The Unfolding

“This makes you way more real to us.”  That’s what Amber Albee Swenson’s kids told her after she finally opened up about her past.  She had spent years teaching the Bible and leading her family in faith, but still carried silent shame that was creating distance. One conversation changed everything. Vulnerability became the key to deeper trust, healing, and faith.  Amber’s latest book is called “The Key to Confidence”. 

Transcribed - Published: 15 July 2025

  What happens when ordinary people decide to follow God, without a roadmap or plan, into some of the most dangerous places on earth? In this episode of The Unfolding, Dan Chung shares his incredible journey from a Korean immigrant growing up in Chicago to co-founding Crossing Borders, an organization dedicated to rescuing and supporting North Korean refugees fleeing unimaginable oppression.  Dan’s story is a powerful example of how faith, brokenness, and a willingness to say “Send me” can change thousands of lives, even when the road ahead is unclear. You’ll hear about the harsh realities North Korean refugees face: starvation, human trafficking, and brutal persecution. And you’ll discover how God uses ordinary people, willing to step into the unknown, to bring hope and healing.  Content Warning: This episode contains stories of torture, starvation, and human trafficking that may be difficult to hear.  Show Notes:  Crossing Borders website:  www.crossingbordersnk.org  Crossing Borders on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CrossingBordersNK  Crossing Borders on Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/crossingbordersnk/?hl=en  Mike Kim’s book Escaping North Korea: https://www.amazon.com/Escaping-North-Korea-Defiance-Repressive/dp/0742567052 

Transcribed - Published: 11 July 2025

“You don’t have to throw your brain in the dustbin to be a Christian.”  Raised in the UK with few Christians around him, Justin Brierly encountered God powerfully at age 15. But later, in the halls of Oxford, doubt crept in. What followed was a deep search for truth that led to a career of asking hard questions and finding better answers.  His book Why I’m Still a Christian tells that story. It's shaped by conversation, discovery, and a thoughtful pursuit of faith.  “We all come to life with a worldview… the question is: which one makes better sense?” 

Transcribed - Published: 8 July 2025

“You don’t have to throw your brain in the dustbin to be a Christian.”  Raised in the UK with few Christians around him, Justin Brierly encountered God powerfully at age 15. But later, in the halls of Oxford, doubt crept in. What followed was a deep search for truth that led to a career of asking hard questions and finding better answers.  His book Why I’m Still a Christian tells that story. It's shaped by conversation, discovery, and a thoughtful pursuit of faith.  “We all come to life with a worldview… the question is: which one makes better sense?” 

Transcribed - Published: 8 July 2025

  Singer, songwriter, and worship leader Jaime Jamgochian knows what it means to wait, and to keep holding on when the future feels uncertain. After rising to the top of Christian radio with “Hear My Worship,” Jaime’s journey took unexpected turns: chronic illness, career setbacks, and a season of deep doubt.  At one point, she found herself in her 40s, back in her childhood home, too sick to get out of bed, crying out to God: “Why is this happening?” But even in the darkest moments, she sensed God’s presence drawing near.  In this episode of The Unfolding, Jaime shares how surrender, persistence, and the kindness of God have shaped her story, and how it all led to a new beginning with her album Sacred Surrender.  Whether you’re waiting on healing, clarity, or hope, Jaime’s story will remind you God is still writing your story.  Show Notes:  Jaime’s website: https://www.jaimejam.com/  Contact Jaime email: [email protected]  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jaimejamgochian/?hl=en  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jaimejamgochian/ 

Transcribed - Published: 4 July 2025

When Kerry Hasenbalg heard God say “Love this one as your own” it led her to Nanja, a girl orphaned in the Rwandan genocide, and set in motion a series of events that led to an unforgettable reunion. In this story, a scar became the key to recognizing a daughter thought to be lost.  Since that time, Kerry has walked through her own seasons of loss and healing. Today, she helps others through writing, teaching, and soul care.  Learn more in her new book The Way of Becoming: 12 Practices for a Thriving Soul 

