Close to Home Podcast

In this brief episode, Chris reflects on 1 Corinthians 13:12 and how its message has helped him navigate the uncertainty of a cancer diagnosis. When the future feels overwhelming, there’s unexpected freedom in remembering that we don’t see the whole picture—and that God does.

This week is a deeply personal episode. I share the news of my recent diagnosis with large B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma, the uncertainty that comes with it, and the unexpected peace God has been giving me through the prayers and support of so many people. I talk about the tension between fear and faith, the road ahead, and why Romans 8:28 has become an anchor for my soul in this season. Not because...

What if the biggest thing holding back your relationships isn’t what you’re saying—but your need to control the conversation? In this episode, Chris Russo explores how genuine listening does more than improve communication—it changes relationships, opens unexpected doors, and reveals what’s really in the hearts of others. As we grow closer to Christ, we often discover that true listening isn’t jus...

In this short but powerful episode of Close to Home, the host reflects on a truth that’s easy to overlook but life-changing when it truly sinks in: if you’ve said yes to Jesus, you are never alone. What starts as a familiar idea becomes a deeply personal realization—that the God of the universe is present every moment, offering comfort, confidence, and companionship. This episode explores the gap...

In this honest Monday-morning reflection, Chris Russo shares what it feels like to start the day without energy—and the quiet guilt that can come with it. But instead of pushing harder, he’s reminded of a deeper truth: God’s love, presence, and acceptance aren’t based on our performance, but on the finished work of Jesus. Chris unpacks the tension many of us feel between striving and grace, and wh...

Ever feel like God showed up powerfully… and then went silent? In this episode of Close Tone, we talk about the tension between what we know about God and what we feel in difficult seasons. Looking at the Israelites’ journey, we unpack how easy it is to forget God’s faithfulness when the miracle feels far away—and how we can begin to trust His presence even when we don’t see immediate change. If y...

Even if you love learning, you can’t be an expert in everything. In this episode, Chris reflects on a recent meeting with his financial advisor and the humbling experience of stepping into an area where someone else clearly knows more. It’s a reminder that wisdom isn’t just about what we know—it’s about having the humility to learn from those who know more than we do.

In this episode, Chris shares a powerful moment from a recent time of spiritual direction when he paused to listen for what God might be saying. The words that came to mind were from Matthew 3:17: “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.” Chris reflects on how, through Jesus’ death and resurrection, those same words of love and approval now extend to us as God’s children. If you’ve ev...

In this episode, I share a simple but powerful reframe that’s helped me in my own journey with OCD and anxiety: What if it goes well? Not unrealistic optimism — just making room for a hopeful possibility. If you’ve ever found yourself bracing for disaster, this conversation will help you think differently this week.

A simple reminder: when someone challenges you, encourages you, or blesses you — don’t assume they know it mattered. Send the text. Say thank you. Gratitude grows your character and strengthens others.

What keeps you from bringing the small, everyday anxieties to God? In this episode, Chris reflects on 1 Peter 5:7 and the simple but powerful phrase, “because He cares for you.” Exploring how our own experiences can shape the way we see God’s love, this conversation invites you to stop holding back and start handing over even the smallest stresses to a God who truly cares.

What if the biggest threats to your life and marriage aren’t urgent—yet? In this episode, I talk about why the most important investments are the ones that don’t feel pressing… until it’s too late.

Growth doesn’t always come from where we expect. In this episode, I share how a simple workout routine unexpectedly became a doorway to deeper prayer and spiritual formation.

What if “changing the world” isn’t the goal—and never was? A reflection on faithfulness, discouragement, and learning to be kind to yourself.

We all get triggered. This short reflection explores how disproportionate reactions can point to deeper places God wants to heal—if we’re willing to slow down and listen.

What if the voice of God isn’t loud—but persistent? In this episode, Chris reflects on a reverberating whisper that’s been surfacing again and again: be kind to yourself. He explores how our inner voice shapes the way we treat others and invites listeners to replace self-condemnation with curiosity. No conclusions—just an invitation to listen to what keeps echoing.

A reflection on exercise as more than fitness. Real growth comes from strengthening the part of us that chooses discipline over comfort—the part that decides to show up even when motivation is gone. That decision shapes every area of life that matters.

A short reflection inspired by Make Sense of Your Story by Adam Young, exploring six core needs that shape our emotional lives, relationships, and faith—especially the power of rupture and repair.

Chris Russo here and I’m excited to consistently and prayerfully offer content to spur you on in your faith journey!

Talking with special guest, Jesse Williams!

Welcome Home! Talking with Executive Chef Marc Collins of, Circa 1886. A restaurant in Downtown Charleston! #christianpodcast #podcast #closetohome #letstalk #interview #grace #identityinchrist

Link to Book: https://a.co/d/gflumcq Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/plm3187/ Missionary Training: https://www.predictprotection.com/stres

Welcome Back! The Sabbath. Lets talk.

Welcome Home! Today we talk about service to others and the pitfalls of waiting for our fruit! You can get in touch with Mark here: Website-markrhodesconsulting.com Email-mark@markrhodesconsulting.com Instagram-@rhodesword