Conversations: Recent Episodes
It Is Written
Conversations is an in-depth discovery of true stories of faith and spiritual growth. Conversations takes you into the heart of inspirational experiences and unforgettable testimonies that will encourage you in your own walk with God.
Eli Goree was well on his way to stardom after critical roles in Hollywood brought him a measure of fame and fortune, but while his career brought him gratification, it was unfulfilling. Today, Eli tells of his journey from award-nominated actor to student of pastoral evangelism.
A mission trip to Africa in 2003 changed Anita Jepson’s life irrevocably. After several years of personally supporting evangelism in Africa, she founded Mara Vision Outreach, a ministry that transforms thousands of lives by bringing literacy and the love of Jesus to the tribes of Kenya.
Early on, Tim and Wendy Maddocks pledged to follow God anywhere, for any length of time, and at any cost. Tim shares how his family ended up ministering in Cambodia and stories of God’s miraculous provision throughout the years.
Dr. Frank Hasel returns to Conversations to share memories of his late wife and insight into his experiences with grief, as found in his book “Love Is.”
From navigating the challenges of pastoral life to sharing practical ways to grow in faith, Tim and Andrea Madding offer encouragement and wisdom for anyone seeking a deeper spiritual walk. Drawing from their personal experiences, they share insights into how to foster spiritual growth in communities and balance family life with ministry.
Many people have unhealthy relationships with food and with their own bodies. For teenage Tiffany Bartell, anorexia gave her what felt like control in a life where she felt powerless. Reflecting on her own experience, Dr. Bartell shares what was helpful in her journey to recovery and how best to communicate care and concern to those with eating disorders.
Always interested in making faith practical, Dr. Frank Hasel shares insights into pastoral training, his journey through grief, his latest books on faith and resilience, and his current work as associate director of the Biblical Research Institute.
Behind great grades and football fame, Wes Peppers’ life was broken. A childhood tragedy and his parents’ divorce during high school led him into a downward spiral and the belief that God didn’t care or exist. Wes shares his remarkable story of miracles, battling cancer, and the ways God has used him to bring hope to others.
Eden Knapp was diagnosed at age 7 with uveitis, an inflammatory autoimmune condition affecting her vision. Eden, now 15, shares her story of perseverance despite the challenges, the impact of a supportive family, and how she finds strength in her relationship with God.
Raised in a turbulent environment marked by poverty and family trauma, Dennis Page’s early life unraveled into drug dealing and criminal activity. But a powerful encounter with God during his imprisonment changed everything. Today, Dennis is a pastor and author, sharing his story to connect with and uplift others.
Rich Sutton, director of Mexico Missions and Beyond, shares his faith journey, the importance of engaging youth in ministry, and the many ways God has provided during the 30+ years of church-building and mission work Rich has been engaged in.
Susan Schnell has a heart for displaced children, and, as international director for It’s My Very Own, ministers to them by working with communities to provide displaced children with personal belongings that meet their immediate needs. Learn how simple it is to get involved!
After many years serving in mission fields abroad, Scott Griswold now teaches people how to be missionaries at home. His ministry, Reach the World Next Door, shows local residents how to minister to refugees and immigrants in their own communities by building relationships with them that God can work through.
While it is primarily known for its physical postures and breathing exercises, yoga also has a religious ritual aspect to it that many are not aware of. Ivan Raj returns to Conversations to share further research into the origins, purpose, and source of yoga.
Ron Woolsey returns to Conversations to discuss the topic of homosexuality, the difference between acceptance and love, and how to use the tools the Bible equips us with in our daily walk to confront them, not with our personal beliefs, but with the truth of the love of God.
A self-proclaimed “Civil War fanatic,” Dr. Jud Lake became drawn to the era during a difficult time in his life. Today, he shares insights from his extensive research into the Civil War and biblical parallels we can draw from this part of American history.
As an introvert, the last thing Brian McMahon wanted was to do public speaking, but God’s call led him to a life preaching from a pulpit. Pastor Brian speaks to the continued success of evangelistic meetings and shares some of his fondest memories from his 30+ years of sharing the gospel.
