Explore every episode of the podcast The Story Partners Podcast

In the face of devastating loss and crushing responsibility, Rob reached his breaking point. With three family members gone, his church in shambles, and everyone looking for him for answers, he cried out to God for help. But the answer he got was not what he wanted…   Welcome to The Story Partners Podcast - a show featuring stories of transformation told by the people who lived them.  It is our hope that as you listen, you are fully immersed into the world of the storyteller.  This isn’t a back-forth interview format, instead it’s an uninterrupted and authentic storytelling experience.  This is a unique format for a podcast, but we really love it - and we hope you do too! This story comes from family friends of ours. It is such a joy to be able to share their story. First of all, because they are incredibly genuine, faith-filled people. Also because we think this topic of burnout is something we encounter so often in our society. Rob and Jen do an amazing job of bringing us into their story of grief, loss and ultimately, hope. This is Season 4 | Episode 7, called: UnRest: Finding Peace Amidst Loss, Grief and Burnout. Resources & Links: Transcript: Click Here to Read More about the Schwinges: After ten years of marriage, two kids, numerous losses of loved ones, and more difficult seasons in ministry than they could count, Rob and Jen found themselves weary and wondering how they would be able to keep going. Little did they know that when they reached the end of their rope, God had already begun their restoration journey. In the following years with God’s strength and leading, they made the decision to intentionally retreat and refocus their hearts on who God created them to be and how He wanted them to live out their callings in everyday life. Through their restoration journey, they found healing, hope, and a passion to help others that are just like them. We hope that this story encourages your faith and helps you see Jesus in a more personal way. Recommended Episodes: If you liked Rob and Jen’s story, listen to these next… Spotify: S2 | E8: Misaligned (Dana Grindal’s Story) S2 | E4: Nothing to Prove (Daniel Mueller’s Story) S3 | E12: What’s the Point? (Reuben Shekwonyadu’s Story) S2 | E9: The Encounter (Tim Schulte’s Story) S1 | E3: You Want Me to do WHAT? (Suzie Brown’s Story) Apple Podcasts: S2 | E8: Misaligned (Dana Grindal’s Story) S2 | E4: Nothing to Prove (Daniel Mueller’s Story) S3 | E12: What’s the Point? (Reuben Shekwonyadu’s Story) S2 | E9: The Encounter (Tim Schulte’s Story) S1 | E3: You Want Me to do WHAT? (Suzie Brown’s Story) Connect with Story Partners: Watch our Films: YouTube @StoryPartnersFilms Website: www.StoryPartners.org  Instagram @Story_Partners | Facebook @StoryPartnersMinistry Give: Support this crowd-funded work at StoryPartners.org/GIVE Producers: Walt and Annie Manis Editor: Walt Manis podscan_XQjr0Vv1iIbxzYrKfnO8Lprtrdh3Fg64

Natasha Perryman was a young girl full of fears, unsure of the world around her. Then a call from God sent her on a journey of adoption, global missions, and tests of faith she never could have imagined.   Welcome to The Story Partners Podcast - a show featuring stories of transformation told by the people who lived them.  It is our hope that as you listen, you are fully immersed into the world of the storyteller.  This isn’t a back-forth interview format, instead it’s an uninterrupted and authentic storytelling experience.  This is a unique format for a podcast, but we really love it - and we hope you do too! Many of you may know that adoption is a big part of our [Walt and Annie’s] personal story. We have two daughters through adoption and I love getting to hear other peoples’ adoption stories. Our guest today, Natasha Perryman, shares her personal journey of growing her family through adoption, but even more than that, she is sharing her story of hearing God speak and following Him into a life she could have never imagined. This is Natasha Perryman in Season 4 | Episode 6, called: “Where You Lead, I Will Follow”. Resources & Links: Transcript: Click Here to Read More about Natasha Perryman: After growing their family through the gift of adoption and serving as emergency foster parents, Adam and Natasha Perryman followed God’s lead from Oklahoma into cross-cultural missions. Over the last thirteen years, they have served in Uganda, Russia, and Germany, developing a deep appreciation for the people and diversity of each country. Natasha enjoys planning events, cooking for her family, and taking prayer walks in the Black Forest. Connect With Natasha via email: NatashaHPerryman@gmail.com We hope that this story encourages your faith and helps you see Jesus in a more personal way. Recommended Episodes: If you liked Natasha’s story, listen to these next… Spotify: S3 | E2: What’s in a Name (Elmira Javid’s Story) S3 | E7: Can I Trust You? (Judy Van Rooy’s Story) S3 | E12: What’s the Point? (Reuben Shekwonyadu’s Story) S3 | E11: All In! (Erik Brown’s Story) Apple Podcasts: S3 | E2: What’s in a Name (Elmira Javid’s Story) S3 | E7: Can I Trust You? (Judy Van Rooy’s Story) S3 | E12: What’s the Point? (Reuben Shekwonyadu’s Story) S3 | E11: All In! (Erik Brown’s Story) Connect with Story Partners: Watch our Films: YouTube @StoryPartnersFilms Website: www.StoryPartners.org  Instagram @Story_Partners | Facebook @StoryPartnersMinistry Give: Support this crowd-funded work at StoryPartners.org/GIVE Producers: Walt and Annie Manis Editor: Walt Manis podscan_XQjr0Vv1iIbxzYrKfnO8Lprtrdh3Fg64

Eric Peacock was a preacher’s kid, raised under the shadow of a man who was one person in the pulpit and another behind closed doors. In public, his father was a model of faith but at home, he was abusive, justifying his violence in God’s name. Confused, hurt, and angry, Eric began to question everything he had been taught and set out on a journey to confront the God he thought he knew. Welcome to The Story Partners Podcast - a show featuring stories of transformation told by the people who lived them.  It is our hope that as you listen, you are fully immersed into the world of the storyteller.  This isn’t a back-forth interview format, instead it’s an uninterrupted and authentic storytelling experience.  This is a unique format for a podcast, but we really love it - and we hope you do too! Often we see God through the lens of our earthly father. Eric Peacock certainly did and it’s no wonder he was so confused about who God really was. Eric’s dad was a pastor, preaching behind the pulpit each week, convincing everyone that he was a godly man. But behind closed doors, it was a completely different story… In today’s story, we’ll follow Eric’s journey as he begins to learn, against all odds, who God is, and what God really thinks of him…  This is Eric Peacock in Season 4 | Episode 5, called: “The Punisher behind the Pulpit: My Father’s Hidden Hand”. Content Warning: This story deals with themes of domestic child abuse, gang violence and sexual abuse. Listener discretion is advised. Resources & Links: Transcript: Click Here to Read More about Eric Peacock: Eric Peacock works in Information Technology and serves as an elder and Youth Director at his church. He is also a drummer on the worship team and is currently completing seminary, with graduation expected in October 2026. Eric has shared the gospel with inmates and youth in correctional and mental health facilities and is passionate about encouraging, inspiring, and helping bring gospel-centered transformation to the lives of the broken. We hope that this story encourages your faith and helps you see Jesus in a more personal way. Recommended Episodes: If you liked Eric’s story, listen to these next… Spotify: S2 | E2: The Journey (Eddie Smith’s Story) S3 | E9: Looking for Love (in all the wrong places) (Roberta Castillo’s Story) S3 | E5: Betrayed (Jean Louis Kassis’s Story) S1 | E1: 746746 Is Not My Name (Billy Webb’s Story) Apple Podcasts: S2 | E2: The Journey (Eddie Smith’s Story) S3 | E9: Looking for Love in All the Wrong Places (Roberta Castillo’s Story) S3 | E5: Betrayed (Jean Louis Kassis’s Story) S1 | E1: 746746 Is Not My Name (Billy Webb’s Story) Connect with Story Partners: Watch our Films: YouTube @StoryPartnersFilms Website: www.StoryPartners.org  Instagram @Story_Partners | Facebook @StoryPartnersMinistry Give: Support this crowd-funded work at StoryPartners.org/GIVE Producers: Walt and Annie Manis Editor: Walt Manis podscan_XQjr0Vv1iIbxzYrKfnO8Lprtrdh3Fg64