Transcribed - Published: 1 July 2025

What does it really mean to trust God fully, even when your world falls apart? When pastor and speaker Megan Fate Marshman suddenly lost her husband, Randy, she found herself in the midst of unimaginable grief. As a young widow and single mom, Megan faced a choice: strive for control or surrender to a God who never leaves. In this episode of The Unfolding, Megan shares how heartbreak led her to a slower, more peaceful life rooted in trust, not fear. Her story is a reminder that even in the fire, we are not alone.  Megan helps us understand how peace can be possible even in the hardest moments and why resting in God's love changes everything. Megan is a teaching pastor at Willow Community Creek Church and is the author of Relaxed: Walking with the One Who’s Not Worried About a Thing.  Show Notes:   Megan’s Website: https://www.meganfate.com/  Megan’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/meganfate/  Megan’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/meganfatemarshman  Buy Megan’s book: https://faithgateway.com/products/relaxed-walking-with-the-one-who-is-not-worried-about-a-thing?variant=41787794882696 

Transcribed - Published: 27 June 2025

“What does it look like for a coral biologist to minister to creation?” For Rachel Jordan, that question became painfully real when the reefs she studied began to vanish. As she searched for answers in both science and Scripture, Rachel began to see a bigger redemption story and a calling to bring restoration to God’s underwater creation. If you’re interested in Rachel’s book, you can discover more here: If the Ocean Has a Soul A Marine Biologist's Pursuit of Truth through Deep Waters of Faith and Science  

Transcribed - Published: 24 June 2025

    Courtney Smallbone comes from a long line of Jesus-followers—but as a teenager, she wasn’t convinced. That changed after a powerful encounter that shifted her from skeptic to wholehearted believer. When she witnessed God move in a miraculous way, it marked her for life and reshaped her expectations of what God could do. That moment would become the foundation of her faith when she later faced a situation that looked impossible. Courtney is married to Luke, one half of the Grammy-winning duo For King & Country.  She is the author of Technicolor Woman.   Show Notes:   Website:   https://technicolorwoman.com/  Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/courtneysmallbone_/  Book:  https://www.forkingandcountry.com/products/technicolor-woman-devotional 

Transcribed - Published: 20 June 2025

“Sometimes we miss Him in our every day.” — Suzanne Happs  We often look for God on the mountaintop or in the valley. But what about the middle? The everyday spaces of life where nothing feels especially dramatic or divine.  In this short story, Suzanne Happs reflects on raspberries, unexpected timing, and the sacredness of the ordinary. She reminds us that even in quiet seasons, God is present and faithful.  To hear more of Suzanne’s story, including how her family faced a medical crisis with no health insurance, listen on Apple to Page 53: Suzanne Happs from The Unfolding.   Or listen on Spotify.   

Transcribed - Published: 17 June 2025

  Caleb, Jordan, and Josh Ward, the brothers who make up Consumed By Fire, first played music together in 2006.  They hit the road with a heart to serve and tell people about the hope of Jesus through music.  For years they played and traveled, mostly for small crowds and small pay. They were living and working by faith- A way of life they had watched their parents model in a powerful way. But it’s tough to live a life of ministry on the road. They were burning out.  Despite a clear call from God, after 13 years of hard work, they decided to quit.  That’s when God gave them a song called “First Things First,” that changed everything.  Show Notes:   Website:   https://consumedbyfire.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/consumedbyfire/?hl=en 

Transcribed - Published: 13 June 2025

Travis West knows what it feels like to run on empty. Early in his marriage he was working multiple jobs and caring for his wife Mariah through a long illness. A study trip to Jerusalem changed everything. When the city slowed to a standstill on Friday nights, Travis experienced Sabbath rest for the first time. In this episode he explains how that weekly pause brought new life to his family and why he believes Sabbath is a practical gift for anyone today.  Book: The Sabbath Way: Making Room in Your Life for Rest, Connection, and Delight  Sabbath resource: https://www.travis-west.com/practices 

Transcribed - Published: 10 June 2025

Growing up on the south side of St. Petersburg, Florida, Kevin Burgess faced depression and a deep sense of hopelessness. After his parents’ divorce, he was uprooted from a safe environment and placed in a neighborhood where drugs and violence dominated daily life. Forgotten by society, he doubted he would live to see 30—until one day, someone handed him a Christian hip hop CD that changed everything. Today, Kevin Burgess—better known as KB—is a Christian hip hop artist, music executive, author of Dangerous Jesus, and a passionate voice for those searching for hope. In this episode, KB shares his powerful story of transformation and his mission to lead the lost and hurting to Jesus.  Show Notes:   Website: https://whoiskb.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kb_hga/  Book: https://www.amazon.com/Dangerous-Jesus-Thing-Risky-Getting/dp/1496459482 

