Jesus Calling: Stories of Faith

On this episode of Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer, we’ll hear from artist Anne Neilson, best known for her Angel series. Anne shares the story of how she went from getting a D- in 10th grade art class to eventually finding her voice as an artist. Anne shares how God saw her heart for creating and how He inspires her to be a light in the world through her artwork.  Watch this interview...

*This episode may be triggering for some listeners.*  This week, we have  writer and speaker Ann Voskamp back on the podcast. Ann shares insights from her personal experiences with anxiety and brokenness and what she found out while she waited through those uncomfortable moments, and how she used scripture, prayer, and the practice of writing to heal her mind and become closer to God.&nb...

This week, we’ll hear from Jay Lowder , an evangelist who has spent more than two decades traveling the globe, sharing the message of the gospel with audiences ranging from NFL teams to prison inmates. Early in his life, Jay struggled with depression which led him to medicate with alcohol, but ultimately brought him no peace from his pain. Feeling like giving up, Jay considered suicide, and...

This week, we’re joined by Ian Morgan Cron , who shares his deeply personal journey with the Enneagram , addiction, and faith. Ian recounts how a chance encounter with a book on the Enneagram during a retreat sparked a life-changing path of self-awareness, ultimately inspiring his book, The Road Back to You . Through his story, Ian challenges us to see addiction not simply as a problem to be...

This week, we’re delighted to welcome back author and speaker Melanie Shankle . Through her reflections on overcoming a challenging childhood and breaking generational cycles of dysfunction, Melanie shares profound insights on motherhood, the power of faith, and how to turn painful histories into lasting legacies of hope and resilience. Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Lisa Steven...

On this episode of Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer, we’ll hear from Bible teacher and author Rachel G. Scott. Rachel shares the five different types of leaps of faith she’s identified, and the truths we can hold onto during times of transition as we get to where we’re supposed to be.  Guest’s Links Facebook: @iamrachelgscott Twitter: @iamrachelgscott Instagram: @iamra...

*This content may be triggering for some listeners.*  This week, we’ll hear from Steve Moore , a lifelong music industry professional whose career trajectory took a sharp turn after a life-changing trip to Guatemala. After a storied career managing legendary artists like Stevie Ray Vaughan and George Strait —and serving as CEO of the Country Music Association—a simple journe...

This week, we’ll hear from Johnny and Donnie Van Zant , brothers who share a rich legacy rooted in music, faith, and resilience. Renowned for their roles in the iconic bands Lynyrd Skynyrd and .38 Special , the Van Zant brothers reflect on their humble beginnings shaped by family and music, and how they faced personal and professional challenges, including the tragic plane crash that took th...

This week, we’re joined by Kent Chevalier and Johnny Shelton , two remarkable men who serve as NFL team chaplains, providing spiritual guidance, encouragement, and support to players, coaches, and their families. Kent serves with the Pittsburgh Steelers , while Johnny works with the Baltimore Ravens . They each offer a glimpse into the challenges NFL athletes face both on and off the field,...

This week, we’re joined by  Ken Abraham , a master storyteller known for his ability to capture the hearts and stories of some of the world's most notable figures, including Buzz Aldrin , Chuck Norris , Stephen Curtis Chapman , Payne Stewart , and many others. His latest book, No Address , highlights a deep empathy and commitment to honor the stories of those dealing with homelessness,...

On this episode of Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer, we’ll hear from Grammy Award-winning musician and songwriter Ron Block, of Alison Krauss & Union Station. Ron shares how, through all the ups and downs of a music career, he’s learned to depend on God.    Guest’s Links Ron Block’s Facebook: @RonBlockMusic Ron Block’s Twitter: @ronblockakus Ron Block&rs...

This week we’re joined by  Ellen Skrmetti , a stand-up comedian and author whose journey to the stage was peppered with many moments of overcoming fear and finding humor in unexpected situations. From conquering those fears to redefining what it means to connect with audiences through comedy, Ellen uses her storytelling to bring laughter, healing, and a deeper connection to faith. Later...

This week, we welcome  Mart Green , the founder and CEO of Mardel Christian & Education and of Every Tribe Every Nation, and the Ministry Investment Officer for the Hobby Lobby family of companies founded by his father, David Green . Mart opens up about a pivotal trip he took to Guatemala that showed him the power of God’s love in a highly personal way that he never really had grasp...

