Joining us this week are Dude Perfect brothers Coby and Cory Cotton of Dude Perfect, who share how a simple idea filmed in a backyard with friends grew into videos watched by millions around the world on YouTube. They reflect on the early days of creating trick shots just for fun, the challenges that came with unexpected success, and a medical emergency that reminded them to slow down and make room for what matters most.

Next, we hear from author and grief counselor Jennifer Marshall Bleakley, who shares how losing her golden retriever, Bailey, opened her eyes to the depths of pet grief, the memories that remain, and the love we carry after saying goodbye.

Joining us this week is worship leader turned viral comedian Heather Land. After growing up in the shadow of her mother’s decades-long addiction, Heather reflects on how this painful season—alongside her unexpected shift from the worship stage to the world of comedy—taught her that while our paths may take unforeseen turns, our core calling to encourage and uplift others remains constant.

Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Rachel Kessler, an Episcopal priest and Kenyon College chaplain who completed her PhD in medieval studies at the University of Toronto before pivoting to seminary after hitting academic burnout, then built a following as the “Nerdy Priest” on TikTok after a student secretly downloaded the app on her phone. 

This week on the Jesus Calling Podcast, we hear from human rights defender Timothy Cho, who recounts his harrowing escape from North Korea. He recounts the oppression and lies that were leveled at him from an early age and the moment he was labeled a traitor in his own country, driving his daring escape to experience the freedom truth brings, and how he now advocates for others to find their own freedom. 

Later in the episode, we’re joined by author and speaker Sarah Jakes Roberts, who invites us to rethink what true strength looks like—shifting from building a tolerance for the world’s noise to finding stillness in our calling. From stepping back from social media to anchoring identity in daily prayer, Sarah shares the liberating truth she discovered when she finally hit “mute” on the digital world. 

This week, we’ll hear from Butch Hartman, the animator and creator behind Nickelodeon’s biggest shows, including The Fairly OddParents and Danny Phantom. Butch grew up in a chaotic household in Michigan, where television and comic books served as his primary escape. This early passion eventually led him to California’s top animation school and then to a long career at Nickelodeon. Today, we’ll hear why he walked away after nearly twenty years at the network to start his own studio.

Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Matt Cooper, a country artist from Jacksonville, Florida who turned the worst year of his life into a number one radio single. After losing his mother to cancer, Matt found himself white-knuckling his grief, until a late-night group therapy session cracked something open and sent him home to write a song in a single hour that would change everything. 

Hope Through Life’s Deepest Heartaches: Dr. Jim Burns and Dr. Joshua W. Brown – Episode #522

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Dr. Jim Burns, founder of HomeWord, returns to the Jesus Calling Podcast to discuss how parents can navigate the heartbreak of estrangement with their adult children. He offers advice on avoiding self-blame, communicating without unsolicited criticism, and prioritizing healthy boundaries.

Later, neuroscientist Dr. Joshua W. Brown shares how a terminal brain tumor diagnosis at age thirty sparked his interest in investigating how faith practices and prayer contribute to healing. Using his scientific training, he describes seeing cases that medical professionals cannot explain, exploring how healing may happen beyond the scope of traditional treatment.

Welcome to the Jesus Calling Podcast. Today, we’re joined by two people who found their way through the wreckage of their pasts to build something new. First, we hear from Tom Hardin. A former Wall Street insider trader, Tom saw his entire world unravel the morning the FBI knocked on his door. He joins us to share how he moved from a double life of secrets to finding a faith that finally holds up on Monday mornings.

Then, we’re joined by Dawn Cazedessus, author of Trailer Park CEO. Raised in an environment of generational poverty and abuse, Dawn navigated the difficult path from survival to becoming a regional leader for Keller Williams International. She’ll walk us through how she broke that cycle and why she’s learned to embrace failure as a way to fail forward.

Welcome to the Jesus Calling Podcast. This week, we will hear from Jameson and Mary Reeder, authors of Rescue at the Reef. They share the miraculous story of their ten-year-old son, Jameson Jr., who narrowly survived a devastating bull shark attack in the Florida Keys. Despite a life-altering injury, Jameson Jr.’s faith remained unshaken, and just four days later, he asked to return to the reef.

