What's the Story? (CROWD Church)

As anyone who has navigated the seasons of life knows, it can be easy to lose trust in God when things are tough. James Sloan shares his story of how he learned to trust God through the seasons of life, and how doing so has brought him peace and joy.

James grew up in a Christian home, but it wasn't until he was an adult that he really began to understand what it meant to have a personal relationship with Christ. After a season of doing life without God's involvement he began to see his need for God and it was during this time that James says he really began to lean on his faith and trust in God.

James' can attest that whilst trusting God through the seasons of life is not always easy, it is always worth it. He has found that when he trusts God, even in the midst of difficult seasons, he is able to find God in conversations and answered prayers in the form of small miracles.

ABOUT JAMES

James lives in Liverpool with his wife and three kids. He's the CEO of Imagine If Trust, a community action charity, and he's on the leadership team of Frontline Church. James loves hanging out with his family and friends.

In this episode of "What's the Story," Anna Kettle sits down with Esther Stamp, a remarkable woman whose faith and resilience were put to the ultimate test when her husband, Darren, was falsely accused and arrested for a crime he did not commit. Esther's story is one of unwavering faith, community support, and finding joy amidst the darkest times. Join us as we delve into her journey of navigating this life-altering challenge while holding onto her faith and supporting her family.

Episode Highlights:

1. Faith Over Feelings: Esther shares how she chose to believe in God's goodness despite feeling distant from Him throughout the ordeal. She emphasizes the importance of clinging to theological truths over fleeting emotions.
2. Community Support: Discover how Esther's church family rallied around her, providing practical and emotional support that helped her navigate the challenging two-year period.
3. Finding Joy in Darkness: Despite the grim circumstances, Esther and her family found moments of joy and laughter. She discusses how they maintained a sense of normalcy and humor during this difficult time.
4. Navigating Public Scrutiny: Esther opens up about the challenges of dealing with public gossip and judgment while trying to maintain a sense of normalcy for her children.
5. Lessons Learned: Reflecting on the entire experience, Esther shares the invaluable lessons she learned about faith, resilience, and the power of community.

Join us for an inspiring conversation that explores the depths of faith and the strength of the human spirit. Whether you're facing your own trials or looking for a story of hope and resilience, this episode is sure to resonate with you.

Connect with Us:

Website: What’s The Story Podcast

Crowd Church: Crowd Church

What’s the Story is a podcast full of stories about faith and courage from everyday people. In this episode, Brett Curry joins Matt to talk about his Christian journey, the heartbreak of his mother dying of cancer and the joy of parenting 8 kids.

If you've ever been through a tough time, this podcast is for you. It will inspire you and give you hope that no matter what life throws your way, you can come out stronger on the other side because God is good.

In this episode, Matt and Brett dig into:

• Friendship and ask if it is healthy for men to have close friendships with other men (the "bromance" trend)? And how being a good friend yourself is key to attracting the kind of friends you want.
• Brett's Christian Journey and how his parents became committed Christians after his uncle had a huge spiritual awakening and turned his life around. So Brett grew up hearing about Jesus, but it wasn't until his mother was diagnosed with cancer that he really started to explore his faith - experiencing God's grace calling to a deeper relationship with him.
• Brett meets Britney (the future Mrs Curry) and married 22 years ago whilst still at College and now has eight, that's right, 8! kids. Brett talks about how they didn't really fight about anything major until their kids became teenagers!
• Marriage Counselling was transformational for them and helped them to communicate better about difficult things, and one exercise, in particular, was super helpful for them.
• Main learnings as a parent: we have a lot of influence over our kids, but we can't control everything, the most important thing for kids is to know that their parents love and support them and that our kids belong to God, not their parents.
• The more we give ourselves over to God, the more truly ourselves we become. This is because God created us and knows us better than we know ourselves. Brett struggled with identity when he was younger but found that giving himself to God helped him find his uniqueness. The overall message is that regardless of what life throws at us, God is good.

Have you ever had your prayers answered in ways you least expected it?

In today's episode of What's The Story, Peter Awad shares his story of how a simple prayer walk on the beach turned into a series of life-altering events that led to unexpected blessings, including the miraculous healing of his daughter. Join us as we delve into the highs and lows of finding God in life's trials and the power of community in our modern age.

Here’s a summary of this week’s story:

• Peter met his wife on spring break in The Bahamas, and despite initially falling away from faith, he eventually found his way back to God through a church which his wife also started attending at around the same time. Peter reflects on the interesting timing and how he can now see God's hand in his life, despite it being confusing at the time.
• Peter shares about how a series of events led to his 14-year-old daughter having a stroke but through that experience, he discovered a profound group of men who meet every Friday and have sparked business opportunities and opportunities to serve. He reflects on how God works in mysterious ways, sometimes not giving us what we want, but what we need.
• His daughter's sickness was a difficult journey for the family but despite the doctors saying there was no healing process, they held on to their faith and community support, which ultimately led to her healing.
• Peter shares his experience growing up as a non-Caucasian Egyptian in the US and how it never occurred to him that he was different until he moved to a mostly Norwegian town. Despite this, Peter is proud of his Egyptian-Filipino heritage.
• He advises listeners to be deliberate about building a support system of believers before going through trials and hardships, as community is incredibly powerful and necessary for survival. It is important to know your neighbors and be a part of a community, as life is a team sport.
• Peter discovered his ability to coach through a journey of self-awareness and focusing on his superpowers, which includes the ability to connect with people and help them discover solutions to their problems. He now does leadership coaching, incorporating biblical principles and helping people improve their tendencies and actions for a better reality. He feels that his work is fulfilling and a form of full-time ministry.

ABOUT PETER:

Peter Awad is an Executive Coach to Christian Businessmen, Co-Founder of Mission Meats, and Founder of Import Auto Performance. He helps Kingdom-minded businessmen find purpose, grow their businesses, and live out their vision without compromising their values. With specialties in coaching, branding, digital marketing, eCommerce, social media, training, consulting, and public speaking, Peter has been mentioned in Forbes, Inc., and other notable publications. He also has a talent for making people laugh when they least expect it.

In this profoundly moving episode of "What's The Story?", we sit down with Jo Jackson, a remarkable individual whose life story is a testament to the transformative power of faith and prayer in the face of adversity. Jo shares her incredible journey from a tumultuous childhood, through personal loss and grief, to finding solace and strength in prayer. Her story is not just one of survival, but of thriving through faith.

Key Highlights:

1. Becoming a Christian: Jo recounts the pivotal moment in her life when, in the depths of despair, she called out to God and experienced His tangible presence, transforming her life forever.
2. Brother's Tragic Death: A heart-wrenching recount of the loss of her brother in a motorbike accident and how, even in her deepest grief, Jo found peace and strength through prayer.
3. Adoption Journey: Jo shares the emotional rollercoaster of adopting their son, navigating challenges, and the profound impact of prayer in their family's life.
4. Continued Faith Amidst Trials: Through numerous challenges, including health issues and relational strains, Jo's faith remained unshaken, underpinned by a deep commitment to prayer.

Key Takeaways:

• An exploration of how prayer has been a cornerstone in Jo's life, offering peace and guidance through life's storms.
• Insights into how faith has not only sustained Jo through trials but has transformed her approach to life's challenges.
• Jo's mantra of "keep on keeping on" serves as a powerful reminder of the strength that comes from steadfast faith.
• The importance of supportive relationships and community in navigating life's trials.

Join us as Jo Jackson shares her inspiring story, offering hope and encouragement to all who face the storms of life. Her testimony is a powerful reminder that no matter the circumstances, peace can be found through the power of prayer.

What’s the Story is a podcast full of stories about faith and courage from everyday people. In this episode Mark & Matt dig into:

• Christian Journey: Mark was born and brought up in the Wirral. From his early childhood, he and his family attended St. Mary’s, a lively Church of England church that 50 plus years on, he’s still a part of. Through the amazing youth workers of the church who faithfully modelled Christ to him, he was drawn to the faith. He gave his life to Jesus on his 11th birthday at a 7-day residential camp where the Christian faith was presented clearly, passionately, and with excitement.
• Marriage and business: Mark met his wife, Anita, after graduation while working in the automotive industry. After 5 years of courtship and a proposal atop Mount Vesuvius, they got married. Mark & Anita started Mitchell group in 1990. They worked hard for several years and won the coveted award of being the UK dealership of the year not once, but for two consecutive years.
• Challenge at work: They had to face some serious consequences when they decided not to conduct business on Sundays because God mandates it and also because they felt responsible for their staff and their families getting to spend time together on a Sunday. Despite the circumstances, they stood their ground. And God came through for them in a miraculous way.
• Unexpected Illness: Five years ago, Mark also had to deal with a surprise brain haemorrhage and he had to go through surgery that had significant risks and he had even lost his mother to brain haemorrhage. But in God’s goodness, he made it through. he had to be away from work for about a year and also had to deal with anxiety issues as a result of the illness, but with the prayers and support of family and friends, he was able to be well again.
• Looking back on his journey, Mark says, “God’s timing is perfect and those who honor God, God will honor.”

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About Mark

Mark is a local lad from the Wirral. He was born and bred in Birkenhead on Merseyside. Mark and his wife, Anita, started Mitchell Group in 1990, with a little bit of money on an overdraft from Barclays Bank. And the business has grown and now represents three automotive brands, Lexus, Mazda, and Skoda in Cheshire Oaks. He served as a Deputy Lieutenant (DL) of Cheshire until his 75th birthday. With boundless energy and a zest for life, Mark is just inspiring.

We go through life and we experience so many different things, some good and some bad. But as Christians, we know that nothing is ever wasted with God. He can take our mistakes and turn them into something beautiful.

Ian Dowsett joins Matt in today's episode and shares his journey of discovering this truth and learning how to trust in the Lord and not lean on his own understanding because that is the way to a richer and fulfilling life.

Here’s a summary of this week’s story:

• Ian talks about his desire to help people deal with their emotional baggage and how while being mentored by an older Christian this desire was birthed in him. He realized that God was there for every decision, not just the big ones, and it opened up a new way for him to depend on God.
• Ian felt called to church leadership right from his teenage years but became a history teacher after Uni because he felt God wanted to prepare him in this way. During this time, Ian faced difficult classes with students from different backgrounds and learned valuable lessons about giving people time and getting to know them on an individual level.
• Having served as a Church of England vicar for 20 years, Ian shares how his favorite stories to come out of it have always been seeing people change and their lives transformed. 
• Ian shares his belief that nothing is ever wasted with God, referencing Romans 8:28 which states "all things work together for good". He believes there are times of conflict and disagreement in life, but looking back now he is glad they happened because they made him stronger.
• There is a lot of pressure being a church leader and a parent but Ian says mostly he puts the most pressure on himself. His two daughters recently decided to leave their home church, which could have been seen as a failure by others; however Ian saw it as an opportunity for them to spread their wings and grow in maturity.
• Ian's one message is to trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. His advice is to stop trying to do things on one's own and instead get onboard with Jesus' program, as it leads to a richer life full of joy and peace.

ABOUT IAN:

Ian has been in church leadership for the last 20 years. He is married to Ruth, who leads alongside him, and they have three amazing girls and one very lazy dog. They have planted a church on an estate in Central London and now lead a church in North West London.

Ian briefly taught history, which he still enjoys reading about and is a tentative triathlete and 1-time marathon runner! He also has a heart for the homeless, having helped those on the streets since being a teenager and now as a trustee of FirmFoundation, the homelessness charity in Harrow. He has been a Christian since the age of 9 yet still enjoys discovering new aspects of God’s love and goodness.

