Courageous Crossroads

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Drew Forsberg, a retired Navy SEAL and seasoned leadership strategist, joins The Courageous Crossroads for his second appearance, bringing his unique perspective on courage, leadership, and personal accountability. With years of experience in high-stakes environments and a deep understanding of team dynamics, Drew shares actionable insights into how courage can be cultivated and spread in our personal lives and society at large. In this thought-provoking
episode, Drew explores the contagious nature of courage, the critical role of personal ownership, and the importance of standing firm in faith and conviction. Drawing on Biblical examples and his military background, he illustrates how true courage involves taking risks for a greater good while maintaining strength under control. Whether discussing modern societal challenges, the dynamics of family leadership, or the transformative power of faith, Drew's wisdom offers listeners inspiration and practical takeaways to face their own crossroads with bravery.

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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• Visit our website www.crossroadsapologetics.org

See you in the next episode! Be blessed!

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Richard Hurd, a seasoned real estate entrepreneur from Des Moines, Iowa, joins
Courageous Crossroads to share his inspiring journey from renovating and
reselling homes in the 1970s to leading a successful real estate business spanning
200 properties across 20 states. In this episode, Richard opens up about the
resilience and tenacity that have fueled his career, from learning the ropes under
his father's guidance to overcoming setbacks like economic downturns and
personal tragedies. With stories highlighting the importance of faith, family, and
unyielding determination, Richard offers listeners valuable lessons on building a
lasting legacy and finding courage in the face of life’s toughest crossroads.

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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• Email us at [email protected]
• Visit our website www.crossroadsapologetics.org

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In this episode of the Courageous Crossroads Podcast, host Jeffrey L. Johnson welcomes Doug Gotto, a man whose life journey epitomizes resilience, transformation, and faith. Doug shares his compelling story of overcoming addiction, navigating personal challenges, and rediscovering purpose through service and spirituality. From the pivotal moment of self-realization sparked by
his son to his courageous four-and-a-half-year sabbatical from relationships, Doug recounts how he shifted from self-centeredness to a life of giving back. Today, as a mentor and inspiration to many in recovery, Doug embodies the true essence of courage: facing fear, embracing faith, and helping others find the light.

Join us for a heartfelt conversation filled with wisdom, hope, and actionable insights that resonate far beyond recovery.

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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• Visit our website www.crossroadsapologetics.org

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Joseph Jones is a dedicated public servant and advocate for social justice from Shreveport, Louisiana, whose journey is marked by resilience, a passion for service, and a steadfast commitment to making a positive difference. In this episode of the Courageous Crossroads Podcast, Joseph shares his inspiring path from a challenging neighborhood to becoming Chief of Staff at Des Moines University, where he supports healthcare education and community impact.
Reflecting on his early motivations to give back, Joseph discusses the importance of public service, the challenges of balancing introversion with a public role, and his courageous steps through life’s crossroads—from advocating for community change to participating in COVID-19 vaccine trials. His story encourages listeners to pursue their own paths with bravery and resilience, driven by a desire to create lasting impact.

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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• Email us at [email protected]
• Visit our website www.crossroadsapologetics.org

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In this episode of the Courageous Crossroads podcast, host Jeffrey L. Johnson welcomes former Navy SEAL Sean Murphy, a dedicated family man and retired military veteran. Born and raised in Oklahoma, Sean shares his journey from a challenging childhood to becoming a Navy SEAL, a role that shaped him both personally and professionally. Now retired, Sean resides in Bentonville, Arkansas with his wife and two children, where he continues to lead a purpose-driven
life. As a mentor, speaker, and executive director of Beyond the Brotherhood, Sean helps other Navy SEALs transition into fulfilling careers while emphasizing the importance of faith and family.

In this insightful episode, Sean Murphy opens up about his life’s pivotal moments, from growing up as one of the "Murphy boys" in Oklahoma to becoming a Navy SEAL. He shares deeply personal reflections on how faith transformed his perspective during the most difficult times, including his courageous decision to turn his life over to Christ in the midst of combat. Jeffrey and Sean dive into the themes of courage, resilience, and the power of faith in overcoming adversity. Listeners will be inspired by Sean’s humility, the lessons he's learned as a father, and his commitment to guiding others through life's courageous crossroads.