Transcribed - Published: 6 June 2025

“Your story saved my life…” begins letter after letter from readers who found courage in Bryan’s dark-to-light plotlines. One teen even pausing on the brink of self-harm to ask, “What would those characters do?”   Bryan’s brand-new release, The Sacred Scales launches today, but today we step into the unfolding pages of his own journey: quitting a safe tech career, trusting God for a miracle fifty dollars, and watching fiction ignite faith in kids and families worldwide.  **Content note: Because Bryan recounts a story involving self-harm, this episode is recommended for adult listeners first.  Discover more about Bryan’s new book, The Sacred Scales. 

Transcribed - Published: 3 June 2025

  Dove Award-winning artist Ryan Stevenson is known for songs like Eye of the Storm and No Matter What—but behind the music is a story of identity, struggle, and relentless faith. For much of his early life, Ryan felt overlooked and forgotten. Poverty, bullying, and disappointment told him he wasn’t enough. But through it all, there was a still, small voice—the voice of God—whispering that he was loved, chosen, and made for more. In this episode of The Unfolding, Ryan talks about the years he spent waiting, doubting, and wrestling with God—even while working as a paramedic. It’s a deeply honest conversation about trusting God when your reality says otherwise, and daring to believe that the dreams He planted in your heart are there for a reason.    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ryansmusic  Ryan’s book: https://www.amazon.com/Eye-Storm-Experiencing-When-Cant/dp/0736979778 

Transcribed - Published: 30 May 2025

“Listen a bit.”  A simple line spoken to a young Trevor Hudson during a leadership exercise became the compass for his life’s work. In this Unfolding Short Story, the South-African pastor and author of In Search of God’s Will: Discerning a Life of Faithfulness and Purpose shows how a modest talent, handed back to God, can grow into decades of counseling, retreats, and Spirit-led guidance. Trevor invites us to slow down and discover what God can do with the small gifts in our own hands. 

Transcribed - Published: 27 May 2025

  For nearly 40 years, Chris Hauser has been a trusted force behind the scenes in Contemporary Christian Music—promoting the work of artists like Amy Grant, Chris Tomlin, Lauren Daigle, and Russ Taff. Known for his humility, authenticity, and deep love for the Gospel, Chris has built a reputation not on self-promotion, but on service.  But behind that professional success was a personal story marked by struggle. For years, Chris admits he was a fast talker—someone who could charm his way out of tough situations, even with the people who mattered most: his wife and kids. He made promises he didn’t keep, avoided hard truths, and watched the people he loved most get hurt.  In this powerful episode of The Unfolding, Chris shares how everything changed when God lovingly confronted him at a pivotal moment during a retreat called Encounter. Through God's grace—and learning to love himself the way God does—Chris experienced radical transformation in his marriage, his family, and his faith.    Chris’ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hauserpromo/  Encounter Training: https://encountertraining.com/  Chris’ speech at Judson University commencement: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=trVJOSmO5l0 

Transcribed - Published: 23 May 2025

“Everywhere somebody was sick, Jesus was right there.” Those words became Keith’s anchor as burn-pit-linked melanoma spread through his 33-year-old body. In this Memorial Day Moment, Navy-veteran and hospice chaplain Walt recounts the young soldier’s journey of courage, grace, and a faith found at the finish line. 

