Explore every episode of the podcast The Unfolding
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
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| Heidi Barr: Jewish Teen Meets Jesus in a Near-Death Experience: "Every cell in my body recognized that this was Jesus." | Unfolding Short Stories | 25 Nov 2025 | 00:17:23 | |
Faith Podcasts are made possible by your support. You can click here to give. "Every cell in my body recognized that this was Jesus."
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| John Burke: How Near-Death Experiences Led a Skeptical Agnostic to Believe in Heaven: Page 261 | 21 Nov 2025 | 01:07:20 | |
Faith Podcasts are made possible by your support. You can click here to give. What happens when a skeptical agnostic begins investigating near-death experiences? For bestselling author and pastor John Burke, that search changed everything. John's journey began as a teenager while his father was dying of cancer. After picking up a book about near-death experiences (NDEs), he spent decades studying thousands of NDE accounts from people around the world. Their stories of encountering a God of light, love, and overwhelming peace, led him to a deeper understanding of Scripture, the afterlife, and the reality of heaven. John Burke, author of Imagine Heaven and Imagine the God of Heaven, explains how science, faith, and evidence from NDEs intersect, and how his own path from doubt to belief became a powerful story of hope. If you're curious about life after death, what the Bible says about heaven, or how God pursues people through their questions, this episode offers real-life stories you won't forget. Show Notes: Imagine Heaven Book: https://www.amazon.com/Imagine-Heaven-Near-Death-Experiences-Exhilarating/dp/080101526X Website: https://imagineheaven.net/ Imagine Heaven Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@JohnBurkeImagineHeaven Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/johnburkeofficial/
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| Rebecca Nichols Alonzo: Forgiving the Devil in Pew Number Seven: Page 257 | 24 Oct 2025 | 01:11:08 | |
Rebecca Nichols Alonzo's childhood was built on faith and family, yet marked by fear. For years, her family was targeted by a man from their church who terrorized them with threats, harassment, and violence. Then one night, the unthinkable happened. Her mother was killed, and Rebecca's world was shattered. Years later, the man responsible reached out with a shocking question: "Will you forgive me?" That moment changed everything. Rebecca and her brother later shared their story on national television, publicly forgiving their mother's killer and showing the world what God's grace can do. Based on her bestselling book The Devil in Pew Number Seven, Rebecca's journey has inspired millions. It's a powerful story of pain, faith, and a forgiveness that could only come from God. Faith Podcasts are made possible by your support. You can click here to give. Show Notes: Website: http://www.rebeccaalonzo.com/ Book: https://www.amazon.com/Devil-Pew-Number-Seven/dp/1414326599 | |||
| Page 222: Michael Ritchason: From Struggle to Strength- the Power of Surrender | 13 Dec 2024 | 00:40:13 | |
Michael Ritchason grew up feeling like he was on the losing end of the comparison game. Insecurity drove him to chase affirmation and attention. It worked for a time, but then his girlfriend left, his cool car crashed, and the rest of his world seemed to be falling apart. Soon Michael was falling apart, too. Discouragement led to disconnection, and that led to depression. One night, he began to believe the lie that he was utterly alone. Then God, the One called Immanuel – God with us, did something supernatural. It was a reminder that Michael wasn't alone, and God had plans and a purpose for him. Michael is the lead pastor at Riverside Community Church, a multi-cultural, multi-generational, and multi-socioeconomic church in the heart of Peoria, Illinois. Follow Michael on YouTube and Instagram. To hear In Fulfillment, our Biblical Audio Drama, and go deeper into the Christmas story, go to https://www.wowgod.com/podcasts/in-fulfillment/ | |||
| Unfolding Short Stories: "Call your father and hurry." Mark Winter finds reconciliation | 10 Dec 2024 | 00:10:28 | |
What began as a simple prayer meeting led to deep healing and reconciliation. As Mark wrestled with years of hurt, God's voice broke through, impressing these urgent words on his heart: "Call your father and hurry." That phone call, made just three hours before his father's passing, became a moment of profound restoration. This story is a reminder of God's relentless pursuit and perfect timing to heal what's broken. Also, Mark wrote a book called Just One Word: A Collection of Advent Devotionals, if you're looking for new ways to connect with Jesus this Christmas. | |||
| Page 221: Barry and Gina Copeland: Finding Hope When Your Loved One is Addicted | 06 Dec 2024 | 00:47:50 | |
Barry and Gina Copeland have learned when it comes to addiction, desperation is a good thing. That's when you finally realize Jesus is your only hope. Barry and Gina have followed Jesus and worked in ministry for years, and yet their son struggled with addiction for more than a decade. They tried everything they knew to "fix" the problem. In the process, they lost their joy, their dreams, and lived in chaos. Then God used powerful experiences to teach them their son's addiction was not their fault, and they couldn't fix him. They changed how they prayed and demonstrated God's love to their son. Today Barry and Gina help those who have loved ones trapped in addiction through the ministry of Finding Hope, a part of Hope Is Alive, an organization that exists to radically change the lives of drug addicts, alcoholics and those who love them. | |||
