Long Journey to Joy

Ruby Contreras's big smile and enthusiasm could give the impression she's had an ideal life. But that would be a false assumption. Her story begins with parents who not only neglected their children but introduced them to drugs at early ages. In and out of foster homes until she turned 18, Ruby continued to struggle with addiction and abusive relationships. Finally, the day came when she could no longer live that life and reached out for help.

(Podcast sound effects source: ⁠⁠http://www.freesfx.co.uk⁠⁠)

Seeing Jesus in the Pain

Earnie Lewis’s journey to emotional health has not been easy. Yet, he’s never given up, and he’s been able to help others along the way. Through tears, Earnie graciously shared with us the trauma and the trials—and the steps he took to wholenesswith the help and prayers of therapists, family members and friends. His story of healing will challenge, inspire and encourage you.

The Many Hats of Ray Ellis

From policeman to pastor, teacher, author, book coach and publisher, Ray has done it all and done it well. In podcast #175, we talk with Ray about his multiple careers as well as what it was like to grow up in the American South during the Civil Rights Movement. And, of course, Steve threw in some cop questions. :-)

https://www.passioncm.org/

(Podcast sound effects source: ⁠⁠http://www.freesfx.co.uk⁠⁠)

They Grew Up in Prison yet Found a Fulfilling Future

Renee and Mike Book both experienced abusive childhoods that led to addictions and crime--and a search for healing. On this podcast, the Books share not only their incredible journeys but amazing wisdom about life, marriage, parenting, emotional and spiritual growth, and so much more. Tune in and be challenged!!!

A Story about Cheating

What a fun time we had interviewing the Bryant family about their new children's book titled "Trusting Timothy: A Story about Cheating."

https://www.trustingtimothy.com/

(Podcast sound effects source: ⁠⁠http://www.freesfx.co.uk⁠⁠)

Brick by Brick

Rick Archuleta shares fun stories of restoring Bay Area buildings inside and out, including San Francisco's City Hall, a.k.a. the People's Palace, the Russ Building, and the basement of the Wax Museum at Fisherman's Wharf, among others. Now an Idaho resident, he provides Treasure Valley residents with a unique handyman service .

https://archuletass.com/

Pines in the Wasteland

Author Barb Sulfridge, lover of mountains and forests, talked with us about her journey through the wilderness of suffering and sorrow to find hope and peace as well as joy. Her new book recounts a nearly 40-year journey of learning to depend on God when life did not turn out the way she hoped or planned.

https://www.backwoodsbarb.com/

(Podcast sound effects source: ⁠⁠http://www.freesfx.co.uk⁠⁠)

When God Steps In

Devotional author Earline Kline joined us to talk about how God has led her through several decades of life, how she got started writing devotionals, and how she and her husband became prison volunteers...including some of her adventures "on the inside."

https://meditationsofmyheart.wordpress.com/

(Podcast sound effects source: ⁠⁠⁠http://www.freesfx.co.uk⁠⁠⁠)