Transcribed - Published: 20 May 2025

  When Zach Meerkreebs finished speaking at Asbury University’s chapel on February 8, 2023, he texted his wife, “That was a stinker.” He thought the message had flopped. But what happened next was anything but ordinary. Students stayed. More arrived. And over the next 16 days, more than 60,000 people from around the world came to Hughes Auditorium to experience what became known as the Asbury Outpouring.  Marked by a profound spirit of humility, this movement reflected the very heart of Jesus. And as it turns out, God had been preparing Zach through years of heartbreak and refining. In the crucible of personal loss, Zach had come to treasure one thing above all: friendship with Jesus.  In this episode, Zach shares how his journey shaped the moment that changed so many lives—and why true spiritual awakening begins with radical humility.  Zach is the author of Lower: Igniting Spiritual Awakening Through Radical Humility. Learn more at ZachMeerkreebs.com.    Watch Zach’s Asbury Chapel Message here:  https://www.asbury.edu/about/revival-history/outpouring/    Page 151 of The Unfolding – Student Stories from Asbury  https://www.myfaithpodcasts.com/podcasts/the-unfolding/page-151-stories-from-asbury-students-share-their-experiences-at-asbury-outpouring/  Page 152 of The Unfolding – Why So Many Traveled to Be There  https://www.myfaithpodcasts.com/podcasts/the-unfolding/page-152-stories-from-asbury-why-so-many-traveled-to-be-there/  Resources focused on nurturing spiritual awakening in the body of Christ  https://awakeninglibrary.com/ 

Transcribed - Published: 16 May 2025

“We began to… say the Nicene Creed.”  That decision changed everything for pastor and researcher Glenn Packiam, when a 2006 scandal rocked his Colorado Springs church. In this Unfolding Short Story, the Barna Group scholar and host of The Resilient Pastor podcast recounts how repeating the Creed each week knit a fractured congregation back together, and how its ancient words still steady believers facing today’s confusion and corruption.   Want to dig deeper? Check out Glenn’s new book What’s a Christian, Anyway?: Finding Our Way in an Age of Confusion and Corruption. 

Transcribed - Published: 13 May 2025

  She’s the voice behind the hit song Desperate—a powerful anthem that soared to number one and struck a chord with thousands. But Jamie MacDonald’s story runs much deeper. In this episode, Jamie shares about growing up in a house where singing was banned and hope felt out of reach. After being kicked out at 15 and dropping out of high school at 16, she spent years bouncing between couches and group homes—no phone, no address, no one in her corner. But even in the darkest moments, a flicker of faith from a childhood church camp refused to go out. Join us as Jamie shares how one desperate prayer changed everything—and how her pain gave rise to a song that’s giving hope to so many.    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamiemacdonaldmusic/?hl=en  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/search/top?q=jamie%20macdonald%20music 

Transcribed - Published: 9 May 2025

David Sunde wrote a book called Homegrown Disciples: Parenting Rhythms for Drawing Your Kids into Life with God  Hear David reflect on the book, and it’s development from a time of community that continues to this day. David learned that discipleship doesn’t begin in a sanctuary. It begins around tables, in relationships, and in everyday moments of faith.  For David Sunde, a pastor and author, that truth came to life when his family was grafted in to a community of Burmese believers. What started as outreach turned into friendship… and then, family. 

Transcribed - Published: 6 May 2025

Guilt says you did something wrong. Shame says you *are* the thing that’s wrong.  Russ Taff grew up believing he’d never be good enough. Raised by an alcoholic Pentecostal preacher and a co-dependent mother, his childhood was marked by abuse, secrets, and the suffocating weight of shame. But even in the darkest moments, music was his refuge.  Russ’s extraordinary talent propelled him to the heights of Contemporary Christian Music. By 23, he was performing with The Imperials, later becoming a celebrated solo artist and member of the Gaither Vocal Band. With GRAMMY wins and a place in the Gospel Music Hall of Fame, his success was undeniable.  But behind the spotlight, Russ was fighting a silent battle. The echoes of shame never faded — and only alcohol seemed to silence them. What followed was a decades-long hidden struggle with addiction.  This episode is the second of a two-part story sharing Russ Taff’s raw, redemptive journey through trauma and addiction, and the healing power of Love.  Show notes:  “I Still Believe” Movie: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fpHdjcCfrSg  I Still Believe Book: https://www.amazon.com/Still-Believe-Wreckage-Recovery-Relentless/dp/1642931489  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RussTaff  Website:  https://russtaff.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/russtaffofficial/ 

Transcribed - Published: 2 May 2025

Joseph Descans loved surfing. It was everything to him until a violent wave left him with a shattered leg and a long road to recovery. After surgery and a painful hospital journey, Joseph says God healed his knee and restored him to the waves he loved. But physical healing was just part of his story. Joseph also battled addiction to marijuana and alcohol, and he says God healed him there too. Over the years, Joseph says God has healed him at least sixteen times, including his heart and ankle. In Joseph’s words, "God had healed me." This is a story about the God who still restores and heals today.  