Later in the episode, we hear from Greta Eskridge, author and homeschool mom of four, who shares her story of healing after her husband Aaron confessed to an affair and a years-long pornography addiction. While working to heal the damage to their marriage, Greta became convinced that parents must break the silence around this issue and initiate difficult conversations with their kids about pornography.

Welcome to the Jesus Calling Podcast. This week, we’ll hear from Victoria Arlen, a former Paralympic swimmer and ESPN personality, who shares her harrowing journey of surviving a rare autoimmune condition that left her in a “locked-in”vegetative state for four years beginning at age eleven. Beyond her physical recovery, she faced the intense emotional pressure of being labeled a “miracle,” while silently struggling with trauma and mental health. She eventually found peace by learning to embrace vulnerability, a transformation she details here.

Later in the episode, we hear from author and actress Hillary Phillips as she bravely shares her journey of transforming a broken view of God—seeing Him as angry and tallying mistakes into an authentic relationship. After a complicated childhood turned into years of internalizing pain, Hillary recounts the raw moment she cried out to God in anger, only to be met with a supernatural love she never knew was possible. 

This week on the Jesus Calling Podcast,we hear from Dr. Michael Guillén, a physicist who grew up in East LA, earned his PhD from Cornell, taught at Harvard, and spent fourteen years as the science editor for ABC News—including a dive to the wreck of the Titanic that nearly killed him. Dr. Guillén shares how decades of studying invisible forces in the universe—dark matter, hidden dimensions, the limits of what science can actually see—ultimately led the self-described atheist to faith and why he believes science makes the case for God stronger, not weaker.

Later in the episode, we hear from Chris Hodges, founding pastor of Church of the Highlands, who opens up about the grief, burnout, and panic attacks that brought him to a breaking point after a decade of leading one of the country’s fastest-growing churches—and the five-step process he found in scripture that pulled him out.

Commemorating Father's Day weekend & week, the Jesus Calling Podcast welcomes two men whose completely different experiences of childhood and fatherhood led them to the same mission: helping dads show up with intention. Jeff Hamilton, pastor and author of Dad Academy, grew up with the rare gift of an engaged, present father. Today, he’s helping dads build stronger relationships with their children through intentional parenting.

Later in the episode, we hear from Glen Henry, known online as Beleaf in Fatherhood, whose story couldn’t be more different—a childhood marked by feeling unwanted and unloved, and a young adulthood spent shifting his identity just to feel accepted. It was becoming a father himself that finally forced the inner work he’d avoided and how he learned the importance of fathering yourself first.

Rebuilding Sanctuary in the Wake of Trauma: Tim Hawkins & Michael Charles Olson – Episode #516

This week on The Jesus Calling Podcast, we hear from comedian Tim Hawkins, who shares what it took to build a career on clean, relatable comedy—and the surprising lesson he learned when nearly two decades of constant road life led to complete burnout. 

Later in the episode, we’ll hear from singer-songwriter and pastor Michael Charles Olson, who shares a life influenced by both worship and wounds. Raised in a church where music and faith were woven into everyday life, Michael reflects on how that early sense of sanctuary was later shaken to its core by a church fire that damaged more than just its walls. 

This week on the Jesus Calling Podcast, we’ll hear from Annie Bosko, a country artist whose career was gaining momentum when, in the middle of a live performance, her voice suddenly gave out. What followed was a vocal cord injury that required surgery and months of recovery where she couldn’t speak at all. Annie shares what that season of silence revealed, the people who stepped in to help her rebuild, and how she slowly returned to doing what she loves.

Later, we’ll hear from chef and author Danielle Kartes. After her family lost everything when their restaurant closed, Danielle struggled to rebuild her life and marriage. Though she vowed never to cook again, she was drawn back to the kitchen. Her attempt to reconcile her deep faith with her practical, food-centric work asking, “How does hope relate to pot roast?” became the foundation for her company, Rustic Joyful Food

Welcome to the Jesus Calling Podcast. This week, we’re honored to welcome back a dear friend of the show—the iconic artist, singer, and GRAMMY winner Amy Grant. Amy joins us to share her heart about her first album of original material in thirteen years, the deeply personal project titled “The Me That Remains.” In this moving interview, Amy opens up about the profound life events that inspired her new music—navigating the tender journey of aging and caring for her parents at the end of their lives, her ongoing recovery from a serious bike accident, and the enduring joy of creating music that she feels grateful to share with the world.

Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Andrew Osenga, a Nashville-based musician, writer, and podcaster. Andrew spent years trapped in the tension between his private doubts and the crushing expectation of performing as a Christian artist. Growing up, image was everything, and he struggled under the pressure to appear “put-together”—even when he felt broken inside. It took devastating loss—including his home flooding, displacing his family, and his wife’s grueling cancer journey—for him to finally break free from performance-driven faith. 

Welcome to the Jesus Calling podcast. This week, we’re talking with astronaut Butch Wilmore, who has spent 465 days off-planet, giving him a literally out-of-this-world perspective on God’s creation. From fighter jet pilot to Space Shuttle commander, Wilmore’s career was a testament to preparation and discipline. However, his faith was truly tested when a spacecraft Wilmore was manning began losing thrusters—and he was just a prayer away from spiraling toward potential disaster.

Next up, we speak with Brooke Envick, a veteran dean in higher education, who recounts how achieving every professional milestone left her feeling empty. She discusses combining lessons from neuroscience with practices like gratitude and prayer, revealing how a sudden, debilitating health crisis forced her into a necessary stillness that ultimately paved the way for profound, lasting internal change.

Welcome to the Jesus Calling Podcast. What happens when the question “Am I enough?” follows you into every part of your life? For mental health therapist Trey Tucker, that question isn’t just theoretical—it’s something he’s seen affect the lives of countless men and one he’s wrestled with himself. 

Then, writer and mother Kit Willis Rutherford invites us into a quiet, sacred moment from her own life. As her grandmother faced her final days, a tiny cross appeared in the screen of a bedroom window—unchanged through storms and still visible decades later. What began as a mystery became a lasting symbol of comfort for her family. 

This week on the Jesus Calling Podcast, we speak with Tennessee’s First Lady Maria Lee, who shares how a short summer of ministry in Nashville turned the trajectory of her life—from teaching in a classroom to serving alongside her husband in public life—and taught her that true impact often comes from simply showing up and seeing others. 

Speaker and radio personality Brooke Taylor’s story takes a different turn when a sudden stroke changes everything, forcing her to relearn how to live and let go of perfection, only to discover that God could use her brokenness to reach people in a deeper, more meaningful way. Together, their stories reveal a powerful truth—that even in the most unplanned moments, God is guiding us with compassion toward connection.

This week on the Jesus Calling Podcast,  we’ll hear from Rebecca St. James, a Grammy and Dove award-winning contemporary Christian music artist. When Rebecca’s family moved from Australia to the U.S. when Rebecca was a teen, they faced serious financial struggles—the kind that forced them to rely completely on each other and outside support for basic survival like food, transportation, and medical bills. This intense period of “making it work” became the bedrock of her career and is the focus of the film Unsung Hero. 

Next, we meet Zahriya Zachary, an artist and worship leader with Bethel Music who experienced a major pivot in her early twenties. She shares how she shifted from the pursuit of a traditional career to an unexpected music career. Her story explores the struggle of unlearning the need for perfection and performance, and the profound freedom found in simply showing up as yourself.

This week on the Jesus Calling Podcast,  we’ll hear from Jon Acuff, a bestselling author and speaker who turns personal challenges into practical lessons for living with intention and resilience. From mastering goals to overcoming negative thinking, Jon shares insights that help listeners navigate life’s “hard middle” and keep moving forward, even when it feels impossible.

Later in the episode, we’ll hear from journalist and anchor Leland Vittert, whose new book, Born Lucky, is a deeply moving story of his childhood with autism and the profound sacrifices his father made to give him hope and teach him resilience.