When a tragic accident leaves a man dead, respected community member Connie Calhoun suddenly finds herself possibly facing prison time for a crime she insists she didn’t commit. As public outrage grows, the question becomes unavoidable: is she really who they say she is? Welcome to The Story Partners Podcast - a show featuring stories of transformation told by the people who lived them.  It is our hope that as you listen, you are fully immersed into the world of the storyteller.  This isn’t a back-forth interview format, instead it’s an uninterrupted and authentic storytelling experience.  This is a unique format for a podcast, but we really love it - and we hope you do too! In today’s story you will hear from Connie Calhoun. We got connected with Connie through her son, Devin, whose story you will hear in a few weeks. When we were meeting with Devin, he started telling us about his mom and all that she had experienced with the Lord, and we were blown away. We asked him if Connie would be willing to share her story and she courageously decided that she was ready to share it publicly for the first time ever! We are so encouraged and inspired by Connie’s faith and we know you will be, too. This is Connie Calhoun in Season 4 | Episode 4, called: “I’m Not Who They Say I Am”. Resources & Links: Transcript: Click Here to Read More about Connie Calhoun: God is the head of Connie’s life. She is deeply devoted to her family - her husband of 31 years, their three sons, three grandchildren, and the three daughters-in-love who have joined the family through marriage. She desires to live her life faithfully, using her God-given gifts and abilities to serve and bless others. Connect With Connie Online:  Facebook | Connie Calhoun TikTok | TashaBlis We hope that this story encourages your faith and helps you see Jesus in a more personal way. Recommended Episodes: If you liked Connie’s story, listen to these next… Spotify: S3 | E5: Betrayed (Jean Louis Kassis’s Story) S1 | E1: 746746 Is Not My Name (Billy Webb’s Story) S3 | E1 (Part 1): Killing in the Name of God: Former Hezbollah Member Meets Jesus (Afshin Javid’s Story) Apple Podcasts: S3 | E5: Betrayed (Jean Louis Kassis’s Story) S1 | E1: 746746 Is Not My Name (Billy Webb’s Story) S3 | E1 (Part 1): Killing in the Name of God: Former Hezbollah Member Meets Jesus (Afshin Javid’s Story) Connect with Story Partners: Watch our Films: YouTube @StoryPartnersFilms Website: www.StoryPartners.org  Instagram @Story_Partners | Facebook @StoryPartnersMinistry Give: Support this crowd-funded work at StoryPartners.org/GIVE Producers: Walt and Annie Manis Editor: Walt Manis podscan_XQjr0Vv1iIbxzYrKfnO8Lprtrdh3Fg64

Caleb Bryant’s life was in chaos. Addicted to drugs and porn, he became interested in dark supernatural things and unwittingly put himself and his roommates in harm's way. Welcome to The Story Partners Podcast - a show featuring stories of transformation told by the people who lived them.  It is our hope that as you listen, you are fully immersed into the world of the storyteller.  This isn’t a back-forth interview format, instead it’s an uninterrupted and authentic storytelling experience.  This is a unique format for a podcast, but we really love it - and we hope you do too! Content Warning: This episode is not suitable for children. Today’s story deals with sexual addiction and suicide. Listener discretion is advised.  This is Caleb Bryant in Season 4 | Episode 3 (Part 2), called: “Kinks in the Heart: Straightening Out a Twisted Life”. Resources & Links: Transcript: Click Here to Read More about Caleb Bryant: Caleb Bryant is a native West Texan that has made his home in Austin. In his spare time, he enjoys international travel, woodworking and crafting, gaming, vinyl records and reading. He’s had a wide career in tax prep, finance, insurance and underwriting, but is now shifting to obtain a masters degree in clinical mental health counseling. Addiction Resources in Austin, TX:  Austin Alcoholics Anonymous Austin Sex Addicts Anonymous Austin Area Sex and Love Addicts Anonymous We hope that this story encourages your faith and helps you see Jesus in a more personal way. Recommended Episodes: If you liked Caleb’s story, listen to these next… Spotify: S2 | E9: The Encounter (Tim Schulte’s Story) S2 | E1: To Hell and Back (Kyle Hubbart’s Story) S2 | E2: The Journey (Eddie Smith’s Story) S2 | E3: Addicted to Meth in Middle School (Emma Smith’s Story) S2 | E12: The Road to Freedom (Matt Slavik’s Story) S1 | E6: Below the Surface (Tim Brown’s Story) Apple Podcasts: S2 | E9: The Encounter (Tim Schulte’s Story) S2 | E1: To Hell and Back (Kyle Hubbart’s Story) S2 | E2: The Journey (Eddie Smith’s Story) S2 | E3:  Addicted to Meth in Middle School (Emma Smith’s Story) S2 | E12: The Road to Freedom (Matt Slavik’s Story) S1 | E6: Below the Surface (Tim Brown’s Story) Connect with Story Partners: Watch our Films: YouTube @StoryPartnersFilms Website: www.StoryPartners.org  Instagram @Story_Partners | Facebook @StoryPartnersMinistry Give: Support this crowd-funded work at StoryPartners.org/GIVE Producers: Walt and Annie Manis Editor: Walt Manis podscan_XQjr0Vv1iIbxzYrKfnO8Lprtrdh3Fg64

Caleb Bryant was a preacher’s kid desperate for his father’s approval. Behind the mask of perfection, he carried secrets too heavy to share. Consumed by insecurity and shame, he dove deeper into addiction to numb the pain. But when God began to call him out of hiding, Caleb’s carefully constructed world started to unravel. Content Warning: This episode is not suitable for children. Listener discretion is advised.  This story deals with some extremely heavy topics, including drugs, child abuse, suicide and sexual addiction. Caleb was incredibly open and vulnerable in sharing his story. And with a story about sexual addiction specifically, it’s hard always to know how many details we should include in the edit. In this story we’ve chosen to share a bit more detail than might feel comfortable.  We made this decision with a great deal of intention, and it is not shared to glorify the lifestyle that Caleb used to live. Because this is a story of redemption, we wanted to show how far Caleb has come from his lowest point. We know that others have walked similar roads to Caleb’s, and we believe that God will use Caleb’s vulnerability and honesty to help others see a way out of their own sexual addiction, and a path toward Jesus. With that said, let’s dive in. Welcome to The Story Partners Podcast - a show featuring stories of transformation told by the people who lived them.  It is our hope that as you listen, you are fully immersed into the world of the storyteller.  This isn’t a back-forth interview format, instead it’s an uninterrupted and authentic storytelling experience.  This is a unique format for a podcast, but we really love it - and we hope you do too! This is Caleb Bryant in Season 4 | Episode 3 (Part 1), called: “Kinks in the Heart: Straightening Out a Twisted Life”. Resources & Links: Transcript: Click Here to Read More about Caleb Bryant: Caleb Bryant is a native West Texan that has made his home in Austin. In his spare time, he enjoys international travel, woodworking and crafting, gaming, vinyl records and reading. He’s had a wide career in tax prep, finance, insurance and underwriting, but is now shifting to obtain a masters degree in clinical mental health counseling. Addiction Resources in Austin, TX:  Austin Alcoholics Anonymous Austin Sex Addicts Anonymous Austin Area Sex and Love Addicts Anonymous We hope that this story encourages your faith and helps you see Jesus in a more personal way. Recommended Episodes: If you liked Caleb’s story, listen to these next… Spotify: S2 | E9: The Encounter (Tim Schulte’s Story) S2 | E1: To Hell and Back (Kyle Hubbart’s Story) S2 | E2: The Journey (Eddie Smith’s Story) S2 | E3: Addicted to Meth in Middle School (Emma Smith’s Story) S2 | E12: The Road to Freedom (Matt Slavik’s Story) S1 | E6: Below the Surface (Tim Brown’s Story) Apple Podcasts: S2 | E9: The Encounter (Tim Schulte’s Story) S2 | E1: To Hell and Back (Kyle Hubbart’s Story) S2 | E2: The Journey (Eddie Smith’s Story) S2 | E3:  Addicted to Meth in Middle School (Emma Smith’s Story) S2 | E12: The Road to Freedom (Matt Slavik’s Story) S1 | E6: Below the Surface (Tim Brown’s Story) Connect with Story Partners: Watch our Films: YouTube @StoryPartnersFilms Website: www.StoryPartners.org  Instagram @Story_Partners | Facebook @StoryPartnersMinistry Give: Support this crowd-funded work at StoryPartners.org/GIVE Producers: Walt and Annie Manis Editor: Walt Manis podscan_XQjr0Vv1iIbxzYrKfnO8Lprtrdh3Fg64

