those kinds of things where I know many moms who are working these overnight shifts and they are crazy busy. And so, in that sense, I feel like if I say, oh, it's been easy, you know, it's been OK, that's kind of why. Because I haven't been forced to do these crazy hours. So, if you are listening right now and you're like, I am so sleepy because I've been working so hard, my heart goes goes to you. So, this has been a wonderful mix just for me personally, because I have the flexibility to be available for my kids. But it gives me a purpose that's outside of my children that I really enjoy. And it's kind of cool because since I write about marriage and the family and parenting, it keeps me in my space. So, I'm kind of constantly getting to have stories for my own work.  So it's it's been quite ideal. I love it.   Laura Dugger: (6:19 - 6:26) So is there any scripture or clarity from the Lord that helped affirm you in both of those roles?   Arlene Pellicane: (6:27 - 7:36) Yeah, you know, I think of Proverbs three of trust in the Lord with all your heart, lean not on your own understanding. And so, as we're trusting in God, not leaning on our understanding and we're seeing like he will make your path straight. And so, I have seen that over and over and over again to simply trust. And it really is, you know, for me, it's being a speaker and an author. And I know some of you who are listening, that's something that you desire to do. But whether it's that or something else, you know, we live in a culture where you're supposed to be a celebrity, like you're supposed to amass numbers and have platforms and do all these things. And I think when you get to the point where it's like, you know, I want influence, I want impact, I want to help people. But I don't care if I help them with two followers or with 16, you know what I mean? Like not being into all those kinds of things. And I think when we turn our hearts to saying with our work, God, let your will be done in this. God be magnified in this Lord, just whatever I can do, multiply it. God will do that and be obedient that that's what's most important, not necessarily the Instagram followers, etc. So set your heart on God and the other things will fall into place.   Laura Dugger: (7:36 - 7:46) And like you said, in your work, you do write about family and parenting. So how can parents lead the home rather than children?   Arlene Pellicane: (7:47 - 10:36) This is so important, right? And it used to be that the home of yesterday might have been like, children are seen but not heard. But today it's backward.  It's like parents are seen but not heard. It's like people talking are the children. And so, watch your language.  You know, how do you talk to your children? Do you talk in a way that is like a leader or are you asking them questions all the time? So, I notice this about myself. So, for instance, that after you say something, you would say, okay, like, it's time to go come to dinner.  Okay. Like it's a question, right?  Not an instruction. Or why don't you wear this shirt? Okay. So, we, especially as moms, do this all the time. And if we don't tack the word, okay, on our voices still go up. Like we'll say, why don't you pick that one?  Isn't that a good idea? Like we're constantly like our voices go up in the question. So, part of leadership is even just listening to yourself.  How am I communicating? And I love what John Roseman, the psychologist says is communicate your instruction using the least amount of words possible. So, it's go to the car.   That's a leader, right? You're just telling your child, go to the car. But we say, okay, it's time to go to grandma's house.  And you know, we don't want to be late. So, let's start zipping up your jacket and let's go. Okay, it's time to go.  Are you not ready to go? Get your shoes on. Okay, you got your shoes.  That's so good. You got your shoes. Get in the car.  Right? So, it's like all we need to say was get in the car. So, I love that.  So just even assess how do you communicate to your children? Because your children are hearing all these things. And so, they just hear like this lovely paragraph.  They missed go to the car. So, assess how you talk. Use fewer words.  Don't make everything a question. And all of this, of course, stems from the idea, the realization that, wait a minute, I'm the leader in the home, not my child. So many people will say, well, my child won't let me do that.  Right? Like we ride bikes in our neighborhood. And my son, when he was in second grade, had a really bad accident involving him and a truck. And went to the hospital and was fine because of the grace of God and because he was wearing a helmet. And so, we'll see kids in the neighborhood without helmets. And my husband said to the dad, “You know, just last week, my son was hit by a car on this very street.  It's really important that your kids wear a helmet. And the father said, oh, I just can't get my kids to do it. So, this is the problem of, wait, who is the leader here? Is the child the leader or is the parent the leader? So, you've got to see, first of all, in scripture, it is children obey your parents and not the other way around. So, we've got to just embrace that with all of our heart.   Laura Dugger: (10:37 - 11:06) That's amazing to even hear you say that, because this morning this verse just jumped off the page at me. And it's in Titus 3, verse 1. And I'm reading out of the Amplified Version. And it says, remind people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready and willing to do good.  That just struck me for parenting. Like you're saying, it is biblical and it's important for us to lead.   Arlene Pellicane: (11:07 - 11:49) And wow, if your kids cannot learn from you, right, if in their own home they don't have that sense of, oh, there's this healthy authority over me and I do what they say. Like if they don't have that, then look at them as they grow up. They're going to have trouble with their relationship with God. It's like, oh, God commands us to do a lot of things.  And like Mary, we could say, let it be to me according to your word. I am your servant. Or like the modern person, we could be like, no way. Who are you to tell me what to do, right? So that authority, if they can get that from you as a parent, that's going to help them with their spouse, with their employer, with a police officer, with a teacher, with God. It just helps them in all those relationships.   Laura Dugger: (11:50 - 12:03) And I'm so grateful for people like you who are writing parenting books. And so, I want to know, how did you arrive at your eight strategies in one of your recent books titled Parents Rising?   Arlene Pellicane: (12:04 - 12:59) Yeah, a lot of it was what I was observing. Like what was I seeing with my children, with their friends in the elementary school, et cetera, our pediatrician and talking to other doctors, asking them like, what are you seeing? Because something my pediatrician said really struck me.  She's like, Arlene, a lot of times I'm not talking about physical things anymore. Like this is a pediatrician, right? It's not so much about shots and growth and all this.  It's how can I manage my child? They're so emotional. They're under distress.  They have anxiety. They're on video games all the time. So just listening to what she was saying of what are parents coming to her and saying, this is my problem, you know, and she's been a pediatrician for 25 years and has talked about, wow, in the last 10 years, all these problems because of technology, they're just enormous. So, listening to people's input led to these eight strategies.   Laura Dugger: (13:01 - 13:07) And you don't have to go through all of them, but could you at least touch on a few of these strategies and elaborate?   Arlene Pellicane: (13:07 - 16:59) Sure. You know, you can listen to our Growing Up Social one that we did to talk about this first strategy, which is amusement is not the highest priority. But what I'll say about that is as parents, you are not the cruise director. It is not your job to make everything fun from A to Z. Now you can do that on occasion. That's good.  You want to have fun. So don't get me wrong. Have fun.  But you're more like a trainer, a coach. And so, a lot of times we'll just give all the technology so our kids can be amused, but your kids don't need amusement. They need character. So, they need to be building character in your home.  So put amusement in its proper place so character can take shape. And that's going to be your first strategy. But I'll say a few things about strategy number four, which is the Bible and prayer are present daily. And it's just the idea that when kids see that you have a real faith, that it's not like, oh, I go to church on Sunday, but then every other day of the week I kind of look like any other home in this neighborhood. You know, like we watch the same things as our secular neighbor does.  We cuss sometimes. We spend our money on stuff we don't really tithe. And again, not a guilt trip, but I'm just saying when kids see that, oh, this doesn't make this huge difference in your life. Then when they're older, it's much easier for them to stray away from that faith because it's not strongly in them. But when they see like, oh, my mom and dad, they're not perfect, but they seek God. And when they make a mistake, they ask for forgiveness of me. And when I see them get money, they give it to the missionary. And when we have extra time, we try to serve other people or invite people to church. So those kinds of things. So not just like, oh, we attend church and we're good people.  But when kids see, oh, my mom's faith is real. My dad's faith is real.  That's going to make an impact on them. And that's going to help them to make that decision for themselves. So, make sure that that's something that's daily. And then for prayer, I will be the first to say, I want this amazing prayer life. But just like anyone else, I can go to bed and say, oh, my word, I didn't even pray today. So, one thing that's really helped me is Moms in Prayer.  And that is an international organization. And the total mission is two praying moms for every school. So that there would be two moms that would gather. And obviously there can be more to pray for their children by name and to pray for their school by name. And I started joining one of these when my son Ethan was in first grade. And now he is in 10th. And I can see such a huge difference in how God has moved in my children, in their friendships, in their school. Because every week while school's in session, I am praying with another woman for my kids by name. Like it is amazing. And I remember the very first week I did this, I joined a church group that had like one lady had college age kids.  And one lady had grandkids. So, it was a really diverse group.  I had the youngest kids. And we prayed. And we prayed that my son would make a Christian friend.  Because we're a public school. And the very next day my son Ethan said, Mom, I was in the playground, and I heard a boy singing. And Mom, he's a Christian.  And Mom, he's in my class. And I was like, Ethan, I just prayed with the moms just yesterday that you would find a Christian friend. And it's amazing.  That was first grade. And just about a month ago we had that same boy over for breakfast. And I told him that story.  And it was so funny. Like see how God works. So, he and my son are not close friends.  They have become acquaintances over the years. But we were able to have him over. And to be able to say that story, like you can see the boys lit up like, wow, this prayer thing really works. And so, if your kids can see that the Bible and prayer is part of your normal rhythm, that you care about it, that's going to make a huge difference in their spiritual lives.   Laura Dugger: (17:00 - 22:33) I would echo all of that. I think that life with Jesus is the most exciting type of life. And that's so great to hear how you incorporated it with your kids and let them in on that process.   And now a brief message from our sponsor. Did you know you can go to college tuition free just by being a team member at Chick-fil-A East Peoria? Yes, you heard that right.  Free college education. All Chick-fil-A East Peoria team members in good standing are immediately eligible for a free college education through Point University. Point University is a fully accredited private Christian college located in West Point, Georgia. This online self-paced program includes 13 associates degrees, 17 bachelor's degrees, and two master's programs, including an MBA. College courses are fully transferable both in and out of this program. This could even be a great option to complete your general education courses and then transfer to the college of your choice and save money in the process. So, if you're looking for an affordable college option while simultaneously gaining valuable work experience and earning an income, Chick-fil-A East Peoria is the place for you. You don't have to go into debt to get a great education. To apply today, please go to Chick-fil-A.com forward slash East Peoria and click on the career tab. You can also call the restaurant at 309-694-1044 to find out more. And if you aren't located near Chick-fil-A East Peoria, make sure you check with your local Chick-fil-A restaurant to see if they also participate in the Elevate program with Point University. Thanks for your sponsorship.   Are you utilizing Savvy Sauce Charities to full capacity? Other than our Special Patreon Release episodes, our content is now available in video form in addition to our audio only, and we have written transcriptions for every episode. Visit our website today, thesavvysauce.com, to access all these forms of interviews. And while you're there, make sure you sign up for our e-mail list to receive encouragement, questions, and recommended resources about once a month to promote your own practical chats for intentional living. I also want to remind you about the financial side of Savvy Sauce Charities. As you know, we recently became a nonprofit, which means all your financial support is now tax deductible. There are multiple ways to give, and we would be so honored if you would share your financial support with us so that we can continue producing free content that is accessible to the general public. Your money will go to support creatively getting the gospel message of Jesus Christ to the nations as we continue to share the good news on every episode. And I say this is reaching the nations because The Savvy Sauce podcast is downloaded in all 50 United States as well as over 100 countries around the world. Your financial support also supports practical needs, such as aiding our team to continue producing helpful content that is practical and uplifting and always pointing to Jesus. Your financial support, furthermore, will help us continue to expand our reach and secure future projects we have planned for this ministry. If your ears are hearing this message right now, I am specifically asking you to give. We are so grateful for any amount, and our team will continue to seek to be good stewards of the gifts offered to us. So, if you want to write a check or set up an ongoing payment with your bank that delivers a check to us each month, this is the most beneficial way to give because no percentages are taken out for processing fees. You can make your checkout to Savvy Sauce Charities at P.O. Box 101, Roanoke, Illinois, 61561. Additionally, with our new website, we now have a donate button. There are processing fees that we cover for these donations, but we wanted to offer listeners a seamless way to share their finances with us when we share our content with them. So just visit thesavvysauce.com and find the donate page under the tab support. Another way to find it is simply type in donate to the search bar on our website and just click the first picture shown. We are all about sharing around here, sharing resources, sharing joy, and sharing the good news about Jesus Christ. We ask that you also will share by sharing financially, sharing The Savvy Sauce podcast episodes, and sharing a five-star rating and review. You can also share any of our social media posts on Instagram or Facebook.  We are grateful for all of it, and we just love partnering together with you.   Now, back to the show.   Arlene Pellicane: (22:34 - 24:31) Another strategy number seven is love is spelled T-I-M-E, love is spelled time. It's that idea that yes, you can have quality time, but if you are not together all week and you have a half an hour of quality time only, that's not enough. You need to work on the quantity time as well. And again, one of the huge stealers is being on your phone, whether it's us, whether it's our kids. They did a survey of 6,000 kids all around the world and asked what's your parent's worst habit and 50% of them said my parent is on the phone and 34% of those people said and when we're talking in conversation, my parent will interrupt, like they will take a text while we're talking and that really bothers me. So, this idea of love is spelled T-I-M-E with time, just remember that when you're with your child, you need to have moments where there are no devices present. This doesn't mean that from the moment your child gets home from school to the moment they go to bed, you need to be staring at them and doing something.  No, that's not practical. Like you have to make dinner.  You have to pay your bills. We get that. But in the time in between those things, make sure there's time where maybe you're reading together. We just recently got a pool table, so we're playing pool together now. So have things in place, whether it's a frisbee or a ball, a chess game, a puzzle, where there is time that it's a regular rhythm to connect with your child, spend time together and it doesn't have to be this serious chat. You know, boys don't want to sit across the table with their mothers and have a serious chat, but a boy will play Nerf Gun Wars with you. So, like have activities so you're spending time together because in that shared activity, that's when there's an opportunity for that child to tell you something that maybe is on their heart, it's on their mind, because now there's a space to tell you. So, make sure that you are spending time with your kids.   Laura Dugger: (24:32 - 24:38) Wow. Is there anything else that we haven't covered yet in our time together that you want to make sure we hear?   Arlene Pellicane: (24:38 - 26:42) There are two thoughts I have. One is when you're spending that time together, research has shown that even having a phone present, so you're not touching it, it's just on the table. Like right now my phone is two feet away from me on my desk. So just having it there dilutes the conversation because they found that when people talk without it present, they feel more connected, like nothing is standing in the way between us. But when the phone is there, they know that at any moment that phone might ring, that phone might make a noise and my attention will be diverted and it dilutes the conversation. So, make sure your phones are completely not present when you are having that face-to-face time with your kids. And then the last thing I want to say is just have that mindset of strategy number eight, which is I am launching an adult, I am not babying a child.  And men tend to be pretty good at this. And again, this is a generality, but women, we're more like, oh, like let me do it for you.  So it's okay to let your kids grow up. And one thing my pastor says that I like very much is never do something for your child that your child can do on their own. So, something I love to do with my kids is I love to trim their nails, right? So, they're in elementary school, I'm trimming their nails, I'm trimming their nails. And my husband James would be like, honey, like they're in third, fourth grade, they can trim their own nails. And I'm like, the pinky, very tricky, the thumb, very difficult, you know? And so finally, I got to the point where it's like, okay, you know, Lucy, that's my youngest, you are responsible now for trimming your own nails and I won't do it anymore. But it's funny, like I would sneak around the house like when my husband wasn't watching and trim her nails because I just felt like I do a better job of this. And so, as moms, we need to realize someday our kids will go out of our house and they need to be able to trim their own nails.  So mama, you just got to back down. So, a lot of times it's we as moms that have to back away and say, you know what? I need to let them do this on their own because they are an adult and they're going to need this skill very soon.   Laura Dugger: (26:42 - 26:49) Okay, so it's don't ever do for your child what they can do for themselves. Is that the saying?   Arlene Pellicane: (26:49 - 26:50) Yes, that's the saying.   Laura Dugger: (26:51 - 26:56) Arlene, if people want to connect further, where can listeners find you online?   Arlene Pellicane: (26:57 - 27:22) They can find me on ArlenePellicane.com and I actually have a video series that goes with this book, Parents Rising, and I've designed it for a small group or for personal use so that each message is about 20 minutes long so you could watch the message and then you could have a discussion group with moms or with parents or by yourself. And so that's at ArlenePellicane.com and you can also find me on Instagram, Facebook and my podcast is called The Happy Home Podcast.   Laura Dugger: (27:23 - 27:41) Fantastic. We will link to all of these in our show notes and on our resources page of our website. We are called the Savvy Sauce because savvy is synonymous with practical knowledge or insight. And so today, Arlene, we would love to know what is your savvy sauce?   Arlene Pellicane: (27:42 - 28:49) So my savvy sauce has to do with someone you have interviewed in the past, Clifford and Joyce Penner, and I interviewed them for my book 31 Days to a Happy Husband, and they talked about the 5 to 30 second kiss, the 5 to 30 second daily kiss to keep the pilot light lit between you and your spouse. So that is my savvy sauce is attempting the 5 to 30 second kiss every day. And I will tell you, you know, even I'm the author, ooh, I've been married 21 years. Wow, like we still have trouble with this so much so that my husband has literally printed out a page, put it on the refrigerator, and we put an X on every day that we do this. So, whenever we realize, well, we are not kissing regularly anymore, the chart goes up on the refrigerator and we start making Xs. And it was so funny because my daughter, my youngest, had asked like, what's that chart for? And she asked me in such a moment that I wasn't ready to make up a funny story about it. So, I just said, oh, it's a kissing chart for daddy and I. And she's just like, what? So that's our savvy sauce, the attempt of the 5 to 30 second kiss every day.   Laura Dugger: (28:49 - 28:58) I love your savvy sauce. And Arlene, it is always such a pleasure to get to spend time with you and learn from you. Thank you for being my guest.   Arlene Pellicane: (28:59 - 29:01) It's been my pleasure. It's been so fun. Thanks for having me.   Laura Dugger: (29:02 - 32:44) One more thing before you go, have you heard the term gospel before? It simply means good news. And I want to share the best news with you, but it starts with the bad news.   Every single one of us were born sinners, but Christ desires to rescue us from our sin, which is something we cannot do for ourselves. This means there's absolutely no chance we can make it to heaven on our own. So, for you and for me, it means we deserve death, and we can never pay back the sacrifice we owe to be saved.   We need a savior, but God loved us so much. He made a way for his only son to willingly die in our place as the perfect substitute. This gives us hope of life forever in right relationship with him.   That is good news. Jesus lived the perfect life. We could never live and died in our place for our sin.   This was God's plan to make a way to reconcile with us so that God can look at us and see Jesus. We can be covered and justified through the work Jesus finished. If we choose to receive what he has done for us, Romans 10:9 says, “that if you confess with your mouth, Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”   So, you pray with me now. Heavenly father, thank you for sending Jesus to take our place. I pray someone today right now is touched and chooses to turn their life over to you.   Will you clearly guide them and help them take their next step in faith to declare you as Lord of their life? We trust you to work and change lives now for eternity. In Jesus name we pray.   Amen. If you prayed that prayer, you are declaring him for me. So, me for him, you get the opportunity to live your life for him.   And at this podcast, we're called The Savvy Sauce for a reason. We want to give you practical tools to implement the knowledge you have learned. So, you're ready to get started.   First, tell someone, say it out loud, get a Bible. The first day I made this decision, my parents took me to Barnes and Noble and let me choose my own Bible. I selected the Quest NIV Bible and I love it.   You can start by reading the book of John. Also get connected locally, which just means tell someone who's a part of a church in your community that you made a decision to follow Christ. I'm assuming they will be thrilled to talk with you about further steps such as going to church and getting connected to other believers to encourage you.   We want to celebrate with you too. So, feel free to leave a comment for us here. If you did make a decision to follow Christ, we also have show notes included where you can read scripture that describes this process.   And finally, be encouraged. Luke 15:10 says, “in the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” The heavens are praising with you for your decision today.   And if you've already received this good news, I pray you have someone to share it with. You are loved and I look forward to meeting you here next time.