The beloved historical drama television series  The Chosen has burst onto the scene with its real, raw, and accurate depiction of the life of Jesus. As the first multi-season series about the life and ministry of Jesus, the show focuses on the people who met and followed Him, giving viewers a personal perspective through the eyes of those who knew Him—bringing out an emotional, personal...

This week, we talk with two highly creative individuals who have been able to bring positive, uplifting, and spiritually striking stories to the world through the mediums of television, film, and animation.  Nika King is an actor and producer who is best known for her comedic abilities and her breakout role as Leslie on the HBO series Euphoria . King honestly shares about her early life watch...

On this episode of Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer, we’ll hear from author Marie Chapian, who shares about her practice of quiet prayer, and how we can go to that still, peaceful place in the presence of God to keep the chaos of the world from taking us over.    Guest’s Links Facebook: @marie.chapian.9 Twitter: @mariechapian ________________________  Connect with Jesus Calling Instagram Facebook...

*This episode mentions suicide and may not be suitable for all listeners.* This week, we’ll hear from  BeBe Winans , a celebrated figure in gospel and R&B music from the renowned Winans family, known for their deep-rooted musical legacy. Raised in a household steeped in gospel traditions and surrounded by the influences of Motown, Bebe experienced some of the ups and downs of the mu...

This week, we’ll hear from  Dr. Chris Rappazini —a professor of leadership and former pastor—as he shares a deeply personal story through the lens of grief and recovery. Chris reveals how his father's death propelled his brother into a downward spiral of addiction and estrangement. Yet, amidst the chaos, a narrative of hope and forgiveness emerges, highlighting the profound realization that our pa...

*This episode mentions violence and may not be suitable for all listeners.*  This week, we’ll hear from Davey Blackburn , founder of Nothing Is Wasted Ministries , who shares his heart-wrenching story of love, loss, and finding life again after profound pain. After planting a new church, Davey faced unimaginable tragedy when his wife, Amanda, and their unborn child were killed in a home invasion....

This week, we’ll hear from  Alyssa Bethke , who’s a mom of three, a blogger, YouTuber, and co-host of the Real Life Podcast with her husband, Jeff. Alyssa reflects on the overwhelming pressures women face to excel in every area of life, and the need for honesty and grace toward ourselves, others, and God about our struggles. Later in the episode, we’ll hear from author and content creator Chelsea...

As we enter the season of Advent and Christmas, we’re bound to be overwhelmed by the hustle and bustle. The list of dishes to prepare, gifts to buy and wrap, cards to send, and parties to attend feels never-ending… which often results in the real reason for the season getting pushed aside. But when we set time aside to properly prepare our hearts to honor the birth of Jesus, the experience of Chri...

*This episode mentions violence and may be triggering for some listeners.* This week, we’re joined by Demi-Leigh Tebow , a South African native, former Miss Universe, and wife of NFL superstar Tim Tebow . Demi-Leigh is a passionate advocate for individuals with special needs and disabilities. She discusses how her faith helped her overcome personal challenges, including a life-altering carjacking,...

On this episode of Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer, we’ll hear from country singer/songwriter Paige King Johnson, who first fell in love with music when her grandfather gifted her a guitar when she was just a little girl. Paige shares about her new song, “I Thank God,” a prayer turned into a song that reminds us to be grateful for the gifts God gives us, and how practicing being grateful can chan...

This week, we explore the journeys of two remarkable women who have navigated the complexities of faith, community, and personal struggles. First, we’ll hear from  Dr. Sarita Lyons , Director of Discipleship and Women’s Ministry at Epiphany Fellowship Church in Philadelphia. Sarita shares her deep love for Scripture, and how that juxtaposed with her personal, challenging experiences in a church se...

Today, we are thrilled to be joined by  Nicholas Sparks , a renowned author whose novels like The Notebook and A Walk to Remember have touched hearts around the world. While many know him for his captivating love stories, few realize that Nicholas’ journey to writing was born out of personal setbacks and unexpected moments of faith. He’ll let us in on his latest book, Counting Miracles , ​​a power...