Published: 29 April 2025

  “Shame is a prison,” Russ Taff says—and he lived in that prison for more than 40 years. To the world, Russ was a Gospel music legend: six GRAMMYs, 18 Dove Awards, and three Gospel Music Hall of Fame inductions. But behind the stage lights and accolades, he was hiding from pain, trapped in addiction, and silenced by the relentless voices of shame and self-hatred. In this deeply honest conversation, recorded around the dining table in his home in Bell Buckle, Tennessee, Russ shares the truth he kept secret for decades: while he sang songs about Jesus to millions, he was battling alcoholism in the dark. This is not just a story about addiction—it’s a story about hope. About the supernatural healing that comes through love, and the power of God to break even the heaviest chains. Russ opens up about his abusive childhood, the pain that shaped him, and the redemption that’s setting him free.  Whether you know Russ Taff or are hearing his name for the first time, his story will leave you changed. Don’t miss this unforgettable two-part episode of The Unfolding.  Show notes:  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RussTaff  Website:  https://russtaff.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/russtaffofficial/ 

Transcribed - Published: 25 April 2025

"I left school angry on Friday. On Monday, people saw a light in me."  Walter Hill was filled with grief and resentment after losing his mother and watching his father disappear into addiction. He had no interest in faith and no patience for empty answers. But God used one faithful friend and one unexpected night to break through the bitterness. This is a story of how deep anger was transformed into lasting joy.  Walter Hill's book: Amazed Again: Reclaiming Christ’s Joy in a Fading World

Transcribed - Published: 22 April 2025

Content Warning – not appropriate for children.     Bruce Van Natta’s childhood was filled with abuse and trauma, but he had one encounter with Jesus that marked him.  He knew God was real.  What he didn’t understand is why God didn’t rescue him. As he got older, he clearly heard God call him into ministry, but he was angry, skeptical, and cynical. As a diesel mechanic, Bruce regularly worked on big rigs.  On a fateful day in 2006, he was lying under a logging truck that weighed 18,000 pounds. What happened on that day can only be described as other-worldly; an accident, a near-death experience, and an encounter with the supernatural. This is a graphic story that is not appropriate for younger listeners. Bruce Van Natta is the author of Saved by Angels and the founder of Sweet Bread Ministries.    Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/SweetBreadMinistries   

Transcribed - Published: 18 April 2025

Katie Leigh never studied acting, never planned for ministry, and never dreamed she’d be the voice behind one of Christian radio’s most beloved characters. But one day she prayed, “God, I’d like to do something for you.” This is the behind-the-scenes story of Connie Kendall... and the faithfulness of the God who sees it all.

Transcribed - Published: 15 April 2025

  For Natalie Layne, growing up in church didn’t automatically mean she knew Jesus personally. There came a moment—a quiet, desperate conversation with God—when she needed to know if He was real or walk away. That honest plea changed everything. In this episode of The Unfolding, Natalie shares the story of how that moment became the turning point in her faith journey—leading her to discover not just a real relationship with Jesus, but also her calling as a musician and worship leader. Now a soul-inspired pop artist signed with Centricity Music, Natalie writes songs that shine with hope, joy, and the light of Christ.  Natalie’s debut full-length album, All Joy, is out now, and she’s currently on tour with Tenth Avenue North. You can find her music, tour dates, and more at natalielayne.com.  More from Natalie, here:    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/natalielaynemusic/  Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@natalielaynemusic?_  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/natalielaynemusic/ 