Many common medical solutions treat symptoms rather than causes. Dr. Greg Steinke’s passion is helping patients find the pathway to optimum health by identifying and addressing underlying issues and successfully implementing lifestyle solutions.
Having worked successfully in sales and retail, Heidi Tompkins used her skills and her convictions to prayerfully start a company. Heidi’s Health Kitchen produces decadent carob products as well as other delicious small-batch health food options.
Co-founder and senior speaker for ‘Coming Out’ Ministries, Ron Woolsey’s experiences with molestation, rejection, and conversion uniquely prepared him to enter into ministry and provide encouragement and resources that are often lacking.
Teacher, author, and archaeologist Dr. Michael Hasel returns to Conversations to share some of the important discoveries made during his expeditions to Tel Lachish and the ways that archaeology continues to support the validity of the Bible.
Even as a child, Jere Gettle loved working in the garden and the miracle of seeds becoming plants. As founder of the Baker Creek Heirloom Seed Company, today Jere has the opportunity to share and encourage that love in others every day.
Wendy was born in Hong Kong to a missionary family. Dwayne grew up on a farm and served in the National Guard flying helicopters. Today they operate PAMAS, a life-saving aviation ministry based in the Philippines.
Dr. Neil Nedley returns to talk about the Nedley Depression and Anxiety Recovery Program, the benefits of emotional intelligence, and some simple steps you can take in your life to improve your physical, spiritual, and mental health.
Watching his own father go through a dramatic healthy lifestyle change planted a seed in the mind of a young Neil Nedley. Today Dr. Nedley specializes in whole-body health, helping individuals with depression and anxiety along the path of healing.
After losing their young son to leukemia, Steve and Karen Nicola share what the cycles of grief look like and the best ways to help someone through their loss. As grief counselors, they use their own ongoing journeys of healing to help others through life’s most difficult circumstances.
With a lifetime of teaching and training across widely varied industries, Dr. Dick Tibbits now shares in his books the life principles and techniques he applied, revealing the impact of forgiveness on health, ways to reduce your body’s reaction to stress, and three things you can do to become a more effective leader.
A captivating testimony to the power of prayer, Dana Brady shares her experience of converting to the Muslim faith and her journey back to Christianity. Full of twists and turns, Dana’s story emphasizes how crucial it is to simply come to Jesus as you are.
Identifying as transgender at 4 and gay since 13, Michael Carducci's search for love and acceptance led to pain and emptiness. But drawn by God’s love, he began a healing journey through Jesus’ transforming power. Today, as co-founder and senior speaker for ‘Coming Out’ Ministries, Michael helps people of all backgrounds find the restoration and fulfillment possible in God alone.
CW: This program discusses topics of an adult nature and may be unsuitable for younger viewers. Viewer discretion is advised.
Ten years after they filed for divorce, God led Karen Phillips and her husband to reunite. Her story powerfully demonstrates that even though the devil is in the business of division and destruction, we serve a God who is able to fully restore that which is broken.
Diving with sharks is an incredible adventure, but for Micki Glenn it became a nightmare when one shark brutally attacked her. Thanks to the quick thinking of her surgeon husband as well as other passengers, Micki is alive today to share her phenomenal story of resilience and the goodness of God.
Content Warning: Discussion of explicit medical trauma
Growing up in Poland and Germany during World War II, Roman Hintz was no stranger to air raid shelters and the whistle of bombs. Looking back on his journey, Roman frames his family's experiences as a testament to the goodness and faithfulness of God even during times of abject darkness.
Juliet Van Heerden returns to Conversations to share her latest book “As I Walked.” The story of her stepfather’s journey is a testament to anyone feeling hopelessly stuck in any situation, showing how God is strong enough to help you and emphasizing the importance of offering love, courage, and hope to those struggling around us.