Get the book, The Four Cornerstones of Effective Schools: How to Build Lasting Success Visit Darin's website, www.DrDarinThompson.com Follow Darin on Youtube @drdarinthompson Follow Darin on Instagram @drdarinthompson About The Guest Darin A. Thompson, PhD, is a veteran K-12 leader with nearly 20 years of experience and founder of Pivotal Leaders Group. A two-time outstanding principal of the year semi-finalist within his region, Dr. Thompson has led transformative school improvement efforts across multiple school divisions, resulting in double-digit gains in student outcomes and significantly closing achievement gaps for historically underserved populations. A regular presenter at conferences such as NAESP/NASSP's United Conference, Making Schools Work, and VA Alliance of Black School Educators, Dr. Thompson has contributed to Education Week, the Journal of Urban Learning, Teaching, and Research, and other publications. Dr. Thompson has become a trusted voice in educational leadership. He has delivered professional development workshops on building constructive school cultures for improvement at major conferences, including the 2024 and 2025 Virginia Alliance of Black School Educators Conference, the 2025 National Association of Secondary School Principals United Conference, and the Southern Regional Education Board's Making Schools Work Conference. Dr. Thompson's thought leadership has been featured in Education Week, including the articles “How My School Is Fighting the Surge in Chronic Absenteeism” and “How Pandemic Isolation Damaged School Culture.” He has also published in the Journal of Urban Learning, Teaching, and Research and is a contributing author of Preparing to Lead: Narratives of Aspiring School Leaders in a “Post”-COVID World. Dr. Thompson earned a bachelor of science in criminal justice and a master of public administration from Virginia Commonwealth University, and a master of education and a doctor of philosophy in educational leadership from Regent University. He is also a proud member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. To learn more about Thompson's work, follow him on LinkedIn or at @drdarinthompson on Instagram and YouTube.   This episode of Principal Center Radio is sponsored by IXL, the most widely used online learning and teaching platform for K-12. Discover the power of data-driven instruction in your school with IXL—it gives you everything you need to maximize learning, from a comprehensive curriculum to meaningful school-wide data. Visit IXL.com/center to lead your school towards data-driven excellence today.   

