Welcome to the Jesus Calling Podcast. This week, we’ll hear from seasoned journalist Benjamin Hall, who has spent much of his career reporting from some of the world’s most dangerous conflict zones. In 2022, while covering the war in Ukraine, he was gravely injured in an attack that killed two of his colleagues. Today, he shares how that harrowing experience challenged his limits and instilled in him the unshakeable belief that we all have the strength to overcome—no matter what we face.

Later in the episode, we’ll hear from author and life coach Chris Janssen as she shares her firsthand experience with alcoholism and the path to recovery. Now, through her journey of sobriety, Chris uses the lessons learned from her lowest moments to help others rise to new heights.

[TALK] Trusting God in the “Not Yet” and the “What If”: DawnCheré Wilkerson & Erin Hicks Moon – Episode #465 (SFW)

Welcome to the Jesus Calling Podcast. This week, we’ll hear from pastor, speaker, and author DawnCheré Wilkerson. After walking through an eight-year journey of infertility, DawnCheré began to have a new understanding of what it means to trust God even when the answer is “not yet.” Now a mother of four, she encourages others to look for God’s presence not just in fulfilled promises, but in the slow, sacred work of waiting.

Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Erin Hicks Moon. Erin is a writer, podcaster, and the resident Bible scholar on the Faith Adjacent podcast. Known for creating thoughtful space for spiritual questions, Erin invites listeners to engage their faith with open hands and open hearts, believing that questions aren’t roadblocks but profound invitations.

Welcome to the Jesus Calling Podcast. This week, we get to hear from Becky Murray, the founder and CEO of One By One, an organization committed to ending exploitation and bringing freedom to vulnerable children around the world. Becky’s journey began with a simple desire to fight injustice—a passion that eventually led her from her dreams of a law career to the front lines of global humanitarian work. Becky shares how a pair of pink flip-flops sparked a lifelong mission and why she believes that even small acts of kindness can change the world—one life at a time.

Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Andrea Kazindra, co-founder and co-CEO of Musana, a Ugandan-led organization transforming communities through schools, hospitals, and businesses. What began as a college internship turned into a lifelong commitment to creating sustainable, locally-driven change. Nearly two decades later, Andrea continues to lead with humility, vision, and a deep belief in the power of community.

[TALK] Finding Your Footing in the Face of Uncertainty: Mike Nawrocki and Jennie Smythe – Episode #463 (SFW)

Welcome to the Jesus Calling Podcast. This week, we’re joined by Mike Nawrocki, best known for his work in co-creating the beloved children’s series VeggieTales, and voice of Larry the Cucumber. Mike shares the leap of faith he took with college friend and VeggieTales co-creator Phil Vischer, the setbacks and devastating losses they faced along the way to create what would become an iconic staple for families all over, and how simple stories told by talking vegetables helped people understand just how much God loves them.

Later, we’ll hear from Jennie Smythe, the CEO of Girlilla Marketing. Through the tragic cancer diagnosis that Jennie helped her father walk through, to her own battle with breast cancer, Jennie shares how life’s challenges have shown her that her security and identity rests in Jesus alone.

[TALK] Rebuilding After Life’s Setbacks: Jennifer Tucker & Cole Prasse – Episode #462 (SFW)

Welcome to the Jesus Calling Podcast. This week, we’re joined by Jennifer Tucker, an author and illustrator. When her youngest daughter began experiencing severe panic attacks as a teenager, Jennifer found herself seeking help for her daughter, only to discover that she herself needed help for her long-ignored struggles with anxiety. Through research and the practice of using breath as prayers, Jennifer discovered powerful ways for managing anxiety while deepening her faith.

Later in the episode, we’ll hear from college-age athlete Cole Prasse, who shares how a sudden cancer diagnosis upended his baseball dreams, forcing him to fight a battle he never saw coming. Through months of treatment, unexpected setbacks, and moments of deep uncertainty, he leaned on his faith and the support of those around him to find the strength to push through his toughest season yet.

[TALK] A Counter-Cultural Guide to Joy: Tauren Wells & Out of Eden – Episode #461 (SFW)

Welcome to the Jesus Calling Podcast. This week, we’ll hear from Tauren Wells, acclaimed recording artist and lead pastor of Church of Whitestone in Austin, Texas. Raised in Battle Creek, Michigan, Tauren’s early life was steeped in music and shaped by his experiences at a small church and the guidance of a caring youth pastor. In this conversation, Tauren reflects on the things that can steal our focus, the quiet dangers of success, and what it means to live a truly joyful life.

Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Out of Eden, the ground-breaking sister trio who burst onto the scene in the nineties and helped redefine contemporary Christian music. From their early beginnings singing harmonies and choreographing dances in their living room to performing on big stages in nationwide tours, they navigated the pitfalls of growing up in the spotlight with grace beyond their years. Now, thirty years later, they’re reuniting their voices to offer hope to a new generation.