Following worrying signs in his forties, Michael Jones was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s disease at 50. But this story is one of recovery as Michael shares the changes he has made in order to combat Alzheimer’s and the things that sustain him on his journey.
After a tree-climbing accident left him with a broken arm and complications from gangrene, young Jim Marcum developed an interest in medicine and healing that set him on his path. Today Dr. James L. Marcum dedicates his life to the betterment of human health and to encouraging others to know the Great Physician for themselves.
In the wake of heartbreak, Ron Price’s search for meaning in his life led him to Jesus and a career path in improving human relationships. An author, speaker, life coach, humorist, and mediator, Ron shares tools to help people deal with conflict and live in harmony.
Joy Kauffman’s passion to serve the poor and vulnerable began with exposure to hunger and sanitation issues while working abroad. Today, the founder and executive director of FARM STEW devotes her life to improving the physical and spiritual well-being of those living in poverty-stricken areas.
Jeff Scoggins’ experiences growing up in the mission field shaped his life’s trajectory and gave rise to his book “Regrets on an African River.” Whether authoring, pastoring, or serving as a missionary, he has devoted his life to reaching people's hearts at home and overseas with the message of Jesus.
For many years, Frank Sanchez was a high-profile engineer. Today, he’s a recovered alcoholic who came to faith and sobriety after a long and dangerous path. Having found the peace and serenity he sought so long after, Frank shares the biblical principles behind a typical 12-step program and what exactly he means by “the gift of desperation.”
As a colorectal surgeon with a passion for health evangelism, Dr. Eric Nelson shares his wisdom and experience with those he encounters, both in and out of the office. Learn about the microbiome, the benefits of a high-fiber diet, and the role of faith in treating illness.
The child of a mother who was once considering an abortion, Antionette Duck shares the necessity for dialogue that comes from a position of love, embracing people where they are, and with grace and compassion leading them to reconciliation rather than condemnation.
In a powerful testimony about the necessity of showing God’s love to others, Dianne Wagner shares what led her to seek an abortion and the range of emotions and grief that she went through over the years before learning to accept the forgiveness that God offers.
From an early childhood without a TV in the home to working on international blockbusters, Terry Benedict’s convictions and storied career have led him to produce inspirational films such as “The Conscientious Objector” and “Hacksaw Ridge,” bringing to life the story of Desmond Doss and his unshakable faith.
Dedicating himself to bettering the lives of others, Gabriel McClover has used the skills he acquired in Fortune 500 companies to start a successful vegan restaurant in a small meat-and-potatoes town. From plant-based cooking schools to “vegfests,” Gabriel continues to find new ways to share his passion for physical, mental, and spiritual health.
The Bible says, “A joyful heart is good medicine,” and John Baker exemplifies that. Author of “As For Me and My OUT House, We Will Serve the Lord…,” John shares stories of his trials and tribulations as a pastor in rural Kentucky and how his humorous perspective and uplifting attitude open doors to share his faith with others.
From flying supersonic aircraft during the Vietnam era, to sharing the good news as a minister of the gospel, Bill Warcholik’s life has been guided by God in remarkable ways!
Raised in a Christian family, Pastor Richie Halversen descended into drug addiction before God rescued him and called him to a life of ministry.
After chasing riches to supply happiness and finding the lifestyle empty of meaning, Shandy and Ramon Tengkano found the kind of happiness money can’t buy in serving the poor of Indonesia. Today their missionary outreach includes a dental clinic, a television network, and the vision for much, muchmore.
Author of “Eat Plants, Feel Whole,” Dr. George Guthrie has helped to develop several lifestyle-change programs that put diabetes and other chronic diseases into remission. Learn about the key role of amino acids, an unlikely place to find protein, and how to harness the healing power of plants in your life.
Growing up in a household that practiced Santería, Tammy was thoroughly immersed in the spiritualistic aspects of the religion. In spite of all the devil did to keep her ensnared, Tammy's faith turned to Jesus after the most unlikely encounter. Today she shares her compelling story and her passion for helping other people.