Maryam Rostampour-Keller was a young woman in Iran searching for God. When she couldn’t find Him through Islam, she cried out in desperation—and He answered. That call would send her on a journey of faith and defiance that led straight into the heart of Iran’s most notorious prison. Welcome to The Story Partners Podcast - a show featuring stories of transformation told by the people who lived them.  It is our hope that as you listen, you are fully immersed into the world of the storyteller.  This isn’t a back-forth interview format, instead it’s an uninterrupted and authentic storytelling experience.  This is a unique format for a podcast, but we really love it - and we hope you do too! This is Maryam Rostampour-Keller in Season 4 | Episode 2, called: “When Faith is a Crime: The Maryam Rostampour-Keller Story”. Resources & Links: Transcript: Click Here to Read More about Maryam Rostampour-Keller: Maryam was born into a Muslim family in Iran. After becoming a Christian in her teens, she studied theology in Turkey. Her story—along with that of her friend, Marziyeh Amirizadeh—of being imprisoned for their faith and sentenced to death in Iran is told in Captive in Iran: A Remarkable True Story of Hope and Triumph Amid the Horror of Tehran’s Brutal Evin Prison. Maryam holds both a B.S. and an M.S. in International Affairs from the Georgia Institute of Technology, and her passion is to share Jesus with as many people as possible. Books by Maryam:  Captive in Iran: A Remarkable True Story of Hope and Triumph amid the Horror of Tehran’s Brutal Evin Prison Connect with Maryam Online: Facebook @MaryamRostampour-Keller // Instagram @official.maryamrostampour We hope that this story encourages your faith and helps you see Jesus in a more personal way. Recommended Episodes: If you liked Maryam’s story, listen to these next… Spotify: S3 | E12: What’s the Point? (Reuben Shekwonyadu’s Story) S3 | E2: What’s in a Name (Elmira Javid’s Story) S3 | E1 (Pt. 1): Killing in the Name of God: Afshin Javid’s Story Apple Podcasts: S3 | E12: What’s the Point? (Reuben Shekwonyadu’s Story) S3 | E2: What’s in a Name (Elmira Javid’s Story) S3 | E1 (Pt. 1): Killing in the Name of God: Afshin Javid’s Story Connect with Story Partners: Watch our Films: YouTube @StoryPartnersFilms Website: www.StoryPartners.org  Instagram @Story_Partners | Facebook @StoryPartnersMinistry Give: Support this crowd-funded work at StoryPartners.org/GIVE We hope that this story encourages your faith and helps you see Jesus in a more personal way. Producers: Walt and Annie Manis Editor: Walt Manis podscan_XQjr0Vv1iIbxzYrKfnO8Lprtrdh3Fg64

Tom Tarrants was a committed white supremacist and member of the White Knights of the Ku Klux Klan. Now, sentenced to 30 years in federal prison, Tom plans his escape. Welcome to The Story Partners Podcast - a show featuring stories of transformation told by the people who lived them. It is our hope that as you listen, you are fully immersed into the world of the storyteller.  This isn’t a back-forth interview format, instead it’s an uninterrupted and authentic storytelling experience.  This is a unique format for a podcast, but we really love it - and we hope you do too! This is Tom Tarrants in Season 4 | Episode 1 (Part 2)  called “Conversion of a Klansman: The Tom Tarrants Story”. Content Warning: This episode is intended for adult audiences and contains descriptions of racism, domestic terrorism, and violence. Listener discretion is advised Resources & Links: Transcript: Click Here to Read More about Tom: Tom Tarrants was once a committed white supremacist and member of Mississippi’s White Knights of the Ku Klux Klan, described by the FBI as one of the most violent right-wing terrorist organizations in America. In 1969, he was shot and arrested while attempting to bomb the home of a Jewish leader and was sentenced to decades in prison. During years of confinement — including time in solitary at Parchman Farm — Tarrants began reading the Bible and encountered Jesus Christ, leading to a dramatic conversion and a complete break from his former life of hatred and violence. After serving eight years of his sentence, Tarrants was released and went on to earn a doctorate, co-pastor a racially diverse church in Washington, D.C., and later serve as president of the C. S. Lewis Institute. He has devoted his life to Christian discipleship and sharing the transforming power of the Gospel. Books by Tom Tarrants:   Conversion of a Klansman Consumed by Hate, Redeemed by Love We hope that this story encourages your faith and helps you see Jesus in a more personal way. Recommended Episodes: If you liked Tom’s story, listen to these next… Spotify: S3 | E1 (Pt. 1): Killing in the Name of God: Afshin Javid’s Story S1 | E1: 746746 Is Not My Name: Billy Webb’s Story S3 | E5: Betrayed: Jean Louis Kassis’s Story S1 | E6: Below the Surface: Tim Brown’s Story Apple Podcasts: S3 | E1 (Pt. 1): Killing in the Name of God: Afshin Javid’s Story S1 | E1: 746746 Is Not My Name: Billy Webb’s Story S3 | E5: Betrayed: Jean Louis Kassis’s Story S1 | E6: Below the Surface: Tim Brown’s Story Connect with Story Partners: Watch our Films: YouTube @StoryPartnersFilms Website: www.StoryPartners.org  Instagram @Story_Partners | Facebook @StoryPartnersMinistry Give: Support this crowd-funded work at StoryPartners.org/GIVE Producers: Walt and Annie Manis Editor: Walt Manis podscan_XQjr0Vv1iIbxzYrKfnO8Lprtrdh3Fg64

Episode Description Tom Tarrants was a committed white supremacist and member of the White Knights of the Ku Klux Klan. Armed with hate and ready to die for the cause, he sets out to murder a member of the opposition. But little does he know he’s walking into a trap. Welcome to The Story Partners Podcast - a show featuring stories of transformation told by the people who lived them. It is our hope that as you listen, you are fully immersed into the world of the storyteller. This isn’t a back-forth interview format, instead it’s an uninterrupted and authentic storytelling experience. This is a unique format for a podcast, but we really love it - and we hope you do too! This is Tom Tarrants in Season 4 | Episode 1 (Part 1) called “Conversion of a Klansman: The Tom Tarrants Story”. Content Warning: This episode is intended for adult audiences and contains descriptions of racism, domestic terrorism, and violence. Listener discretion is advised. Resources & Links: Transcript: Click Here to Read More about Tom: Tom Tarrants was once a committed white supremacist and member of Mississippi’s White Knights of the Ku Klux Klan, described by the FBI as one of the most violent right-wing terrorist organizations in America. In 1969, he was shot and arrested while attempting to bomb the home of a Jewish leader and was sentenced to decades in prison. During years of confinement — including time in solitary at Parchman Farm — Tarrants began reading the Bible and encountered Jesus Christ, leading to a dramatic conversion and a complete break from his former life of hatred and violence. After serving eight years of his sentence, Tarrants was released and went on to earn a doctorate, co-pastor a racially diverse church in Washington, D.C., and later serve as president of the C. S. Lewis Institute. He has devoted his life to Christian discipleship and sharing the transforming power of the Gospel. Books by Tom Tarrants:   Conversion of a Klansman Consumed by Hate, Redeemed by Love We hope that this story encourages your faith and helps you see Jesus in a more personal way. Recommended Episodes: If you liked Tom’s story, listen to these next… Spotify: S3 | E1 (Pt. 1): Killing in the Name of God: Afshin Javid’s Story S1 | E1: 746746 Is Not My Name: Billy Webb’s Story S3 | E5: Betrayed: Jean Louis Kassis’s Story S1 | E6: Below the Surface: Tim Brown’s Story Apple Podcasts: S3 | E1 (Pt. 1): Killing in the Name of God: Afshin Javid’s Story S1 | E1: 746746 Is Not My Name: Billy Webb’s Story S3 | E5: Betrayed: Jean Louis Kassis’s Story S1 | E6: Below the Surface: Tim Brown’s Story Connect with Story Partners: Watch our Films: YouTube @StoryPartnersFilms Website: www.StoryPartners.org  Instagram @Story_Partners | Facebook @StoryPartnersMinistry Give: Support this crowd-funded work at StoryPartners.org/GIVE Producers: Walt and Annie Manis Editor: Walt Manis podscan_XQjr0Vv1iIbxzYrKfnO8Lprtrdh3Fg64