| Unfolding Short Stories: "It was August 23rd, that exact same day...it gives me chills to even talk about it now" - Megan Nilsen reflects on her family's adoption journey | 03 Dec 2024 | 00:16:18 | |
After years of questioning if adoption was right for her family, Megan Nilsen felt a clear leading from God to pray, fast, and search His Word. Her 'yes' to adoption opened the door to both immense challenges and undeniable moments of God's presence, teaching her about love, grace, and identity in Christ. Megan is also the author of the Advent devotional Untangled Advent: Finding Hope in a Weary World, designed to help readers reconnect with God's peace during the holiday season. Learn more at meganbnilsen.com/untangled-advent. | |||
| Page 133: Terry Wildman: The Story of the First Nations Version of the Bible | 29 Nov 2024 | 00:50:58 | |
Terry Wildman didn't grow up immersed in the history and culture of his First Nations ancestors. But after he met Jesus, his heart for Indigenous Americans grew. As he learned more about the painful history of Native North Americans and the Church, he struggled with questions. But through that struggle he felt a call to translate the Bible following the tradition of Native storytellers. The First Nations Version of the New Testament has sold more than 80,000 copies, bringing hope and healing to many. https://www.amazon.com/Birth-Chosen-One-Terry-Wildman/dp/0984770623 | |||
| Unfolding Short Stories: "In everything, give thanks." Rhonda Stoppe During Her Son's Severe Epilepsy | 26 Nov 2024 | 00:10:08 | |
"In everything, give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." These words from 1 Thessalonians 5:18 came to mind for Rhonda at her breaking point as her son battled severe epilepsy. Through heartbreak and surrender, she discovered how God brought purpose and beauty even in the hardest moments. | |||
| Page 220: Dallas Jenkins: The Story Behind The Best Christmas Pageant Ever | 22 Nov 2024 | 00:23:36 | |
For years, Dallas Jenkins had a weekly notification on his phone, "Pray for Pageant." Dallas is the creator and director of The Chosen, the first-ever multi-season show about Jesus. Twenty years ago, Dallas read a beloved children's novel called, The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, and fell in love with it. He just knew he was meant to make that book into a movie. It wasn't just a hope or a dream. To Dallas, it felt like a calling. But over and over, for years, Dallas was told "no." There simply seemed to be no way. This is a story about praying, waiting, and following God's direction, even when there seems to be no hope. | |||
| Unfolding Short Stories: "...your tears don't fall on the ground—God holds them." Mey Deras | 21 Nov 2024 | 00:21:20 | |
Mey Deras' story is about overcoming—surviving childhood abuse, losing her mother, navigating her daughter's life-threatening health crisis, and enduring immigration struggles. Through it all, she's seen God's faithfulness in remarkable ways. Now a biblical counselor, Mey helps others find hope and healing. She also invites listeners to her free virtual event (Nov. 22-24), Comforted by His Love, where women can learn practical tools to experience God's comfort and strength. You can register for Mey's event here. | |||
| Unfolding Short Stories: "Come back before winter" - Deitrich Bonhoeffer asks God what to do, as told by Christian Historian Joe Thomas | 19 Nov 2024 | 00:20:03 | |
Christian historian Joe Thomas shares the story of Dietrich Bonhoeffer's struggle to discern God's will during a critical moment in history. As World War II loomed, Bonhoeffer faced a life-altering decision: remain safely in America or return to Nazi Germany to stand with his church. Discover how a simple Bible verse, "Come before winter," became a divine call that shaped his courageous path. Do you have a story where you needed to hear from God in a critical moment? Tell us about it when you click the green microphone button at WowGod.com. Here's a link to Joe's podcast if you want to go deeper into the life of Deitrich Bonhoeffer: Wayfinding Podcast
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| Page 219: Raechel Myers: She Reads Truth and the Sustaining Power of God's Word | 15 Nov 2024 | 00:36:09 | |
Raechel Myers grew up surrounded by God's word. At home, school, and church she was learning about the truth of God's great big story. As a young adult, Raechel and her husband walked through unimaginable grief. The Bible became both a refuge and a lifeline. That season of sorrow shaped her perspective on God's faithfulness, the beauty of community, and the truth that God's Word meets us in the darkest moments. Raechel Myers is the co-founder and CEO of She Reads Truth, a dynamic community of women dedicated to connecting with God through Scripture. Raechel's experience with the power of God's word turned into a passion for helping women engage with the Bible. It has transformed the way thousands around the world experience God's truth. This story includes discussion of pregnancy loss. Show notes: Discount code TUPFREE for free shipping through November 18th 2024. | |||