Transcribed - Published: 11 April 2025

  At 37 weeks pregnant, Erin Beck was eagerly anticipating the arrival of her daughter, Ainsley. But in an unimaginable turn of events, Erin was confronted with the devastating loss of her baby girl. Overwhelmed by grief and bitterness, she found herself at a crossroads—would she serve God in her sorrow, or use her pain to make His love known? In this deeply moving episode of The Unfolding, Erin shares how she navigated the darkest days of her life, learning to hold both grief and joy in the same hand. Through faith, support, and an unwavering hope in eternity, she found a way to honor Ainsley’s life while helping others through their own losses. If you or someone you know has experienced pregnancy or infant loss, this episode offers a message of hope, healing, and the strength found in choosing love.  Show Notes:   Acts of Kindness for Ainsley Facebook   https://www.facebook.com/Actsofkindnessforainsley  Empty Arms pregnancy & infant loss support group- https://www.facebook.com/groups/168555263911  Compassionate Friends Support Groups throughout the U.S. https://www.compassionatefriends.org/  Grieve, Create, Believe: Process Your Loss with Intention and Truth by Rachel George https://www.amazon.com/Grieve-Create-Believe-Process-Intention/dp/0578617196  Link to Google Doc with more resources:   https://docs.google.com/document/d/1tbw37eidOdNRNmLnOqojC26y5B_k-VbwCbCNAnTy34I/edit?tab=t.0#heading=h.v7xe9u38zcbm 

Transcribed - Published: 4 April 2025

  Hear Dr. Pamela Pyle's full story on the latest episode of Wow God Stories. “It will be a good death.” These words were shared by a patient. This episode explores what Dr. Pamela Pyle calls the “ending journey.” As a hospital physician and the author of Anticipating Heaven, she’s witnessed a peace in dying that defies understanding. It began with a conversation by a patient’s bedside. It led to the writing of a book. But more than anything, it led her to see death not as a cold ending, but as a sacred passage. 

Transcribed - Published: 1 April 2025

Megan Woods grew up in church but drifted away from faith during her teens.  In high school, she experienced bullying, heartache, and a constant struggle with self-worth. It seemed she was never good enough.  But in the lowest moment of her life, God began to show her the truth about who He is and His love for Megan.  Out of that experience, Megan wrote a song called The Truth.  Released in 2024, the song made Megan Woods the biggest debut artist in Contemporary Christian Music that year.  It reached #1 on the Christian charts in the U.S. as well as on iTunes in 38 countries.      Megan Woods on Instagram:   https://www.instagram.com/meganwoodsmusic/?hl=en 

Transcribed - Published: 28 March 2025

"Football was my god. It told me who I was, how good I was, and what I was going to do."  Derwin Gray was a leader on the Indianapolis Colts. A hard-hitting defensive star with NFL money, a promising career, and a wife to share it all with. By every measure, he was a success. But inside, Derwin was still a boy without a role model, shaped by his father’s absence and striving to prove he was worth something. He thought building a strong resume was the answer. Then, in the most unexpected way, God met him—in the locker room—through a teammate wrapped in nothing but a towel. What followed would change everything.  Hear the full interview here on the Manly with Andy Podcast: https://www.myfaithpodcasts.com/podcasts/manly-with-andy/episode-113-how-to-actually-share-jesus-w-others-derwin-gray/

Transcribed - Published: 25 March 2025

In 2022, Ben Fuller was a singer and songwriter just beginning his career in Christian music.  His song “Who I Am” has been played on stations around the country.  He grew up on a dairy farm in Vermont as a well-liked kid who seemed to have it all together.  But he always struggled to earn his father’s approval.  On the inside he felt an emptiness that left Ben searching for something to fill the hole.  He tried relationships, alcohol, cocaine, even “making it” in country music.  With each new thing, he was left asking himself, “Is this it?  Is THIS what life is all about?” 

Transcribed - Published: 21 March 2025

"Jennifer, can you wait just a little while longer?"  In a quiet valley in South Africa, Jennifer Sakata sought God's direction. She was waiting, as a single 33-year-old woman, to find love and become married. Jennifer’s surrender of her deepest longing to the Lord turned into one of the most intimate moments with God she’s ever experienced.   Hear Jennifer and her husband talk about their marriage story on the "Behind Our Smiles Marriage Podcast"!

Transcribed - Published: 18 March 2025

“I’ve often felt I can be too much, but the more emotive I am, the more God surprises me.”  Nigel Masenda learned early on that revealing his heart—tears, frustrations, and all—could open the door to unexpected moments of divine kindness. Growing up in a family and culture where men were often reserved, he felt out of place for expressing his emotions so freely. But when his mother traveled abroad for a funeral and couldn’t return for two long years, loneliness and unanswered prayers pushed him deeper into raw, honest faith. Through caring neighbors, silent prayers, and a tenacious hope, Nigel discovered that embracing vulnerability before God not only shapes our perspective—it can transform our very lives. 