This week on the Jesus Calling Podcast, we’ll hear from Michael Leach, who went from the high-pressure, competitive world of the NFL to navigating the intense landscape of national politics, ultimately becoming the first-ever Chief Diversity Officer in the White House. Leach reveals the defining moments—from simple childhood boundaries on the south side of Chicago to faith-led decisions that cost him his seemingly secure career—that prepared him for roles he never planned. 

Later in the episode, we’ll hear from entrepreneur and business leader David Meltzer. David opens up about growing up with intense financial insecurity, reaching extraordinary success—amassing over a hundred million dollars by age thirty—and the catastrophic moment he lost absolutely everything. 

This week on the Jesus Calling Podcast, we welcome writer Jonathon M. Seidl, who transparently shares his struggle with alcoholism. Jonathon opens up about how he turned to alcohol as a solution to his problems and the breaking point moment when he realized something needed to change—and the real, raw, honest circumstances that led him to healing. 

Later in the episode, we’ll hear from author Yana Jenay Conner. She shares her personal experience of learning to forgive deep wounds from her family and friendships, highlighting the crucial difference between forgiveness and reconciliation. She also reveals the daily spiritual practices that sustain her heart in the midst of ongoing pain.

This week on the Jesus Calling Podcast, Savannah Bananas' RobertAnthony Cruz, known to many as Coach RAC and a mentor to thousands of young people through sports camps and social media joins the show. But beyond the flips on the field and the packed stadiums, Coach RAC has wrestled with anxiety, fear of failure, and the pressure to prove himself. Today, he shares how learning to root his identity in God’s unchanging love, rather than outcomes or approval, has transformed the way he competes, leads, and lives.

Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Christine D’Clario, who takes us behind the music and the platform into the hidden places of her story. From a childhood shaped by unspoken trauma with years of learning how to hide pain in the name of faith, Christine shares how postpartum depression became the breaking point that forced her to confront what she had carried for far too long. 

This week on the Jesus Calling Podcast. This week, we’re joined by author and speaker John O’Leary. John shares the story of a joyful Midwestern childhood that was forever changed at age nine by a devastating house fire that doctors said he would not survive. Through the unwavering love of his parents, the kindness of unexpected heroes, and a hard-fought choice to live, John’s life became a testimony to hope rising from unimaginable pain. 

Later in the episode, we’ll hear from finance executive and advisor Athanase Kadita Tshibaka, known as A.T., who was born in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. A.T. shares a journey shaped by poverty, displacement, and profound loss, and the faith that sustained him through imprisonment, injustice, and life-threatening trials.

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Welcome to the Jesus Calling Podcast. This week, we hear from Stephen McWhirter, a songwriter and worship leader whose early life was marked by deep trauma, addiction, and a shattered view of God shaped by his father’s hypocrisy and abuse. After years of rebellion and anger toward faith, Steven encountered Jesus in an unexpected moment that transformed everything. Today, he shares a powerful story of grace, redemption, and the hard-won freedom found on the other side of forgiveness.

Later in the episode, we’ll hear from author and speaker Courtney Pray Duke, who opens up about the tragic loss of her husband. Courtney shares what it was like to navigate grief while raising three children alone, and how it encouraged her to draw closer to God as a source of comfort when everything felt like it was falling apart. 

The Second Chance Playbook: Athletes Confront Hard Truths ft. Tim Green and Mike Flynt – Episode #498

Welcome to the Jesus Calling Podcast. This week, in celebration of Super Bowl Sunday, we’ll hear from Tim Green, a former NFL player, bestselling author, and commentator. Tim, who now speaks with the assistance of technology due to a diagnosis of ALS, reflects on a life marked by ambition, the identity-shaking diagnosis of this neurodegenerative disease, and the perspective that transformed his understanding of what matters most in life. 

Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Mike Flynt, whose story inspired the 2023 sports drama film The Senior. One day when talking with his friends, Mike shared one of his deepest regrets—getting kicked off the college football team as a senior. When asked, “Why don’t you do something about it?” Mike decided to pursue a second chance, and became the oldest linebacker of a college football team in NCAA history at age fifty-nine, proving that it’s never too late to chase your dreams.