| Paul Allen: Voice of the Vikings, Voice for Jesus | Unfolding Short Stories "God decided… I'm gonna have you be a play-by-play voice in the NFL… even though you've never done it in your life." | 21 Oct 2025 | 00:13:41 | |
"God decided… I'm gonna have you be a play-by-play voice in the NFL… even though you've never done it in your life." Paul Allen didn't take the usual path to the broadcast booth. He went from horse racing to becoming the voice of the Minnesota Vikings. His passion made him go viral, but his greatest transformation didn't happen on the mic. It happened when Jesus became real to him after 52 years of belief without relationship. In this Unfolding Short Story, we share a powerful moment from The Champion: Unlike Any Other podcast, where Paul tells how God changed everything. Hear the full story of Paul Allen on this episode of The Champion: Unlike Any Other. | |||
| Unfolding Short Stories: "That's not my twenty." God Provides for Mary Lou | 12 Nov 2024 | 00:11:18 | |
In 2010, newly single and struggling to put food on the table for her son, Mary Lou experienced God's extraordinary provision. From finding perfect grocery coupons at just the right time to witnessing a miracle harvest from an unexpected plum tree, God showed up in powerful ways. Even as she considered becoming a prepper, God demonstrated His ability to provide instant financial blessings, teaching her to trust Him completely. Through it all, Mary Lou learned that God is the ultimate provider, and he can provide, whether it's big or small, to meet our needs. | |||
| Page 218: Faith Eury Cho: How the Wilderness Helps Us Experience Friendship with God | 08 Nov 2024 | 00:37:39 | |
In times of joy, thankfulness comes easy. But if you are in a place where you've been crushed by circumstances beyond your control, it's much harder to feel grateful. Faith Eury Cho has been there- those seasons where it feels like you are in the wilderness and your prayers are bouncing off the ceiling. She's walked through enough to know that the journey is about so much more than simply getting to the Promised Land. Faith Eury Cho has been a gospel preacher since she was 19. She is a co-pastor with her husband David of Mosaic Covenant Church of NJ. She is the author of Experiencing Friendship with God: How the Wilderness Draws Us to His Presence. You can learn more about her at FaithEuryCho.com.
Checkout the latest episode of Wow God Stories! https://www.wowgod.com/podcasts/wow-god-stories/33-an-unlikely-path-to-him/ Share about the amazing things God has done in your life on The Unfolding page at WowGod.com by clicking the green microphone button, recording, and sending us your story. It's very easy. | |||
| Unfolding Short Stories: "I was throwing away decks of tarot cards..." Makenzie Weatherford | 05 Nov 2024 | 00:13:54 | |
"I was throwing away decks of tarot cards...and I realized my life is changed forever. It had to be all about Jesus. That stuff was destroying me. Only Jesus could truly set me free from the darkness I had welcomed." The Bible talks about sins that can feel mysterious or confusing—like its warnings about witchcraft. Are practices like astrology, crystals, and tarot cards truly dangerous, or just harmless explorations? In this episode, Mackenzie Weatherford shares her story of growing up in a Christian home, only to drift into astrology and fortune-telling after a painful breakup. As she ventured deeper, she encountered a darkness that left her shaken, leading her to throw away the items connected to her past and reclaim the peace found only in Jesus. Mackenzie's journey is a powerful reminder that God's love remains steadfast, even when we stray. Have you ever strayed from your faith and felt God calling you back? If so, we want to hear your story! Use this link to click the green microphone button and share how God transformed your life. | |||
| Page 217:Jep and Jessica Robertson: Duck Dynasty Family's Journey of Faith and Adoption | 01 Nov 2024 | 00:35:12 | |
When Jessica Robertson first raised the question of adopting a child, her husband Jep wasn't on board. They already had busy lives with four children and filming their extended family's hit reality series, Duck Dynasty. But after a mission trip to the Dominican Republic, Jep's heart was changed. Since bringing home Jules Augustus Robertson, their family has experienced the joys and challenges of adoption, including overcoming sensory issues and questions about race. Through it all, the Robertsons have found strength in their faith. Jep and Jessica are the authors of Dear Valor, a children's book about adoption and are featured on the reality TV series, Duck Family Treasure. Learn more about "All God's Children". Share your story about Angels, or any other Wow God moment you've experienced when you click the green microphone button. | |||
| Unfolding Short Stories: "God, I want to be like that tree" Joni Rosebrock | 29 Oct 2024 | 00:11:33 | |
Joni Rosebrock shares how, in the midst of depression, a comment from her husband led her into deeper intimacy with God. She fell in love with God's Word, immersing herself in scripture in a way that transformed her life and strengthened her faith. From this journey, she believes God led her to what she calls the WRAP method: Write, Read, Apply, and Pray—a powerful practice that brought healing and renewed purpose while reading God's word. Now, Joni leads others into this getting deeper into God's word. Joni wrote a book, and also has a podcast, all about how WRAP can deepen your own walk with God. | |||