Transcribed - Published: 11 March 2025

  Justin and Trisha Davis appeared to be living the dream—a beautiful family, successful ministry, and a future filled with promise. After planting their first church, Justin had an affair with a staff member who was also Trisha's best friend. Their marriage, family and careers were simultaneously blown apart and they were forced to come to terms with their brokenness.  It seemed their story would be one of failure and loss, but Justin and Trisha found grace, healing and redemption for even the most shattered parts of their lives.  Justin and Trisha are the founders of RefineUs.org and the authors of One Choice Away from Change: Break the Cycles That Hurt Your Relationships and Hold You Back.    Justin and Trisha Davis' Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/refineus/ 

Transcribed - Published: 7 March 2025

Becky Crane has always been captivated by the power of a good story. From her childhood days curled up with books to sharing Bible stories in kids’ church, she’s seen God show up in the simplest, most surprising moments. Becky recounts how Billy Graham’s words and C.S. Lewis’s depiction of Aslan in The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe helped shape her faith. If you’ve ever wondered how God might speak through stories, this conversation will both encourage and inspire you. 

Transcribed - Published: 4 March 2025

Jinger Duggar Vuolo grew up on television.  From the age of 10 until she was 27, her family appeared on TLC’s reality shows 19 Kids and Counting and Counting On. As the sixth child of Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar, she grew up in a strict religious system led by a teacher who claimed to speak for God.  That belief system contributed to a view of God as an angry judge waiting for her next mistake. Motivated by a fear of rejection, she was driven to be a people pleaser, trying to keep everyone happy all of the time.  But as she grew to know and understand God’s love, she realized the loving thing to do was speak the truth.  Jinger Duggar Vuolo is the author of Becoming Free Indeed, and People Pleaser: Breaking Free from the Burden of Imaginary Expectations.  Website: https://www.jingerandjeremy.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jingervuolo/ 

Transcribed - Published: 28 February 2025

Jinger Duggar Vuolo grew up on television.  From the age of 10 until she was 27, her family appeared on TLC’s reality shows 19 Kids and Counting and Counting On. As the sixth child of Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar, she grew up in a strict religious system led by a teacher who claimed to speak for God.  That belief system contributed to a view of God as an angry judge waiting for her next mistake. Motivated by a fear of rejection, she was driven to be a people pleaser, trying to keep everyone happy all of the time.  But as she grew to know and understand God’s love, she realized the loving thing to do was speak the truth.  Jinger Duggar Vuolo is the author of Becoming Free Indeed, and People Pleaser: Breaking Free from the Burden of Imaginary Expectations.  Website: https://www.jingerandjeremy.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jingervuolo/ 

Transcribed - Published: 28 February 2025

“My wife was desperate, and in that moment, God intervened.” Much like the determined woman in Scripture who reached out for Jesus’s garment, JD King’s wife refused to let her circumstances define her future.  This story is featured in the book, "Mightly Like Gideon".

Transcribed - Published: 25 February 2025

  When Brandon Heath heard the Gospel as a teenager, he was hungry for truth, love, and healing. His parents’ broken relationship had left him hurting and carrying a heavy load of resentment. When he heard God is love, and more specifically, God loves him, it was life-changing. But transformation and healing take time. God was putting people in Brandon’s life, including a guy named Bob Goff. They were mentors who saw things in Brandon he couldn’t see in himself. Brandon Heath is a singer and songwriter who’s been nominated for multiple Grammys and won eight Dove awards for songs like “Give Me Your Eyes,” “See Me Through It,” and “I’m Not Who I Was.”  Brandon’s latest project is called "The Ache."    

Transcribed - Published: 21 February 2025

Does God still transform lives in an instant today? Pastor Josh Brewer would say yes. As the leader of Transformation Youth Camp, he’s seen firsthand how God breaks through even the hardest hearts. In this episode, Josh shares the powerful story of a young girl who arrived blind to God’s love—only to encounter Him in a way that removed the scales from her spiritual eyes. She didn’t just see—she was filled with an overwhelming love of God. "She didn’t want to be there. And then, God broke through." 