Join us as we kick off Season 4! In this episode, Walt and Annie chat about all things Story Partners – how we got into this work, why we created this podcast, and what you can look forward to in Season 4. It’s an informal conversation where you’ll get a little more behind-the-scenes info with co-founders Walt and Annie Manis. We hope that the stories in Season 4 will encourage your faith and help you see Jesus in a more personal way. Our first story in Season 4 releases two weeks from today! Follow us to stay updated on all the new episodes that drop. Resources & Links: More about Walt and Annie Manis: Click Here Watch our film about the adoption of our daughter, Chloe, (mentioned in the podcast): Click Here   If you’re new to The Story Partners Podcast and want to know where to start, here are… Links to Walt’s Favorite Episodes: Spotify: S3 | E1 (Pt. 1): Killing in the Name of God: Afshin Javid’s Story S2 | E9: The Encounter (Tim Schulte’s Story) S2 | E1: To Hell and Back (Kyle Hubbart’s Story) S2 | E2: The Journey (Eddie Smith’s Story) Apple Podcasts: S3 | E1 (Pt. 1): Killing in the Name of God: Afshin Javid’s Story S2 | E9: The Encounter (Tim Schulte’s Story) S2 | E1: To Hell and Back (Kyle Hubbart’s Story) S2 | E2: The Journey (Eddie Smith’s Story)   Links to Annie’s Favorite Episodes: Spotify: S2 | E9: The Encounter (Tim Schulte’s Story) S3 | E7: Can I Trust You? (Judy Van Rooy’s Story) S3 | E12: What’s the Point? (Reuben Shekwonyadu’s Story) S2 | E8: Misaligned (Dana Grindal)   Apple Podcasts: S2 | E9: The Encounter (Tim Schulte’s Story) S3 | E7: Can I Trust You? (Judy Van Rooy’s Story) S3 | E12: What’s the Point? (Reuben Shekwonyadu’s Story) S2 | E8: Misaligned (Dana Grindal)   For even more Story Partners Content: Watch our Films: YouTube @StoryPartnersFilms Website: www.StoryPartners.org  Connect on Social Media: Instagram @Story_Partners | Facebook @StoryPartnersMinistry All Story Partners films and podcasts are crowd funded. You can support this work at: StoryPartners.org/GIVE Producers: Walt and Annie Manis Season 4 – Kick OffEditor: Walt Manis

The Story Partners Podcast is an immersive storytelling experience that brings to life true stories of individuals whose lives have been transformed by Jesus.  These Christian testimonies are raw, moving, and powerful – told with authenticity and depth.  With no interview questions, no interruptions, just beautifully crafted, uninterrupted storytelling, each story is a testament to faith, resilience, and the transformative power of Christ. - In this bonus episode, we teamed up with the guys from Wow God Stories podcast to bring you stories about miracles.  Some miracles are hard to believe until the evidence is undeniable.  Today’s stories point to a God who is still in the miracle business. - In this episode you’ll hear how… Colton Dixon’s daughter was born without a pulse, but she miraculously recovered. A blind woman instantly gained perfect sight after her husband prayed for her.   Donna Vanliere was healed from neck pain, and started a prayer ministry. A teen with a paralyzed stomach was instantly healed during prayer and ate normally for the first time.  God “made” Holly read scripture in prison, which led to healing from addiction. A woman dying from multiple sclerosis stood up, walked, and was fully healed after prayer. - If you enjoy today’s episode and want to hear more stories from the Wow God Stories podcast, click on the links below: ⁠Wow God Stories – Spotify⁠ ⁠Wow God Stories – Apple Podcast⁠ - Thanks for listening to the Story Partners Podcast Learn more at: https://storypartners.org/podcast/ Along with this podcast, Story Partners makes short documentary films. Watch our films on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@StoryPartnersFilms Connect with us: Website: https://storypartners.org Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/story_partners/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StoryPartnersMinistry TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@storypartners?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc - Story Partners is a crowd-funded ministry, made possible by donations from people like you. If you would like to support this work, visit:  Producers: Walt and Annie Manis Editor: Walt Manis                    

The Story Partners Podcast is an immersive storytelling experience that brings to life true stories of individuals whose lives have been transformed by Jesus.  These Christian testimonies are raw, moving, and powerful – told with authenticity and depth.  With no interview questions, no interruptions, just beautifully crafted, uninterrupted storytelling, each story is a testament to faith, resilience, and the transformative power of Christ.   Learn more at: https://storypartners.org/podcast/   Thanks for following along with Season 3 of The Story Partners Podcast.  If you have any friends or family who don’t know about us, please share this Podcast with them.  We would love for these stories of God’s faithfulness to reach many new listeners.   Along with this podcast, Story Partners makes short documentary films. Watch our films on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@StoryPartnersFilms   Connect with us: Website: https://storypartners.org Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/story_partners/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StoryPartnersMinistry TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@storypartners?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc   Story Partners is a crowd-funded ministry, made possible by donations from people like you. If you would like to support this work, visit:  Producers: Walt and Annie Manis Editor: Walt Manis        

Faced with the fragility of life, Reuben Shekwonyadu asks God a big question. God shows up in incredible ways and takes Reuben on the ride of his life. Want to connect with Reuben directly? Reach out to him at: https://www.facebook.com/rshekwo/ The Story Partners Podcast features artfully crafted stories, told by the people who lived them. Each episode shares an authentic personal story of someone whose life has been changed by Jesus. We hope that this story encourages your faith and helps you see Jesus in a more personal way. Along with this podcast, Story Partners makes short documentary films.  Watch our films on YouTube @StoryPartnersFilms. Connect with us: Instagram: @Story_Partners Facebook: @StoryPartnersMinistry Website: StoryPartners.org   Story Partners is a crowd-funded ministry, made possible by donations from people like you.  If you would like to support this work, visit: StoryPartners.org/GIVE   Producers: Walt and Annie Manis Editor: Walt Manis

Erik Brown was talented, smart and successful. Everything was going well for him. He had big dreams and a big plan… and it was actually working. But, once he got there, he was asked a question that had the power to undo everything…   The Story Partners Podcast features artfully crafted stories, told by the people who lived them. Each episode shares an authentic personal story of someone whose life has been changed by Jesus. We hope that this story encourages your faith and helps you see Jesus in a more personal way. Along with this podcast, Story Partners makes short documentary films.  Watch our films on YouTube @StoryPartnersFilms. Connect with us: Instagram: @Story_Partners Facebook: @StoryPartnersMinistry Website: StoryPartners.org   Story Partners is a crowd-funded ministry, made possible by donations from people like you.  If you would like to support this work, visit: StoryPartners.org/GIVE   Producers: Walt and Annie Manis Editor: Walt Manis

Joey Castillo’s father reveals a secret power that is anything but natural. In his desire to become a real man, Joey desperately seeks what his father has… the thing he believes he truly needs.   The Story Partners Podcast features artfully crafted stories, told by the people who lived them. Each episode shares an authentic personal story of someone whose life has been changed by Jesus. We hope that this story encourages your faith and helps you see Jesus in a more personal way. Along with this podcast, Story Partners makes short documentary films.  Watch our films on YouTube @StoryPartnersFilms. Connect with us: Instagram: @Story_Partners Facebook: @StoryPartnersMinistry Website: StoryPartners.org   Story Partners is a crowd-funded ministry, made possible by donations from people like you.  If you would like to support this work, visit: StoryPartners.org/GIVE   Producers: Walt and Annie Manis Editor: Walt Manis

Feeling unloved and unknown, Roberta Castillo goes from one abuser to the next. She has to walk a road that is messy and full of pain, but when she least expects it, Jesus breaks in to her story.   The Story Partners Podcast features artfully crafted stories, told by the people who lived them. Each episode shares an authentic personal story of someone whose life has been changed by Jesus. We hope that this story encourages your faith and helps you see Jesus in a more personal way. Along with this podcast, Story Partners makes short documentary films.  Watch our films on YouTube @StoryPartnersFilms. Connect with us: Instagram: @Story_Partners Facebook: @StoryPartnersMinistry Website: StoryPartners.org   Story Partners is a crowd-funded ministry, made possible by donations from people like you.  If you would like to support this work, visit: StoryPartners.org/GIVE   Producers: Walt and Annie Manis Editor: Walt Manis