Driven by a desire to help people experience health and healing, Walt Cross has dedicated his life to the welfare of others. With administrative experience in the world of conventional healthcare as well as lifestyle medicine, Walt has helped countless people experience the healing power of God. Don’t miss a conversation that could change your life!
Author and prayer ministry leader Melody Mason discusses the depths of her crisis of faith and how God brought her into a life of meaningful prayer and connection. Her book, “Daring to Ask for More,” explores the keys to successful prayer and the principles of being a committed follower of God.
A former U.S. serviceman, Nelson Mercado was born in New Jersey and raised in Puerto Rico. After working for many years in Philadelphia, he sensed God's call on his life. Now a full-time pastor, Nelson discusses his new book and the importance and meaning of the three angels' messages.
Before his ninth stint in rehab, Lonny Shattuck's life was out of control. Repeated tangles with the law, failed relationships, and crippling addictions brought him to rock bottom, but the power of God was able to lead him into total deliverance. Don't miss Lonny's compelling testimony of God's amazing grace.
Born into a Christian household in Hindu India, Ivan Raj grew up around yoga. Yoga has become mainstream in the United States and the broader Western world, but what is it really? Ivan shares his research into the origins and philosophy of yoga, exposing its roots in this eye-opening conversation.
Raised in a strict Christian home, Dr. Rachel Williams-Smith spent her childhood largely separated from society. Her story of reintegrating into the world, pursuing a career, and redefining her relationship with faith is at once hopeful and cautionary.
Ministering in a war zone was not what Kim Busl expected before he became a Christian. His conversion led him not only into faith in Christ but into a life of international ministry that has spanned several continents. Your faith will be encouraged by this inspiring Conversation.
A graduate of MIT, Keith Reid was enjoying a successful career in chemical engineering when he discovered the truths of the Bible. Since walking away from the corporate world, Keith has embraced a life of ministry, not only sharing Christ with thousands but also equipping others to do the same.
Mary-Nell Ellingsen’s unlikely conversion experience ultimately led her to a life of full-time ministry, running a school and a training center. In spite of roadblocks threatening to derail her plans, she has seen God work in powerful ways to establish Mission Creek Outreach Services.
Pastor, professor, and author of “Winning Ways to Witness,” Dr. David Hartman shares his life’s story, his burden for reaching people with the gospel, and ways that sharing one’s faith can be simple and effective.
Norma Nashed was born in Israel and raised in Jordan. After coming to America and witnessing the immense need in her community, she founded Restore a Child, and ministering to children became a full-time calling. Today her company operates internationally, focused on giving a future to society’s most vulnerable people.
Husband and wife team Drs. Roland and Susie Hill were called to prison ministry in their retirement years. Learn about the impact they are making today as directors of United Prison Ministries International as they work to provide hope, support, purpose, and key resources to those behind bars as well as those making the difficult transition back into society.
Professor and archaeologist Dr. Michael Hasel recounts his early influences and the role of archaeology in shaping our collective understanding of history, shedding light on how what is being discovered in the field today is validating Scripture written centuries ago.
Experience the authentic, tangible, and life-transforming Messiah of the biblical culture as Dr. Philip Samaan returns to discuss his book, The Mideast Messiah.
Retired religion professor Dr. Philip Samaan talks about the struggles he has overcome to reach young people in and out of his classroom.
Carin Lynch is a medical missionary, showing people how they can enjoy better health, simply. Carin joins John Bradshaw to discuss her ministry and her new cookbook. Don’t miss their conversation, and learn how you can experience a healthier way of life.
Miraculously saved by an angel, and recently reunited with his birth mother, John Boston shares the incredible story of God’s grace in his life.
Pastor and author Dr. Gary Wagner returns to discuss his book, Operation Time Box, and examine how science and the Bible increasingly point us in the same direction.
Gary accepted a final invitation to after-church dinner before he was due to move out of town. Little did he know that dinner would steer his life in a completely different direction. From Korea to Thailand to Cambodia during its genocide, God has led Gary Wagner to minister for Him in extraordinary circumstances.