| Page 216: Rachel Wojo: Desperate Prayers, the Powerful Pathway to Peace | 25 Oct 2024 | 00:43:21 | |
In the hardest moments of life, do you ever wonder if God is listening to your cries for help? When you are feeling hopeless, what do you say to God? Rachel Wojo understands what it's like to pray without receiving the answers you're longing for. Five years into her marriage, she learned her pastor husband had been having a long-term affair. She then learned her daughter had a devastating diagnosis that would likely cut her life short. In these anguished moments, Rachel's faith shifted. She was changed from a girl who checked boxes of religious activity, to one who was desperately crying for help from a God who hears. The answers she received were even greater than what she'd hoped for. Rachel Wojo is a speaker, podcaster, and the author of Desperate Prayers. She writes at her popular blog, RachelWojo.com. Learn more about her free class, How to Be A Prayer Warrior for Your Family in Dark Times, at DesperatePrayers.com. | |||
| Unfolding Short Stories - God Out Loud - "You will go look for that boy tomorrow." - Tim Halfin | 22 Oct 2024 | 00:20:48 | |
Tim Halfin heard that a local boy had gone missing for 3 days. As he started to pray, he heard God say, "You will go look for that boy tomorrow." Today, we're sharing an amazing story presented by the "God Out Loud" podcast. To hear the rest of this episode, fast forward about 20 minutes on the God Out Loud Podcast. Here it is on Apple: God Told Tim to Look for a Missing Child - Tim Halfin Here it is on Spotify: God Told Tim to Look for a Missing Child - Tim Halfin Hey, if you have a story where you felt like God told you to do something specific, kind of like what happened with Tim's story, would you share it with us on the green microphone button? https://www.wowgod.com/podcasts/the-unfolding/?t=1729289102476
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| Page 215: Riley Clemmons: Embracing Authenticity and Finding Identity in Jesus | 18 Oct 2024 | 00:27:13 | |
Nashville-native Riley Clemmons was "discovered" at a school pageant when she was 13 years old. She signed a record deal 2 years later and started writing songs, touring, and facing the challenges of the music industry. She has been open about her struggles including OCD, imposter syndrome, and dealing with the pressures of social media. By the time she was 21, Riley realized she'd been attaching her self-worth to the success or failure of every song, and it was exhausting. Facing burnout, Riley made the decision to step away from her career to reconnect with her faith and identity God. Through therapy, prayer, and the support of loved ones, she rediscovered the true meaning of worth and authenticity and found a new passion for music. For more on Riley's music, visit RileyClemmons.com | |||
| Page 162: Scott Hamilton: Olympic Champion and Cancer Survivor on Trusting God | 15 Oct 2024 | 00:34:44 | |
Scott Hamilton is one of the most recognized male figure skating stars in the world, winning four World Championships and Olympic gold in 1984. He is a three-time cancer survivor, television broadcaster, motivational speaker, and more. Scott says failure is the thing that has fueled much of his success. God used the challenge of Scott's journey with cancer to get his attention and to grab his heart. | |||
| Unfolding Short Stories: "Mom was number one in the world in tennis." Cindy Brinker Simmons | 15 Oct 2024 | 00:13:32 | |
Cindy Brinker Simmons opens up about her journey through grief, and not staying stuck in it. Losing her mother, tennis legend Maureen Connolly, to cancer at a young age, Cindy thought God hated her, but eventually found that God loved her deeply. She shares how this profound spiritual transformation gave her strength to face further hardships, including her husband's cancer battle. Cindy emphasizes the importance of choosing joy amidst adversity, building supportive relationships, and turning grief into purpose. As the founder of Wipe Out Kids Cancer, Cindy reflects on how her trials sharpened her focus on helping others, reminding us that even in life's darkest moments, we can find restoration and hope. In her book, Restored: Reconnecting Life's Broken Pieces, she explores how God uses trials to refine us for a greater purpose. | |||
| Cory Nickols: From Brokenness to Purpose: Finding Identity in God: Page 256 | 17 Oct 2025 | 00:54:34 | |
What do you do when life takes everything, your home, your job, even your hope? Cory Nickols knows those struggles intimately. Raised in a Christian home, he thought he understood who he was, but trauma, loss, and doubt left him questioning everything, including his value. One heartfelt prayer, "God, I want to know You," set him on a journey through what he calls The Breaking, The Crushing, and The Stripping. These seasons challenged everything he knew about God and himself, ultimately revealing his true identity: loved, chosen, and a child of God. Today, Cory helps rescue children trapped in human trafficking, showing how God can transform brokenness into purpose. Content caution: This episode includes references to suicidal ideation, childhood sexual abuse, and human trafficking.