Join us on this episode of What's The Story, featuring the remarkable Anna Hamill. Hear her journey from deep personal challenges to launching a thriving business during lockdown.

1. From Crisis to Creation: How Anna transformed severe lockdown challenges into a groundbreaking creative venture.
2. Building Blocks of Success: Discover the steps Anna took from battling depression and isolation to founding And Hope Designs.
3. Inspiration in Adversity: Learn how Anna's faith and the support of her community played pivotal roles in her success.
4. Entrepreneurial Wisdom: Anna shares crucial advice for anyone navigating personal crises while building a business.

Explore More:

• Check out And Hope Designs to see Anna’s work.
• Follow us for more stories of courage and creativity.

Don’t miss out on more inspiring stories—subscribe to What's The Story? Podcast and share this episode to spread hope and motivation!

Are you feeling trapped in feelings of loneliness or disappointment with God? 

In this episode of What's The Story, Ruth Hettler shares her journey of running into loneliness and pain and finding a deeper connection with God. Discover how the power of authentic relationships and community can help you process grief and find your own miracle. Tune in now to experience this inspiring story of faith and hope.

Here’s a summary of this week’s story:

• Ruth discusses her upbringing in a Christian home and shares a defining moment during her university years when she experienced loneliness and learned to embrace it, ultimately leading to a deeper relationship with God.
• She had a clear sense of calling to be a nurse in East Africa from a young age. Despite a winding journey with several challenges, she believes that God used that time to do much work in her and her husband, and helped them become the people they are today.
• Ruth shares about her mother's journey with breast cancer and how it impacted her faith, especially after her mother passed away before Ruth could be with her. She had not prayed for her mother's healing, but had asked for time with her before she passed away. When that plan didn't work out, she felt disappointed and let down by God, leading to a crack in her relationship with Him.
• Ruth talks about the difficult decision her family had to make when her mother's condition worsened rapidly and they couldn't make it back in time to see her before she passed away, and how the disappointment and grief led to a crisis of faith, but ultimately, the support and hope from her community helped her hold onto her relationship with God.
• She highlights the importance of community and vulnerability in the grieving process and how it has profoundly changed her, leading to a stronger sense of self and relationship with God. Though grieving is difficult, leaning into God and community can lead to a beautiful transformation.
• Ruth's one message from her journey so far is that knowing God leads to knowing yourself, and vice versa, and that the two are connected. She believes that in order to know God more, we needs to know ourselves more, and that there is freedom in that understanding.

ABOUT RUTH:

Ruth is a wife, a mum, a nurse, and currently also a student finishing her MSc in Leadership in Healthcare. She works for a small inter-cultural faith-based organisation, and has been living in Rwanda for the past 5 years with her family. Ruth loves coffee, good books, the ocean & the mountains, building authentic friendships and is also passionate about the importance of supporting people’s emotional health.

Did you know that Domestic Abuse is a largely hidden crime which goes unreported to the police? 

In this episode of What's the Story, guest Sadaf (who also happens to be our show Producer) shares her experience of being in an abusive relationship that left her stripped of her confidence and isolated from loved ones. After forgiving her abuser with help from the Lord, Sadaf embarked on a journey of healing that allowed her to regain confidence and trust in herself and in God's plan for her. Through her story, Sadaf reminds us that hard times shape us into stronger, more faithful beings and that God's grace is always enough to carry us through. Don't miss this powerful episode!

Here’s a summary of this week’s story:

• Sadaf grew up in Pakistan and became a Christian at the age of six while attending an international missionary school. She went on to do her undergrad in Canada and then eventually the UK for her Masters. She has been settled in the UK for the 17 years.
• She shares how being in an abusive relationship with a Christian fiancé isolated and confused her. What began with emotional abuse and coercion later turning physical. She reveals that she felt trapped and ashamed, and blamed herself for the abuse. Her family eventually became aware of the situation and helped her to open up about it and she eventually found clarity and value in herself through prayer and was able to end the relationship.  
• Sadaf had to go through a healing process after ending her toxic relationship. Her family played a crucial role in supporting her and helping her move forward. She eventually moved away and received counseling while also relying on the Holy Spirit for guidance. Forgiveness, both towards her ex-partner and herself, was a key part of her journey.
• Her advise is to speak up and talk to trusted friends and family when in an abusive situation. It's important to forgive oneself and take responsibility for one's actions, rather than getting caught up in the "what if" questions, in order to move towards healing and liberation.
• She reconciled her experiences of abuse with her belief in a good God and explains that going through hard times can strengthen one's faith and make them more aware of God's goodness, and that God never promised an easy life, but his grace is sufficient.
• Sadaf and her siblings experienced a major challenge in their lives with the sudden passing of their parents, who were instrumental in their faith, and had to deal with the grief of both a long-term illness and a sudden loss. While they have processed the events, they continue to cling to the hope that they will see their parents again one day.
• Sadaf's one message is to be a student of the Bible and to study it in order to know God's character and truth, and to adapt to different seasons in life while maintaining that discipline.

ABOUT SADAF:

Meet Sadaf, our podcast producer who's also a super-mom. She works tirelessly behind the scenes throughout the week making sure each of our podcasts are delivered with excellence. With a Master's degree in Business under her belt, she's got the smarts to match her creativity. But when the headphones come off, it's all about family. Sadaf is a devoted mom to two amazing boys and loves nothing more than a good hangout with family and friends. Her life is a beautiful juggling act of producing top-notch podcasts and creating priceless memories with her loved ones. Above all, she marches to the beat of her faith. As an unwavering ambassador for Christ, her life is an inspiring testament of love and belief that echoes both in her work and at home. 

Uncover the raw and transformative power of faith in the face of adversity in this week's compelling episode of 'What's The Story?' Join us as Claudine Roberts shares a journey from pain to purpose, revealing how even the darkest chapters can be rewritten by a God who sees, heals, and redeems. Tune in to discover how your deepest struggles can lead to your greatest victories, and how the lessons etched through trials are shaping lives and echoing hope in places you'd least expect. This isn't just about finding light in the darkness; it's about becoming a beacon of it.

🔸 In Today's Episode, You Will Hear About:

• Navigating Difficult Bible Stories: The episode discusses confronting challenging biblical tales, focusing on God's perspective on violence against women and His role as 'the God who sees'.
• Trauma and Divine Purpose: Claudine Roberts shares her story of healing from abuse, emphasizing that God uses our painful experiences for growth and to further His kingdom.
• Understanding God's Goodness: A key point of discussion is the consistent goodness of God, even when evil occurs, and His power to redeem and repurpose our suffering for His glory.
• Healing Resources and Outreach: Claudine introduces her book designed for both personal reflection and group study, aimed at fostering church discussions on complex biblical subjects.

MEET CLAUDINE

Claudine Roberts is a former human rights solicitor and a member of the preaching team at Freedom Church Liverpool, part of the New Ground family of churches. She is married to Paul and they have three children. In her legal career, Claudine specialised in mental health law and detention under the Mental Health Act. She represented both victims and perpetrators of violence, including some of the most dangerous violent offenders in the country, detained in maximum security. Claudine was seriously sexually assaulted herself twice in her teens and then raped in her twenties in the context of an emotionally abusive relationship. She now writes and speaks on what the Bible says about violence against women and her book on the subject was published earlier this year as part of the Cover to Cover Bible Study series.

Esther struggled with anxiety and depression from a very young age.

Prayer, supportive parents and mostly her faith in God helped Esther see that mental illness is not a weakness but rather something that can be overcome with God's help. Her faith in God gave her hope when she thought there was none and helped her to find strength when she thought she was powerless.

Armed with faith and the power of prayer, Esther is recovered, but the scars are still healing. Her story is a testament to a faith that has an intentional dependence on God - trusting that the sovereign and unchanging God knows what He is doing better than anyone else.

ABOUT ESTHER

Esther is a part of the student ministry at Frontline Church. She lives in Liverpool with her husband Chris. Esther has an archaeology degree and loves to learn about ancient civilizations. She enjoys spending time with family and friends.

A high-profile dietician dares to leave her thriving career behind, drawn by a divine calling. Her passion for food evolves into a spiritual journey, inspiring and uplifting others through faith. This isn't just a tale of transformation; it's a testament to the power of faith and the audacity to follow one's heart.

Here's some of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

Christa Spaeth, a former registered dietician, took a bold step in 2022 to leave her long-standing career at a high-profile food manufacturing company. She felt a divine calling to encourage others through Christ.

Christa shares the conversation she had with her husband when she felt God was telling her to quit her job and go into full-time ministry. It was a gradual process over two years, and while the final decision was abrupt, they both felt it was the right time.

Christa shares her core message: "God sees you. He knows you and he loves you." She emphasizes that many people don't realize how deeply God loves them and understands their struggles. This understanding has deepened for her over the last three years.

Christa talks about her journey of gaining confidence in sharing God's message. She used to cry after recording short clips for her ministry, but now she shares God's message more boldly.

About Christa

Christa is not just a regular wife, mother of two, or a successful businesswoman. She's a woman ignited with a burning passion to walk in the rhythm of God's plan, each day. Back in 2022, she took a bold step, bidding goodbye to her long-standing career as a Registered Dietitian at a high-profile food manufacturing company. It wasn't an easy step, but it was a step of faith - one that led her closer to the purpose God had for her: encouraging others through Christ.

In this episode of "What's The Story," we get into the life-altering experiences of Zeeshan Laaldin, who shares his journey of navigating through grief, finding solace in faith, and the arduous path towards healing and forgiveness after a tragic car crash that reshaped his family's world.

Episode Highlights:

• A Night That Changed Everything: Zeeshan recounts the harrowing night a devastating car accident took his mother's life, severely injured his sister and niece, and set him on a trajectory of unforeseen emotional and relational challenges.
• Rooftop Revelation: A candid, raw conversation with God on a rooftop, under the blanket of night and stars, marks the beginning of Zeeshan's faith journey.
• The Power of Forgiveness: Zeeshan discusses the internal struggle and the profound realisations about the importance of letting go, forgiving, and valuing the relationships that truly matter in life.
• Rebuilding Family Bonds: The episode explores the complexities of family dynamics, the pain of estrangement, and the joy and relief found in reconciliation and forgiveness amongst siblings.
• Finding Peace in Faith: Zeeshan shares how his faith provided a foundation of strength and solace, guiding him through his darkest times and leading him towards peace and renewal.

Key Takeaways:

1. The transformative power of prayer and personal conversations with God
2. Navigating grief and the importance of allowing oneself to feel and process emotions
3. The crucial role of forgiveness in healing and moving forward
4. Strengthening family bonds through understanding, compassion, and love
5. The significance of faith in overcoming life's most challenging obstacles

Join us in this emotional rollercoaster of an episode as Zeeshan Laaldin bravely shares his heart-wrenching yet inspiring story, offering insights and hope to anyone going through similar trials. Whether you're dealing with grief, seeking forgiveness, or looking to strengthen your faith and family relationships, this episode shines a light on the path to peace and the enduring power of love.

From the football field to the classroom, Mike Harris shares his incredible journey of faith, competition, and self-discovery. Discover how a former professional footballer found his true calling and learned to embrace God's unconditional love. Tune in to hear how he tackled life's challenges head-on and found freedom beyond the football pitch. Don't miss this inspiring story of transformation and faith!

