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From Rock Rapids, Iowa, Ruth and Rollie share their harrowing journey through COVID-19, a story marked by love, loss, and miraculous divine moments. From facing the unthinkable with the loss of Rollie’s father to Ruth's life-threatening battle with the virus, this episode offers an intimate glimpse into the strength and resilience that carried them through. 

Alongside their COVID story, Ruth and Rollie reflect on their 42 years of marriage, their life in Rock Rapids, and the profound lessons learned in faith, courage, and the importance of community during the toughest times. This episode is a testament to the human spirit's capacity to overcome, the power of prayer, and the unbreakable bonds of family. Don't miss this unforgettable story of survival, love, and hope.

Rollie and Ruth were both raised in Christian homes. They met in college and got married shortly after they graduated from college. They have a son Tom and a daughter Emily and a total of 6 grandkids. Their kids and grandkids are their most important focus.  They love to spend time outdoors on their patio enjoying their plants and gardening. They are also very involved in their community and church.

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Tom Henderson is a follower of Jesus, husband to Laura, and father to Isaiah and Chase. He is also the founder of RESGEN, the RESGEN Men’s Summit and the RESGEN Giving Life Podcast. He is driven by a passion to reach people with the Good News of the Gospel and help them restore the broken relationships in their lives. While speaking to crowds from a stage definitely brings Tom joy, he equally enjoys listening to peoples’ stories, talking with them about life, and sharing his love for Costco over coffee.

Join hosts Heather Kittelson and her husband Amos as they welcome Tom Henderson to the Fortitude podcast. Tom shares his inspiring journey from a youth filled with challenges to becoming a follower of Jesus, a dedicated family man, and a community leader. With over 25 years in ministry, Tom opens up about his transition from focusing on youth ministry to empowering men, marriages, and parenting through his events and speaking engagements. Discover the power of faith, forgiveness, and family as Tom recounts his personal story of being raised by a beautiful single mom, father in prison, the impact of mentorship in his life, and the importance of walking in step with God. 

This episode is a testament to the transformative power of faith and the importance of supportive relationships in navigating life's journey.

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As a fan of our podcast and mission to spread Hope and Healing through the message of Jesus Christ - We would appreciate your financial support!
We are 100% listener supported!

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Dylan, the founder and President of Wheelchair Adventures. Born and raised in South Dakota, Dylan's life took a significant turn when a car accident/suicide attempt at the age of 18 resulted in a C2/C3 spinal cord injury, leaving him as a quadriplegic.

For years following his injury, Dylan believed he would never be able to enjoy activities he once loved, such as being an avid outdoorsman. However, his perspective changed when he discovered adaptive equipment that allowed him to participate in hunting and fishing, opening up a new world of outdoor enjoyment while living in a wheelchair. Dylan has successfully engaged in deer, turkey, and antelope hunting using an adaptive gun mount and track wheelchair. He has also experienced the thrill of Walleye fishing with an electric reel.

Dylan's passion lies in finding or creating adaptive equipment and experiences for individuals with disabilities to enjoy outdoor sports. He named his organization Wheelchair Adventures, as he believes that every day in a wheelchair is an adventure. Dylan understands the ups and downs of life and emphasizes the importance of taking it one day at a time. His favorite motto is "adapt and overcome."

In addition to his work with Wheelchair Adventures, Dylan works part-time at Nybergs Ace and resides in Sioux Falls, SD with his service dog, Linda.

https://wheelchairadventures.org/
https://www.facebook.com/dylan.lesselyoung
https://www.instagram.com/lesselyoung88/

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As a fan of our podcast and mission to spread Hope and Healing through the message of Jesus Christ - We would appreciate your financial support!
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In this enlightening episode of our podcast, we invite John Glasser, a man whose life is a beacon of transformative faith. From his roots in a family that spread the gospel across state lines to his own personal struggles and revelations, John's story is a stirring testament to the power of faith in action. As he shares his intimate encounter with the divine during a life-threatening illness and his vision for a spiritual awakening in America, listeners will find themselves moved by the call to become torchbearers of hope and truth.

John has a passion for youth all across our nation. He founded Collision in 2008.
John grew up in Wyoming and graduated from Riverton High School, where his running skills earned him a scholarship to attend and run for the University of Sioux Falls. He graduated with a Business degree and then earned his MBA. Years later, he obtained his Master’s Degree in Christian Leadership from Liberty Online University.

John has had a front row seat to watching God do some amazing things in and through students around the nation. Collision started in Sioux Falls SD because of a student’s passion at Lincoln High School and today, the organization serves students at all Sioux Falls middle and high schools and most recently across the nation. John’s work with Collision has given him a platform to speak at conferences and work with other leaders from around the nation who are looking to impact youth in a growing post-Christian culture. He also travels frequently to Ukraine to speak and train up leaders who come alongside youth to share and live out their faith.