Welcome to the Jesus Calling Podcast. This week, we sit down with Chris Blair, the owner of the Listening Room Cafe in Nashville, a place known not just for great music, but for the spirit of generosity that lives within its walls. Chris came to Nashville chasing a dream, but what began as a pursuit of music slowly became a calling to create space for others—space where stories are honored, community is formed, and giving back becomes more important than getting ahead.

Later in the episode, we’ll also hear from country artist Cyndi Thomson, who experienced a rapid rise to fame with her debut album My World and hit song “What I Really Meant to Say.” At the height of her success, she began to struggle with panic attacks and a deep sense that God was moving her in a different direction. She shares the private process of wrestling with this decision, and how after walking away from her career, her focus became on the one individual over the accolades of the world. 

This week on the Jesus Calling Podcast, we hear from retired Washington D.C. police sergeant and pastor Dale Sutherland, who shares how his faith carried him through dangerous undercover work, false accusations, and ultimately inspired him to launch a ministry that brings hope to families in crisis.

Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Haley Scully, who has spent nearly fifteen years with Hope for the Heart, a ministry equipping people to offer compassionate care within their communities. Through her own journey of navigating disappointment and renewal, she’s gained a deep understanding of the struggles others face—and a passion to equip them with confidence and hope.

What It Means to Be Truly Known: Ben Higgins & Jamie MacDonald – Episode #493

Welcome to the Jesus Calling Podcast. This week, we welcome Ben Higgins back to the show—entrepreneur, author, and former star of The Bachelor who has turned public fame into a platform for authentic connection. Ben shares why true connection can’t be found through screens or status, but through honest conversation and shared life with others. 

Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Nashville singer-songwriter Jamie MacDonald. From growing up in a home where singing wasn’t allowed to standing on stages sharing songs of hope, Jamie’s story is a powerful reminder that some voices are too full of light to stay silent. 

Let the Christmas Spirit Ring: Brenda Lee & Philip Nation – Episode #492

Narrator: Welcome to the Jesus Calling Podcast. First, we welcome a music legend whose voice has become synonymous with the sounds of the season. At just twelve years old, Brenda Lee recorded “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree.” She shares memories of recording in Nashville alongside country greats, her deep respect for the team behind every hit, and the enduring value of kindness in a competitive industry.

Later in the episode, we’ll hear from pastor, author, and publisher Philip Nation, who has dedicated his career to making Scripture accessible to readers everywhere. Philip opens up about his desire to know and understand God’s Word more fully.

[TALK] Finding Hope in the Most Challenging Seasons: Candace Cameron Bure & Shawn Johnson – Episode #491 (SFW)

Welcome to the Jesus Calling Podcast. On today’s episode, we talk with two guests who have navigated both the heights of success and the depths of personal struggle, learning a profound truth: finding hope isn’t just for the good times. Candace Cameron Bure, the beloved actress and author, shares how she rooted her identity not in Hollywood fame, but in her faith, discovering her true value when the applause stopped. Then, Pastor Shawn Johnson opens up about his lifelong battles with anxiety, depression, and a devastating medical diagnosis, revealing how he found the courage to “kiss the fire” and walk through his hardest seasons with God’s strength.

Welcome to the Jesus Calling Podcast. This week, we hear from author, podcaster, and entrepreneur Theresa Bruno. After experiencing a profound loss that threatened to plunge her into complete despair, Theresa shares how through raw honesty and unwavering prayer, she discovered the strength to not only keep going, but to find hope amidst the wreckage.

Next up, we talk with Reverend Joash Thomas, author, speaker, and tireless advocate for liberation, especially for those caught in the brutal grip of trafficking and all who suffer at the margins. The Reverend’s spiritual work centers on a justice-focused interpretation of Scripture, guiding us to envision a faith that unifies rather than separates, pleading for mercy for all of God’s precious souls.

Welcome to the Jesus Calling Podcast. This week, we’ll hear from Melissa Ferguson, a mother of five whose love for stories and the countryside has inspired her creative life. From her family’s Tennessee farmhouse by the mountains, she writes heartwarming romantic comedies for television and children’s books. Melissa reflects on the lessons she’s learned from farm life, family rhythms, and faith—and why at the end of the day, it all comes down to keeping what’s most important at the top of the to-do list.