Show Notes: Website: https://corynickols.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/corynickolsministries Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/corynickols/ Destiny Rescue: https://www.destinyrescue.org/ Cory's book: https://www.amazon.com/More-God-Not-Done-You/dp/B0F4Z3QHHH
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| Unfolding Short Stories: "...this jazz-playing cow." John Lumgair talks about art and his animation project | 08 Oct 2024 | 00:13:38 | |
John Lumgair is a director at http://QuirkyMotion.com, where he makes animation and illustrations to spark thoughts, laughter and imagination. John is an artist in the world, but not of it. John is a storyteller and digital animator on a project called "Jazz Cow". Though "Jazz Cow" is not a Christian show, it has many Christians on the project, and speaks to things inherent to the experience of God's creation, encouraging us to go against the algorithm of life brought on by "technocratic leaders". John talks about what it's like to feel a calling to be an artist. Maybe you feel a calling to be used by God in the world of art. Maybe God is using you already in the art world. If so, consider sharing your story here. Just click the green microphone button. Click to learn more about John and his team's project called "Jazz Cow". | |||
| Page 214: Donna Winship: Understanding Your True Kingdom Identity | 04 Oct 2024 | 00:50:38 | |
When you live in some of the most difficult conflict zones on earth, it helps to have a peace that surpasses understanding. Donna Winship and her husband Jamie spent more than 25 years living in places like Indonesia, Iraq, Jordan and Israel. Those hard years forged an understanding of God's love and forgiveness that transformed Donna's life. Along the way, Donna discovered principles of the Kingdom of God that brought peace and freedom – even when living in a culture of war, terrorism, conflict and death. Donna and Jamie are co-founders of Identity Exchange. Jamie is the author of Living Fearless. Learn more about their free resource, Finding Hope in Depression at Identity Exchange.com Donna's husband Jamie Winship was featured on Page 168 of the Unfolding. Do you have a story to share based on hearing this story, or want to share how God has used it to encourage you. Click the link here, and use the green microphone button.
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| Unfolding Short Stories: "I walked out a free woman" Kim Kidd becomes the first woman in Indiana to receive clemency | 01 Oct 2024 | 00:08:33 | |
Kim Kidd shares her remarkable journey from addiction and despair to freedom and transformation through faith. Raised by a praying grandmother but lost in a life of drug dealing, Kim hit rock bottom when she faced a 50-year prison sentence. In that jail cell, she encountered God in a powerful way, witnessing miracles that sparked revival behind bars. Don't miss this inspiring story of redemption, hope, and the faith that changed Kim's life forever. To hear more stories of God ministering to people in prison, check out the latest episode of the "Wow God Stories" podcast, guest hosted by Rob Vischer. To hear Kim Kidd's full story on "The Unfolding", listen to "Page 17" on Apple or Spotify. Listen on Apple Listen on Spotify To share your own Wow God Story with us, click on the green microphone button here. | |||
| Page 213: Chad Staerkel: Skydiving Missionary on the Adventure of Trusting God | 27 Sep 2024 | 00:42:55 | |
When Chad Staerkel was young, he was rebellious, wild and crazy. He was the kid who was always jumping off the garage, riding fast motorcycles, and dreaming about flying F 16's. He seemed to have no fear. When Chad's spirit of adventure was combined with complete trust in God, he realized the sky is the limit. As a professional skydiver, Chad has jumped out of an airplane more than 11,000 times. Beyond skydiving, Chad has been willing to take risks to follow God wherever He leads. What he has witnessed has only made him more confident in Jesus. Does fear keep you from following God? Chad's story just might inspire you to take a leap of faith and embrace the adventure of following God. Chad is the author of Doctrines of Grace. | |||
| Unfolding Short Stories: "..all your ways, acknowledge.." Daniel Maritz trusts God step by step | 24 Sep 2024 | 00:11:08 | |
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart." Daniel Maritz shares the powerful story of his own faith journey, and following in the faith footsteps of his father. Through personal losses and life's trials, Daniel learns to fully surrender and trust in God's plan. Ultimately, God leads Daniel from a career in modeling to the creation of a global online ministry. | |||