Here’s a summary of this week’s story:

• Mike Harris grew up in a Christian family and was one of five children. He was heavily involved in sports, particularly football, and church activities. He played football professionally for Blackburn Rovers and Newcastle United.
• He left home at 16 to pursue his football career, which was a challenging time for him. He felt a lot of pressure to succeed and to not disappoint his family and coach.
• After his football career, he struggled with accepting God's unconditional love for him due to his competitive background. He had to learn that God's love was not dependent on his achievements or success.
• He returned to football at a lower level after feeling that God wanted him to do so. He played for several clubs but realized he needed to make a decision about his future as he wouldn't make enough money from football alone.
• He decided to go into PE teaching and completed a degree. He also speaks about the importance of understanding God's unconditional love and how it has given him the freedom to accept his journey, including the end of his football career. He believes that understanding God's love would have made him a better footballer as it would have allowed him to play with more freedom and joy.

ABOUT MIKE

Once a professional footballer who kicked the ball around for teams like Blackburn and Newcastle United, he's now scoring goals as a PE teacher in lively Liverpool! When he's not inspiring the next generation of sports stars, he's having a ball with his incredible wife, Debbie, and their two amazing little teammates. Mike's life is definitely a home run!

In this episode of "What's The Story Podcast," host Sadaf Beynon sits down with John Boyle, who shares his incredible journey of overcoming a traumatic childhood, battling PTSD and alcoholism, and ultimately finding hope and redemption through faith in God. John’s candid and raw account provides deep insights into the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of faith and support.

Episode Highlights:

1. John’s Early Life: Growing up in a violent home in West Virginia and its profound impact on his mental health.
2. Struggles with PTSD and Alcoholism: How John coped with his PTSD through alcohol and the eventual realisation of his dependency.
3. Turning Point: The moment John decided to ask God for help and began his journey toward sobriety and healing.
4. The Role of Faith: How returning to church and developing a relationship with God provided John the strength to overcome his addiction and manage PTSD.
5. Life After Recovery: John’s continued efforts to help others by sharing his story, writing his memoir "Appalachian Kid," and volunteering to support those struggling with similar issues.

Join us as we get into John Boyle’s raw and inspiring story, illustrating that no matter the adversity, there is always a path to recovery and hope. Be sure to listen, subscribe, and leave a review.

Connect with Us:

• Website: What’s The Story Podcast
• John's Book: Appalachian Kid: How Hope Changed Everything
• Social Media: LinkedIn - John P Boyle
• Crowd Church: Crowd Church

Don’t miss this riveting episode filled with resilience, hope, and the power of faith. Listen now to "What's The Story Podcast" and be inspired by John Boyle’s journey of surviving a violent childhood and overcoming life's toughest challenges.

Did you know that more than one in five pregnancies end in miscarriage?

Tune in to this week's episode of What's The Story where we're joined by our special guest Jessica Weeks from Hannah's House charity to talk about her journey of grief, loss and finding strength and hope in the midst of grief. Jessica shares her experience of going through multiple miscarriages and her journey from denial to healing, how grief is not a linear process and how Hannah's House was set up to help and support other families who have gone through the painful experience of losing a baby.

Here’s a summary of this week’s story:

• Jessica grew up in a Christian family and made a commitment to live for Jesus at a young age but later backslid and made poor life decisions. After meeting a lady from a local church during a cigarette break, Jessica went to church and met the Holy Spirit, leading her to turn her life around, start Bible college, marry her partner and find her faith again.
• Jessica experienced a miscarriage soon after her honeymoon but found comfort in God's love during her grief. It took several months to get pregnant again and she struggled with feelings of anxiety and loss of control. She eventually became pregnant and felt God's peace throughout the pregnancy, giving birth to a daughter who had complications during delivery but is now a blessing in her life.
• She and her husband decided to try for another baby and were surprised to become pregnant only two weeks later. On her second scan, she received the news that her baby had severe fetal abnormalities and the doctor advised her to terminate the pregnancy, but she found strength through faith and decided to continue with the pregnancy.
• Jessica found God's tangible presence during her pregnancy despite the diagnosis that her baby would not survive. She experienced physical and tangible changes in her baby, which she believes were miracles. Despite losing her baby within an hour after birth, Jessica felt God's peace throughout the journey.
• She shares her experience of losing her baby, Emelia, and the founding of her charity Hannah's House. She also talks about how having another baby brought up the past grief.
• Jessica initially thought she had dealt with the grief, but the Holy Spirit revealed to her that she had not. With the help of a friend and counseling, she was able to begin her own healing journey and eventually become a counselor and established her charity to help others like her who had gone through the grief and loss of a baby.
• She talks about the miracle of delivering her second son in her 40th year and how he was a tiny baby only about 20cm and just under a kilogram in weight but was born healthy and perfectly formed despite the odds.
• The life lesson for Jessica through all her grief and loss has been that God always answers prayers, but it doesn't always come as we would want or expect. And even though there is hurt and pain this side of heaven, we can choose to heal and walk in God's peace.

ABOUT JESSICA:

Jessica Weeks is the founder of Hannah's House, which is a charity based in the West Midlands that provides refuge for families who have experienced any kind of baby loss.

Jess and her husband Andrew set up the charity after the death of their baby daughter Emelia in 2017, which happened when their eldest daughter Hannah was only two. Since then, they have also experienced further miscarriages, as well as adding two beautiful boys to their family.

Jessica’s story is one of triumph over grief, and has featured widely in local and national media. Her charity work for Hannah's House has also received awards recognition by professional organisations including Ladies First Professional Development and 

What’s the Story is a podcast full of stories about faith and courage from everyday people.

Here's a Summary of this week's story:

• Beth grew up with a praying mom, but wasn't herself a Christian until later in life. After struggling through university and battling glandular fever, Beth had an encounter with Jesus that led her to Christianity Even though she was still struggling, Beth knew that Jesus was real and chose to follow him.
• Beth shares her story of how she felt like her faith wasn't good enough when she didn't have the supernatural childbirth that she had been praying for. After wrestling through her thoughts and emotions with God her second birth experience was a miracle.
• Knowing that God loved her and was with her regardless of what happened made all the difference.

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About Beth

Beth is Yorkshire-born and a full-time mamma of two. She loves writing, marketing and crafting with the kids. She is also an avid blogger!

Join Matt Edmundson on "What's the Story?" as he explores tales of faith and courage with guest Steven Pemberton. Discover Steven's journey from an angry youth to a devoted Christian, husband, and father, and how his faith transformed his life and family. Subscribe for more inspiring stories and visit whatsthestorypodcast.com for show notes and updates.

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Timestamps:

0:00 Intro

3:58 Steven's Early Faith Journey

7:04 Clarification on Being "Saved"

10:15 Teenage Years and Faith Challenges

14:24 Leaving the Church

18:34 Forgiveness and Personal Growth

23:10 Church's Decision on Marriage

27:25 Anger and Personal Development

30:42 Marriage Challenges and Overcoming Infidelity

33:04 Returning to Church and Renewed Faith

36:53 Impact on Family and Community

41:23 Surviving Infidelity in Marriage

47:51 Lessons from Adversity

51:12 Outro

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Key Takeaways:

1. Embrace Forgiveness: Steven highlights the importance of forgiveness, not just as a religious concept but as a practical tool for personal well-being. He shares how holding onto anger and resentment can manifest physically and emotionally, and how releasing these feelings through forgiveness can lead to a healthier, more peaceful life.

2. Value Community and Relationships: Steven discusses his journey from being isolated and angry to valuing community and relationships. He emphasises the significance of surrounding oneself with community because "that's where God does his best work".

3. Trust in God During Adversity: Steven's story illustrates the power of faith in overcoming life's challenges. He shares how trusting in God during difficult times, such as marital struggles and career changes, has led to personal and spiritual growth. His experience underscores how faith and God's grace can provide strength, direction, and the means to endure when facing adversity.

Can we truly find peace when life doesn't go as planned? Dive into a journey where shattered timelines meet unwavering faith.

Do you ever feel like you're going through a Tsunami of suffering where the waves just keep coming and you can't catch your breath?

Tune in to this week's episode of What's The Story where Evelyn Sherwood shares her story of battling a series of health issues from COVID to Cancer, not giving up on God's promises but coming out the other side stronger. Evelyn's journey will leave you in awe of God's unwavering love and presence through even the toughest valleys.

Here’s a summary of this week’s story:

• Evelyn grew up in a happy home. Her mom met some ladies from a church that introduced her to Jesus. A year later, her dad gave his life to the Lord. She herself gave her heart to Jesus as a teenager, and it wasn't until her senior year in high school that she felt called to ministry. She went to Bible college where she met her husband, and they have been in ministry together for almost 40 years. They currently serve as senior pastors in Kokomo, Indiana.
• Evelyn shares her personal story of trusting God through ups and downs, including her husband's health challenges with mold exposure and COVID-19, and how her faith helped her overcome her fears and doubts.
• She shares her experience of being isolated in the hospital due to COVID-19, struggling to even walk to the bathroom. She relied on her faith and leaned on God to get her through the tough times, even writing about it and finding the beauty in the midst of the scary and difficult situation. Eventually, both she and her husband recovered and were able to leave the hospital together.
• Evelyn talks about losing her dad to cancer and soon after being diagnosed herself with uterine cancer. Despite the overwhelming difficulties, she found comfort in the scriptures and anchored herself to them as she walked through each valley.
• She learned that God's love is not contingent on what she can do for Him, but rather it is His nature. She also learned the power of surrender and trusting God even when things don't make sense. Through her suffering, she saw God's love and grace in the simple things like kind words and gestures from others, and in His whispers of love and comfort.
• Evelyn is in recovery and doing much better and is working on various projects, including a book about God's faithfulness, and a booklet with her watercolor paintings paired with reminders of God's presence during hard times.

ABOUT EVELYN:

Evelyn Sherwood is a Christian writer and speaker who has served in pastoral ministry for thirty-five years alongside her husband Steven. They live in Indiana, in the Midwest of America and she has two grown up children, and 8 grandbabies! Evelyn is both a Cancer and Covid-19 survivor – and loves to use her story to encourage others to grab hold of hope in the midst of trials by helping them recall God’s goodness. 

In this episode of "What's The Story?", we get into how faith influences every aspect of our lives with our guest, Benjie Craig. Join us as Benjie shares his personal journey of integrating faith with business, community, and family.

What You'll Learn:

1. Faith and Business: How Benjie's deep-rooted beliefs guide his entrepreneurial decisions and help him navigate the challenges of running a business.
2. Community Engagement: Insights into how faith motivates Benjie to actively participate and make a difference in his local community.
3. Family and Faith: The role of spirituality in family life and how it shapes personal relationships and parenting.
4. Overcoming Challenges: Benjie discusses the pivotal moments when faith played a crucial role in overcoming life's unexpected challenges.
5. Daily Faith Practices: Practical tips on incorporating faith into daily routines, fostering a deeper connection with spiritual beliefs.

Key Takeaways:

• Be busy, work hard but always be ready to come alongside others and love them
• If Jesus was you, what would it look like?
• Love where you live

Don’t forget to subscribe to our podcast and follow us on our social media for more inspiring stories and life lessons grounded in faith and practical wisdom.

Malc & Trish Morgan share the story of their amazing journey as followers of Christ. Although Malc & Trish had very different childhoods and upbringing, they both discovered their faith in Christ as young people. They met while at Uni and got married a few years later.

