Courageous Crossroads

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Rachel Vontobel-Newman is a dynamic individual with a rich multicultural background, hailing from Zurich and having lived in various countries across Asia and Europe. A seasoned finance professional, Rachel transitioned from a high-paced career in investment banking to embrace a life rooted in faith and family. She resides in London with her Canadian husband, Andrew, and their two children. Rachel is passionate about Christian apologetics, which she has studied extensively. Known for her courage and obedience to God's calling, Rachel is also an aspiring author, working on a young adult novel that integrates apologetic themes. Her journey of faith and resilience inspires many as she continues to navigate life's challenges with unwavering reliance on God

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Drew Forsberg is a retired Navy SEAL who served 22 years, including multiple deployments and was stationed in San Diego and Hawaii. Now a resident of Oahu's North Shore, Drew leads a fulfilling life as a husband, father to four homeschooled children, and an advocate for regenerative agriculture and entrepreneurship. In this episode of the Courageous Crossroads podcast, Drew shares his deeply personal journey of faith, recounting his courageous stand against the military’s vaccine mandate, which nearly cost him his career just months before retirement. He reflects on his calling to defend the Constitution, his path to faith, and how courage, both in combat and in life, has shaped his outlook. Drew is now actively helping fellow veterans transition to civilian life and continues to promote digital discipleship through his work with Pray.com. His story is one of unwavering conviction, integrity, and living out his faith with boldness.

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Sam Harvey is an internationally experienced leadership coach and the founder of
Braver Leaders, a firm specializing in bespoke corporate behavior change
programs across the UAE, UK, and beyond. With a background in running
companies, Sam’s journey took a pivotal turn in 2017 when he faced a personal
reckoning that led to a profound transformation. Now, through his work in
leadership development, mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, and systemic
coaching, he empowers executives to lead with authenticity, vulnerability, and
courage. In this episode of Courageous Crossroads, Sam joins host Jeffrey L.
Johnson from his home in Dubai to explore the true meaning of courage—not just
as bold action but as the willingness to be vulnerable, confront personal struggles,
and create meaningful change. Sam shares his courageous journey, from
overcoming addiction and navigating personal hardship to challenging corporate
leaders to embrace empathy and openness. With his signature humility and insight, he offers invaluable advice on how embracing discomfort and leading with
authenticity can build stronger, more connected teams—and, ultimately, a more
fulfilling life.

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Everett Piper is a nationally recognized author, speaker, and thought leader on cultural and political issues, known for his unwavering stance on truth, courage, and conservative principles. He served as the president of Oklahoma Wesleyan University for over a decade and gained national attention for his viral op-ed, This Is Not a Daycare, It’s a University, which later became a best-selling book. A frequent contributor to national media outlets, including The Washington Times 
and Fox News, Piper is a staunch advocate for academic freedom, biblical values, and intellectual honesty in an era of cultural capitulation. His books, speaking engagements, and commentaries challenge audiences to stand firm in their convictions while engaging in meaningful discourse.

In his second appearance on Courageous Crossroads, Everett Piper joins host Jeffrey L. Johnson for a deep dive into the nature of courage in today’s political and cultural climate. The conversation covers the recent presidential election, the intersection of courage and narcissism, and how political figures, including Donald Trump, demonstrate—or lack—true bravery. Piper also unpacks the dangers of capitulation in modern society, highlighting how groupthink erodes individual responsibility and moral clarity. The discussion extends to biblical convictions being reframed as political statements, with Piper providing a powerful critique of how scripture is often misused to push ideological agendas. This episode is a 
compelling call to action, urging listeners to get in the game, engage in tough conversations, and stand firm in truth—even when it costs them everything.

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In this powerful episode of Courageous Crossroads, host Jeffrey L. Johnson sits down with Edgar Camacho, a Venezuelan-born artist, journalist, and entrepreneur whose life story is a testament to resilience and courage. Born in France and raised in Venezuela, Edgar's journey took a dramatic turn when he faced political persecution for his activism against the Chávez regime, forcing him to seek asylum in the United States. From an early passion for art that defied family expectations to becoming a journalist producing politically charged radio content, Edgar
has always walked a bold path. After immigrating to Miami and later moving to Iowa, he pursued his artistic career, earning a Master of Fine Arts and gaining recognition as a visual artist represented by Stephen Bale Fine Arts in Des Moines. Alongside his art, Edgar runs a successful food business and embraces his role as a father, husband, and educator. In this episode, he shares his experiences of courage—facing government oppression, rebuilding his life in a new country, and redefining himself through art. His story is an inspiring reminder that faith,
perseverance, and the willingness to embrace change can lead to a life of purpose and passion.

Thank you for listening! We hope you feel inspired and encouraged by our conversation today. If you did, be sure to share this episode with others.

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Courageous Crossroads with Ken Schall

In this compelling episode of Courageous Crossroads, host Jeffrey L. Johnson sits down with PGA Professional Ken Schall to explore the highs and lows of a life dedicated to golf and personal redemption. From his humble beginnings in Waterloo, Iowa, to playing collegiate golf at New Mexico State, Ken’s journey in the sport has been nothing short of remarkable. He successfully navigated the grueling Q-School process and played on the PGA Tour, competing
alongside legends like Fred Couples, Corey Pavin, and Payne Stewart. Ken shares riveting stories from his time on the PGA Tour, including an unforgettable practice round with Lee Trevino at the U.S. Open and a head-to-head match against a young Tiger Woods.