Named the new speaker and director of Breath of Life Ministries in 2021, Debleaire Snell shares the story of his conversion and how he has seen faith radically and tangibly shape his life and the lives of those around him.
Early on, the lure of sports pulled Chuck Tache from his religious roots, but even as he achieved his dream of working with the NBA, he realized his goal was changing. His journey would lead him from the Sacramento Kings to the King of Kings.
Despite living a strict Amish lifestyle, Andy Weaver’s life was anything but simple. Like Martin Luther, Andy began to see inconsistencies that he questioned. Only when he turned to the Bible for himself did he find the answers—and faith-altering truth.
After working globally with the World Bank, John Casillas’ eyes were opened to the needs in the areas he visited, and he was led to turn his experience to mission work, with the goal of sustainably transforming the lives of children around the world.
Following the Lord’s direction in his life and his desire to do something that mattered, John Geli entered the world of broadcast media. Now the manager and director of LifeTalk Radio Network, John shares how God uses media to transform lives.
From a vegetarian restaurant in the heart of Wall Street to church planting across the nation, author and Revelation scholar Steven Grabiner has led a life characterized by evangelism.
After a difficult early-morning conversation with God, Don MacLafferty gave up his position as a pastor and became an unpaid volunteer, willing to go, in faith, wherever God led.
Having served in places as diverse as New York City, Madagascar, and Michigan, Olan Thomas is now a valued member of the It Is Written ministry team. His life of ministry has seen many come to faith in Jesus.
Coming from a secular family of writers and editors, Clifford Goldstein’s greatest aspiration was to be a novelist. Then one night he met Jesus, burned his life’s work, and started down an entirely new path.
From flying supersonic aircraft during the Vietnam era, to sharing the good news as a minister of the gospel, Bill Warcholik’s life has been guided by God in remarkable ways!
Pastor Rick Blythe shares his experience of growing up with a klan leader father, and yet being led by God to a life of ministry and service.
Before the Soviet Union dissolved, Pastor Peter Kulakov and his family shared the gospel in Russia. Many of his family members were imprisoned for their faith. Learn how God used Peter to advance His message in miraculous ways.
Raised in a Christian family, Pastor Richie Halversen descended into drug addiction before God rescued him and called him to a life of ministry.
Vernon and Debbie Newman share their moving story of giving up a child for adoption, and receiving him back into their lives many years later.
Once a fisherman in Alaska, Donavon Kack is now a fisher for Christ. Donavon talks with Pastor John Bradshaw about reaching others with the good news.
Liberty Magazine editor Lincoln Steed joins Pastor John Bradshaw to discuss religious liberty, and recent global political and religious developments.
A missionary who has taken the gospel to unreached areas, Arnold Hooker is passionate about missions, and sharing Jesus with the world.
Pastor and author Anthony B. Thompson shares his journey from brokenness and anger to peace and forgiveness after his wife’s tragic death in the Charleston shooting of June 2015.
Seashell collector Marilee McNeilus shares the wonders of divine design as demonstrated through seashells.
Former Disney Animation Studios director, Hendel Butoy, tells the story of God's leading throughout his professional life.
Learn how God turned Christian Berdahl's childhood pain into a life of ministry in psychology, media, and music.
From marrying a drug addict to published author, Juliet Van Heerden tells her story of starting over and recovering from heartbreak.
Former addict David Slack shares his incredible story of how God saved him from an all-consuming gambling addiction.
As he played Peter Marshall’s sermon record over and over as a boy, Barry Black had no idea that one day he, too, would be chaplain of the U.S. Senate. From the inner city to Capitol Hill, follow his journey through Christian education, pastoral ministry, and Navy chaplaincy to counseling current American senators.
The child of entrepreneurs, Julian Archer was born to business. But wealth came at a price as materialism choked his faith and consumed his life. Journey through Julian’s life as he grows up in the Australian bush, finds God, exports olives, and faces a life-defining choice: serve God or money.