John is married to Angie, and they have three wonderful children. When John isn’t being a husband, dad, serving students and staff, or sharing vision with supporters (yes, this is one busy guy), you will find him on the Sioux Falls bike trail peddling and praying for his family, Collision, students, and the city of Sioux Falls.

https://www.facebook.com/john.glasser.334
https://www.facebook.com/angie.glasser.1
https://www.facebook.com/collision.min

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As a fan of our podcast and mission to spread Hope and Healing through the message of Jesus Christ - We would appreciate your financial support!
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In this episode,  Amos and Heather Kittelson welcome Michael De Jong, a man of deep faith, to discuss his transformative journey from a troubled past to leading a well known ministry and church. 
De Jong recounts his path from a seemingly perfect Christian upbringing through a tumultuous youth filled with addiction and darkness, to a powerful encounter with Christ that changed his life forever. 
Michael's story of redemption and his work within ministry, including outreach to schools and those affected by trafficking, is both inspiring and a testament to the power of faith and second chances. This episode is a testament to the impact that personal testimony and faith can have on individuals and communities.

Michael De Jong is married to Jenna and their family reside in Sioux Center, Iowa. They serve and lead a church family called Activation.  The church birthed in their house in 2020 during Covid and has continued to grow and thrive over the past few years.  They live out of the book of Acts every day honoring their call to serve the body of Christ.  They also co-founded a ministry called Action 169 which raises awareness around sex trafficking.  Michael also works with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes in NW Iowa developing that ministry in the schools of NW Iowa and seeing many young people come to Christ!  They have been all across the midwest preaching the gospel seeing many hundreds come to Jesus Christ for the first time.  Most recently they were in Malawi Africa where they saw over 6,000+ come to Christ within the schools in Malawi.  Serving the Lord has been the greatest call of Michael's life.  They believe the best is yet to come in the Kingdom of God!

www.my.FCA.org/MikeDeJong
www.TheRevivalLife.com
www.Action169.com
www.ActivationChurch.life

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As a fan of our podcast and mission to spread Hope and Healing through the message of Jesus Christ - We would appreciate your financial support!
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TO GIVE TO FORTITUDE:
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In this profound episode of "Fortitude," hosts Heather and Amos Kittleson sit down with Heather Erickson, who shares a touching and deeply personal story of her son - Ethan's courageous battle with cancer from the ages of 11years old to 12years & 11months (one moth shy of his 13th birthday). This conversation delves into the seldom-discussed nuances of such an arduous journey, offering insights that are both enlightening and heart-rending. 

As a special feature, make sure to listen through to the end for exclusive bonus audio content that adds even more depth to this compelling narrative. This episode not only invites empathy and understanding but also celebrates the indomitable spirit of those affected by childhood cancer. Join us for an unforgettable encounter filled with hope, resilience, and a community's loving support.

https://www.facebook.com/heather.k.erickson.9

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Kuol Malou's journey is one of resilience, transformation, and deep-rooted commitment to community and relationships. Originating from South Sudan amidst civil unrest, Kuol sought refuge in the United States in 1998, a life-altering experience that forged his path as a community advocate and leader. Embracing his new life in America, he navigated the challenges of adjusting to a different culture and environment, all while holding tightly to the values of family and community ingrained in him from his homeland.

In the Midwest, Kuol found his calling in the realm of relationship-building and client acquisition, skills he honed through his studies at Western Iowa Tech. His professional journey is marked by significant roles that reflect his passion for advocacy and community engagement. Kuol's involvement in various boards, including his leadership roles at REACH Literacy and the ACE Academy, showcases his dedication to empowering others. These experiences not only highlight his commitment to service but also his skill in nurturing relationships and building networks, which have been pivotal in his career and advocacy work.

Kuol’s narrative is a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of community. His transition from a refugee to a respected leader in Sioux Falls SD exemplifies his ability to overcome adversity and create impactful change. Today, as he leads Design Narratives, his focus remains on leveraging his background in relationship building and client acquisition to narrate empowering stories that resonate and inspire. Kuol's story is not just about personal triumph; it's a beacon of hope and a blueprint for how empathy, perseverance, and community engagement can lead to profound societal impact.

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/kuol.simon.7

Insta- https://www.instagram.com/itskuol/

LinkedIn -Kuol Malou | LinkedIn 

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As a fan of our podcast and mission to spread Hope and Healing through the message of Jesus Christ - We would appreciate your financial support!
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Get ready for this episode of Fortitude, where resilience meets inspiration! Join hosts Heather and Amos as they engage in a powerful conversation with Melanie A. Brown, a seasoned nurse and award-winning international sales team leader with over two decades of experience. Melanie's journey is a testament to the strength of the human spirit, and in this episode, she shares her incredible story of enduring challenges, finding hope, and cultivating a deeper sense of well-being.

As a dedicated wife for 40 years, a mother of two, a stepmother to two, and a proud grandmother of seven, Melanie's life took an unexpected turn when she received the tragic call about her husband Dennis's horrible semi-accident. While away for a work retreat, Melanie faced the unimaginable as she learned about the accident and rushed to be by Dennis's side.