| Page 212: Andrea Mercier: Mother of Son with Autism Learns to Trust God is Good | 20 Sep 2024 | 00:33:50 | |
Why? It is a question that has wrecked the faith of many. Why would God allow this? Why didn't God intervene? Why didn't He answer our prayers? Andrea Mercier is very familiar with the question "Why, God?" After years of infertility, Andrea and her husband experienced the joy of getting pregnant and then giving birth to their son, Gabriel. Then they noticed Gabriel's development was delayed. He was eventually diagnosed with autism and a rare, genetic condition that gradually robbed his abilities. It was heart-crushing. And yet, Andrea has come to a place of deep, deep intimacy with God. If you are struggling to reconcile a good God with hard circumstances, Andrea's story will encourage you. Andrea is a pastor, speaker, and the author of Oliver's Extraordinary Friend: A Boy's Journey of Embracing Autism. | |||
| Unfolding Short Stories: "Can anything good come from Rhode Island?" William Winfield goes from homeless to hope bringer | 17 Sep 2024 | 00:06:00 | |
"Can anything good come out of Nazareth? Yes, it can." William Winfield shares how his faith in Christ transformed his life from homelessness to hope and purpose. Reflecting on his journey, William reminds us that the greatest tragedy in life isn't death, but living without purpose. Hear how God has used William in key moments of a few men's lives, and how his Christlike compassion to them at just the right moment gave them much-needed hope and a lasting life change. | |||
| Page 211: Jermaine Wilson: From Prison to Politics, Former Inmate Becomes Mayor | 13 Sep 2024 | 00:53:03 | |
God is all about transformation. 2 Corinthians 5:17 says, "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come." God loves second chances. Jermaine Wilson had spent four years in prison by the time he was 19. His dad had been to prison. His brother had been to prison, and his sister had been to prison. Jermaine's search for love led him to earn acceptance through criminal activity and gang involvement. But it was a trap. He wanted a different life yet there seemed to be no way out. How does a gang member, drug dealer and prison inmate become the mayor of Leavenworth, Kansas? That's the incredible God-story of Jermaine Wilson. Today, Jermaine is the mission ambassador for Prison Fellowship. | |||
| Unfolding Short Stories: " I pray that you'll choose to surrender." Tony Burkebyle reflects on ministering to men in prison | 10 Sep 2024 | 00:08:34 | |
Tony Burkeybyle knows what it is to be a broken man. He also knows what it is to live a surrendered life. Tony now volunteers in prisons, guiding men to forgiveness and a life rooted in God's grace. In this episode, Tony shares how his son's imprisonment led him to minister to men at the Federal Correctional Institution in Terre Haute, pointing them toward the freedom and salvation found in Jesus Christ. | |||
| Page 210: Katie Campbell: 30A Prays and a Free-Fall of Faith | 06 Sep 2024 | 00:50:57 | |
Katie Campell has always had a passion to pray for people. A few years ago, she began to sense God was asking her to follow him to a place she didn't yet know and for a ministry that wasn't yet clear. To most people, that sounds crazy. Why would you pack up your family, move 2500 miles to a place where you knew no one, for a ministry that didn't even exist? This is the story behind 30A Prays, a ministry on the beaches of County Road 30A which spans the Gulf Coast of Florida roughly between Destin and Panama City. Since March of 2023, 30A Prays has prayed for and shared the Gospel with thousands of Gen-Z students from across the U.S. God is moving among Gen Z on the beaches of 30A, and it began with a free fall of faith. | |||
| Sarah Philpott: "My little boy was in our goldfish pond" | Unfolding Short Stories | 14 Oct 2025 | 00:10:04 | |
"My little boy, who was one, was in our goldfish pond." A fall afternoon on the farm turned from laughter to panic. Sarah's latest children's book: Wake Up, Little Seed Faith Podcasts are made possible by your support. You can click here to give. | |||
| Unfolding Short Stories: "Shalom is coming" Jerry Thomason's journey with cancer | 03 Sep 2024 | 00:15:52 | |
Jerry Thomason shares his personal journey as a cancer patient, revealing how his faith in God has been his anchor through unexpected challenges. Amidst his diagnosis, Jerry's reflections on reshaped priorities, strengthened beliefs, and the impact on those around him offer powerful insights. Jerry's story highlights the blessings and lessons found even in the darkest times. Meridith wants to hear your story. If you have a smartphone, USB microphone, or other way to record your voice, use this link and click the green microphone button, as we're looking for more Wow God Stories to share with our podcast listeners. | |||