You know when you plan and then everything changes? Well, something came up. The Story Partners Podcast features artfully crafted stories, told by the people who lived them. Each episode shares an authentic personal story of someone whose life has been changed by Jesus.   We hope that this story encourages your faith and helps you see Jesus in a more personal way.   Along with this podcast, Story Partners makes short documentary films.  Watch our films on YouTube @StoryPartnersFilms.   Connect with us: Instagram: @Story_Partners Facebook: @StoryPartnersMinistry Website: StoryPartners.org   Story Partners is a crowd-funded ministry, made possible by donations from people like you.  If you would like to support this work, visit: StoryPartners.org/GIVE

Judy Van Rooy watches as her daughter, Cammie, comes to death’s door, time after time. Like every mother, Judy desperately wants to her daughter to live, but that is not in her control.   The Story Partners Podcast features artfully crafted stories, told by the people who lived them. Each episode shares an authentic personal story of someone whose life has been changed by Jesus. We hope that this story encourages your faith and helps you see Jesus in a more personal way. Along with this podcast, Story Partners makes short documentary films.  Watch our films on YouTube @StoryPartnersFilms. Connect with us: Instagram: @Story_Partners Facebook: @StoryPartnersMinistry Website: StoryPartners.org   Story Partners is a crowd-funded ministry, made possible by donations from people like you.  If you would like to support this work, visit: StoryPartners.org/GIVE   Producers: Walt and Annie Manis Editor: Walt Manis

After surviving the biggest battle of her life, Cammie Jarvis starts to experience normal life for the first time. But everything is upended with a single doctor’s visit, and now she’s back in the fight of her life. It seems this could be the end of her time on earth… but God has a miracle in mind.   The Story Partners Podcast features artfully crafted stories, told by the people who lived them. Each episode shares an authentic personal story of someone whose life has been changed by Jesus. We hope that this story encourages your faith and helps you see Jesus in a more personal way. Along with this podcast, Story Partners makes short documentary films.  Watch our films on YouTube @StoryPartnersFilms. Connect with us: Instagram: @Story_Partners Facebook: @StoryPartnersMinistry Website: StoryPartners.org   Story Partners is a crowd-funded ministry, made possible by donations from people like you.  If you would like to support this work, visit: StoryPartners.org/GIVE   Producers: Walt and Annie Manis Editor: Walt Manis Special Thanks To: Jenifer Thyssen for helping out with the music in this episode

From her earliest memories, Cammie Jarvis battled an extremely rare form of cancer. Her entire life was a fight to survive, but things took a dark turn and she found herself considering the unimaginable…     The Story Partners Podcast features artfully crafted stories, told by the people who lived them. Each episode shares an authentic personal story of someone whose life has been changed by Jesus. We hope that this story encourages your faith and helps you see Jesus in a more personal way. Along with this podcast, Story Partners makes short documentary films.  Watch our films on YouTube @StoryPartnersFilms. Connect with us: Instagram: @Story_Partners Facebook: @StoryPartnersMinistry Website: StoryPartners.org   Story Partners is a crowd-funded ministry, made possible by donations from people like you.  If you would like to support this work, visit: StoryPartners.org/GIVE   Producers: Walt and Annie Manis Editor: Walt Manis Special Thanks to Ron Beckel for help with the music in this episode

In the midst of a civil war in Lebanon, Jean Louis Kassis finds himself in a world of chaos. Desperately searching for unconditional love, he experiences the opposite at every turn. Wrongfully imprisoned and enduring extreme torture, Jean Louis thinks his life could be ending, but really it is just the beginning…   The Story Partners Podcast features artfully crafted stories, told by the people who lived them. Each episode shares an authentic personal story of someone whose life has been changed by Jesus. We hope that this story encourages your faith and helps you see Jesus in a more personal way. Along with this podcast, Story Partners makes short documentary films.  Watch our films on YouTube @StoryPartnersFilms. Connect with us: Instagram: @Story_Partners Facebook: @StoryPartnersMinistry Website: StoryPartners.org   Story Partners is a crowd-funded ministry, made possible by donations from people like you.  If you would like to support this work, visit: StoryPartners.org/GIVE   Producers: Walt and Annie Manis Editor: Walt Manis

In this heartfelt episode, Melody Green opens up about her extraordinary life alongside acclaimed singer-songwriter Keith Green. Through intimate stories of love, adventure, and unwavering faith, she invites us into the moments that defined their journey—along with the profound loss that changed everything.     To listen to the rest of the story: https://compelledpodcast.com/episodes/melody-green  *Jump to around 42:30 to pick up where you left off here.   Additional Information about Melody and Keith   Ministry: https://www.lastdaysministries.org/Groups/1000002797/Last_Days_Ministries.aspx IG: https://www.instagram.com/Keith.Green.Official YouTube: https://music.youtube.com/channel/UCmhMK6UkG6HiKEPuUrRwDwQ   Melody’s Facebook:  Melody’s IG: https://www.instagram.com/MelodyGreen.topics     The Story Partners Podcast features artfully crafted stories, told by the people who lived them. Each episode shares an authentic personal story of someone whose life has been changed by Jesus.   We hope that this story encourages your faith and helps you see Jesus in a more personal way.   Along with this podcast, Story Partners makes short documentary films.  Watch our films on YouTube @StoryPartnersFilms.   Connect with us: Instagram: @Story_Partners Facebook: @StoryPartnersMinistry Website: StoryPartners.org   Story Partners is a crowd-funded ministry, made possible by donations from people like you.  If you would like to support this work, visit: StoryPartners.org/GIVE

Lindsey Jackson’s life was going according to her plan: she fell in love, married young and was pregnant with her first child. However, her plan was turned upside down when her son’s delivery didn’t go the way she expected. Walking through this experience prepared Lindsey for the shock of her life - something she could have never imagined… Lindsey is now a licensed therapist, you can learn more and book an appointment here: https://www.connectionscounselingtx.com/ Resources Lindsey Recommends: The Joyful Mourning Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-joyful-mourning-a-podcast-for-women-who/id1398380268   Books: “Finding Meaning: The Sixth Stage of Grief” – David Kessler “No Cure for Being Human” – Kate Bowler “Hearing Jesus Speak into Your Sorrow” – Nancy Guthrie “Grief is Love: Living with Loss” – Marisa Renee Lee “Getting Grief Right: Finding Your Story of Love in the Sorrow of Loss” – Patrick O’Malley with Tim Madigan “Dark Clouds, Deep Mercy: Discovering the Grace of Lament” – Mark Vroegop The Story Partners Podcast features artfully crafted stories, told by the people who lived them. Each episode shares an authentic personal story of someone whose life has been changed by Jesus. We hope that this story encourages your faith and helps you see Jesus in a more personal way. Along with this podcast, Story Partners makes short documentary films.  Watch our films on YouTube @StoryPartnersFilms. Connect with us: Instagram: @Story_Partners Facebook: @StoryPartnersMinistry Website: StoryPartners.org   Story Partners is a crowd-funded ministry, made possible by donations from people like you.  If you would like to support this work, visit: StoryPartners.org/GIVE   Producers: Walt and Annie Manis Editor: Walt Manis

At an extremely low moment in Jonathan Gray’s life, he has a supernatural experience with God that he cannot shake. Jonathan has to find out who this God really is, so he goes on a quest for truth… and that’s when things start to get really weird… Resources Jonathan Recommends: “The Beautiful Side of Evil” - Johanna Michaelsen   https://www.amazon.com/Beautiful-Side-Evil-Johanna-Michaelsen/dp/0890813221   “The Sacred Journey” - Brian Simmons   https://www.amazon.com/Sacred-Journey-Relentless-Affection-Translation/dp/1424550807 The Story Partners Podcast features artfully crafted stories, told by the people who lived them. Each episode shares an authentic personal story of someone whose life has been changed by Jesus. We hope that this story encourages your faith and helps you see Jesus in a more personal way. Along with this podcast, Story Partners makes short documentary films.  Watch our films on YouTube @StoryPartnersFilms. Connect with us: Instagram: @Story_Partners Facebook: @StoryPartnersMinistry Website: StoryPartners.org   Story Partners is a crowd-funded ministry, made possible by donations from people like you.  If you would like to support this work, visit: StoryPartners.org/GIVE   Producers: Walt and Annie Manis Editor: Walt Manis