Having a life of adventure with Christ had been their desire right from the start of their journey as husband and wife. And they devoted themselves to serving God and serving the community every opportunity that they got. They were catalysts for change and pioneered several areas of ministry. The seeds that God planted through them in people’s lives bore fruits for many years to come and still does today.

“There is more. There's higher heights and deeper seas for us to have. Don't settle for too little. Don't settle for the status quo. Everybody tends to like the comfort zone. All I can say for me and for Malc is that God has been there for us. He has matched every step that we've taken and then taken us further and blessed us and looked after us and helped us”, says Trish.

ABOUT MALCOLM & TRISH

Malcolm & Trish Morgan have spent their lives working for the church and Christian organisations, which includes a full-time band. They have lived all over the world, including South Africa, Northern Ireland, Greece, and the UK.

Malcolm is now the senior pastor of St. Andrews in Bath. And Trish's recently written a book called “Higher Heights, Deeper Seas” recounting some of their incredible faith journeys. They have been married for 38 years and have two kids and four grandkids.

Join us in this inspiring episode of "What's The Story" as we sit down with Tom Grant, who shares his remarkable journey of faith alongside his wife, Emma. They made a bold decision to leave the comfort of the southern suburbs and embrace a challenging yet rewarding life on an estate in Netherton, Liverpool. Dive into their story of transformation, community engagement, and living out their Christian faith in real and impactful ways.

Show Notes:

Introduction to Tom Grant:

• Tom Grant, alongside his wife Emma, has taken a significant leap of faith by moving from the South to an estate in Netherton, Liverpool.
• Their journey is not just about changing locations but experiencing a profound spiritual expedition.

The Essence of Real Faith:

• How Tom's upbringing, influenced by his parents' vibrant expression of Christianity, shaped his perspective on faith.
• The concept of faith as an adventure and an active, lived experience.

Community Engagement and the Church:

• Tom emphasizes the importance of the church's involvement in community life, addressing both spiritual and material needs.
• The challenge of changing common perceptions about what it means to be a Christian and the role of the church.

Living in Netherton:

• Experiences and observations of encountering Jesus in unexpected places within the Netherton community.
• Witnessing people from various backgrounds joining their church community, leading to a diverse and genuine expression of faith.

Life on an Eden Team:

• Insights into being part of an Eden Team and how it involves more than just relocation – it's about immersing in and contributing to the community.
• The concept of the church as a dynamic entity, reflective of the community it serves.

Key Takeaways:

1. The journey of faith is about more than belief – it encompasses action, engagement, and transformation.
2. Tom and Emma's story serves as an inspiration to step out of comfort zones and embrace faith in real-world situations.

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Be sure to subscribe to "What's The Story" for more inspiring stories like Tom and Emma's, and leave us a review if you enjoyed this episode. Follow us on our social media channels for updates and more engaging content.

Jenny had the perfect life - a great childhood, great education and a fairytale wedding. But her seemingly perfect life started spiralling out of control when she went through recurrent miscarriages, followed by a Cancer scare with her husband Dave and then the sudden and unexpected death of her father.

But even through these really difficult times, Jenny learnt to put her trust in God and not let her situations rock her faith in God. Through determination & perseverance, she was able to come out victorious through every single trial that life threw at her.

“You know, bad things do happen in life, but God is good through all of those, and God is faithful and that is something. Even if that's just what you repeat to yourself, there will be blessings in each day that you can look for from God”, says Jenny.

ABOUT JENNY

Jen is a true Liverpudlian (from Liverpool). Married to her childhood sweetheart Dave, they have three wonderful children and they also share a passion for Everton Football Club.

In this touching and insightful episode of 'What's The Story', we are graced with the presence of Funke Oham, an award-winning mentor, author, and speaker. Funke shares her deeply moving journey of faith and resilience, exploring how she found strength and understanding in her relationship with God through her most challenging times.

Episode Highlights:

• Funke Oham's Personal Story: Dive into the heart-wrenching story of Funke's journey through the loss of two babies, and how this shaped her faith and perspective on life.
• The Role of Faith in Adversity: Understand how Funke's unwavering faith guided her through her darkest hours and provided a sense of peace amidst chaos.
• Trusting Beyond Understanding: Funke discusses the importance of trusting in God’s plan, even when it defies logic or understanding.
• Learning to Find Peace: Hear about Funke's path to finding peace and acceptance in situations that are beyond control.
• The Transformative Power of Trust: Explore how trust in God can transform fear and uncertainty into strength and resilience.
• God's Unfailing Love: A central theme of Funke’s story is the unwavering love of God, which she describes as an anchor in tumultuous times.
• Scriptures as an Anchor: Funke talks about specific scriptures that provided solace and strength, highlighting their role in her healing journey.
• Navigating Life's Challenges: Funke shares insights on navigating the unpredictability of life with faith as your guide.

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About Funke Oham:

Funke Oham is an award-winning mentor, author, and speaker. She is passionate about inspiring others, particularly in overcoming personal challenges through faith. Her experiences and insights offer a profound perspective on trusting God’s plan, even in the face of life’s deepest sorrows.

Connect with Funke Oham:

• Website: Funkeohamp.com
• Instagram: @FunkeOham
• Facebook: Funke Oham
• Twitter: @FunkeOham

Listen to this profound episode to discover how embracing faith can guide you through the most confusing and challenging moments of life. Funke's story is not just one of survival but of thriving through faith and trust in God’s heart, even when nothing seems to make sense.

What do you do when you are diagnosed with Cancer at just 33?

Tune in to today's episode of What's The Story where our special guest Becky Carr shares her story of being diagnosed with Breast Cancer as a young mum of two and her journey of discovering who God really is and finding His peace and presence in the toughest moments of life. Becky's story is one of faith, hope, and resilience in the face of adversity and is sure to encourage you in your own faith journey!

Here’s a summary of this week’s story:

• Becky grew up in a Christian family and had experiences with God, but it was during her gap year with Youth With A Mission (YWAM) that she had a personal encounter with him. She later pursued a degree in theology and married her husband Jared soon after. They then moved to the US and made a life there.
• Becky was diagnosed with breast cancer at 33, which was shocking as it is not common for women to get it at such a young age. She had to undergo a mastectomy and breast reconstruction. However, three months later, she was rediagnosed with a different type of breast cancer that was very aggressive and had never before been treated. She had to undergo chemotherapy and radiation for almost a year.
• She talks about the intense challenges she faced during her breast cancer treatment, including missing her son's first day of school due to surgery and caring for her son during a medical emergency while undergoing her own treatment.
• Becky found support and comfort from her church community during her battle with breast cancer. She struggled with disappointment and anger towards God, but eventually found hope and peace in his presence and the belief that he walked with her through her struggles.
• She learned to value God's presence and promise to be with her through difficult times rather than just seeking a specific outcome or reward. She realized that the reward is ultimately Him, and that she needed an internal renewal more than an external healing.
• She found clarity and focused on her values and priorities after going through cancer, making significant changes in her life, including creating margin and focusing on what matters to her, and making the most of the time she has now.

ABOUT BECKY:

Becky Carr is a Brit living in the USA with her husband Jared and 2 littles, Gabe (8) & Ayla (5). She attends the Mile High Vineyard church near Denver and is an elder there. She also works for Vineyard USA as the Executive Assistant to the National Director. She is a recent breast cancer survivor, enthusiastic tea drinker, and loves to snowboard and hike in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains where she calls home.

Serving and following God is not something we do only on Sundays or during special religious holidays. Rather, it is a daily commitment that requires our time, energy, and attention.

Nic committed to loving and following God at 12 years old. It was a few years later when he had a near death experience that Nic's faith grew to grasp the reality of Jesus. As a result Nic took on the path of a daily commitment to serve and follow God through mission and discipleship.

"I have found that pearl in Jesus and His kingdom and His beautiful bride, the Church. There is nothing that I would exchange for that pearl. There is nothing I would surrender for that pearl."

ABOUT NIC

Nic is one of the co-founding pastors of Frontline Church. He currently serves as the Director of Kairos Connexion, a ministry that focuses on connecting people to mission opportunities both locally and globally. Nic has a passion for living a life of mission, and he loves spending time with his family.

Joy and anticipation turn to heartbreak and confusion as a couple's journey to parenthood takes a sudden and unexpected turn. How they each navigate this profound challenge not only tests their faith but reshapes their future in ways neither could have anticipated. What did they discover at the bottom of the pit, and how did it lead to hope for thousands of others?

Here’s a summary of this week’s story:

• After battling infertility, Charlotte's pregnancy brings joy and excitement. The anticipation builds as the couple prepares for parenthood, but a sudden twist changes everything.
• The couple's spiritual journey takes center stage as unexpected challenges test their faith. While Charlotte seeks solace and guidance, her husband grapples with anger and doubt.
• Faced with profound grief, Charlotte finds unexpected ways to heal. Her spiritual journey leads her to new insights and a profound connection with her beliefs.
• Charlotte's personal experiences lead her to create something meaningful for others facing similar struggles. A new charity is born, reflecting her desire to support and uplift.
• The couple's differing responses to their trials create tension and complexity in their relationship. As they navigate these changes, their paths take unexpected turns, leaving questions about what lies ahead.

In this enlightening episode of "What's The Story," Matt Edmundson converses with Johanna Wilson, who shares her riveting journey from the entanglements of New Age spirituality to the sanctuary of Orthodox Christianity. Johanna's tale is a beacon for those navigating the murky waters of modern spiritual practices, highlighting the transformative power of ancient faith.

1. Introduction to Johanna Wilson: Discover the background of a woman whose spiritual journey took her from the allure of New Age beliefs to the foundational truths of Orthodox Christianity.
2. The Allure of New Age Practices: Johanna delves into how the seductive nature of Wicca and occult practices led her down a path of spiritual confusion and despair.
3. Transformation Through Crisis: A pivotal moment of vulnerability and brokenness becomes the turning point in Johanna's life, steering her back towards the light of Christ and true spiritual awakening.
4. The Dangers of Self-Centered Spirituality: Learn why the New Age movement's focus on self-improvement and individual enlightenment often results in isolation and spiritual emptiness.
5. Finding Freedom in Ancient Faith: Johanna recounts the profound peace and clarity she found in returning to the Orthodox Church, emphasising the timeless relevance of its teachings.
6. The Illusion of Control: An exploration of how Johanna's journey taught her the importance of surrendering control to God, trusting in His divine guidance over her life.

Whether you're entangled in the confusion of New Age spirituality or seeking a deeper understanding of ancient faiths, Johanna's story offers hope, clarity, and a testament to the enduring power of returning to the roots of Christian belief.

Join host Sadaf Beynon on "What's the Story?" as she explores the inspiring journey of Thomas Abbott, a missionary kid turned global traveller, who shares his experiences of faith, family, and cultural transitions. Discover how Thomas's upbringing in Pakistan and his work in China shaped his worldview and spiritual convictions. Don't forget to subscribe for more compelling stories and visit Crowd Church for a digital space to explore faith.

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Timestamps:

0:00 Intro

6:04 Thomas Abbot's Global Journey

13:59 Experiencing Faith in Pakistan

23:32 Baptism in China

32:18 Returning to the UK

37:59 Meeting Rachel

47:23 Belief in Six-Day Creation

55:29 Authority of Scripture

1:03:53 Church Leadership

1:11:27 Jesus Manifesto

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Key Takeaways:

1. Embrace Your Unique Path: Thomas highlights the importance of recognising and embracing one's unique journey, especially when it involves cultural and faith-based differences. Growing up in diverse environments, he learned to be comfortable with being different and saw it as a purposeful part of his life. 

