Jesus Calling: Stories of Faith

*This episode may be triggering for some listeners.* 

This week, we have writer and speaker Ann Voskamp back on the podcast. Ann shares insights from her personal experiences with anxiety and brokenness and what she found out while she waited through those uncomfortable moments, and how she used scripture, prayer, and the practice of writing to heal her mind and become closer to God. 

Later in the episode, we’l...

This week, we’ll hear from Jay Lowder, an evangelist who has spent more than two decades traveling the globe, sharing the message of the gospel with audiences ranging from NFL teams to prison inmates. Early in his life, Jay struggled with depression which led him to medicate with alcohol, but ultimately brought him no peace from his pain. Feeling like giving up, Jay considered suicide, and he shares about the series of events...

This week, we’re joined by Ian Morgan Cron, who shares his deeply personal journey with the Enneagram, addiction, and faith. Ian recounts how a chance encounter with a book on the Enneagram during a retreat sparked a life-changing path of self-awareness, ultimately inspiring his book, The Road Back to You. Through his story, Ian challenges us to see addiction not simply as a problem to be solved, but as an opportunity to draw...

This week, we’re delighted to welcome back author and speaker Melanie Shankle. Through her reflections on overcoming a challenging childhood and breaking generational cycles of dysfunction, Melanie shares profound insights on motherhood, the power of faith, and how to turn painful histories into lasting legacies of hope and resilience.

Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Lisa Steven, founder of Hope House Colorado, a ...

On this episode of Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer, we’ll hear from Bible teacher and author Rachel G. Scott. Rachel shares the five different types of leaps of faith she’s identified, and the truths we can hold onto during times of transition as we get to where we’re supposed to be. 

Guest’s Links
Facebook: @iamrachelgscott

Twitter: @iamrachelgscott

Instagram: @iamrachelgscott

Watch this interview...

*This content may be triggering for some listeners.* 

This week, we’ll hear from Steve Moore, a lifelong music industry professional whose career trajectory took a sharp turn after a life-changing trip to Guatemala. After a storied career managing legendary artists like Stevie Ray Vaughan and George Strait—and serving as CEO of the Country Music Association—a simple journey to help build a school became the s...

This week, we’ll hear from Johnny and Donnie Van Zant, brothers who share a rich legacy rooted in music, faith, and resilience. Renowned for their roles in the iconic bands Lynyrd Skynyrd and .38 Special, the Van Zant brothers reflect on their humble beginnings shaped by family and music, and how they faced personal and professional challenges, including the tragic plane crash that took the lives of several members of Lynyrd ...

This week, we’re joined by Kent Chevalier and Johnny Shelton, two remarkable men who serve as NFL team chaplains, providing spiritual guidance, encouragement, and support to players, coaches, and their families. Kent serves with the Pittsburgh Steelers, while Johnny works with the Baltimore Ravens. They each offer a glimpse into the challenges NFL athletes face both on and off the field, and the transformative power of compas...

This week, we’re joined by Ken Abraham, a master storyteller known for his ability to capture the hearts and stories of some of the world's most notable figures, including Buzz Aldrin, Chuck Norris, Stephen Curtis Chapman, Payne Stewart, and many others. His latest book, No Address, highlights a deep empathy and commitment to honor the stories of those dealing with homelessness, and reminds us of the power o...

On this episode of Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer, we’ll hear from Grammy Award-winning musician and songwriter Ron Block, of Alison Krauss & Union Station. Ron shares how, through all the ups and downs of a music career, he’s learned to depend on God. 

Guest’s Links

Ron Block’s Facebook: @RonBlockMusic

Ron Block’s Twit...

This week we’re joined by Ellen Skrmetti, a stand-up comedian and author whose journey to the stage was peppered with many moments of overcoming fear and finding humor in unexpected situations. From conquering those fears to redefining what it means to connect with audiences through comedy, Ellen uses her storytelling to bring laughter, healing, and a deeper connection to faith.

Later in the epi...

This week, we welcome Mart Green, the founder and CEO of Mardel Christian & Education and of Every Tribe Every Nation, and the Ministry Investment Officer for the Hobby Lobby family of companies founded by his father, David Green. Mart opens up about a pivotal trip he took to Guatemala that showed him the power of God’s love in a highly personal way that he never really had grasped before, and how life&r...

The beloved historical drama television series The Chosen has burst onto the scene with its real, raw, and accurate depiction of the life of Jesus. As the first multi-season series about the life and ministry of Jesus, the show focuses on the people who met and followed Him, giving viewers a personal perspective through the eyes of those who knew Him—bringing out an emotional, personal, and intimate side of ...

This week, we talk with two highly creative individuals who have been able to bring positive, uplifting, and spiritually striking stories to the world through the mediums of television, film, and animation. 

Nika King is an actor and producer who is best known for her comedic abilities and her breakout role as Leslie on the HBO series Euphoria. King honestly shares about her early life watching family...

On this episode of Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer, we’ll hear from author Marie Chapian, who shares about her practice of quiet prayer, and how we can go to that still, peaceful place in the presence of God to keep the chaos of the world from taking us over. 

Guest’s Links
Facebook: @marie.chapian.9

Twitter: @mariechapian

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*This episode mentions suicide and may not be suitable for all listeners.*

This week, we’ll hear from BeBe Winans, a celebrated figure in gospel and R&B music from the renowned Winans family, known for their deep-rooted musical legacy. Raised in a household steeped in gospel traditions and surrounded by the influences of Motown, Bebe experienced some of the ups and downs of the music scene a...

This week, we’ll hear from Dr. Chris Rappazini—a professor of leadership and former pastor—as he shares a deeply personal story through the lens of grief and recovery. Chris reveals how his father's death propelled his brother into a downward spiral of addiction and estrangement. Yet, amidst the chaos, a narrative of hope and forgiveness emerges, highlighting the profound realization that our past does not define our f...

*This episode mentions violence and may not be suitable for all listeners.* 

This week, we’ll hear from Davey Blackburn, founder of Nothing Is Wasted Ministries, who shares his heart-wrenching story of love, loss, and finding life again after profound pain. After planting a new church, Davey faced unimaginable tragedy when his wife, Amanda, and their unborn child were killed in a home invasion. Through his...

This week, we’ll hear from Alyssa Bethke, who’s a mom of three, a blogger, YouTuber, and co-host of the Real Life Podcast with her husband, Jeff. Alyssa reflects on the overwhelming pressures women face to excel in every area of life, and the need for honesty and grace toward ourselves, others, and God about our struggles.

Later in the episode, we’ll hear from author and content creator Chelsea Damon, who ...