However, Ken’s most profound journey was not on the golf course, but within himself. After decades as a functional alcoholic, he faced his greatest challenge—the decision to embrace sobriety. With the support of his family and the strength of his faith, Ken courageously overcame addiction and found a renewed sense of purpose. Now, he dedicates his life to mentoring young golfers and sharing his journey to inspire others. With wisdom, humility, and humor, Ken reflects on his transformation, the role of faith in his recovery, and the joy of living a purpose-driven life.
Whether you’re a golf enthusiast, someone navigating personal challenges, or simply seeking inspiration, this episode delivers an unforgettable story of resilience, self-discovery, and the courage to change.

Thank you for listening! We hope you feel inspired and encouraged by our conversation today. If you did, be sure to share this episode with others.

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Austin Peterson, originally from Albia, Iowa, has led a dynamic and transformative life journey. Growing up in a cattle-broker family, Austin pursued acting in Los Angeles after earning his bachelor’s degree at the University of South Dakota. His path later shifted to bartending in the Midwest before embarking on a long and successful career with Aflac, where he now serves as the Market Director for Iowa. A dedicated husband and father, Austin is admired for his commitment to service, self-improvement, and authenticity. Overcoming personal struggles with addiction and loss, he has embraced a life of gratitude, leadership, and helping others find their strength.

In this heartfelt podcast episode, Austin discusses courage—its role in personal growth and the transformative power of saying "yes" to help. Reflecting on pivotal moments, including the loss of his father and his battle with addiction, he shares how he rebuilt his life through faith, vulnerability, and intentional self-care. Austin’s story inspires with its raw honesty and offers a powerful reminder of the strength found in serving others, cultivating gratitude, and facing life’s challenges with resilience.

Thank you for listening! We hope you feel inspired and encouraged by our conversation today. If you did, be sure to share this episode with others.

Let's stay in touch:

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• Visit our website www.crossroadsapologetics.org

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In this special Christmas episode of CrossRoads, we reflect on the extraordinary courage and faith of Saint Francis of Assisi, the man behind the first live Nativity scene. Exploring his transformation from a wealthy youth to a devoted servant of God, we delve into how his bold choices and unshakable faith made him a beacon of humility and love.

We discuss Francis’s creation of the live Nativity in 1223, a simple yet profound act that brought the story of Christ’s birth to life for ordinary people and continues to inspire millions today. By examining his life and legacy, this episode challenges us to embrace courage, creativity, and compassion in our own lives, making space for the sacred in the everyday.

Join us for an uplifting exploration of how one man’s vision reshaped Christmas traditions and offers a timeless example of faith in action.

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Lu Dong is a seasoned entrepreneur and technology innovator based in Tokyo,
Japan, where he leads a groundbreaking platform connecting travelers to Japan’s
renowned culinary scene through seamless reservations, ordering, and payment
solutions. A former Wall Street professional and Stanford MBA, Lu’s
entrepreneurial journey spans industries and continents, including pioneering ecommerce ventures in China. A survivor of the Tiananmen Square crackdown, Lu’s life has been defined by extraordinary courage, from standing against oppression to embracing Christianity and publicly declaring his faith in a country where less than 1% identify as Christian. Lu channels his experiences into building purpose-driven businesses that glorify God and uplift communities, embodying a profound commitment to faith and transformation.
In this compelling episode of The Courageous Crossroads, Jeff Johnson speaks
with Lu Dong, a trailblazing entrepreneur whose life story is a testament to
courage and faith. Born in Beijing and a survivor of the Tiananmen Square
massacre, Lu shares how his family’s defiance of corruption shaped his values and
inspired his entrepreneurial spirit. Now based in Tokyo, Lu discusses his journey
from Wall Street to founding a thriving tech platform and embracing Christianity in
a challenging cultural environment. With profound insights on resilience, faith, and
purpose, Lu’s story is a moving exploration of what it means to stand boldly for
truth and make a difference in the world.

Thank you for listening! We hope you feel inspired and encouraged by our conversation today. If you did, be sure to share this episode with others.

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Karl Gustavson, a retired Navy SEAL with a 20-year career of extraordinary
service, combines a wealth of experience from his time as a missionary in Brazil,
his elite military training, and his leadership within SEAL Team Six. A Colorado
native, Karl has navigated challenges ranging from teaching faith in a foreign
language to surviving the rigors of BUD/S and the chaos of combat. Now, he
dedicates himself to giving back by training law enforcement, mentoring others on
resilience and courage, and fostering growth through shared lessons from his
remarkable journey.

In this episode of The Courageous Crossroads, Karl delves into the intricate
interplay between stress, resilience, and courage, sharing gripping anecdotes from his SEAL career and insights on leadership under pressure. He reflects on moments of intense self-doubt, the role of faith and purpose in his decisions, and the enduring impact of choosing the hard right over the easy wrong. A compelling
conversation with host Jeff Johnson, this episode challenges listeners to embrace
discomfort, build resilience, and pursue lives of authentic courage.

Thank you for listening! We hope you feel inspired and encouraged by our conversation today. If you did, be sure to share this episode with others.

Let's stay in touch:

• Follow us on Instagram @crossroadsapologetics
• Email us at [email protected]
• Visit our website www.crossroadsapologetics.org

See you in the next episode! Be blessed!