Welcome to another episode of Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick. In this conversation, Michael sits down with Mark Batterson, the celebrated pastor of National Community Church in Washington, D.C., and multi-time New York Times bestselling author. Together, they dive deep into the inspiration and lessons behind Mark's latest book, "Gradually Then Suddenly: How to Dream Bigger, Decide Better, and Leave a Lasting Legacy."Drawing from three decades of ministry, Mark Batterson shares stories of setbacks, perseverance, and the long, often unseen journey toward meaningful transformation. The episode explores the power of slow growth in a world obsessed with quick fixes, the value of legacy and "cathedral thinking," and the importance of staying humble and hungry over the long haul.With candid reflections, practical wisdom, and a few memorable one-liners, this episode offers rich encouragement for anyone seeking to influence others, live with deep conviction, and play the long game of faith and leadership. So grab a cup of coffee and join us for a heartfelt discussion on dreaming, deciding, and leaving a legacy that lasts.Mark Batterson serves as the Lead Visionary of National Community Church (NCC) in Washington, DC. NCC also owns and operates Ebenezers Coffeehouse, The Miracle Theatre, the DC Dream Center, the Capital Turnaround, and Culture House as gathering places for the community and funding for Kingdom causes. Mark also serves as Lead Visionary for The Dream Collective, which equips and supports dreamers who long for revival in the church, reformation in the kingdom, and renaissance in culture.Mark holds a Doctor of Ministry degree from Regent University and is the author of 25 books including the New York Times bestselling The Circle Maker as well as In a Pit with a Lion on a Snowy Day, Wild Goose Chase, Double Blessing, Whisper, and, most recently, A Million Little Miracles and The Best Worst Day Ever, a children's book he wrote with his daughter, Summer. Mark is married to Lora, and they live on Capitol Hill. They have three children: Parker, Summer (married to Austin), and Josiah.Support the showENGAGE THE RESTORING THE SOUL PODCAST:- Follow us on YouTube - Tweet us at @michaeljcusick and @PodcastRTS- Like us on Facebook- Follow us on Instagram & Twitter- Follow Michael on Twitter- Email us at info@restoringthesoul.com Thanks for listening!