In this emotionally charged episode, Melanie recounts the harrowing experience of receiving the call, the moments leading up to Dennis's airlift to the burn unit in Minneapolis, and the challenges they faced during his recovery. Despite the difficulties and the uncertainty, Melanie's faith and resilience shine through as she shares how she found hope in the signs that God provided throughout the journey.

Join us as we explore Melanie's remarkable ability to stay hopeful in the face of adversity, drawing strength from her unwavering faith and the support of loved ones. Through Melanie's story, listeners will be inspired to navigate their challenges, cultivate their dreams, and achieve remarkable levels of personal and professional growth.

Tune in to the Fortitude Podcast and discover the incredible power of resilience, hope, and the human spirit. Melanie's story is a beacon of light, reminding us all that even in the darkest moments, there is strength, courage, and fortitude within us.

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As a fan of our podcast and mission to spread Hope and Healing through the message of Jesus Christ - We would appreciate your financial support!
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 In this heartwarming episode of "Fortitude," meet Reid and Jessi Johnson, a devoted couple living in Sioux Falls, SD. With seven children, ranging from six months to nineteen years old, Reid and Jessi's lives are a beautiful tapestry of love and adoption.

Reid, who was adopted as a baby from Menno, South Dakota, had his own extraordinary adoption story. When he was seven, he traveled to Romania with his parents, where they welcomed a six-month-old boy into their family. This early experience of adoption sparked a deep love for the power of family and instilled a desire to give back.

Years later, as Reid entered his senior year of high school, he had a life-changing experience - he met his biological family. This newfound connection with his parents, brother, and twin half-sisters opened his heart even further, creating a strong bond that has lasted to this day.

In 2017, Reid and Jessi crossed paths and discovered an unexpected commonality - they each had three children from previous relationships. This shared experience of blended families became a natural talking point as they embarked on their journey together.

In June 2020, Reid and Jessi decided to join their families, bringing all their children together. Although their wedding plans were delayed by the unforeseen circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic, they remained resolute in their commitment to one another and were married the following summer.

Their love and dedication to family grew as Reid officially adopted Jessi's children in March 2022. And in May 2023, they joyfully welcomed their first child together, completing their beautiful blended family.

Despite the demands of juggling a busy schedule, Reid and Jessi understand the importance of carving out quality time for their loved ones. They find solace in their faith, always remaining true to the Lord who has blessed them with abundant love and unwavering support.

In this episode, join Reid and Jessi as they share their remarkable adoption journey, their challenges, and the profound love that binds their family together. Witness their commitment to volunteer work, hear tales of their travels, and discover how they find strength in their unbreakable bond with one another and their faith.

Reid FB - https://www.facebook.com/reid.johnson.9674
Reid Insta - reid24johnson
Jessi FB - https://www.facebook.com/jessi.l.haugen
Jessi Insta - jesslynnhaugen

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In this special episode of "Fortitude," we shine a spotlight on Paul and Bethany Perissien, a remarkable couple who serve full-time with Mission-Haiti, a local non-profit organization in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Join us as we delve into their inspiring journey of self-sacrifice for an eternal purpose.

Born in Haiti but later moving to the USA at the age of ten, Paul's connection to his home country runs deep. Growing up in Florida and graduating from Florida State with a degree in education, he felt a calling to make a difference in the lives of the Haitian people. Bethany, on the other hand, was born and raised in Sioux Falls, SD. She attended Palm Beach Atlantic University and graduated with a degree in Biology. Their paths intertwined when they met while working as waiters at Red Lobster after college. In 2012, they exchanged vows and embarked on a journey that would reshape their lives forever.

From 2014 to 2021, Paul, Bethany, and their children lived in Haiti full-time, passionately devoting themselves to serving the Haitian community. Paul serves as the Executive Director of Mission-Haiti, guiding the organization's efforts to bring sustainable development and hope to the Haitian people. Bethany fills the role of the Administrative Medical Director, bringing her expertise and compassionate care to those in need.

In this episode, we dive deep into their experiences, exploring the challenges, triumphs, and sacrifices they have encountered along the way. As we uncover their day-to-day routines, their dedication to building relationships, and the impact they have made, Paul and Bethany's story serves as an inspiration to us all.

Join us as we listen to their heartfelt accounts of perseverance, resilience, and unwavering love for the communities they serve. Hear about the transformative power of self-sacrifice, family support, and the eternal purpose that drives them forward. Through captivating storytelling, personal anecdotes, and intimate interviews, this episode of "Fortitude" paints a vivid picture of a family's dedication to making a lasting difference in the world.

Prepare to be moved and enlightened as Paul and Bethany Perissien share their incredible journey of sacrifice, love, and fortitude in their mission to bring hope and healing to the people of Haiti. Tune in to Episode 29 of "Fortitude" and discover the extraordinary story of one family's unwavering commitment to making a lasting impact.

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As a fan of our podcast and mission to spread Hope and Healing through the message of Jesus Christ - We would appreciate your financial support!
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