Elmira Javid was driven out of her home country, Iran, by war. Now, as a refugee in Germany, she finds herself completely alone – far from family, friends and the Islamic faith she’s so devoted to. One night, as she is weeping in despair, someone new steps into her life, and everything changes. The Story Partners Podcast features artfully crafted stories, told by the people who lived them. Each episode shares an authentic personal story of someone whose life has been changed by Jesus. We hope that this story encourages your faith and helps you see Jesus in a more personal way. Along with this podcast, Story Partners makes short documentary films.  Watch our films on YouTube @StoryPartnersFilms. Connect with us: Instagram: @Story_Partners Facebook: @StoryPartnersMinistry Website: StoryPartners.org   Story Partners is a crowd-funded ministry, made possible by donations from people like you.  If you would like to support this work, visit: StoryPartners.org/GIVE   Producers: Walt and Annie Manis Editor: Walt Manis podscan_uIFEwmAAqKqlqAtnbdnqOZZkJRwfgD95

In Prison, Jesus physically came to Afshin Javid and his whole world turns upside down. A man who used to be wholeheartedly committed to Islam, Afshin now cannot stop talking about Jesus to everyone he meets. This begins a whole new adventure in Afshin’s life – full of unbelievable twists and turns. For more information about Afshin Javid: Afshin Javid’s Website: https://afshinjavid.com/ Afshin Javid’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theafshinjavid Feature Film releasing in May 2025, that shares part of Afshin Javid’s Story: https://www.showmeyourglory.com/ The Story Partners Podcast features artfully crafted stories, told by the people who lived them. Each episode shares an authentic personal story of someone whose life has been changed by Jesus. We hope that this story encourages your faith and helps you see Jesus in a more personal way. Along with this podcast, Story Partners makes short documentary films.  Watch our films on YouTube @StoryPartnersFilms. Connect with us: Instagram: @Story_Partners Facebook: @StoryPartnersMinistry Website: StoryPartners.org   Story Partners is a crowd-funded ministry, made possible by donations from people like you.  If you would like to support this work, visit: StoryPartners.org/GIVE   Producers: Walt and Annie Manis Editor: Walt Manis podscan_uIFEwmAAqKqlqAtnbdnqOZZkJRwfgD95

Afshin Javid grew up in Iran under strict Islamic law. He loved Allah and was willing to kill, and even die for him. After a supernatural encounter, he starts to question everything and the foundation of his faith begins to crumble. *Listener discretion is advised* Warning: This episode deals with the topics of  Islamic martyrdom and violence; listener discretion is advised. For more information about Afshin Javid: Afshin Javid’s Website: https://afshinjavid.com/ Afshin Javid’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theafshinjavid Feature Film releasing in May 2025, that shares part of Afshin Javid’s Story: https://www.showmeyourglory.com/ The Story Partners Podcast features artfully crafted stories, told by the people who lived them. Each episode shares an authentic personal story of someone whose life has been changed by Jesus. We hope that this story encourages your faith and helps you see Jesus in a more personal way. Along with this podcast, Story Partners makes short documentary films.  Watch our films on YouTube @StoryPartnersFilms. Connect with us: Instagram: @Story_Partners Facebook: @StoryPartnersMinistry Website: StoryPartners.org   Story Partners is a crowd-funded ministry, made possible by donations from people like you.  If you would like to support this work, visit: StoryPartners.org/GIVE   Producers: Walt and Annie Manis Editor: Walt Manis   podscan_XQjr0Vv1iIbxzYrKfnO8Lprtrdh3Fg64  

Join us as we kick off Season 3! In this episode, Walt and Annie chat about all things Story Partners - how we got into this work, why we create this podcast, and what you can look forward to in Season 3. It’s an informal conversation where you’ll get a little more behind-the-scenes info with co-founders Walt and Annie Manis. Our first story in Season 3 releases one week from today!

Tim Halfin heard that a local boy had been missing for three days. Unexpectedly, God spoke to Tim and told him to go into the woods near his house and look for the boy... Listen to this special bonus episode from our friends at the GOD OUT LOUD Podcast, where Tim Halfin shares the remarkable story of hearing and obeying the voice of God.

Can you believe we’re already through Season 2?  Weren’t those stories amazing?!  It’s been so cool to hear from The Story Partners Podcast Community about how these stories have encourage you and shaped your faith.  We love what we get to do and are so excited for what God has in store in the future.     Thanks for following along with this season.  If you have any friends or family who don’t know about us, please share this Podcast with them.  We would love for these stories of God’s faithfulness to reach many new listeners.   Along with this podcast, Story Partners makes short documentary films. Watch our films on YouTube @StoryPartnersFilms.   Connect with us: Instagram: @Story_Partners Facebook: @StoryPartnersMinistry TikTok: @StoryPartners Website: StoryPartners.org   Story Partners is a crowd-funded ministry, made possible by donations from people like you. If you would like to support this work, visit: StoryPartners.org/GIVE   Producers: Walt and Annie Manis Editor: Walt Manis  

As a new teacher in Midland, Texas, Matt Slavik was in charge of driving a carload of kids to Zion National Park for a school trip.  Around 2am he woke up on the side of the road, disoriented and asking, “What happened?”  The answer was devastating.     The Story Partners Podcast features artfully crafted stories, told by the people who lived them. Each episode shares an authentic personal story of someone whose life has been changed by Jesus.   We hope that this story encourages your faith and helps you see Jesus in a more personal way.   Along with this podcast, Story Partners makes short documentary films. Watch our films on YouTube @StoryPartnersFilms.   Connect with us: Instagram: @Story_Partners Facebook: @StoryPartnersMinistry TikTok: @StoryPartners Website: StoryPartners.org   Story Partners is a crowd-funded ministry, made possible by donations from people like you. If you would like to support this work, visit: StoryPartners.org/GIVE   Producers: Walt and Annie Manis Editor: Walt Manis

Simone Halpin reached for the sex worker and earnestly pleaded, “You don’t have to do this!”. The woman’s eyes said everything: “Yes I do. You have no idea what my life is like.”   At that moment, the questions flooded into Simone’s mind, but one thing she knew to her core – THIS is not right.   This is this special two-part episode, so if you missed last week’s episode (the first part of this story), be sure to check it out before listening to this one.   Warning: This episode deals with themes of sexual abuse and trauma. Listener discretion is advised.   Simone Halpin is the Co-Founder and Executive Director of Naomi’s House. Naomi’s House is a nonprofit organization in the Chicago area whose mission is to help women who have suffered from commercial sexual exploitation find freedom, healing and a fresh start. To learn more about Naomi’s House, visit www.NaomisHouse.org.   The Story Partners Podcast features artfully crafted stories, told by the people who lived them. Each episode shares an authentic personal story of someone whose life has been changed by Jesus.   We hope that this story encourages your faith and helps you see Jesus in a more personal way.   Along with this podcast, Story Partners makes short documentary films. Watch our films on YouTube @StoryPartnersFilms.   Connect with us: Instagram: @Story_Partners Facebook: @StoryPartnersMinistry TikTok: @StoryPartners Website: StoryPartners.org   Story Partners is a crowd-funded ministry, made possible by donations from people like you. If you would like to support this work, visit: StoryPartners.org/GIVE   Producers: Walt and Annie Manis Editor: Walt Manis

Simone Halpin's unsteady home life taught her at an early age that she had to be independant and take care of herself. Wanting to fit in, she falls in with the wrong crowd thinking that they really cared for her, only to find out that she was mistaken.    This is this special two-part episode. This episode tells the story of Simone's early life, and how her own history would prepare her for the work that God would later call her into. Be sure to tune in next week for the rest of the story.   Warning: This episode deals with themes of sexual abuse and trauma. Listener discretion is advised.   Simone Halpin is the Co-Founder and Executive Director of Naomi’s House. Naomi’s House is a nonprofit organization in the Chicago area whose mission is to help women who have suffered from commercial sexual exploitation find freedom, healing and a fresh start. To learn more about Naomi’s House, visit www.NaomisHouse.org.   The Story Partners Podcast features artfully crafted stories, told by the people who lived them. Each episode shares an authentic personal story of someone whose life has been changed by Jesus.   We hope that this story encourages your faith and helps you see Jesus in a more personal way.   Along with this podcast, Story Partners makes short documentary films. Watch our films on YouTube @StoryPartnersFilms.   Connect with us: Instagram: @Story_Partners Facebook: @StoryPartnersMinistry TikTok: @StoryPartners Website: StoryPartners.org   Story Partners is a crowd-funded ministry, made possible by donations from people like you. If you would like to support this work, visit: StoryPartners.org/GIVE   Producers: Walt and Annie Manis Editor: Walt Manis