What if discovering and sharing our uniqueness drives our thriving? How does that help us tough times. Chris is dad to 10 including 7 through  adoption from foster care. Listen as we dive deep into our diamond nature how his beliefs power his thriving. Chris Johnson serves as the Sr. Director of Church Partnerships & External Advocacy at Lifeline Children's Services. With over two decades of pastoral experience and a background as the Executive Director of the Kentucky Governor's Office of Faith and Community Based Initiatives, Chris is a seasoned leader and advocate for vulnerable children and families. As a consultant and frequent speaker, Chris has inspired audiences at conferences, churches, and community gatherings across the nation. He passionately shares his family's journey and challenges others to respond to the gospel call to care for the most vulnerable in society. A native of metro Atlanta, Georgia, Chris now resides in Birmingham, Alabama, with his wife, Alicia. Together, they have 10 children, seven of whom were adopted from foster care, and are proud grandparents, including two grandchildren adopted through foster care. Their commitment to serving children extends to fostering over 40 children throughout the years, embodying their dedication to family and community. Chris holds a B.A. in Church Ministries from Trinity Baptist College and an M.Ed. in Educational Leadership from Regent University. His passion for equipping churches and individuals to make a lasting impact continues to shape his ministry and advocacy efforts. https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisjohnsondoz/ https://www.facebook.com/lifelinechild https://lifelinechild.org/ https://www.instagram.com/lifelinechild/ https://twitter.com/lifelinechild https://vimeo.com/lifelinechild Guests and the host are not (unless mentioned) licensed pscyho-therapists and speak from their own opinion only. Seek qualified advice if you need help.

I interviewed over 100 self-made millionaires and discovered 3 specific habits they ALL do that average people don't.None of these require a six-figure income or a college degree. But if you're tired of living paycheck to paycheck and want to build real wealth, this is for you.Real example: A teacher making $40K spent $2,000 on a real estate course. Now she owns 15 properties and makes $200K/year in passive income.Mentioned in this episode:

X: @MDH_GFU @americasrt1776 @ileaderssummit @NatashaSrdoc @JoelAnandUSA @supertalk Join America's Roundtable radio co-hosts Natasha Srdoc and Joel Anand Samy with Professor Mark David Hall who joined the faculty of the Robertson School of Government at Regent University in 2023. In this special feature leading up to the commencement of America's 250th anniversary celebrations on July 4, 2026, America's Roundtable will present leading voices on the American Founding and highlight the principles which fueled American exceptionalism. America's Roundtable is honored to partner with Freedom 250, an initiative launched by President Trump on December 18, 2025, in leading our nation's 250th anniversary celebrations. America's Roundtable, joined by America's top scholars and a group of senior executives from the publishing industry, are creating an Official Publication - a book and online educational project which will highlight the American Founding, key events and influential leaders who shaped our nation. The book project will share inspiring stories which present a people's commitment to liberty and a strong resilience in advancing freedom within its borders and beyond its shores. Dr. Hall's video featured by The White House: The Story of America: The Faith of Our Founders https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SgaVjksOo70 Bio | Dr. Mark Hall Dr. Hall is widely regarded as a leading student of religious liberty and church-state relations in America. Hall serves as an expert witness for the U.S. Department of Justice and prior to Regent, he was the Herbert Hoover Distinguished Professor of Politics at George Fox University. Dr. Hall earned a B.A. in Political Science from Wheaton College (IL) and a Ph.D. in Government from the University of Virginia. Dr. Hall has written, edited, or co-edited a dozen books, including Who's Afraid of Christian Nationalism: Why Christian Nationalism is Not an Existential Threat to America or the Church (by Fidelis Books in 2024); Proclaim Liberty Through All the Land: How Christianity Has Advanced Freedom and Equality for All Americans (by Fidelis, 2023); Did America Have a Christian Founding?: Separating Modern Myth from Historical Truth (by Nelson Books, 2019); Great Christian Jurists in American History (Cambridge University Press, 2019); Faith and the Founders of the American Republic (Oxford University Press, 2014); and Roger Sherman and the Creation of the American Republic (Oxford University Press, 2013). He has also penned more than 150 book chapters, journal articles, reviews, and other pieces. americasrt.com https://summitleadersusa.com/ | https://jerusalemleaderssummit.com/ America's Roundtable on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/americas-roundtable/id1518878472 X: @MDH_GFU @americasrt1776 @ileaderssummit @NatashaSrdoc @JoelAnandUSA @supertalk America's Roundtable is co-hosted by Natasha Srdoc and Joel Anand Samy, co-founders of International Leaders Summit and the Jerusalem Leaders Summit. America's Roundtable radio program focuses on America's economy, healthcare reform, rule of law, security and trade, and its strategic partnership with rule of law nations around the world. The radio program features high-ranking US administration officials, cabinet members, members of Congress, state government officials, distinguished diplomats, business and media leaders and influential thinkers from around the world. Tune into America's Roundtable Radio program from Washington, DC via live streaming on Saturday mornings via 68 radio stations at 7:30 A.M. (ET) on Lanser Broadcasting Corporation covering the Michigan and the Midwest market, and at 7:30 A.M. (CT) on SuperTalk Mississippi — SuperTalk.FM reaching listeners in every county within the State of Mississippi, and neighboring states in the South including Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana and Tennessee. Tune into WTON in Central Virginia on Sunday mornings at 6:00 A.M. (ET). Listen to America's Roundtable on digital platforms including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon, Google and other key online platforms. Listen live, Saturdays at 7:30 A.M. (CT) on SuperTalk | https://www.supertalk.fm