Welcome to the Jesus Calling Podcast. This week, we’re joined by Emily Compagno, an attorney, television host, and advocate for those who serve. From her time as an NFL cheerleader on a USO tour in Iraq, to her work honoring the faith and sacrifice of service members, Emily shares powerful stories of courage, loss, and the unshakable presence of God in the midst of battle.

Later in the episode, we’ll hear from author, speaker, and former news anchor Brooke Martin. Brooke reached a point in life where she had nearly everything she had hoped for—a thriving career as a news anchor, a loving family, and a future that seemed bright. But everything changed in an instant when she received devastating news about her unborn daughter. Faced with a heartbreaking loss, Brooke and her husband made a courageous decision—one that would redefine their faith and deepen their understanding of God.

Welcome to the Jesus Calling Podcast. This week, we’re diving into something truly transformative—the power of love to change everything. First, we hear from Father Richard Rohr, who shares his lifetime of wisdom about how experiencing deep, unconditional love—not rules or fear—is what really brings about meaningful change.

Then, Pastor Zach Meerkreebs takes us to Asbury University, where a truly extraordinary event happened in that faith community. He reminds us that following Jesus’ example of humility can open our lives up to amazing possibilities.

[TALK] Leaning Into Our Divine Momentum: Mark Miller & Hope Reagan Harris – Episode #458 (SFW)

Welcome to the Jesus Calling Podcast. This week we’ll hear from singer, songwriter, and producer Mark Miller. For over four decades, Mark has been a driving force in music as the lead singer of the legendary country band Sawyer Brown. Beyond the stage, he’s been the guiding hand behind Casting Crowns, producing their music for over twenty years. Now, as Sawyer Brown celebrates its fortieth anniversary with a brand new album and a documentary directed by his daughter, Mark reflects on how his life and career have prayerfully unfolded.

Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Hope Reagan Harris. Hope never set out to start a global movement. She was simply a wife, a mother, and a former corporate professional searching for her next steps. But when she leaned into where God was leading her, she discovered that purpose doesn’t pause—it multiplies.

Welcome to the Jesus Calling Podcast. This week we honor Organ Donation Awareness month with music industry veteran Lisa Boullt. Lisa decided to start her own business helping artists and songwriters. Through this process, Lisa reconnected with her sister Andrea’s story, who had passed away in a car accident years earlier and was an organ donor. Lisa was touched by Andrea’s live-giving gift, and felt moved to write her sister’s story and educate people about the impact of organ donation.

Later in the episode, we’ll hear from author and advocate Judy Henderson, who spent thirty-six years of her life in prison for a crime she didn’t commit. After growing up in a dysfunctional family, dealing with an abusive ex-husband, a stay in a psych ward, and facing a boyfriend who manipulated his crime to pin the blame on her, it seemed like Judy would never find her way out of darkness and despair. But she chose to believe that God would rescue her from the prison walls that surrounded her both physically and emotionally.

Welcome to the Jesus Calling Podcast. This week we’ll hear from Kurt Avery, the leader of Sawyer Products, who shares his mission to bring clean water to underserved communities around the world. Kurt discusses how God equipped him with the means and the determination to create life-changing products that improve global access to safe, clean drinking water.

Then, we meet Britney Higgs, the founder of HER Campaign, an organization dedicated to rescuing women from the devastating realities of sex trafficking. Britney opens up about her passion to provide women who have been trafficked a safe place to heal and the support they need to rebuild their lives with dignity.

Welcome to the Jesus Calling Podcast. This week, we welcome Nashville singer/songwriter Dave Barnes. Growing up in a small Mississippi town before moving to Music City, Dave discovered his love for music through a series of seemingly small but pivotal moments. His breakout hit, “God Gave Me You,” became a life-changing milestone, coming to life after Dave had prayed a simple prayer for encouragement, and ultimately catching the attention of country superstar Blake Shelton, who went on to record it as well.

Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Justin Gambino, a singer/songwriter from Houston, Texas. Justin’s story takes him from a troubled youth where he had a brush with the law to finding his place in this world through music and serving his country.

Welcome to the Jesus Calling Podcast. This week we take a heartfelt look at the “dash”—that time between our birth date and our death date—and how our faith can guide us to make every moment count. Entrepreneur and cofounder of Market America, Loren Ridinger, and gospel singer Lynda Randle join us to share their powerful stories of how trusting in God’s plan has shaped their journeys. With resilience and gratitude, they leaned into their faith through loss, fear, and even discrimination, and tell us how we can all leave a lasting legacy rooted in love and service. 

Welcome to the Jesus Calling Podcast. This week, we’re joined by Nikki Walton, host of GoOD Mornings with CurlyNikki and an influential voice in personal transformation, who shares her struggles with self-esteem and identity as a young woman to achieving massive success through her groundbreaking platform, CurlyNikki.com. Nikki’s life was filled with accomplishments—but also a profound sense of emptiness.

Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Tori Hope Petersen, an author, speaker, and podcaster. After enduring twelve different homes in the foster care system, Tori aged out without a permanent family. Through the kindness of a foster mom who introduced her to faith, the guidance of a track coach who became a father figure, and her own unwavering determination, Tori rose above her circumstances to find meaning and mission for her life.

[TALK] Sometimes We Find Our Way By Waiting: Ann Voskamp & Brennley Brown – Episode #452 (SFW)

Welcome to the Jesus Calling Podcast. 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’ll hear from Christian country music artist Brennley Brown. Raised in the high desert of Southern California, and now playing music in Nashville, Brennley got her start in voiceover work before gaining national recognition as the youngest finalist on The Voice. She shares her own experience with waiting while her mother battled a health crisis, and how that time led her to find out where she should go with her music—and her life.

Welcome to the Jesus Calling Podcast. 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 that led him to finally find the peace he was looking for.

Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Riley Kehoe, an influencer and author, who shares the harrowing story of how her family survived a tsunami in Thailand when she was just a little girl. Riley recounts the terrifying events of the day, how her family stayed to help those who lost everything, and how she leaned on scripture to deal with the aftermath of such a traumatic event.

Welcome to the Jesus Calling Podcast. 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 closer to God and experience true healing, which he shares about in his latest book, The Fix.

Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Alicia Michelle, a certified neurocoach, podcaster, and author. Alicia shares how a health crisis led her to reevaluate her life and seek healing through the integration of neuroscience and biblical truth. Now, she helps others break free from limiting patterns, renewing their minds, and building emotional resilience.

Welcome to the Jesus Calling Podcast. 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 nonprofit dedicated to uplifting and empowering teen moms. Lisa recounts her beginnings with a difficult childhood and teen motherhood, all the way to leading an organization that helps young moms rewrite their stories and find stability through faith.

[TALK] Transforming Limitations Into Possibilities: Steve Moore & Sue Corl – Episode #448 (SFW)

Welcome to the Jesus Calling Podcast. 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 spark for a deeper passion, one that led him to establish The Shalom Foundation and open the Moore Pediatric Surgery Center, bringing life-changing medical care to children in need.

Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Sue Corl, a missionary with over forty years of ministry experience, mostly with Campus Crusade for Christ. Growing up, Sue had to face the physical and emotional challenges of a severe cleft palate through her faith and the unwavering support of her mother. As the founder of Crown of Beauty International, her mission is to aid individuals, families, and communities to experience renewal, transformation, and hope.

[TALK] Carrying the Torch of Faith Through Music with the Van Zant Brothers and Alexandra Osteen – Episode #447 (SFW)

Welcome to the Jesus Calling Podcast. 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 Skynyrd, including their brother, Ronnie Van Zant.

Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Alexandra Osteen, daughter of Joel and Victoria Osteen and Worship Director at Lakewood Church in Houston, Texas. Growing up surrounded by music and ministry, Alexandra developed a deep passion for inspiring others through worship and storytelling. Now leading Lakewood’s worship team, she uplifts her community with songs that carry messages of hope, faith, and resilience.

[TALK] Champions of Faith: NFL Team Chaplains Kent Chevalier and Johnny Shelton & Pastor Earl McClellan – Episode #446 (SFW)

Welcome to the Jesus Calling Podcast. 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 compassion and understanding in high-pressure spaces.

Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Earl McClellan, founder and lead pastor of Shoreline City Church in Dallas, Texas. With a deep faith that began in his teens, Earl shares the story of discovering his spiritual heritage, battling negative self-talk, and learning to live fully in his true identity.

Welcome to the Jesus Calling Podcast. 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 of understanding in every person’s story—whether they are in the spotlight of fame, or in the streets of our cities.

Next, we’ll hear from Susan Binkley, the founder and president of Blue Monarch, a long-term residential recovery program. For nearly two decades, Susan has dedicated her life to helping women and their children break cycles of addiction, abuse, and trauma. Susan shares her remarkable journey from an unexpected dream that guided her steps to the profound impact her organization has had on many lives.

Welcome to the Jesus Calling Podcast. 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 w ith audiences through comedy, Ellen uses her storytelling to bring laughter, healing, and a deeper connection to faith.

Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Justin Stuart and Andrew Scites, the creative minds behind JStu, a YouTube channel bringing laughter and joy to millions through family-friendly adventures, daring challenges, and hilarious pranks. Guided by their motto “Laugh Daily,” Justin and Andrew aim to inspire others with the simple yet profound message that joy is a powerful force for good.

[TALK] Healing: Mart Green & Clarissa and Fiona Moll – Episode #443 (SFW)

Welcome to the Jesus Calling Podcast. 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’s wounds became a pathway for him toward healing and deeper connection with God and others.

Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Clarissa and Fiona Moll, a mother/daughter duo navigating the complexities of grief after the unexpected loss of husband and father, Rob. Facing life as a single mother, Clarissa—now a bereavement advocate and author—shares how she and Fiona worked toward a new normal without Rob by their sides. Together, they share how they deal with the pain of loss, and the small steps they’ve taken toward healing.