Transcribed - Published: 18 February 2025

Twelve years ago, Gina’s husband passed away after a short battle with cancer.  She was left with two young children, and it was so hard. She couldn’t imagine ever loving someone that way again.  Across the country, Jeff was feeling the wounds of a hard divorce.  Marrying again seemed so unlikely. But as the years passed, both Gina and Jeff began to pray, and their friends started praying, too.  Was it possible that God might have someone they could love?  In this special Valentine’s episode of The Unfolding, we share a beautiful story of hope, trusting God, and finding love.  Show Notes:  Find wedding photos here: https://www.facebook.com/TheUnfoldingPodcast  And here: https://www.instagram.com/the.unfolding.podcast/ 

Transcribed - Published: 14 February 2025

“We prayed for her to wake up on Valentine's Day. And she did—but in heaven.” Every year, Lee and Terry commemorate their daughter Amanda’s passing with a homecoming celebration. In this deeply moving episode, they share the painful journey leading up to Amanda’s diagnosis, the heartbreak of losing her, and how their faith was tested in unimaginable ways.  In 1985, they noticed Amanda was experiencing sickness—vomiting, headaches, and eventually struggling to walk. What seemed like minor symptoms led to a devastating discovery: a brain tumor. As they walked through grief, anger, and doubt, they encountered God’s presence in ways they never expected. Their story is one of sorrow, faith, and the unlikely survival of their marriage despite overwhelming loss.  Hear the full interview with Lee and Terry, featured on the Behind Our Smiles Marriage Podcast. Apple or Spotify 

Transcribed - Published: 11 February 2025

Riley Kehoe was 10 years old when her family’s island vacation turned into a nightmare.  On the morning of December 26, 2004, an earthquake struck off the coast of Indonesia. Riley’s family had to run for their lives from a tsunami with waves up to 100 feet high. It was a terrifying experience that took the lives of more than 200,000 people. In the aftermath, fear threatened to rule Riley’s life. It would take years to understand the wounds she carried and even longer to find freedom from fear. Riley is the author of Three Seconds of Courage: How Small Acts of Bravery Lead to Big Change.      You can follow Riley Kehoe on Instagram, at https://www.instagram.com/rileywithcourage/   

Transcribed - Published: 7 February 2025

Melissa shares how one act of obedience became a powerful confirmation for someone desperate to know that God sees, hears, and loves her. Melissa stepped into a conversation with a woman and felt God’s presence in a way she couldn’t ignore. Then, God asked her to do something bold: tell a complete stranger, “I love you.” Fear and doubt held her back, but what happened next showed God’s perfect timing. 

Transcribed - Published: 4 February 2025

  As a rising star at a Fortune 500 company, Hope Reagan Harris thrived on the thrill of getting the next promotion and pay raise. A bigger house, more expensive car, and international travel were all the stuff that was supposed to signify success and happiness.  But after six years of climbing the corporate ladder at a dizzying pace, Hope realized she’d been so determined to move ahead, she didn’t recognize her heart and soul were getting left behind.  Hope is the author of Now Over Next: Conquering the Fear of Missing Out and the founder of Purpose Doesn’t Pause, a movement to offer encouragement to women through handwritten cards.     

Transcribed - Published: 29 January 2025

In the Bible, mountaintops symbolize moments of spiritual clarity, renewal, and connection with God. For Averil Shadd, a new widow navigating the profound grief of her darkest valley, the mountaintop became more than a metaphor. She climbed Mount Kilimanjaro, not just to find healing but to offer hope to others walking through the shadows of loss. As Averil explains, "I wanted to do something that would stretch me so far that I would embrace suffering, so they would know someone could see them and love them." In this episode, she shares how her faith and determination turned her despair into a mission of love and purpose. Note: Averil first shared her story on the podcast A Widow’s Heart, hosted by Pam Lundell (Episode 32). Listen on Apple Listen on Spotify

Transcribed - Published: 28 January 2025

  Chris Baker has devoted his life to helping people walk out the words of 2 Corinthians 5:17: “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has passed away, and see, the new has come!” As the founder of Ink 180, Chris has given away more than two million dollars' worth of free tattoos.  Not just any tattoos- these are tattoo cover-ups and removals for people who are making a change in their life, like former gang members, sex trafficking survivors, or domestic violence survivors.  He takes something that was a mark of shame and fear and transforms it into something beautiful.      https://www.instagram.com/ink180boss/  https://www.facebook.com/Ink180 

Transcribed - Published: 24 January 2025