What does it mean that God is the fullest form of reality? Join us as we hear the definition and application from Author and Teacher, Cally Logan. Cally Logan Cally Logan is the author of three books, a US History teacher, and a Senior Writer for Crosswalk.com and The Rooted Truth. Her heart finds beauty in the mysteries of life, and in the glory all around us in the details big and small. Story telling is her passion and she believes each and every one us hold a unique, valuable, and hand-written story by God, and together we are part of the Grand Story He has written.She received her B.A. Degree from Regent University. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time in nature, watching movies, and woodworking.WebsiteFace BookInstagram

International speaker, humanitarian, and university professor, Dr. Michelle Boone-Thornton builds bridges of faith, emotional wellness, and transformation. As a professor in Regent University's Counseling Ministries Dept, she has dedicated her career to equipping future leaders to serve others with compassion, integrity, and spiritual discernment. Her latest book, Lessons from the Mourners' Bench: A Bench, A Bible, and a Praying Aunt, is a deeply personal journey that explores mental health, emotional wellness, and spiritual renewal. Through vivid storytelling and personal reflection, Dr. Boone-Thornton unveils the pain and purpose hidden within generational trauma, complex mother-daughter relationships, and buried emotions. The book reminds us that the Holy Spirit and the practice of soul care can transform hidden pain into divine purpose and peace. Dr. Boone-Thornton's influence extends across Kenya, Liberia, Gabon, Spain, Indonesia, and the Bahamas, where she leads initiatives that empower women and children through education, health advocacy, and leadership development. As a World Civility Ambassador, she promotes honor, peace, and unity across nations. Her acclaimed TEDx Talk, “Unmasking Hidden Potential,” continues to inspire audiences worldwide to remove the emotional and spiritual barriers that hinder authentic living. Her message is one of faith, resilience, and transformation -- a reminder that no pain is wasted when placed in God's hands. With a voice of both wisdom and grace, Dr. Boone-Thornton invites you to embrace authenticity, confront buried truths, and walk boldly into the freedom of divine purpose. ACCEPT THIS INVITATION! Follow Dr. Michelle: Linked In: "drbt" www.drmichelleboonethornton.com/ Follow B. Lifted Up! Radio: @bliftedupradio (Twitter/Instagram/Facebook) ⁠www.bliftedupradio.com⁠ | ⁠www.mochapodcastsnetwork.com/bliftedup⁠ (Websites) Alfred Edmond Jr. - @alfrededmondjr (Twitter) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's Wednesday, January 7th, A.D. 2026. 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 Jonathan Clark and Adam McManus Sudanese military killed 11 Christians Tragically, the military of Sudan killed a group of Christians on their way to church on Christmas morning last month. The Sudanese Armed Forces targeted the group with a drone strike, killing at least 11 Christians and injuring 18 more.  A Christian attorney in the area told Morning Star News, “The church [building] was not hit, but a congregation who were marching in procession towards the church were targeted.” Sudan's military is in conflict with various rival forces in the country's ongoing civil war. Sadly, Christians are caught in the crossfire, facing increased attacks and violence in the Muslim-majority country.  According to Open Doors, Sudan is the fifth most dangerous country worldwide for Christians. Canadian Christians upset: Quoting Bible can be “hate speech” Liberal lawmakers in Canada are trying to remove a religious exemption from the country's hate speech laws. Currently, people cannot be convicted of hate speech if they make a statement in “good faith” based “on belief in a religious text.” The Christian Institute warns that quoting the Bible could be criminalized as hate speech under the new proposal. Andrew Lawton, a conservative Member of Parliament from Ontario, commented, “[The Liberals] are prepared to mount … a full-scale assault on religious freedom.” Psalm 94:20-21 asks, “Shall the throne of iniquity, which devises evil by law, have fellowship with [the Lord]? They gather together against the life of the righteous, and condemn innocent blood.” Hegseth tours America's hypersonic weapons On Tuesday's Worldview newscast, we said, “The United States has yet to deploy its hypersonic technology -- it is still in the testing phase.” Upon closer examination, according to The War Zone, we can report that War Secretary Pete Hegseth recently toured the Redstone Arsenal in Alabama to examine America's long-range Dark Eagle hypersonic boost-glide vehicle weapon system. During his visit, Hegseth designated the installation as U.S. Space Command's new headquarters. The Army's Dark Eagle, also known as the Long Range Hypersonic Weapon, is a trailer-launched hypersonic boost-glide vehicle system that can travel long distances at hypersonic speeds, with velocities in excess of 3,800 miles per hour, while maneuvering erratically through Earth's atmosphere. This makes it an ideal weapon for striking high-priority and time-sensitive targets that are extremely well defended. It's the first true hypersonic weapon slated for frontline U.S. service. The same missile architecture is being adopted by the Navy for sea-launch under the Intermediate Range Conventional Prompt Strike weapon system. During a show-and-tell of Army missile systems, Lieutenant General Francisco Lozano, Director of Hypersonic, Directed Energy, Space and Rapid Acquisition, told Hegseth that Dark Eagle has a 2,100-mile range. Members of the media were also present at the event, which was captured on video by C-SPAN. Colorado must pay $5 million over trying to shut down pro-life clinic In the United States, Colorado must pay $5.4 million in a lawsuit involving a pro-life healthcare clinic.  The state tried to ban abortion pill reversal and shut down a Denver-area pro-life clinic. Bella Health and Wellness fought back and won their case with the help of The Becket Fund for Religious Liberty.  Rebekah Ricketts, senior counsel at Becket, said, “At least 18 moms who received abortion pill reversal care at Bella just celebrated Christmas with babies born during this case. All Coloradans should celebrate those little miracles and the brave medical team at Bella that helped their moms when no one else would.” Vandal of J.D. Vance's home is trans Democrat The U.S. Secret Service arrested a man on Monday who caused property damages at the Ohio home of Vice President J.D. Vance. The man used a hammer to break four windows on the front of the home. He also vandalized an unmarked Secret Service vehicle. The man has been identified as 26-year-old William DeFoor. He pretends to be a woman and goes by the name “Julia.” His father. Dr. Bob DeFoor, is a prominent urology surgeon and a mega Democrat donor. Vice President Vance responded on X. He wrote, “I appreciate everyone's well wishes about the attack at our home. ... I'm grateful to the Secret Service and the Cincinnati police for responding quickly. We weren't even home as we had returned already to D.C.” Corporation for Public Broadcasting dissolves over Trump defunding The board of directors of the Corporation for Public Broadcasting voted Monday to dissolve the organization after losing federal funding.  Congress created the nonprofit in 1967 to support public broadcasting in America. The Corporation for Public Broadcasting has distributed hundreds of millions of taxpayer dollars each year to public stations through National Public Radio and the Public Broadcasting System.  However, President Donald Trump has accused such outlets of spreading misinformation. In line with this, Congress defunded the Corporation for Public Broadcasting last summer.  Republican Congressman of California died Tuesday House Republicans announced Tuesday that Rep. Doug LaMalfa of California died at the age of 65, reports the Western Journal. The announcement was shared in a statement posted by the official House Republicans X account. On January 5th, LaMalfa experienced a medical emergency at his home and was transported to a Chico, California hospital where he underwent emergency surgery. During the procedure, he experienced both a heart attack and an aneurysm, according to the Sacramento Bee. He died the following day at 3:20 a.m while still in surgery. LaMalfa was a fourth-generation rice farmer. U-Haul does well in red states, poorly in blue states U-Haul released its annual Growth Index for last year. The truck rental company ranks states by their net gain or loss based on one-way rentals. Many conservative states topped the list for growth while many Democrat states were at the bottom of the list. Texas and Florida saw the most in-migration. Illinois and California saw the most out-migration.   More Americans vow to read entire Bible in 2026 And finally, CBN News reports that a growing number of Americans are committed to reading the entire Bible this year. Only an estimated 13-20% of Americans have completed the feat in the past. But that number is rising as Bible sales surged over the last year. Dr. Corné Bekker, Dean of Divinity at Regent University, has read the Bible several hundred times. Listen to his comments. BEKKER: “I do think increasingly our world is falling apart. The foundations of our society are being eroded at a record speed. People are longing for that which is eternally true, that which is ancient, that which is unchanging.” In Isaiah 66:2, the Lord says, “But on this one will I look: on him who is poor and of a contrite spirit, and who trembles at My Word.” Close And that's The Worldview on this Wednesday, January 7th, in the year of our Lord 2026. 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 (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