| Page 209: Bryan Crum: Former Hospice Chaplain Shares Lessons from the End of Life | 30 Aug 2024 | 00:38:36 | |
Bryan Crum spent a decade serving as a hospice chaplain, helping people walk through their final days. After listening to hundreds of life stories, he realized too many of us carry regret and fail to recognize just how much God values us. Hospice work changed Bryan's life and his perspective on priorities. Through the stories of people like Ms. Ruth and Mr. Harold, Bryan learned the power of our words, the deadly impact of doubt, and why we all can trust that God loves us deeply. Bryan is the author of Neighbor, Love Yourself: Discover Your Value, Live Your Worth. | |||
| Unfolding Short Stories: "The Lord doesn't waste anything." Amelia Tabatt | 27 Aug 2024 | 00:09:44 | |
"In the midst of your pain... you really get to experience a side of the Father that you don't really see in heaven." Amelia Tabatt shares her deeply personal story of her mother's 18-month battle with glioblastoma brain cancer, the challenges, the faith, and finding hope amid the struggle and loss. | |||
| Page 208: Katie Miller: Beauty from Ashes- the story of Sight and Sound Theater | 23 Aug 2024 | 00:32:53 | |
Isaiah 61:3 describes how God comforts those who are mourning. It says He will take our ashes of grief and trade them for a crown of beauty. Katie Miller has grown up in a family that has watched God take situations that seemed impossible, sometimes literally standing in ashes, and make something so beautiful that millions of people witness it today. If you've been to Lancaster, Pennsylvania or Branson, Missouri, maybe you've visited Sight and Sound theater to see one of their astounding productions where stories from scripture come to life. More than 30 million people have been inspired by the stories of Noah, Daniel, Queen Esther and more. Since Sight and Sound's humble beginning in 1976, God has taken some of most devastating circumstances along the way and turned them for good. | |||
| Wow God Stories: Susie Larson - Right Where God Wants Me | 20 Aug 2024 | 00:32:47 | |
God knows what we don't, and can see what we can't. Susie Larson shares about those moments when God leads you to the right place at the right time. The times when the Lord has directed your steps and brought you to where you needed to go. Hear how others have been in the exact spot where God wanted them on this episode of Wow God Stories. | |||
| Page 207: Tracie Miles: From Fear to Faith -Healing from Divorce and Discovering Purpose | 16 Aug 2024 | 00:32:03 | |
When Tracie Miles' marriage of 25 years imploded, it felt like the train of life had slammed into a brick wall. Almost overnight she went from financially stable to desperately broke, from a family of five to a single mom of three. Tracie describes that season as a "lifequake"- an earthquake that shook and changed every part of her life. She became stuck, overwhelmed by countless fears. There seemed to be no way to move forward and no hope that she could every feel joy again. She couldn't imagine how God would make beauty from these ashes. Tracie Miles is a bestselling author, director of COMPEL Pro Writers Training at Proverbs 31 Ministries, and the founder of the Living Unbroken Divorce Recovery program. | |||
| Page 206: Elizabeth Moore: Navigating Doubt and the Power of Honest Prayers | 09 Aug 2024 | 00:43:08 | |
Sometimes seasons of doubt can come unexpectedly. When Elizabeth Moore followed her dream to New York, she found herself surrounded by people who didn't believe what she had always believed and some who were antagonistic toward God. She began struggling under the weight of questions and doubts. She could never have imagined that she would emerge from this season more certain of her faith and grateful for the struggle. Elizabeth is the co-author of Liturgies for Hope and Liturgies for Wholeness, books of honest prayers and scripture to help you through the highs and lows of life. | |||
| Unfolding Short Stories: " I was a scaredy cat..." Trudy Feyereisen loses her husband Johnny from brain cancer | 06 Aug 2024 | 00:18:31 | |
Trudy Feyereisen recounts her journey from being a 'scaredy cat' afraid of trials to becoming a witness of God's unwavering faithfulness through her husband's battle with brain cancer. Throughout this ordeal, she shares how her faith deepened, supported by scripture, prayer, and Christian community. Despite immense challenges, including her husband's personality changes and eventual passing, she found solace in God's presence and the body of Christ. Hear about her enduring faith in God's promises and the strength she drew from her favorite scripture and worship songs. | |||