After years of searching for truth, Jason and Katherine Grote come to faith in Christ.  Eager to get involved in community and grow in their new faith, they find a small church and immediately dive in. Things were great at first, but as time went on, they start to realize that everything was not as it once seemed.   This is this special two-part episode, so if you missed last week’s episode (the first part of this story), be sure to check it out before listening to this one.   The Story Partners Podcast features artfully crafted stories, told by the people who lived them. Each episode shares an authentic personal story of someone whose life has been changed by Jesus.   We hope that this story encourages your faith and helps you see Jesus in a more personal way.   Along with this podcast, Story Partners makes short documentary films. Watch our films on YouTube @StoryPartnersFilms.   Connect with us: Instagram: @Story_Partners Facebook: @StoryPartnersMinistry TikTok: @StoryPartners Website: StoryPartners.org   Story Partners is a crowd-funded ministry, made possible by donations from people like you. If you would like to support this work, visit: StoryPartners.org/GIVE   Producers: Walt and Annie Manis Editor: Walt Manis

Jason Grote was a quirky kid who didn’t fit in. Katherine was a dancer with an independent mind. They were an unlikely couple, but both were drawn to spiritual things and wanted to know the truth. Against all odds, they ended up together and both came to faith in Jesus in the most unexpected way.   This is this special two-part episode, so be sure to tune in next week for the rest of the story. The Story Partners Podcast features artfully crafted stories, told by the people who lived them. Each episode shares an authentic personal story of someone whose life has been changed by Jesus.   We hope that this story encourages your faith and helps you see Jesus in a more personal way.   Along with this podcast, Story Partners makes short documentary films. Watch our films on YouTube @StoryPartnersFilms.   Connect with us: Instagram: @Story_Partners Facebook: @StoryPartnersMinistry TikTok: @StoryPartners Website: StoryPartners.org   Story Partners is a crowd-funded ministry, made possible by donations from people like you. If you would like to support this work, visit: StoryPartners.org/GIVE   Producers: Walt and Annie Manis Editor: Walt Manis

When Tim Schulte was 12 years old, his parents divorced and his mom moved away. Finding himself without emotional support, Tim feels isolated and starts believing 4 lies about himself:  I’m unlovable, I’m not good enough, I’ll never be good enough, and God is continually disappointed in me.  These 4 lies would start Tim on a path of destruction that no coping mechanism could conceal.   The Story Partners Podcast features artfully crafted stories, told by the people who lived them. Each episode shares an authentic personal story of someone whose life has been changed by Jesus.   We hope that this story encourages your faith and helps you see Jesus in a more personal way.   Along with this podcast, Story Partners makes short documentary films. Watch our films on YouTube @StoryPartnersFilms.   Connect with us: Instagram: @Story_Partners Facebook: @StoryPartnersMinistry TikTok: @StoryPartners Website: StoryPartners.org   Story Partners is a crowd-funded ministry, made possible by donations from people like you. If you would like to support this work, visit: StoryPartners.org/GIVE   Producers: Walt and Annie Manis Editor: Walt Manis

Performance, perfection and efficiency were ideals that Dana Grindal lived by. These values guided her work, family, and spiritual life – and things were working well. But one day, God would suddenly disrupt all her plans, and life for Dana would come to a screeching halt. Dana found herself asking, “God, how could this possibly be Your will?”   The Story Partners Podcast features artfully crafted stories, told by the people who lived them. Each episode shares an authentic personal story of someone whose life has been changed by Jesus.   We hope that this story encourages your faith and helps you see Jesus in a more personal way.   Along with this podcast, Story Partners makes short documentary films. Watch our films on YouTube @StoryPartnersFilms.   Connect with us: Instagram: @Story_Partners Facebook: @StoryPartnersMinistry TikTok: @StoryPartners Website: StoryPartners.org   Story Partners is a crowd-funded ministry, made possible by donations from people like you. If you would like to support this work, visit: StoryPartners.org/GIVE   Producers: Walt and Annie Manis Editor: Walt Manis

Imagine if things were so desperate in your home country that you felt like your only option was to pack up your family and travel through chaos in order to survive.  You get to the border of a new country and send your children off into the unknown, unsure of what awaits them.   In this unique episode, Brain and Stephanie share their first-hand experience of caring for unaccompanied children who have crossed the border into the U.S. This episode gives not only facts of what’s happening at the border, but also reveals God’s heart for His children – on both sides of the border.   The Story Partners Podcast features artfully crafted stories, told by the people who lived them. Each episode shares an authentic personal story of someone whose life has been changed by Jesus.   We hope that this story encourages your faith and helps you see Jesus in a more personal way.   Along with this podcast, Story Partners makes short documentary films. Watch our films on YouTube @StoryPartnersFilms.   Connect with us: Instagram: @Story_Partners Facebook: @StoryPartnersMinistry TikTok: @StoryPartners Website: StoryPartners.org   Story Partners is a crowd-funded ministry, made possible by donations from people like you. If you would like to support this work, visit: StoryPartners.org/GIVE   Producers: Walt and Annie Manis Editor: Walt Manis

As a child, Tim Crowder was loving life; his family was rich and they were secure.  But under the surface things were not as they appeared. Was it all a lie?   The Story Partners Podcast features artfully crafted stories, told by the people who lived them. Each episode shares an authentic personal story of someone whose life has been changed by Jesus.   We hope that this story encourages your faith and helps you see Jesus in a more personal way.   Along with this podcast, Story Partners makes short documentary films. Watch our films on YouTube @StoryPartnersFilms.   Connect with us: Instagram: @Story_Partners Facebook: @StoryPartnersMinistry TikTok: @StoryPartners Website: StoryPartners.org   Story Partners is a crowd-funded ministry, made possible by donations from people like you. If you would like to support this work, visit: StoryPartners.org/GIVE   Producers: Walt and Annie Manis Editor: Walt Manis Assistant Editor: Matt Slavik

Jenessa Wait wanted to belong, but she didn’t know where she fit. As a pastor’s kid, there were things about church life that she loved. But she also wanted to fit into the “cool crowd”. She didn’t understand the significance at the time, but the choices she was making would change her entire life.   The Story Partners Podcast features artfully crafted stories, told by the people who lived them. Each episode shares an authentic personal story of someone whose life has been changed by Jesus.   We hope that this story encourages your faith and helps you see Jesus in a more personal way.   Along with this podcast, Story Partners makes short documentary films. Watch our films on YouTube @StoryPartnersFilms.   Connect with us: Instagram: @Story_Partners Facebook: @StoryPartnersMinistry TikTok: @StoryPartners Website: StoryPartners.org   Story Partners is a crowd-funded ministry, made possible by donations from people like you. If you would like to support this work, visit: StoryPartners.org/GIVE   Producers: Walt and Annie Manis Editor: Walt Manis Assistant Editor: Matt Slavik

From a young boy the idea was planted in Daniel Mueller’s mind that you had to be successful to be important.  So, Daniel Mueller set out to do just that – be the richest, most influential person that he could be.  But wealth, status, and respect still left him empty and wanting more. Even with all his success, one question remained:  “Do I matter?”.   The Story Partners Podcast features artfully crafted stories, told by the people who lived them. Each episode shares an authentic personal story of someone whose life has been changed by Jesus.   We hope that this story encourages your faith and helps you see Jesus in a more personal way.   Along with this podcast, Story Partners makes short documentary films. Watch our films on YouTube @StoryPartnersFilms.   Connect with us: Instagram: @Story_Partners Facebook: @StoryPartnersMinistry TikTok: @StoryPartners Website: StoryPartners.org   Story Partners is a crowd-funded ministry, made possible by donations from people like you. If you would like to support this work, visit: StoryPartners.org/GIVE   Producers: Walt and Annie Manis Editor: Walt Manis Assistant Editor: Matt Slavik