In this episode of Mission Matters, ⁠Adam Torres⁠ interviews ⁠Dr. Gary Mason II⁠, Author, Veteran, and Filmmaker at Media 1st Creations, about attending AFM for the first time, what he learned from industry panels and deal-making environments, and why oral history is the foundation of meaningful storytelling. Dr. Mason also discusses his book-to-screen projects, including Persecuted to Love and Unconditional Love, and his mission to create media that drives healing, truth, and connection. About ⁠Dr. Gary Mason II⁠ Gary Mason, II, was born in Washington, DC and graduated from DeMatha Catholic High School. Before entering the US Army in 2000, he received a BA in communications from Howard University. While serving in the US Army, he earned an MA in Film Production from American University and an MA in Practical Theology from Regent University. After his forced retirement, he then earned a Doctorate in Military Ministry from Regent University. Dr. Mason is also an aspiring filmmaker who co-wrote the screenplay, PVT William Cathay - Slave to Buffalo Soldier, with his wife. He is also an expert communicator in military affairs, media planning, and military ministry. This interview is part of our AFM 2025 Series. Big thank you to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠American Film Market⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ! Follow Adam on Instagram at ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/askadamtorres/⁠⁠⁠⁠ for up to date information on book releases and tour schedule. Apply to be a guest on our podcast: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://missionmatters.lpages.co/podcastguest/⁠⁠⁠⁠ Visit our website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://missionmatters.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠ More FREE content from Mission Matters here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/missionmattersmedia⁠⁠⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode of Mission Matters, Adam Torres interviews Dr. Gary Mason II, Author, Veteran, and Filmmaker at Media 1st Creations, about attending AFM for the first time, what he learned from industry panels and deal-making environments, and why oral history is the foundation of meaningful storytelling. Dr. Mason also discusses his book-to-screen projects, including Persecuted to Love and Unconditional Love, and his mission to create media that drives healing, truth, and connection. About Dr. Gary Mason II Gary Mason, II, was born in Washington, DC and graduated from DeMatha Catholic High School. Before entering the US Army in 2000, he received a BA in communications from Howard University. While serving in the US Army, he earned an MA in Film Production from American University and an MA in Practical Theology from Regent University. After his forced retirement, he then earned a Doctorate in Military Ministry from Regent University. Dr. Mason is also an aspiring filmmaker who co-wrote the screenplay, PVT William Cathay - Slave to Buffalo Soldier, with his wife. He is also an expert communicator in military affairs, media planning, and military ministry. This interview is part of our AFM 2025 Series. Big thank you to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠American Film Market⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ! Follow Adam on Instagram at ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/askadamtorres/⁠⁠⁠ for up to date information on book releases and tour schedule. Apply to be a guest on our podcast: ⁠⁠⁠https://missionmatters.lpages.co/podcastguest/⁠⁠⁠ Visit our website: ⁠⁠⁠https://missionmatters.com/⁠⁠⁠ More FREE content from Mission Matters here: ⁠⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/missionmattersmedia⁠⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dr. Anita shares her homecoming journey as a multi-gifted person. She is a New York Times bestselling author, trauma therapist, and interim lead pastor of One Church in Los Angeles. Along with discussing her multiple callings, she and Dr. Thema explore her heart's journey post-divorce which includes both healing and re-opening her heart to new possibilities. Widely recognized as a thought leader at the intersection of mental health, faith, and culture, Dr. Anita holds degrees from the University of Maryland and Regent University and completed a postdoctoral fellowship at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. She is a dynamic speaker and podcast host who adores her family and friends, a good pint of ice cream, and sitting by the ocean. Mixed & Edited by Next Day Podcast info@nextdaypodcast.com

Regent University teacher and author Chris Easterly shares about his new book And the Darkness Did Not Overcome: A Christian's Memoir of Depression, where he offers honest accounts of his struggle with clinical depression, on today's 700 ... ...

Regent University teacher and author Chris Easterly shares about his new book And the Darkness Did Not Overcome: A Christian's Memoir of Depression, where he offers honest accounts of his struggle with clinical depression, on today's 700 ... ...

Regent University teacher and author Chris Easterly shares about his new book And the Darkness Did Not Overcome: A Christian's Memoir of Depression, where he offers honest accounts of his struggle with clinical depression, on today's 700 ... ...

Regent University teacher and author Chris Easterly shares about his new book And the Darkness Did Not Overcome: A Christian's Memoir of Depression, where he offers honest accounts of his struggle with clinical depression, on today's 700 ... ...

Regent University teacher and author Chris Easterly shares about his new book And the Darkness Did Not Overcome: A Christian's Memoir of Depression, where he offers honest accounts of his struggle with clinical depression, on today's 700 ... ...

Regent University teacher and author Chris Easterly shares about his new book And the Darkness Did Not Overcome: A Christian's Memoir of Depression, where he offers honest accounts of his struggle with clinical depression, on today's 700 ... ...

Regent University teacher and author Chris Easterly shares about his new book And the Darkness Did Not Overcome: A Christian's Memoir of Depression, where he offers honest accounts of his struggle with clinical depression, on today's 700 ... ...

Regent University teacher and author Chris Easterly shares about his new book And the Darkness Did Not Overcome: A Christian's Memoir of Depression, where he offers honest accounts of his struggle with clinical depression, on today's 700 ... ...

Regent University teacher and author Chris Easterly shares about his new book And the Darkness Did Not Overcome: A Christian's Memoir of Depression, where he offers honest accounts of his struggle with clinical depression, on today's 700 ... ...

Regent University teacher and author Chris Easterly shares about his new book And the Darkness Did Not Overcome: A Christian's Memoir of Depression, where he offers honest accounts of his struggle with clinical depression, on today's 700 ... ...

Regent University teacher and author Chris Easterly shares about his new book And the Darkness Did Not Overcome: A Christian's Memoir of Depression, where he offers honest accounts of his struggle with clinical depression, on today's 700 ... ...

Regent University teacher and author Chris Easterly shares about his new book And the Darkness Did Not Overcome: A Christian's Memoir of Depression, where he offers honest accounts of his struggle with clinical depression, on today's 700 ... ...

Regent University teacher and author Chris Easterly shares about his new book And the Darkness Did Not Overcome: A Christian's Memoir of Depression, where he offers honest accounts of his struggle with clinical depression, on today's 700 ... ...

Regent University teacher and author Chris Easterly shares about his new book And the Darkness Did Not Overcome: A Christian's Memoir of Depression, where he offers honest accounts of his struggle with clinical depression, on today's 700 ... ...