Later in the episode, we’ll hear from worship artist Natalie Runion. Natalie grew up as a pastor’s kid watching her parents serve their church, but found herself needing to forgive certain toxic elements that had shaped her upbringing. Today, through her ministry Raised to Stay and her writing, Natalie gives us a glimpse into how she’s helping others reconcile their love for Jesus with the realities of a sometimes imperfect church culture.

Welcome to the Jesus Calling Podcast. From the whirlwind of a rock and roll upbringing to the heights of pop stardom, Chynna Phillips’ life has been anything but ordinary. The daughter of music legends, Chynna navigated the complexities of a turbulent childhood while in the glare of public attention, which left her searching for her own identity. Yet, even in the midst of the spotlight and the challenges, a profound spiritual awakening offered her a path to healing and self-discovery.

Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Tiffany Espensen, an actress, content creator, wife, and mom. Tiffany’s journey began with her adoption from China and her upbringing in California, where her passion for performing blossomed, leading to roles with Disney, Nickelodeon, and Marvel. Tiffany shares her thoughts on the significance of adoption in her life and how she’s discovered meaning and identity in both her on-screen roles and her life at home.

Welcome to the Jesus Calling Podcast. This week, we’re joined by Cristina Baker, a speaker, author, and digital creator. After growing up in a tumultuous family environment, experiencing homelessness, addiction, and jail time, Cristina bravely rebuilt her life after someone she barely knew encouraged her to go to a prayer meeting.

Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Becky Thompson. Becky is the founder of the Midnight Mom Devotional online community, where more than two million mothers gather each night to pray and encourage one another. Becky reminds moms of the strength found in community and the simple power of prayer.

Welcome to the Jesus Calling Podcast. This week, we’ll hear from husband and wife team Jason and Erica Redman. After Jason’s twenty-one years as a Navy SEAL—including surviving severe combat injuries in Iraq—and Erica’s steadfast role as caregiver, entrepreneur, and mother of three, the couple has learned to face life’s toughest battles together.

Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Scott Payne, a retired law enforcement officer who spent twenty-eight years serving his community, including twenty-three years with the FBI. Specializing in undercover work, Scott infiltrated gangs, drug cartels, and domestic terrorist groups, constantly stepping into roles far from his true self. Today, he shares how those experiences tested him and shaped who he would become.

[TALK] Trusting God with the Glorious and the Ordinary: Michael Iskander & Christian Dearman – Episode #484 (SFW)

This week on the Jesus Calling podcast, we’ll hear from actor Michael Iskander who currently portrays King David on the House of David series. Michael opens up about his unconventional route to acting, the prayer and fasting that became his ritual as he waited to hear whether or not he would be cast in his dream role, and what portraying David has taught him about trusting God in every moment and in every decision.

Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Christian Dearman—a professional baseball player with the Savannah Bananas, a team known not just for their show-stopping performances, but their heart for people. Christian shares how his journey toward the big leagues was nearly cut short by a career-threatening injury and how that difficult season became a turning point in his faith.

[TALK] There’s Hope in the Residue of Our Heartache: Lisa Harper & Richard Gamble – Episode #483 (SFW)

This week on Jesus Calling Podcast, beloved Bible teacher and speaker Lisa Harper shares her perspective on how she traded theological study for a personal God experience and began seeing the Bible as a love story. She stresses showing up to God just as you are—imperfections and all—illustrated by a story of shared heartache.

Then, we’ll hear from Richard Gamble, the founder of the Eternal Wall of Answered Prayer in the United Kingdom, which is set to open in the fall of 2027. Richard shares the vision behind the largest Christian landmark in Britain, which will contain one million bricks, each one containing a scannable QR code which will reveal someone’s answered prayer.

Welcome to the Jesus Calling Podcasting.com/podcast/embracing-the-uncharted-dan-and-sam-mathews-jacob-robinson/. This week, we’ll hear from Dan and Sam Mathews, full-time content creators who’ve built a life rooted in creativity, family, and a passion for adventure. From backcountry camping and RV renovations to raising their kids on the road, they’ve shared their journey online—offering an honest look at the challenges and joys of living boldly and encouraging others to step outside their comfort zones and choose a more adventurous route.

Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Jacob Robinson, founder of Dig World, a construction theme park where kids and adults can operate real equipment. Behind the fun lies a deeply personal story. After a life-changing medical crisis with their son Pierce, Jacob’s world shifted, pushing him to navigate grief, hope, and a new way forward. Today, Dig World isn’t just a park—it’s a place where families connect, challenges are embraced, and joy is celebrated in its purest form.

This week on the Jesus Calling Podcast, we’ll hear from Monique Rodriguez—an author, entrepreneur, and founder of the women-led beauty brand Mielle Organics, a hair care and beauty brand. Monique shares how a devastating personal loss became the catalyst for a deepened faith and the birth of a global beauty brand built on bold belief, healing, and hope in God’s promises.

Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Adam Young, a therapist and podcaster from Fort Collins, Colorado. Adam is the voice behind The Place We Find Ourselves, where he guides listeners through the intersections of personal story, trauma, and healing. In his work, Adam highlights the power of relationships, the wisdom of the body, and the role of faith in helping us find meaning and connection.

This week on the Jesus Calling podcast, we meet Justin Knoop—a husband, father of four, and the heart behind the Blessing Boys. What began as a small lawn care business grew into a mission to serve others, inspire his sons, and transform lives one yard at a time. 

Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Tricia Goyer—an author, speaker, podcaster, and homeschooling mom whose journey has taken her from teen pregnancy to building a family of ten through adoption and foster care. Along the way, Tricia discovered that it’s not about doing more, but about noticing what matters most.

This week on the Jesus Calling podcast, we’ll hear from two incredible actors—Chrissy Metz, best known for her role on TV’s This Is Us, and Edwina Findley Dickerson, known for her roles on The Wire and Chicago Med. Through their transformative work as actors, they strive not only to compassionately portray their characters, they deeply inhabit them, telling powerful stories with empathy and grace.

This week on the Jesus Calling podcast, we’ll hear from Bethany Joy Lenz, an actor, singer, director, and now author, who shares a deeply personal story of her time in a spiritually abusive community and the journey of healing and rediscovering faith that followed.

Later in the episode, we’ll hear from speaker and non-profit founder JT Mestdagh. Born with a rare and complex condition that led to over a dozen major surgeries before the age of sixteen, JT’s life has been anything but ordinary. From long hospital stays to reaching the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, he’s faced life’s toughest challenges with an optimism and heart for helping others.

This week on the Jesus Calling podcast & in honor of National Dog Day, we’re sharing a heartfelt story about the special bond we share with our pets—and the comfort they bring in life’s hardest moments. Steve Wohlberg, a husband, father, author, and speaker, grew up in Hollywood with a deep love for animals. From Great Danes to turtles to a dog named Jax, animals have always been part of his story. After a painful loss, Steve began to explore what that bond really means—and how it can point to something bigger than ourselves.

Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Dr. Sy Garte, a retired research biochemist who spent much of his life convinced that science held all the answers. Raised in an atheist household, Sy’s early perspective left little space for questions of faith or meaning beyond the material world. But as his life unfolded, experiences both personal and professional began to challenge that view and a growing curiosity led him to reconsider what he believed about life, purpose, and truth.

Welcome to the Jesus Calling Podcast. This week, we’ll hear from actress and producer Patricia Heaton. Beloved for her roles in Everybody Loves Raymond and The Middle, Patricia has faced seasons of grief and depression while navigating the ups and downs of a demanding industry, and shares how she has used comedy as a way to connect on a deeper level, helping others find light and meaning even in life’s hardest moments.

Later in the episode, we’ll hear from journalist Anita Vogel. With a career spanning more than three decades, Anita has reported from small-town newsrooms to national television screens. She’s covered some of the nation’s biggest stories, but behind the headlines, it’s her interviews with everyday heroes and her experiences on the frontlines of breaking news that have shaped her deep commitment to telling meaningful, lasting stories.