Emma Smith grew up fast. By 8th grade she was addicted to Meth and getting a glimpse into just how dark and scary that world is. Soon she realized she was in way over her head.   The Story Partners Podcast features artfully crafted stories, told by the people who lived them. Each episode shares an authentic personal story of someone whose life has been changed by Jesus.   We hope that this story encourages your faith and helps you see Jesus in a more personal way.   Along with this podcast, Story Partners makes short documentary films. Watch our films on YouTube @StoryPartnersFilms.   Connect with us: Instagram: @Story_Partners Facebook: @StoryPartnersMinistry TikTok: @StoryPartners Website: StoryPartners.org   Story Partners is a crowd-funded ministry, made possible by donations from people like you. If you would like to support this work, visit: StoryPartners.org/GIVE   Producers: Walt and Annie Manis Editor: Walt Manis

Eddie Smith grew up in inner-city Chicago among extreme poverty, drugs and crime. Now as an adult struggling with drug addiction and the memories of a horribly abusive father, Eddie desires the end.  But Eddie’s Heavenly Father had other plans. Plans for healing, restoration, and purpose.   The Story Partners Podcast features artfully crafted stories, told by the people who lived them. Each episode shares an authentic personal story of someone whose life has been changed by Jesus.   We hope that this story encourages your faith and helps you see Jesus in a more personal way.   Along with this podcast, Story Partners makes short documentary films. Watch our films on YouTube @StoryPartnersFilms.   Connect with us: Instagram: @Story_Partners Facebook: @StoryPartnersMinistry TikTok: @StoryPartners Website: StoryPartners.org   Story Partners is a crowd-funded ministry, made possible by donations from people like you. If you would like to support this work, visit: StoryPartners.org/GIVE   Producers: Walt and Annie Manis Editor: Walt Manis

Kyle Hubbart had it all, until his house of cards started to crumble and his world fell apart. Little did he know that he would soon get a glimpse into hell that would change his life forever.   If you’re interested in Kyle’s story, there’s also a short film that has been created, which you can watch here.   The Story Partners Podcast features artfully crafted stories, told by the people who lived them. Each episode shares an authentic personal story of someone whose life has been changed by Jesus.   We hope that this story encourages your faith and helps you see Jesus in a more personal way.   Along with this podcast, Story Partners makes short documentary films. Watch our films on YouTube @StoryPartnersFilms.   Connect with us: Instagram: @Story_Partners Facebook: @StoryPartnersMinistry TikTok: @StoryPartners Website: StoryPartners.org   Story Partners is a crowd-funded ministry, made possible by donations from people like you. If you would like to support this work, visit: StoryPartners.org/GIVE   Producers: Walt and Annie Manis Editor: Walt Manis

We are so excited that Season 2 is finally here!  We have some amazing stories that we can’t wait to share with you.  Rally your friends to subscribe and come along for the ride! Season 2, Episode 1 releases on January 22, 2024.

As we draw Season 1 to a close, we want to say thanks!  Thank you for coming along with us on this journey of discovering what God has done in the lives of those around us. We can’t wait for next season!   We’d like to ask you for your help! Would you join us by doing 2 things:   1.   We are currently collecting stories for Season 2. Do you know of a great story that you think should be a podcast episode? If so, please let us know! We know each of you are connected to great stories of God changing real peoples’ lives, and we want to hear about those stories!   2.   Would you take a moment to share one episode from Season 1 with a friend? One of the best ways for new people to find our podcast is by a friend recommending it to them. We’d be so grateful if you would share your favorite episode from this season with a friend. Thank you!     If you’d like to share a story with us, or get in touch for any other reason, you can find us on Instagram, on our website, or simply by emailing us at Annie@storypartners.org.   Thank you so much for joining us for Season 1 of the Story Partners Podcast. We can’t wait to bring you more stories of God changing peoples’ lives!       Connect with us!   ·     Subscribe to our YouTube Channel to watch our films.   ·     Follow along on Instagram or Facebook.   ·     Learn more about our work on our website.   ·     Story Partners is a crowd-funded ministry, made possible by donations from people like you. If you’d like to support this work, visit: https://www.storypartners.org/give    

Being an actor is confusing. How do you convince your audience your role is authentic without convincing your heart? Elizabeth Bernhardt talks about the tension between following Christ and the cost of acting on your mind, body and soul.   Connect with Elizabeth Bernhardt at www.ElizabethBernhardt.com and check out her book “The Power of Pretend”, available now on Amazon.   The Story Partners Podcast features artfully crafted stories, told by the people who lived them. Each episode shares an authentic personal story of someone whose life have been changed by Jesus.   We hope that this story encourages your faith and helps you see Jesus in a more personal way.   Along with this podcast, Story Partners makes short documentary films. Watch our films on YouTube @StoryPartnersFilms.   Connect with us: Instagram: @Story_Partners Facebook: @StoryPartnersMinistry TikTok: @StoryPartners Website: StoryPartners.org   Story Partners is a crowd-funded ministry, made possible by donations from people like you. If you would like to support this work, visit: StoryPartners.org/GIVE   Producers: Walt and Annie Manis Editor: Walt Manis   Special thanks to Elijah Delgado for the intro and outro music on today’s show. Find his music on your favorite streaming platform. Instagram: @elijahthedelgado  TikTok: @elijahdelgadomusic  

As a young child, Laura Ayres quickly learned that her grandparents were not who she thought they were. She finds herself isolated – caught in an evil web of Satanic ritual abuse that would last for years. As her world is falling apart and her mind is splintering, Jesus rescues her from this living hell.   Warning: Listener discretion is advised. Parents, please listen first before sharing with your kids.   The Story Partners Podcast features artfully crafted stories, told by the people who lived them. Each episode shares an authentic personal story of someone whose life have been changed by Jesus.   We hope that this story encourages your faith and helps you see Jesus in a more personal way.   Along with this podcast, Story Partners makes short documentary films. Watch our films on YouTube @StoryPartnersFilms.   Connect with us: Instagram: @Story_Partners Facebook: @StoryPartnersMinistry TikTok: @StoryPartners Website: StoryPartners.org   Story Partners is a crowd-funded ministry, made possible by donations from people like you. If you would like to support this work, visit: StoryPartners.org/GIVE   Producers: Walt and Annie Manis Editor: Walt Manis   Special thanks to Elijah Delgado for the intro and outro music on today’s show. Find his music on your favorite streaming platform. Instagram: @elijahthedelgado  TikTok: @elijahdelgadomusic

Jaleesa McCreary had a promising career in opera - doing what she loved most. Until one day, when all these dreams were gone in a moment. What do you do when the thing you were made to do gets taken from you?   Connect with Jaleesa McCreary on Instagram @jaleesa_mac. Listen to her music at www.AustinStoneWorship.com   The Story Partners Podcast features artfully crafted stories, told by the people who lived them. Each episode shares an authentic personal story of someone whose life have been changed by Jesus.   We hope that this story encourages your faith and helps you see Jesus in a more personal way.   Along with this podcast, Story Partners makes short documentary films. Watch our films on YouTube @StoryPartnersFilms.   Connect with us: Instagram: @Story_Partners Facebook: @StoryPartnersMinistry TikTok: @StoryPartners Website: StoryPartners.org   Story Partners is a crowd-funded ministry, made possible by donations from people like you. If you would like to support this work, visit: StoryPartners.org/GIVE   Producers: Walt and Annie Manis Editor: Walt Manis   Special thanks to Elijah Delgado for the intro and outro music on today’s show. Find his music on your favorite streaming platform. Instagram: @elijahthedelgado  TikTok: @elijahdelgadomusic  

God spoke, and Walt heard it. He stepped into the rain to obey – but questions and doubt crowded in. Was that really God?   Questions or comments about the story? Reach out to Walt directly at Walt@StoryPartners.org.   The Story Partners Podcast features artfully crafted stories, told by the people who lived them. Each episode shares an authentic personal story of someone whose life have been changed by Jesus.   We hope that this story encourages your faith and helps you see Jesus in a more personal way.   Along with this podcast, Story Partners makes short documentary films. Watch our films on YouTube @StoryPartnersFilms.   Connect with us: Instagram: @Story_Partners Facebook: @StoryPartnersMinistry TikTok: @StoryPartners Website: StoryPartners.org   Story Partners is a crowd-funded ministry, made possible by donations from people like you. If you would like to support this work, visit: StoryPartners.org/GIVE   Producers: Walt and Annie Manis Editor: Walt Manis   Special thanks to Elijah Delgado for the intro and outro music on today’s show. Find his music on your favorite streaming platform. Instagram: @elijahthedelgado  TikTok: @elijahdelgadomusic