Regent University teacher and author Chris Easterly shares about his new book And the Darkness Did Not Overcome: A Christian's Memoir of Depression, where he offers honest accounts of his struggle with clinical depression, on today's 700 ... ...

Regent University teacher and author Chris Easterly shares about his new book And the Darkness Did Not Overcome: A Christian's Memoir of Depression, where he offers honest accounts of his struggle with clinical depression, on today's 700 ... ...

Regent University teacher and author Chris Easterly shares about his new book And the Darkness Did Not Overcome: A Christian's Memoir of Depression, where he offers honest accounts of his struggle with clinical depression, on today's 700 ... ...

Regent University teacher and author Chris Easterly shares about his new book And the Darkness Did Not Overcome: A Christian's Memoir of Depression, where he offers honest accounts of his struggle with clinical depression, on today's 700 ... ...

Regent University teacher and author Chris Easterly shares about his new book And the Darkness Did Not Overcome: A Christian's Memoir of Depression, where he offers honest accounts of his struggle with clinical depression, on today's 700 ... ...

Regent University teacher and author Chris Easterly shares about his new book And the Darkness Did Not Overcome: A Christian's Memoir of Depression, where he offers honest accounts of his struggle with clinical depression, on today's 700 ... ...

Dr. Tim Maness welcomes Ginger Robinson, associate pastor of Westmore Church of God in Cleveland, Tennessee. She discusses her journey as a pastor's widow raising two children in the shadow of her husband, Jeremy's, passing. She and her husband planted the Open Door Community Church in Northern Kentucky, where they pastored for 12 years before pastoring Bethalto Church of God in Illinois for 10 years. Their daughters were 16 and 14 when Jeremy died in 2015. In 2020, the Robinson's moved to be closer to family in Cleveland, where Ginger has taught part-time at TCPS and worked as director of the U-Turn Institute, as well as having led 15 GriefShare groups. Ginger has a BS in Communications from Lee University and an MA in Communications from Regent University.

In this episode, I talk with Dr. Mark Yarhouse and Dr. Julia Sadusky about the rapidly expanding language of emerging sexual identities and what it means for the young people we care about. We explore why new terms keep appearing, how identity forms in adolescence, and what teens are actually trying to express when they use language many of us have never heard before. Rather than reacting with fear or reducing anyone to a label, Mark and Julia help us rethink our posture, moving toward curiosity, presence, and trust instead of anxiety and quick judgments. We dig into discipleship, belonging, and how to walk with teens in a way that reflects the steady, un-fragile heart of God. If you're a parent, pastor, or leader trying to navigate this moment with wisdom, compassion, and clarity, this conversation offers a hopeful and deeply grounded way forward.Mark A. Yarhouse, Psy.D., is a clinical psychologist who specializes in conflicts tied to religious identity and sexual and gender identity. He assists people who are navigating the complex relationship between their sexual or gender identity and Christian faith. He is a Professor of Psychology at Wheaton College, where he runs the Sexual and Gender Identity (SGI) Institute and the Mental Health Collective. He is an award-winning teacher and researcher and is the past recipient of the Gary Collins Award for Excellence in Christian Counseling. He was a past participant with the Ethics and Public Policy Center think tank in Washington, DC, and he was named Senior Fellow with the Council of Christian Colleges and Universities to conduct a study of students navigating sexual identity concerns at Christian colleges and universities. He has served for over a decade as the Chair of the task force on LGBT issues for Division 36 (Psychology of Religion and Spirituality) of the American Psychological Association.Dr. Julia Sadusky is a licensed clinical psychologist and the owner of a private practice in Littleton, CO. She is also an author, consultant, speaker, and adjunct professor. Dr. Sadusky has done extensive research and clinical work in sexual and gender development and specializes in trauma-informed care. She earned a bachelor's degree from Ave Maria University and a master's degree and doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Regent University. She has authored several books around human sexuality and gender with Dr. Mark Yarhouse and has authored several books herself helping equip parents to teach kids and teens about sexuality in developmentally-appropriate ways.Mark and Julia's book:Emerging Sexual IdentitiesMark's Recommendation:The Anxious GenerationJulia's Recommendation:TendernessConnect with Joshua: jjohnson@shiftingculturepodcast.comGo to www.shiftingculturepodcast.com to interact and donate. Every donation helps to produce more podcasts for you to enjoy.Follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Threads, Bluesky or YouTubeConsider Giving to the podcast and to the ministry that my wife and I do around the world. Just click on the support the show link below Contact me to advertise: jjohnson@shiftingculturepodcast.com Support the show

On this episode, I sit down with Mark Batterson, my friend, best-selling author, and pastor of National Community Church, for a heartfelt conversation about his inspiring new book, Gradually, Then Suddenly.   Together, we unpack powerful themes from Mark Batterson's life and writing, including the importance of embracing gradual growth, the value of long obedience, and trusting that God works through seasons of waiting just as much as in breakthrough moments. You'll hear real stories of dreaming big, failing and starting over, giving generously, and staying humble and hungry, no matter where you are on your journey.   Whether you're feeling stuck, facing adversity, or struggling to see the fruit of your hard work, this conversation is a reminder that progress often comes "gradually, then suddenly." You'll walk away encouraged to stay faithful, keep growing, and believe that your own breakthrough might be closer than you think.     About Mark, Mark Batterson is the New York Times bestselling author of two dozen adult and children's books including Win the Day, Chase the Lion and A Million Little Miracles. His newest book is Gradually Then Suddenly, How to Dream Bigger, Decide Better, and Leave a Lasting Legacy. More than 10 million of his books are in print in dozens of languages. Mark is also the lead pastor of National Community Church in Washington, D.C. One church with multiple campuses, NCC owns and operates Ebenezers Coffeehouse, the DC Dream Center and the Capital Turnaround—a 100,000-square-foot city block that includes an event venue and child development center. Mark holds a doctor of ministry degree from Regent University. He and his wife, Lora, have been married for 30 years, have three adult children and reside on Capitol Hill. For more information, visit markbatterson.com and Instagram.com/markbatterson & https://twitter.com/markbatterson   Here's a few additional resources for you… Follow me on Instagram: @JonGordon11 Order my new book 'The 7 Commitments of a Great Team' today! Every week, I send out a free Positive Tip newsletter via email. It's advice for your life, work and team. You can sign up now here and catch up on past newsletters. Ready to lead with greater clarity, confidence, and purpose? The Certified Positive Leader Program is for anyone who wants to grow as a leader from the inside out. It's a self-paced experience built around my most impactful leadership principles with tools you can apply right away to improve your mindset, relationships, and results. You'll discover what it really means to lead with positivity… and how to do it every day. Learn more here! Join me for my Day of Development! You'll learn proven strategies to develop confidence, improve your leadership and build a connected and committed team. You'll leave with an action plan to supercharge your growth and results. It's time to Create your Positive Advantage. Get details and sign up here. Do you feel called to do more? Would you like to impact more people as a leader, writer, speaker, coach and trainer? Get Jon Gordon Certified if you want to be mentored by me and my team to teach my proven frameworks principles, and programs for businesses, sports, education, healthcare!