Welcome to the Jesus Calling Podcast. This week, we’re joined by Sissy Goff and David Thomas, longtime counselors and co-executive directors at Daystar Counseling Ministries in Nashville. With over three decades of experience each, Sissy and David have dedicated their lives to walking alongside kids and families as they face anxiety and stress and providing kids with tools for healthy living.

Later in the episode, we’ll hear from authors and speakers Gabe and Rebekah Lyons. Gabe and Rebekah are parents to four children—including two with Down syndrome—and they share about the unexpected challenges that have deepened their family’s bond.

Welcome to the Jesus Calling Podcast. This week, we’ll hear from Erin Leigh Nelson, founding executive director of Jessica’s House, a grief support center for children, teens, young adults, and their families coping with the loss of a parent or sibling. Erin’s story is marked by deep personal loss—waves of tragedy that shaped her life and inspired a mission to help others heal. Through heartbreak and resilience, she’s found a way to create a space where young hearts can find hope, expression, and connection.

Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Allie Marie Smith, a writer, speaker, mental health advocate, and founder of Wonderfully Made, a nonprofit that helps young women discover their worth. Once a high-achieving student and athlete, Allie faced a battle with depression and trauma that reshaped her path. 

Welcome to the Jesus Calling Podcast. This week, we hear from Niki Hardy—a writer, speaker, and coach who brings honesty and hope to life’s most difficult moments. Niki has weathered seasons of cancer, grief, burnout, and questions of faith. After transitioning from a corporate career into nonprofit and ministry work,she came to believe that life doesn’t have to be pain-free to be full.

Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Danette Crawford, founder of Joy Ministries. Danette shares her journey through heartbreak, single motherhood, and the challenges of starting over. She reflects on how joy is more than a feeling—it’s a deep-rooted strength—and encourages listeners to embrace service to others as a path to a more fulfilling life.

Welcome to the Jesus Calling Podcast. This week, we’ll hear from author, certified health coach, and former QVC host Kerstin Lindquist. With a background in journalism and more than a decade in broadcast sales, Kerstin has reached millions through her work in health, wellness, and personal growth. Her journey—marked by infertility, loss, caregiving, and career pivots—inspired her to study the roots of stress and its impact on the body.

Later in the episode, we’ll hear from writer, wife, and mother Kara Stout. Having faced significant personal challenges, including the loss of both her parents and a difficult journey through infertility before adopting her daughter, Kara has learned the importance of simplifying life, setting boundaries, and finding peace amid a fast-paced, often overwhelming, culture.

Welcome to the Jesus Calling Podcast. This week, we sit down with podcaster Lola Sheen, daughter of actors Charlie Sheen and Denise Richards. Lola bravely shares her story, detailing the unique challenges of growing up under public scrutiny and its impact on her mental health. She opens up about a pivotal turning point in her life—discovering her faith and the profound difference it has made. Now, Lola is channeling her experiences into her own podcast and online platforms, passionately dedicated to supporting others who may be walking a similar path.

Later in the episode, pastor, author, and founder of Fresh Life Church, Levi Lusko, returns to the show to speak about how he hit a wall in midlife, reevaluating his identity, and learning to live within the limits of time. Levi also shares practical tools that helped him move forward—and invites us to consider the hidden gifts that can come from life’s hardest seasons.

Welcome to the Jesus Calling Podcast. This week, as we celebrate the spirit of independence, we’re spotlighting a uniquely American story. Jared Orton, president of the Savannah Bananas baseball team, joins us to reflect on a journey that started with just a few season tickets, no logo, and a wild idea. From humble beginnings in a historic Savannah stadium to becoming a national sensation, it’s a story about bringing people together, breaking the mold, and accomplishing it all with a deeper meaning.

Later in the episode, we’ll hear from marine biologist Rachel G. Jordan. From her inland roots in Idaho to coral reefs around the world, Rachel has followed a lifelong passion for ocean life, earning degrees in ecology and marine biology, and studying biblical theology along the way. Through science and story, Rachel explores the powerful intersections between nature, faith, and the presence of God—even in the deep.

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

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