2. Live with Integrity and Faith: Thomas credits his parents for living a life of integrity and faith, which deeply influenced his own beliefs. He emphasises the significance of not just talking about faith but living it out authentically. 

3. Understand the Urgency of Mission: Through his belief in a literal six-day creation, Thomas developed a sense of urgency about living a life on mission. He suggests that understanding the world through a biblical lens can instil a sense of immediacy in fulfilling one's purpose and sharing the gospel. 

Have you ever wondered what it looks like to surrender control and trust in God's guidance?

In this episode, we delve into the inspiring stories of Matt, a visionary entrepreneur turned online pastor. Discover the power of fiath in unexpected journeys and the transformative impact of stepping into uncharted territories. Get ready to be inspired, challenged, and encouraged to embrace the plan God has for you. Are you ready to embark on a remarkable journey of faith?

Here’s a summary of this week’s story:

• Matt and Anna delve into various topics related to faith, God's involvement, and unexpected journeys. Matt shares personal accounts that demonstrate God's intervention in his business ventures and the positive outcomes he has witnessed through prayer. He explains how, in moments of uncertainty, he turned to prayer and experienced remarkable breakthroughs and favour in his entrepreneurial pursuits.
• The conversation takes an intriguing turn as Matt discusses the establishment of the online church, Crowd Church, during the challenging times of the pandemic. He describes how his background in technology and business unexpectedly converged with his newfound role as a pastor. Matt explains that while he initially resisted this unexpected path, he eventually recognized the connections between his skills and passion for reaching people with the message of Christ in a digital space. The discussion highlights the importance of being open to unexpected opportunities and the potential for God to work through unconventional means.
• Throughout the conversation, Matt emphasizes his life motto, which encapsulates the core principles he lives by. He stresses the significance of having faith in a faithful God, coupled with a willingness to act and embrace the unexpected. Matt encourages listeners to step outside their comfort zones, think creatively, and value progress over the fear of failure. His inspiring message challenges individuals to trust in God's leading and step into new ventures, knowing that He is always present and ready to guide them.
• In exploring Matt's journey, the conversation sheds light on the broader theme of faith and how it intersects with various aspects of life. Matt's experiences serve as a testament to the power of faith and prayer in navigating both personal and professional endeavours. The discussion showcases the transformative impact of embracing unexpected paths and trusting in God's providence.

In this powerful episode of "What's the Story," Matt Edmundson sits down with Pete Farrington to discuss his inspiring journey of faith, overcoming depression, self-harm, and finding hope in the midst of crisis. Pete shares his story of transformation and the life-changing revelation of God's love that brought him from brokenness to wholeness.

Show Notes

1. Introduction to Pete Farrington and his story

• Pete's struggles with depression and self-harm as a teenager
• The impact of bullying and feeling different
• The onset of self-harm and suicidal thoughts
• The challenges of growing up in a Christian family while struggling with mental health

   2. The turning point: Pete's experience at a discipleship training school in Germany

• Understanding the depth of God's love and the power of the gospel
• Overcoming depression and stopping medication
• Finding purpose and a deeper relationship with God

  3. Facing a crisis: When Pete's newborn son nearly lost his life

• The harrowing experience of his son's battle with strep meningitis
• Feeling helpless and afraid during the hospital stay
• Clinging to faith and the knowledge of God's love during the darkest times

  4. The transformative power of God's love

• How understanding God's love changed Pete's perspective on his past struggles
• Recognising God's presence in the midst of pain and hardship
• The importance of preaching the gospel to oneself

  5. Encouraging others who may be struggling with depression or self-harm

• The importance of seeking help and talking to someone
• Remembering that God is always with you, even when it doesn't feel like it
• Holding onto hope and the truth of God's unconditional love

The significance of God's name, "El Roi" (the God who sees), and its relevance to Pete's story

This episode is a must-listen for anyone who has ever struggled with depression, self-harm, or feelings of worthlessness. Pete's raw and honest account of his journey will inspire you to hold onto hope and trust in the transformative power of God's love, no matter how dark the circumstances may seem.

In this soul-stirring episode, we sit down with the inspirational Jenni Calcraft to delve deep into life's challenges and the journey of discovering God's benevolence in every circumstance. If you've ever found yourself questioning where God is in the midst of trials, this episode is a must-watch for you.

🔸 In Today's Episode, You Will Hear About:

• Jenni's Personal Story: How she faced adversities head-on and found hope amidst despair.
• The Golden Nugget: What Jenni learned from a 14th-century monk that reshaped her perspective on suffering.
• Unveiling Truths: Discovering God’s goodness in places where it's least expected.
• Practical Tips: Jenni shares actionable steps for anyone wanting to deepen their connection with God during challenging times.
• Q&A Segment: We tackle some of your most burning questions about faith and finding God's purpose in pain.

MEET JENNI

Jenni is mum to three children, the youngest of whom has complex medical issues. Through walking this difficult journey, she has learnt that God is good in all circumstances and that He can bring good out of all situations. Jenni is married to Pete, and is part of the leadership team at Freedom Church in Liverpool. She also heads up Someone Cares - a church-based project supporting chaplaincy services at Alder Hey Children's Hospital. Jenni is also a physiotherapist, teaching Pilates and working with women who are postpartum after baby loss through her initiative called The PABL Project.

A lot of young people go through their 20s struggling with their relationships and making a lot of mistakes they regret later on in life. But it doesn't have to be that way.

Join us for this week's episode where Josh Birch shares his story of struggling with relationships in his 20s to having an encounter with the Holy Spirit to finding his happily ever after!

Here’s a summary of this week’s story:

• Josh grew up in a Christian household and attended church, but he fell away from God during his teenage years. He didn't have a relationship with God because he never realized the significance of what it meant for him on a day-to-day basis.
• Josh talks about how he broke up with his girlfriend and travelled to Southeast Asia where one night when he was in a state of anger, hate, and pain, he decided to pray. As soon as he did, he felt an overwhelming sense of peace come over him. He attributes this experience to the beginning of his personal relationship with God.
• While working as a physiotherapist at Alder Hey, he started attending church regularly. He faced challenges when he tried to balance his old life with his new faith, but ultimately decided to be honest with his friends and continue living in the real world as a salt and light. He was voted captain of his cricket team and used this position to change the culture of the team for the better.
• Josh met Alice when she moved in with the Birch family as a lodger, and they quickly became friends. Over the course of four years, they remained close friends while dating other people; however, at the end of those four years, Josh realized that Alice met every single criterion on his list for what he was looking for in a wife. After returning from a trip to France, he asked her to marry him.
• Josh and Alice have been married nearly 7 years and have two kids. Their younger daughter, Ada, was born with a congenital heart defect and down's syndrome. He talks about how their relationship with God and the love and support of the church community helped them through their hard times.
• Josh says that it is important to focus on what you know to be true and not try to do things by yourself. It is crucial to be in community and to speak out in difficult times and seek help.

ABOUT JOSH:

Josh is a husband, and father to two beautiful kids and works as a physiotherapist at Alder Hey hospital. He is an avid cricketer and a big fan of the Liverpool Football Club.

Join us for a profoundly inspiring talk with Jo Roper, an Obstetrics and Gynaecology doctor, who shares her insights on finding peace amidst life's struggles. This service delves into themes of faith, resilience, and the pursuit of peace in the face of uncertainty and change.

Key Highlights:

1. Jo Roper's Personal Journey: Discover how Jo's background and experiences have shaped her understanding of faith and peace.
2. Dealing with Uncertainty and Change: Jo talks about her struggles with uncertainty, especially in relation to significant life changes, and how faith has been her anchor.
3. Infertility from a Doctor's Perspective: Insights into the emotional and spiritual aspects of infertility, based on Jo's professional experiences as an Obstetrics and Gynaecology doctor.
4. The Pursuit of Peace: Explore Jo's interpretation of the Biblical verse, "seek peace and pursue it," and how this has guided her through life's challenges.
5. Faith in Action: Learn how Jo's faith has been a guiding force in her life, especially during times of doubt and unpredictability.
6. Empathy and Shared Experiences: Jo discusses the universal nature of uncertainty and how shared experiences can foster empathy and understanding.
7. Grace Amidst Struggle: A deeper look into how grace can be found even in the midst of life's toughest challenges.

Whether you're facing personal challenges or looking for spiritual insights, this talk offers a beacon of hope and inspiration. For more enlightening talks and services, visit the Crowd Church website and join our community in exploring faith, hope, and love in our everyday lives.

Phil grew up in a Christian home, and from a young age, was taught the importance of loving your neighbor and caring for the orphans. As he got older, Phil began to see how much need there was in the world for people to show love and compassion to those who were struggling. He felt called to do something to make a difference in the lives of others, and so he and his wife decided to start fostering children. They have since adopted a child of their own, and they continue to provide a loving home for children in need.

In trusting and obeying, Phil has found that God has given him a unique opportunity to live out the commandment to love his neighbor, and changed his life as a result.

ABOUT PHIL

Phil is from Liverpool, England. He has two birth children and one adopted child. He is a part-time school teacher and full-time adoption and fostering advocate. Phil loves to ride his bike everywhere, even if it means he has to carry it on his shoulder for a bit!

A lot of us spend our lives chasing after things that we think will make us happy – money, cars, fame, but at the end of the day they don't really bring us lasting joy.

John Sloan joins Matt Edmundson in this episode to share from his life experiences that if we take whatever we have and give it to God, He will bless us in ways we never thought possible.

Here’s a summary of this week’s story:

• John shares his early childhood experiences of growing up smoking at the age of 10 and how his mother's attitude towards prayers and faith turned him against God for many years.
• While in University, John made the decision to follow Jesus but was unhappy because he did not want to live a holy lifestyle that was required of him. That was until he attended a meeting one day that turned his life around.
• In 1985, John became the youngest surgeon in the country at 27 years old. In 1999, they set up New Hope Charity that continues to this day.
• In 1991, in a town hall in Leeds, John felt God speaking to him, telling him that he would work in French-speaking Africa. In 1997, before starting the medical centre in Congo, he and his wife Myra began working in Guyana and then the Philippines, and Uganda. They now only work in Congo.
• One of John's biggest challenges has been his difficult relationship with his mother. He has learned from this experience and is now able to help others who are facing similar challenges.
• John quotes the title of his book, "5 Loaves and 2 Fishes" and says to take whatever you have and give it to God because it's incredible what God can do with it. 

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ABOUT JOHN

John was born and raised in Liverpool. He trained in surgery and emergency medicine, working in the UK NHS for 38 years as an A&E Consultant before retiring about 5 years ago.

John is married to Myra, who is also a doctor, and they have 3 grown up children and 9 grandchildren.

Currently they are co-leading the church plant, Frontline Wirral.

Sharon's story is a testimony to the faithfulness of God even when we doubt, fear and face difficult times. In her story, Sharon shares how she was raised in a Christian home and came to believe in God at an early age. Despite this, she still experienced doubts, fears and difficult times. However, what ultimately got her through these tough times was her faith in God. Even when she didn't feel like God was there, she knew that He was faithful and would never leave her.

Sharon's story also serves as a reminder that faith isn't a feeling; it's a decision to trust God, even when we don't understand what He is doing. We all go through difficult times, when our faith is tested and we feel alone and afraid. But even in those times, God lovingly pursues His children. 