| Page 205: Jason Carver: Bringing Dead Marriages Back to Life | 02 Aug 2024 | 00:40:11 | |
One Sunday morning Pastor Jason Carver gave his wife and kids a kiss and headed out the door early for church. When he came home, they were gone. Thirty days later, the divorce papers arrived. It was the beginning of a two-year journey. Jason wrestled with God and learned to surrender to Him. Despite the circumstances, Jason had hope- something he calls a "supernatural stubbornness" to stand on the promises of God. But the divorce still went through. His wife was still with someone else. Could the God of resurrection bring a dead marriage back to life? | |||
| Unfolding Short Stories: "He came and got me." Ryan Graves | 30 Jul 2024 | 00:09:59 | |
Ryan Graves thought he was a Christian, but a near-death experience and over a year of hospital stays due to alcohol abuse, was the wake-up call that led him on a new path of passion for Jesus. Now, Ryan shares his journey of end-stage liver disease and the Good News of the Gospel with anyone who will listen. You can learn more about Ryan's journey at his website. https://thesoultrek.com/
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| Amber Smith: Beauty from the Ashes of Grief: Page 255 | 10 Oct 2025 | 00:35:35 | |
When country artist Granger Smith and his wife, Amber Smith, lost their three-year-old son, River, their world shattered. In her darkest moments, Amber found herself on the bathroom floor, crying out to God, desperate for hope. That heartbreak became the beginning of redemption. Now the author of "The Girl on the Bathroom Floor" and host of the Arise with Amber podcast, Amber shares how God met her in unimaginable pain, how He brought beauty from ashes, and how she learned to live with both grief and joy. This episode of The Unfolding is a story of faith, healing, and the hope that only God can bring when life falls apart. Show Notes: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amberemilysmith/?hl=en YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheSmithsTV Amber's Website: https://arisewithamber.com/ Amber's Book: https://www.amazon.com/Girl-Bathroom-Floor-Together-Everything/dp/1400347890 Granger's episode on The Unfolding: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/page-185-granger-smith-country-music-star-finds-faith/id1460841077?i=1000720200985 Water Safety resources: Faith Podcasts are made possible by your support. You can click here to give. | |||
| Page 204: Jason Lomelino: Faith, Free Burgers, and the Power of God's Love | 26 Jul 2024 | 00:33:52 | |
Growing up in an alcoholic home, Jason Lomelino just wanted to find peace. He was confident religion wasn't the answer and spent his days partying and drinking. But then one night he was "ambushed by the love of God" and all he wanted to do was tell people about Jesus. That's when Jason got a crazy idea. Why not go into the darkest place he knew – the hard-partying streets of Isla Vista, California, and have a barbecue? That first night turned into more than twenty years, thousands of free burgers, and countless lives changed through the ministry of Jesus Burgers. | |||
| Unfolding Short Stories: "I want to learn to walk with my dog" Tina Zimmerman shares about training a service dog for Gary Miracle | 23 Jul 2024 | 00:13:37 | |
When Tina Zimmerman heard and saw the story of Gary Miracle, a man who suddenly lost all four limbs, she wanted to use her unique gifting to help him. Tina trains service dogs for people with disabilities. At first, she thought she might be able to get this done through an organization that she's a part of, which is involved in creating service dogs for wounded veterans. But Gary was not a veteran. After a short period of wrestling. She knew that God was calling her to donate her time and resources to change Gary's life for the better. ECMO, Gary's dog, has not only been the physical help that Gary has needed, but he's also been a needed companion through difficult times. | |||
| Page 203: Rachael Lampa: Stepping Away from the Stage, Rediscovering Faith & Music | 19 Jul 2024 | 00:22:08 | |
In this inspiring episode, we dive deep into the personal faith journey of singer/songwriter Rachael Lampa. Rachael tells the story of her early rise to fame, the pressures and imposter syndrome she faced, and her courageous decision to step away from the spotlight at 21. Through this season, she found a renewed connection with her faith and redefined her identity outside of music. Now, she's back with a new perspective on life, love, and God. Rachael Lampa is known for inspiring songs like "Somebody to You," and "Perfectly Loved." Join us as Rachael shares her struggles, triumphs, and the beautiful moments that have shaped her journey. | |||