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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Will Keeps, born William James Holmes, grew up on the South Side of Chicago, facing immense hardship from a young age. Surviving childhood abuse, gang involvement, and a near-death experience, Will transformed his life to become a passionate advocate for at-risk youth. Now based in Des Moines, Iowa, he is the founder of Starts Right Here, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering young people through education, mental health support, and positive community involvement. Will’s story of resilience and his commitment to changing lives have earned him local and national recognition as a beacon of hope for struggling communities.

In this powerful episode of Courageous Crossroads, Will Keeps shares his harrowing yet inspiring life journey—from a troubled upbringing in Chicago’s gang-infested neighborhoods to becoming a force for good in Des Moines. Will opens up about the traumas of his past, his struggle with PTSD, and how those experiences shaped his mission to support at-risk youth through his nonprofit, Starts Right Here. He also reflects on the challenges of fighting negativity, the importance of community, and what true courage means to him. This episode is a deep dive into resilience, redemption, and the power of using your own story to uplift others.

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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Malyar Meraj shares his journey from growing up in Kabul, Afghanistan, to
starting a new life in the U.S. after working with the U.S. military put his life
at risk. Facing Taliban threats, he sought safety through a Special Immigrant
Visa and arrived in the U.S. in 2017. Adjusting to a new culture and working
long hours, he gradually found his footing, earning a supervisory role and
balancing the demands of raising three young children with his wife. He
expresses a deep love for Afghanistan but remains critical of the Taliban's
oppressive policies.

Malyar's story is marked by acts of courage, both in dangerous situations in
Afghanistan and in navigating the challenges of building a life in a new
country. He draws inspiration from others who stand up against oppression,
like a recently killed Pashtun activist, and hopes to visit his homeland again if
the Taliban regime ends. His experiences offer a powerful reminder of
resilience and the courage it takes to rebuild in the face of adversity.

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!

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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

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!

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Aaron Tennant is a seasoned entrepreneur known for his relentless drive and fearless approach to business. With a career spanning multiple industries, Aaron has built and grown numerous successful companies, including trucking, landscaping, and hospitality ventures. His journey from a young, ambitious truck driver to a respected business leader is a testament to his unwavering determination and ability to take calculated risks. Aaron is a hands-on leader who thrives in the early stages of business development, known for his ability to turn ideas into thriving enterprises. Despite his self-deprecating humor about his management style, Aaron’s leadership is marked by his deep commitment to his work and his strong faith, which he credits as the foundation of his courage and success.

In this episode of the Courageous Crossroads podcast, host Jeffrey L. Johnson sits down with Aaron Tennant, a true embodiment of entrepreneurial grit. Aaron shares the pivotal moments of his career, from taking the bold step to buy his family’s business at just 24 years old to building a diverse portfolio of successful companies. Throughout the conversation, Aaron opens up about the fears, 
failures, and faith that have shaped his journey. He candidly discusses the challenges of leadership, the importance of work ethic, and how his deep-rooted faith guides his decisions. This episode offers a deep dive into the mindset of a man who doesn’t just talk about courage but lives it daily, inspiring listeners to embrace their own entrepreneurial spirit and face their crossroads with bravery.

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!

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John Donhowe is a devoted missionary and ordained minister with a
profound passion for sharing the gospel. Born and raised in Des Moines,
Iowa, John spent over three decades as a missionary in Bolivia, South
America, where he committed his life to ministering to local
communities, developing Christian education programs, and spreading
his faith. A graduate of Roosevelt High School and Central College in
Pella, John’s life changed at 27 when he turned to faith after a personal
health crisis. He went on to attend Kingsway Bible College, earning a
bachelor's degree in theology. Over the years, John has led various
ministries, including a local church and a Christian school in Bolivia.
His enduring commitment to missions and his deep love for Bolivia
continue to inspire his work in both the United States and abroad.

In this episode of the Courageous Crossroads podcast, Jeff interviews
John Donhowe, a missionary with over 35 years of experience in
Bolivia. John shares his remarkable journey from growing up in Des
Moines to dedicating his life to ministry and missions. He reflects on
how his faith shaped his decisions, his experiences in Bolivia, and the
courageous steps he took to follow God's call. This episode offers
insights into the trials and joys of missionary work, the importance of
faith, and the profound impact of sharing the gospel across 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.

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!