“God is real and amazing. He created the world and everything in it so he's got something to say about every aspect of life. It's not about having a little bit of faith on the side to make us feel good. Instead, God wants to be involved in every aspect of life and his involvement actually makes life work.” 

ABOUT SHARON

Sharon is from Liverpool, England. She has three grown kids and she loves to teach English to refugees and asylum seekers. Her desire is to see those with broken lives find restoration in Jesus. Sharon enjoys spending time with her family and friends.

What’s the Story is a podcast full of stories about faith and courage from everyday people.

Here's a Summary of this week's story:

• Al is known as a hugger, something he started doing intentionally to show vulnerability and encourage people, especially men.
• Al's dad and grand dad were very important figures in his life and an example of how the male community should work. He lost them both within a space of months when he was quite young. This left a massive space in Al's life, which he filled by retreating into his relationship with God.
• After a near-death experience of his own, Al found himself moving away from God. Through a series of fortunate events, Al reconnected with Jesus and began to fill the void that he had created.
• He was born dyslexic and struggled in school because of it. Despite being told by his career's officer that boys like him "don't go into the caring professions", Al went on to have an incredibly successful career in surgery.
• Al's active prayer life helps him think and pray for others.
• He quotes Julian of Norwich saying "All shall be well, all shall be well. There is a force of love moving through the universe that holds us fast and will never let us go."

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About Al

Alistair Marshall is a husband and father to 3 amazing daughters, an avid cyclist, lives in Liverpool and works as a Cardio Thoracic Surgical Practitioner. He has a real heart for the hearts of men. He is an absolute legend, so you will love this conversation!

From smuggling Bibles into closed countries to surviving dangerous situations to losing his marriage and ultimately finding grace in the midst of it all, Mark Buchanan shares his incredible journey in this episode of What's The Story.

Tune in to hear how his perseverance and determination, coupled with God's redeeming power, helped him overcome obstacles and live a life of purpose.

Here’s a summary of this week’s story:

• Mark became a Christian at the age of three after he realized that his naughty behavior was not pleasing to God. His parents explained to him the concept of Jesus and salvation, which led Mark to give his life to God. Despite occasional doubts and struggles, he has never looked back since then, and believes that the grace of God is what keeps him on track.
• Mark, who grew up as a pastor's kid, shares his story of being beaten up every day for six years due to his Christian faith and his father being a pastor. Despite the violence, Mark persevered and was determined to speak up for his beliefs.
• Mark believes that bullying has shaped him, but he doesn't feel bitter about it. Growing up assuming that everyone didn't like him has made him less impacted by people's opinions of him. Despite the difficult experiences, he had a good childhood and a strong theological framework that helped him understand the purpose of suffering in life.
• As part of his work with Derek Prince Ministries, Mark shares how he would smuggled Bibles into the Middle East, where many people did not have access to them due to legal restrictions and the risks and life-threatening situations he had to encounter as part of that.
• The extreme tension and busy lifestyle broke his marriage. He learned that sometimes the biggest threat to a relationship with God is being too busy working for Him. He left as a divorced man and found God in a less traditional and showy way, which was earth-shattering and destabilizing but ultimately transformative.
• Mark talks about God's forgiveness and the need to keep moving forward despite past mistakes. He emphasizes the need to keep going and never give up, and that God is in the business of redemption.
• Mark's one message is about perseverance. It is a collaborative process between our efforts and God's redemption. We need to acknowledge and confront sin, but not give up because God can redeem anything and anybody.

ABOUT MARK:

Mark has been a Christian since he was just three years old. He's done it all - from Bible College to preaching on the streets, planting a church, and leading worship. He's preached to over 20,000 people, organized conferences worldwide, and even smuggled Bibles! Currently, he is working on a Christian response to poverty in the world of Fair Trade.

In this powerful episode of "What's The Story," we sit down with Rob Brown, a man who faced one of life's most daunting challenges - a stroke - and emerged with invaluable insights on gratitude, faith, and the power of resilience. Join us as we unravel Rob's journey from the onset of mysterious migraines to a life-changing diagnosis and his subsequent path to recovery and discovery.

Show Notes:

• The Onset of the Crisis:

1. Rob details the initial signs of his health scare - a series of intense migraines that hinted at something far more serious.

2. The moment of clarity and relief when receiving his diagnosis, shifting from uncertainty to a path of action.

• Role of Faith in Adversity:

1. Rob reflects on how his faith provided solace and strength during his most vulnerable moments.

2. Insight into how faith can be a guiding light in times of darkness and uncertainty.

• The Power of Gratitude:

1. How Rob's perspective shifted from what he lost to what he still had.

2. The transformative power of focusing on blessings rather than losses.

• Life Lessons and Inspirational Takeaways:

1. Rob shares universal truths that resonate with all listeners, regardless of their personal battles.

2. The importance of being thankful for life's gifts, even in the midst of trials and tribulations.

• Navigating Life Post-Stroke:

1. Rob's journey of recovery and adaptation, embracing new limitations with a positive outlook.

2. The ongoing role of faith and gratitude in his life after the stroke.

Key Discussion Points:

1. Understanding and coping with unexpected health crises.
2. The role of faith in personal resilience and recovery.
3. Embracing gratitude as a tool for transformation in challenging times.
4. The journey of self-discovery and growth through adversity.

Tune in to be inspired and perhaps discover a new perspective that could change your life.

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Connect with Rob Brown:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/therobbrown/

Anna's story of recurrent miscarriages and devastating loss is heart-breaking and messy even but God's presence is evident even in the midst of the heartache, the brokenness, the questions and the doubts. He is working His good out of those hard situations and turning what was meant for harm into good.

The lives of all humanity are marked with suffering and no matter how it surfaces, suffering always demands our attention. Anna' story shows that when grief comes knocking we need to press into God and deep dive into grief because that is where God's grace is waiting and working.

ABOUT ANNA

Anna is a slow living advocate (learning on-the-job!), a recurrent miscarriage warrior, a lover of books, coffee and good conversation, and a big believer in the healing power of words.

She is a co-founder of SPACE miscarriage & infertility network which provides peer support to women affected by these issues, and a regular co-host on the popular Crowd Church podcast.

Anna is also the author of ‘Sand Between Your Toes: Inspirations for a Slower, Simpler, More Soulful Life’  a devotional all about learning to rest in God. 

Ever felt life took an unexpected detour, leaving you questioning faith and purpose? Dive into Lori Ann's transformative journey that challenges the predictability of life and redefines the essence of unwavering belief.

In this deeply moving episode of "What's The Story Podcast," host Sadaf Beynon engages in a poignant conversation with Debra McNinch, the inspiring founder of Battle Cry Mom. Debra, a steadfast believer and a mother who has navigated the tumultuous waters of parenting through faith, shares her riveting journey. This episode not only explores Deborah's personal experiences and the inception of Battle Cry Mom but also delves into the powerful lessons she's learned about faith, resilience, and the impact of community support.

Key Takeaways:

1. The profound impact of faith in personal growth and in fostering family unity through trials.
2. The importance of resilience and love in the face of adversity, and how embracing these values can lead to deeper understanding and acceptance.
3. The role of supportive communities in overcoming personal trials, highlighting the significance of collective strength and shared faith.

Join us on this episode of "What's The Story Podcast" as we uncover the layers of Debra McNinch's faith-filled journey, her battle through trials, and the heartwarming creation of Battle Cry Mom. Whether you're a parent facing your own set of challenges or someone seeking inspiration to navigate life's unpredictable paths, Debra's story offers valuable insights and hope for the future.

Remember to subscribe to our podcast and YouTube channel for more inspiring stories like Debra's. Share this episode with anyone who might find solace and strength in Debra's powerful message of faith and resilience.

In this episode of our podcast, we sit down with Grace—a woman whose strength and faith defy the depths of loss she's faced. How did she navigate the profound grief of losing a spouse, and what paths has her healing journey taken? Tune in as we explore the remarkable power of faith in the most testing of times. This isn't just a tale of sorrow, but a riveting saga of finding hope in despair and an unwavering love that holds the power to transform pain into purpose.

Here's a summary of what is covered in this episode:

• Grace discussed the strength her faith provided after her husband's passing, maintaining a sense of gratitude amidst her loss.
• She emphasised the unique purpose of each individual in God's plan and the importance of preparing spiritually for life's challenges.
• Highlighting the need for active decision-making, Grace spoke about choosing to do right, like forgiving, to align with God’s strength.
• Grace encouraged others to trust in God's presence and plan, even when facing the uncertainties of life.
• The conversation concluded with an acknowledgment of Grace's inspiring faith and her belief in God’s comforting awareness of human suffering.

MEET GRACE

Grace is joining us from Vancouver in beautiful British Columbia, Canada, where she embraces life as a devoted stay-at-home mom to her children, Boaz and Hanna. Her spiritual journey began in her childhood, finding salvation at the tender age of eight within her church's sanctuary. Faith has been her cornerstone, guiding her through over a decade of joyful marriage until facing the heart-wrenching loss of her spouse to lung cancer. Today, Grace's resilience and commitment to her faith and family shine as beacons of her strength.

• Katy emphasized the importance of self-care, using the metaphor of not being able to "pour from an empty cup." She reinforced the idea that one's body is a temple and that looking after oneself is essential.
• Both Anna and Katy discussed the idea that learning about oneself and personal growth is a continuous journey, suggesting that many life lessons are ongoing.
• Katy shared her personal story of trauma, grief, and PTSD. However, she also talked about finding silver linings in challenging situations and using her experiences to help others.
• Katy introduced her platform, "Journey of Smiley," which offers resources on grief processing, PTSD, and mental health

Uncover the hard-hitting spiritual dilemma of "Combining Faith and Works" as we delve into the toughest question of Christianity: where is God in suffering? 

Today's special guest, Ed Walker shares valuable insights from his time working in war zones to helping homeless people find loving and caring homes in this inspiring episode of What's The Story.

Here’s a summary of this week’s story:

• How Ed's experience overseas in disaster response and meeting a homeless man in a park led him to start Hope into Action, a movement that partners with churches to provide homes for the homeless, with the aim of reducing re-offending rates. Over 100 churches now run more than 100 houses, making a positive impact in the lives of homeless individuals.
• Ed discusses his experience working in war zones and the challenge of reconciling the suffering he witnessed with his understanding of God's love. He found that the Bible and books by Philip Yancey gave him the resilience he needed, strengthening his faith.
• Writing his book, "Reflections from the Scorched Earth," helped Ed process and make sense of his experiences working in war zones and dealing with suffering. He found that accepting the irreconcilable nature of certain situations and holding onto blind faith and submission to God was a source of strength and comfort for him.
• Sacrifice and denying oneself are important ingredients in the walk of Christians, although sacrifice is not talked about as much in the church these days, possibly because of the commodification of church. Nevertheless, sacrificing for God is healthy and important in the context of deep spiritual understanding and gratitude.
• Ed's one message would be to have a deep understanding of the gospel where different aspects such as poverty, justice, peace, proclamation, salvation and redemption are all interwoven in our understanding, and to preach good news to all of creation, not just the human race.

ABOUT ED:

Ed Walker is a seasoned humanitarian with over 10 years of experience in relief and development. He's worked in war zones and disaster-stricken areas across Africa, reaching over 100,000 people affected by conflict and chairing the NGO Steering Committee. Ed is also an accomplished author, having written 'Reflections from the Scorched Earth', a book that sold over 5000 copies.