Dr. Julia Sadusky, a Catholic and licensed psychologist from Colorado, joins David and TJ to unpack the Chiles vs. Salazar Supreme Court case and what's behind the debates around conversion therapy. Julia talks about how she brings together her faith and psychology, and why—as a conservative Christian—she chose to support Colorado's ban on “conversion therapy” for minors, through an amicus brief.We are grateful for the nuance and clarity Julia offers in this (often heated and stressful) conflict in the courts and in our church circles, and we invite you to take that same posture of openness and care, as you listen.★ About Our GuestDr. Julia Sadusky is a licensed clinical psychologist and the owner of a private practice in Littleton, CO. She is also an author, consultant, speaker, and adjunct professor. Dr. Sadusky has done extensive research and clinical work in sexual and gender development and specializes in trauma-informed care. She earned a bachelor's degree from Ave Maria University and a master's degree and doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Regent University. She has authored several books around human sexuality, with her most recent two-book series entitled, “Start Talking to Your Kids about Sex: A Practical Guide for Catholics” (Ave Maria Press, 2023) and “Talking with Your Teen about Sex: A Practical Guide for Catholics” (Ave Maria Press, 2024). You can find her at juliasadusky.com.—Note: This episode uses the terms “Side A,” “Side B,” and “Side X” as shorthand quite a bit. If you're new to that conversation, you might find it helpful to check out episode #3, where we talk through the four “sides”: ⁠#3 - A-B-Y-X | 4 Sides on SSA/Gay Sexuality⁠—★ Timestamps(00:00) Quick intro, Side A, Side B, Side X(02:58) Introducing Julia: Now you know a psychologist from Delaware(06:17) How (can) psychology and Christian faith go together(08:17) What is conversion therapy?(12:33) Conversion therapy success rates? Digging into Joseph Nicolosi's research(22:47) What about “reintegrative therapy”? Measuring “change in attraction”(25:59) History of changing diagnoses, reports on conversion therapy(29:21) OK, so, the current case: Chiles vs. Salazar(40:40) Is this more about conversion therapy? or religious freedom? Is therapy “speech”?(45:58) How do contemporary trans politics overlap (or hype) this case?—★ Send us feedback, questions, comments, and support || Email: communionandshalom@gmail.com | Instagram: @newkinship | Substack: @newkinship—★ Credits || Creators and Hosts: David Frank, TJ Espinoza, Tyler Parker | Audio Engineer: Carl Swenson, carlswensonmusic.com | Podcast Manager: Elena F. | Graphic Designer: Gavin Popken, gavinpopkenart.com ★ Get full access to New Kinship at newkinship.substack.com/subscribe

A ministry built from an empire of lettuce. Howard Long reflects on his success and his recent honor from Regent University in May 2025 for faith-driven entrepreneurship on today's 700 Club Interactive.

A ministry built from an empire of lettuce. Howard Long reflects on his success and his recent honor from Regent University in May 2025 for faith-driven entrepreneurship on today's 700 Club Interactive.

A ministry built from an empire of lettuce. Howard Long reflects on his success and his recent honor from Regent University in May 2025 for faith-driven entrepreneurship on today's 700 Club Interactive.

Old mindsets regarding "full-time church ministry" are out. and by necessity, co-vocational ministry is the new reality in building God's Kingdom. Old concepts of bi-vocational ministry, where we compartmentalized ministry work so that it can be financially supported by secular work are being replaced by a holistic approach where everything we do at work is an essential part of building and representing God's Kingdom on earth. Raised in the UK, Simon studied economics, and international affairs. He moved to the U.S. to attend PBC, where he received his BTh. Simon has led numerous Christian schools and has a long teaching career in biblical worldview and international politics. He received his MA in Government and Public Policy and Doctorate of Education from Regent University.We hope that this teaching left you more encouraged and equipped today. Ministers Fellowship International exists to help leaders build healthy, strong, impacting churches and to do so in a way that makes for a healthy leader.

Send us a textIn this episode of Gotta Be Saints, Brendan Gotta welcomes back Dr. Julia Sadusky, a clinical psychologist and author of Emerging Gender Identities: Understanding the Diverse Experiences of Today's Youth. Together, they unpack the complex and often misunderstood topic of conversion therapy—how it's defined, what the law says, and how Catholics can approach questions of faith, sexuality, and identity with both compassion and truth.From Colorado's 2019 conversion therapy ban to the challenges faced by Christian clinicians, this conversation explores the balance between faithful accompaniment and clinical integrity, while offering hope for families navigating these sensitive issues.Guest BioDr. Julia Sadusky is a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in the integration of faith and mental health. She works primarily with sexual and gender minorities from Christian backgrounds and provides consultation and training to churches, schools, and clinicians. Julia holds a Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology from Regent University and a B.A. from Ave Maria University. She is also the co-author of Emerging Gender Identities: Understanding the Diverse Experiences of Today's Youth. Website: juliasadusky.com Instagram: @drjuliasaduskyKey Topics & Highlights00:00 – Introduction and context for today's discussion 00:03 – Defining conversion therapy: why it's difficult to pin down 00:06 – What Colorado's 2019 law actually says 00:10 – Why many Christian clinicians feel anxious about these laws 00:14 – How faith communities historically engaged with conversion therapy 00:18 – The impact of conversion therapy on faith, family, and trust in God 00:23 – The need for emotionally mature, well-formed Catholic clinicians 00:26 – The influence of culture and social media on identity formation 00:30 – Parenting with warmth and firmness rather than fear 00:36 – Building trust and walking with teens through difficult questions 00:39 – Finding common ground across divides and engaging others with charityKey TakeawaysConversion therapy isn't a single practice—it's an umbrella term that covers any therapy seeking to change orientation or gender identity.Laws like Colorado's don't ban pastoral care or identity exploration—they restrict licensed therapists from pursuing fixed outcomes with minors.Effective Catholic counseling should help teens think critically and mature in faith, not react out of fear.Building trust and long-term relationships matters more than offering quick fixes.Faithful dialogue across political and ideological lines is still possible—and deeply needed.Sponsored by TruthlyThis episode is brought to you by Truthly — the world's first Catholic action app helping you reflect and share your faith confidently. Start your free trial here and use code Gottabesaints for a discount!Connect with Gotta Be SaintsInstagram: @gottabesaints Support the show

About Making Marriage EasierA joyous summons to love (and like) your spouse for a lifetime.Many people today are pessimistic about marriage. It's hard. It will end in divorce. If you marry, you exchange romance for responsibility. Yet research tells us the happiest people on the planet are those in healthy marriages.Can marriage be great—not just for the rare few—but for you? After twenty-five years of marriage, Arlene Pellicane has stories and biblical wisdom to share. Full of real life that will make you laugh, Making Marriage Easier addresses common threats to our marriage—poor communication, tension over differences, lack of physical intimacy, parenting stress, and more.Four key decisions will help you clarify your values and create a clear path forward. Each short chapter ends with life lessons, questions to ponder with your spouse or in a group, and prayers to strengthen and encourage. Marriage is part of God's awesome, wonderful plan. It's meant to be a celebration, not a life sentence.Whether you're holding a baby for the first time or figuring out retirement, this book is fresh kindling for a better marriage that can go the distance.Purchase a copy of Making Marriage Easier here.Connect with Arlene PellicaneWebsite | Facebook | X | Instagram | YouTubeArlene Pellicane is a speaker, host of the Happy Home podcast, and author of several books, including Parents Rising, Making Marriage Easier, and Screen Kids (coauthored with Dr. Gary Chapman). Arlene has been featured on popular media outlets, including The Today Show, Fox & Friends, Focus on the Family, FamilyLife Today, The 700 Club, and the Wall Street Journal. She is the spokesperson for National Marriage Week and has been happily married to her husband, James, for more than 25 years. Arlene earned her BA from Biola University and her master's in journalism from Regent University. Arlene inspires parents to raise children who are ready for life (not just playing video games). As an advocate of delaying smartphones and social media, her three children are living a revolutionary digital life and thriving. Arlene lives with her family in San Diego.