Back in the UK, Ed served as Director of YMCA Client Services before founding the charity Hope into Action. Their mission is to house vulnerable individuals with the help of local churches. Today, Hope into Action has over 100 homes in 20 towns across England and has won several awards, including the Best Christian Social Action Award in 2015 and The Guardian's 'Best Housing Project in the Country' in 2017. Ed's latest book 'A House Built on Love' was published in October 2020, and in June 2022, he was awarded an MBE for his services to homelessness. Ed is a proud husband and father to two daughters and a son.

In this deeply moving episode of our podcast, we sit down with Emma Fast for an intimate conversation about her life's journey, marked by multicultural experiences, profound loss, and an unwavering faith. Emma's story offers unique insights into the complexities of identity, belonging, and the healing power of faith through the most challenging times.

Key Takeaways:

1. The vital role of faith in providing solace and direction through life's ups and downs.
2. The enriching impact of a multicultural upbringing on one's identity and perspective.
3. Understanding grief and loss through the lens of faith and community support.
4. The significance of small acts of faith and kindness in making a profound difference.

Join us as we explore these themes with Emma, whose resilience and deep faith provide a compelling narrative of hope, understanding, and the power of belief in the face of life's complexities.

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Whether you're navigating your own journey of faith, identity, or loss, Emma's story resonates with universal truths about the human experience and the anchoring force of faith. Don't miss this insightful conversation that not only sheds light on the struggles many of us face but also celebrates the strength and beauty found in diversity and faith.

Remember to subscribe to our podcast for more inspiring stories like Emma's, and if Emma's story touched you, reach out to us with your thoughts and experiences. Let's continue the conversation.

Step into a story of grief, love, and incredible faith! You'll meet a woman who's faced unimaginable loss and come through it with an inspiring spirit

We're sitting down with Ann Prime for a talk about life’s tough moments, the ones that can shatter you but also define you. This is all about true pain, unwavering love, and recovery that’s only possible when you lean on something—or someone—bigger than yourself. It’s an emotional journey that might just shift your perspective on grief and the healing that can unfold with a touch of divine guidance.

Here's a summary of what is covered in this episode:

• Emphasizing the importance of living in the now, Ann shares personal insights on embracing each moment fully and the profound impact this approach has had on their life journey.
• Ann recounts lessons learned from walking with Jesus, particularly the value of being fully present, highlighted by transformative experiences starting in Alabama.
• Drawing an analogy with a seed's growth underground, the episode explores the necessity of personal development during life's darkest periods, acknowledging that challenging times often foster the most significant growth.
• The conversation touches on enduring grief, with Ann sharing her journey through profound loss and emphasizing that even in deep sorrow, God’s comforting presence is a beacon of hope.
• The episode encapsulates themes of being mindful, God's guidance, growth through adversity, and light amidst darkness, providing solace and encouragement for those grappling with grief.

MEET ANN

Ann Prime, an Alabama native and dedicated educator, met her late husband Mike in Pakistan before settling in the Southeastern U.S. The loss of Mike in 2020 marked a period of profound grief for Ann, during which she has been learning to trust God in her new season of life. Now residing in South Carolina and working with a commercial landscaping company, she's embracing new beginnings with resilience and faith.

Welcome to this profoundly moving episode of our podcast, where Katherine Gantlett shares her heart-wrenching journey through the darkest seasons of her life—losing her daughter Libby and enduring multiple miscarriages. This episode delves into the depths of spiritual and emotional resilience, as Katherine explores the complex relationship between grief, faith, and justice.

In this episode, you'll discover:

• Katherine’s Personal Story: A detailed account of her journey from the joy of expecting to the agony of sudden loss, and how these experiences have shaped her understanding of faith and God's presence in pain.
• Faith and Doubt: How Katherine wrestled with her faith in the face of overwhelming grief and what sustaining faith in times of doubt looks like.
• The Role of Community: Insights into how community support played a crucial role in her process of grieving and finding ground again in life.
• Spiritual Insights: Katherine shares her transformation from personal tragedy to spiritual guidance, including her current role in helping others navigate their grief.
• Practical Wisdom for the Bereaved: Strategies and thoughts on managing grief, the importance of lament, and embracing vulnerability as a source of strength.

Additional Resources:

• Book Mention: Katherine talks about her book, "Walking Through Winter," where she uses the metaphor of winter to describe the process of dealing with grief and loss.
• Community Support: Highlighting the importance of finding and leaning on a supportive community during times of deep personal loss.
• Spiritual Direction: Katherine discusses her ongoing work as a spiritual director, facilitating retreats and workshops to help others walk through their own winters.

This episode is not just a narrative; it's an exploration of the profound questions about God's fairness and presence in our suffering. It's about finding hope in the darkest places and the unexpected ways God shows up in our lives. Join Katherine and us for a journey through pain and faith, and perhaps find a fragment of light in your own winter.

Join us in this powerful episode of "What's The Story?" as host Sadaf Beynon sits down with Eunice Hill, a remarkable woman whose life story is a testament to the strength of faith, resilience in the face of adversity, and the transformative power of forgiveness. Eunice opens up about the significant loss she faced in her early life, her passionate dedication to missionary work, and the invaluable lessons she has learned about faith and forgiveness along the way.

Episode Highlights:

• Early Life and Loss: Eunice shares the impact of losing both her parents at a young age and how their deep faith provided a strong foundation for her own spiritual journey.
• Missionary Calling: Discover how Eunice's commitment to missionary work and education, particularly in Pakistan, was driven by a desire to support missionary kids separated from their parents.
• Challenges and Triumphs: Eunice recounts the difficulties she faced while living and working in a different culture, and how her faith helped her overcome these challenges.
• The Power of Forgiveness: Learn about Eunice's insights into the importance of forgiveness, both in seeking it and granting it, to prevent bitterness and promote healing.
• God's Timing and Goodness: Eunice reflects on how her understanding of God's timing and goodness has evolved through her life experiences and shaped her resilient spirit.

Cancer.

The word alone is enough to strike fear into the hearts of even the bravest individuals. And for good reason - cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. But cancer is not always a death sentence. Anni Uddin is living proof of that.

As a cancer patient, Anni was in physical and emotional turmoil but spiritually she stood firm and her faith moved from strength to strength.

"I came to the conclusion, whether I die or whether I live, you know, I want to live for God."

Anni's cancer went into remission, and she is now cancer-free. But the experience changed her in profound ways.

"I just love the fact that I know Jesus is there on the other side of death, waiting for me. That was my comfort when I had cancer and it is my comfort now."

Through her ordeal, Anni saw more clearly God's mercy, faithfulness and goodness as a Father to His children.

Anni's story is one of courage and strength, and it is an inspiration to anyone facing a difficult situation. Cancer may be a daunting opponent, but her story shows that God is bigger.

Dave grew up in Toxteth, Liverpool in the 60s. In a street of 150 houses, 20 of them were Dave's relatives. He had a lot of behavioral issues growing up. He lacked aspiration and inspiration and grew up quite a broken kid. The first time he heard the word hope was when he ended up in Sunday School by accident one day. Later in life, the seed bore fruit when he tried to rob his brother but ended up becoming a Christian!

Despite of his hopeless circumstances, God made ways for him to encounter the love of God and live a life of hope and purpose. There were challenges along the way that he had to face such as his nephew being murdered. But through it all, God revealed himself more and more to him.

“Walking with God is an adventure. You'll see things and do things that you could only read about in a book if you go for it, with God.” says Dave.

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About Dave

Dave Connolly is the co-founding pastor of Frontline Church in Liverpool. Until recently, he was the pastor of Toxteth Tabernacle. Now he spends most of his time supporting church leaders, pastoring the pastors, as well as hanging out with his amazing and beautiful wife and family!

Here’s a summary of this week’s story:

Welcome to this weeks episode of "What's the Story," in this episode host Matt Edmundson interviews Jonathan Lewis, President of Eastport Financial Group Incorporated, author of "Deep Water" and "More Than Money," and founder of Fathers for Fathers. Jonathan shares his faith journey, struggles, and the transformative power of Christianity in his life.

Key Takeaways:

1. The Transformative Power of Faith: Jonathan's faith journey highlights the significant transformation that true convictional Christianity can bring to a person's life. At 34, he experienced a pivotal moment of surrender to Christ, which profoundly impacted his approach to life, business, and relationships. His story emphasizes the importance of trusting in God's plan and letting go of personal idols to experience genuine spiritual growth.
2. The Importance of Forgiveness: Forgiveness plays a central role in Jonathan's narrative. His decision to forgive his ex-wife and seek her forgiveness, despite the pain and difficulty, led to a profound sense of freedom and healing. This act of forgiveness not only improved his personal well-being but also demonstrated the power of following Christ's commands in bringing about reconciliation and personal peace.
3. Supporting and Empowering Men: Jonathan's initiative, Fathers for Fathers, addresses the critical issue of male despair and suicide, particularly among those estranged from their children or struggling with personal failures. The organization aims to support men through various means, including mentorship, immersive studies, and practical guidance. Jonathan's call to action for men to rise above victimhood and villainy, embrace their God-given identity, and take actionable steps toward personal and spiritual growth is a powerful message of hope and empowerment.

If this episode connected and you would like to find out more join us for our weekly Crowd Church livestream every Sunday at 6pm. God Bless.

This compelling narrative explores the trials and triumphs of an international marriage, the resilience required to navigate cultural differences, and the strength found in unwavering faith.

Here's some of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

• Anna Grace talks about how she found faith.
• Anna Grace discusses the challenges she faced, including long-distance relationship struggles, cultural differences and language barriers.
• Anna Grace shares how the challenges led her to deepen her faith and trust in God.
• Anna Grace concludes by expressing her gratitude for her journey and the lessons she has learned, encouraging others to trust in God during their own challenges.

In this episode, we delve into the heart of war-torn Congo, where amidst chaos and adversity, hope blossoms. Join us as we unfold the inspiring journey of Pastor Alexandre, a beacon of resilience and compassion, who has bridged the gap between despair and hope. From establishing healthcare facilities for refugees to providing nourishment for malnourished children and cultivating self-reliance through land projects, Pastor Alexandre's tale is a testament to the human spirit's undying resilience. Tune in to 'Bridging the Gap Amidst War and Adversity | Pastor Alexandre,' where faith meets action, and miracles happen every day.

Here's some of the great stuff that we cover in this show:

• Amidst the ongoing war and economic hardship in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Pastor Alexandre has initiated several community projects. These include a healthcare clinic offering free treatment to refugees, a kitchen for patients, a room for pregnant women to receive antenatal care, and a future operating theatre.
• In addition to healthcare services, other projects have been launched to combat malnutrition and land scarcity. A program that provides porridge to malnourished children has been implemented, and a land project provides families with pieces of land to cultivate crops, fostering self-reliance.
• Further efforts to uplift the community include the establishment of a school, the provision of clean water, and a special program for Pygmies orphans. These initiatives aim to improve quality of life and provide basic necessities to the most vulnerable members of society.
• Pastor Alexandre and his team rely on a combination of local church donations, external charity organizations, and payments from those who can afford to pay for services. Every contribution, regardless of its size, significantly impacts the lives of these vulnerable people.
• Despite the dire circumstances, the community exhibits a strong sense of faith, hope, and resilience. Their deep connection with God and reliance on divine intervention is evident in their daily lives. Pastor Alexandre's primary appeal is for peace, as it forms the foundation for any sustainable development and progress in the region.

In this heart-touching episode of "What's The Story," we sit down with Jan Burch, a midwife from Liverpool, to delve into her profound journey through the highs and lows of working in the NHS. Amidst the relentless pace and emotional demands of midwifery, Jan shares how she grappled with burnout, the silent struggle that many healthcare professionals face, and how her unwavering faith guided her through her darkest hours.

In This Episode, You Will Learn:

Jan's Background and Career:

• How Jan began her career in the NHS and her passion for midwifery.
• The challenges and rewards of being a midwife in today's healthcare landscape.

The Reality of Burnout:

• Jan's personal battle with burnout, exacerbated by the pressures of understaffing and high demands in the NHS.
• The impact of burnout on mental health and well-being, particularly in high-stress jobs.

The Role of Faith in Overcoming Challenges:

• How Jan's faith provided solace and strength during her struggle with burnout.
• The importance of holding onto hope and faith, even when facing seemingly insurmountable obstacles.

Support and Recovery:

• Strategies and support systems that helped Jan navigate through burnout.
• The significance of asking for help and the role of counselling in her recovery process.

Connect with Jan Burch:

Jan's insights not only shed light on the often-overlooked issue of burnout among healthcare workers but also offer hope and guidance to those who might be experiencing similar challenges.

To connect with Jan or to learn more about her journey, visit :

Facebook

Instagram

In this episode of our podcast, we're tuning into Kristen Hallinan's incredibly moving and faith-filled story. It's a real-life example of how God can turn even the most challenging childhoods into futures full of hope and promise.

What You'll Discover In This Episode:

• The Impact of a Father-Daughter Relationship: Kristen opens up about the 12-year silence between her and her father following her parents' tumultuous divorce. She discusses the void this left in her life and her courageous decision to reach out and mend their relationship.
• Healing and Forgiveness: Learn how Kristen navigated the complex path of healing from her past wounds and the crucial role forgiveness played in her journey towards a brighter future.
• The Role of Faith in Transformation: Kristen shares how her faith was instrumental in her personal growth and how turning to God helped her rewrite her life's narrative from one of emptiness to one of redemption.
• Becoming a Legacy Changer: Discover how Kristen broke the cycle of her past to create a new legacy for her family, focusing on love, acceptance, and the power of faith.
• Insights on Family Dynamics: Gain insights into the power of chosen family and how acts of love and acceptance can have a transformative effect on those who are hurting.
• Practical Steps to Change Your Legacy: Kristen offers tangible advice for anyone looking to overcome their past and make positive changes in their own lives and the lives of future generations.

Episode Highlights:

1. A Journey to Reconciliation: Kristen's heartfelt story of reaching out to her father after 12 years of silence and the lessons learned from this experience.
2. The Importance of Voice: How finding her voice and using it to heal her relationships and shape her future became a key part of Kristen's journey.
3. Creating a New Legacy: Kristen discusses how she and her husband, Sean, are working to create a different, more hopeful legacy for their children, emphasising the importance of family and faith.

Connect with Kristen Hallinan:

• Follow Kristen on Instagram
• Visit Kristen's website for more insights and resources
• Check out Kristen's book, "Legacy Changer"

Kristen Hallinan's story is a powerful reminder that no matter our past, with faith, forgiveness, and a heart open to change, we can all become legacy changers. Her journey from an empty childhood to a redeemed future is not just inspiring; it's a call to action for anyone longing to rewrite their story and create a lasting impact on the generations to come.

#LegacyChanger #HealingJourneys #FamilyRedemption #FaithTransformation #PodcastInspiration

Tune in to this inspiring episode and let Kristen's story motivate you to examine your life and relationships and consider how you can become a legacy changer in your own right.

We all want to feel fulfilled and happy, but when life throws some curveballs, we can lose our sense of direction and struggle to find meaning and purpose.

Tune in to this terrific episode of What's the Story where Jared Mitchell shares his journey of finding meaning in life while struggling with anxiety, running a business with his wife, raising a child with ASD and all of life's ups and downs!

Here’s a summary of this week’s story:

• Jared accepted Jesus into his heart at the age of five, when his teacher Miss Peggy asked if he wanted to do so. He used to feel bad that he didn't have an exciting story about how he became a Christian, but now realizes being consistent in faith is more important than having a crazy story to tell.
• Jared chose to attend Biola University in La Mirada, California despite being offered scholarships from other schools. He met his wife Alana there and they both felt a calling on their lives. After an incident of spilling salad on him, Jared and Alana connected instantly and felt like they knew each other their whole life after only meeting once.
• Jared started a decking business while he was playing music in a band. His wife got an aesthetician license to make money. When the housing market tanked, Jared's wife suggested starting an e-commerce website which he built using instructions from a flyer at Costco.
• As a result of his business, Jared realized he had an anxiety problem which he was not aware of before. He tried various treatments such as medication and therapies to overcome it but found that mentorship from Dr Ron proved to be key in helping him understand and control his anxiety. To fight for the kingdom, Jared started taking part of each day to pray with friends at their office multiple times per week, resulting in positive outcomes for himself and those involved.
• Jared and Alana have been happily married while running a business together for some time. To make it work, they've had to put in place strict boundaries between work and home life. Marriage counseling has helped them understand that each of them brings different strengths to both the marriage and business relationship which need to be respected rather than competing against one another's weaknesses.
• Jared and Alana experienced a foundation-shaking moment when their first son, Malachi was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder at the age of four or five. They faced numerous challenges such as lack of sleep due to gastrointestinal reflux disease, people not wanting Malachi around their kids and having multiple different therapies for him which required much investment in terms of time and money.
• Jared believes that the best advice he could give himself is to not worry about the future or regret the past. He developed a routine of praying and reading scripture daily, as well as bringing his son to church and surrounding him with good people. It appears that this journey has changed Jared more than it did Malachi; however, both have grown in amazing ways throughout their experience together – including Malachi inventing and patenting his own product!
• Jared has been donating some of his Saturdays working with kids with special needs - an experience he finds extremely rewarding. He believes that God values people's time more than their money and encourages others to think along these terms when deciding how best to invest in His kingdom.

ABOUT JARED:

Jared and his beautiful wife Alana are successful "Fampreneurs" with a thriving online skin care business in the US called SkincarebyAlana.com. They have been happily married for the last 19 years, with two children (Malachi and Eli). They live and work in Orange County California. 

What’s the Story is a podcast full of stories about faith and courage from everyday people.

Here's a Summary of this week's story:

• Simon visited Burundi in the late 1990s as a 25-year-old. He had been praying that he would go anywhere, do anything. To his surprise, a man tracked him down and said that God wanted him to go to Burundi. Simon ended up going and his life changed dramatically because of it.
• God provides for those who trust in him even in difficult situations. He promises to never leave nor forsake his people.
• Simon met his wife when he was back in England and proposed to her in Rwanda by asking if she was willing to be a young widow. They went on to get married and have two kids to whom they model how to live a life of faith, not fear.
• Wearing "Jesus goggles" allows everything to be seen through the lens of Christ, which brings joy that does not depend on the circumstances.
• We are wired to be selfish and self-centered but gratitude is the key that can help us overcome it.

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About Simon

Simon is an author, speaker, social entrepreneur, family man, cyclist and charity founder. Now married with three children, he and his wife Lizzie have both been awarded an MBE for their services to Burundi.

Simon is author of the bestselling Choose Life – 365 readings for radical disciples, voted ‘Devotional of the Year 2015’. He is also the author of ‘More than Conquerors‘, ‘Sacrifice‘ and ‘Dangerously Alive‘ and has over 25,000 social media followers who read his challenging, frequently shocking, sometimes amusing and always authentic tweets and blog posts.

Having unexpectedly survived 7 years of genocide and civil war, he set up a charity, Great Lakes Outreach with the vision to transform Burundi, now helping well over 100,000 of the very neediest people every year in strategic and sustainable ways.

What does it mean to be a True Disciple of Christ or living a life of Discipleship? How can we truly put one of the greatest commandments in the Bible, "Love thy neighbor as thyself" into practice?

Tune in to this week's What's the Story where Caesar Kalinowski shares his journey of finding his true identity, making discipleship a lifestyle, and more!

Here’s a summary of this week’s story:

• Marriage: Caesar shares how his marriage of 35 years came to be. He and his wife Tina both came from broken families but met in High School and eventually got married, not knowing anything about it. But today they have three grown kids who are their best friends, and four grandchildren.
• Becoming a Christian: Caesar and Tina were raised in different religions but both had a similar understanding of Christianity before they met. After Tina was invited to a church retreat by her coworker, she realized that what she knew about Christianity was not the whole story. Both of them gave their lives to Jesus that night and have been growing in their faith ever since.
• Life of Discipleship: Caesar became interested in discipleship while doing international travel for ministry work. He noticed that the people he encountered who had nothing were full of joy, and he wanted to have what they had. He then moved out to Tacoma with his family and started living this way. The communities multiplied as people started to understand and walk with Jesus.
• To start living this discipleship lifestyle, he recommends starting with family dinner nights, where everyone helps cook the meal. From there, he suggests moving on to open table nights, where anyone can come and they're treated like family instead of guests. As people get more comfortable, organic connections will begin to happen naturally.
• Challenges: Caesar shares how people are messy and how it can be difficult to maintain relationships, especially when helping people who are addicted or homeless. The kids sometimes get overwhelmed with all of the people, so they have family nights where only Team K is allowed.
• Identity in Christ: Learning about Identity has been a big thing for Caesar. We are all created in God's image. This means that our value and worth come from who we are, not from what we do. And if we see others as image bearers of God, it changes the way we treat them and engage with them.

ABOUT CAESAR:

Caesar Kalinowski is a father, recent grandpa, and has been married to his high school sweetheart, Tina, for over 35 years. He is a serial entrepreneur, church planter, and the author of several books, including the top-selling, The Gospel Primer. He has worked in 30+ countries training thousands of people in discipleship and mission as a lifestyle.

"I love to help those with a high commitment to intentional living in the areas of their family, discipleship, and mission acquire the leadership skills and tools necessary to succeed and leave a lasting legacy." - Caesar

In this moving episode of the "What's The Story Podcast," Julie Sunne shares her heart-wrenching yet inspiring journey through the darkest valleys of grief and loss to finding unwavering faith and strength. Julie's candid discussion about her experiences with multiple miscarriages, raising a child with special needs, and navigating the emotional complexities of having a dependent adult daughter offers a raw and real perspective on the transformative power of faith in adversity.

Episode Highlights:

1. From Loss to Faith: Julie opens up about the painful reality of losing her unborn children and how these profound losses reshaped her understanding of God and faith.
2. Raising a Child with Disabilities: Discover how Julie's journey with her firstborn, who faced physical disabilities, and her youngest daughter, who requires lifelong care, has been filled with challenges that have deepened her reliance on spiritual strength.
3. The Dream That Changed Everything: Julie shares a pivotal moment when a dream provided comfort during her grief, reaffirming her faith and setting her on a path of healing and purpose.
4. Life Lessons in Surrender and Trust: Explore the essential lessons Julie learned about surrendering control and trusting in a higher plan, insights that have granted her peace amidst ongoing trials.
5. Authoring Faith: Learn about Julie’s motivation to write her book, "Sometimes I Forget," which focuses on remembering God’s attributes in daily life to sustain faith through any hardship.

Join us for this episode of "What's The Story" as Julie Sunne invites us into her life’s trials and triumphs, demonstrating that even in the face of immense sorrow, faith can survive and thrive. This episode is not just a testament to Julie's strength but an invitation to anyone facing their own battles to find hope and renewal in their faith.