Freedom Initiative Radio

This episode addresses the long-term reality of disciple-making inside maximum-security settings, reminding listeners that spiritual transformation operates on a seasonal clock rather than an instant schedule. The conversation focuses on cultivating spiritual endurance to push through institutional delays, systemic friction, and resistance. By encouraging ministers and leaders to remain steadfast in their assigned fields, this episode outlines strategies for developing resilient leaders who can establish a lasting lineage of disciples behind bars.

Email: [email protected] Websites: Pastorstoprisoners.org; Contagiousdisciplemaking.com

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This episode tackles the complex challenge of overcoming invisible social barriers, such as gang affiliations, distinct housing units, and deep cultural divisions within prison facilities. The episode highlights how effective disciple-making requires believers to deliberately cross these established boundaries to build authentic trust and unity. By framing the Gospel as a bridge rather than an isolating bubble, the discussion offers actionable insights for breaking through institutional divides and fostering community in high-barrier environments.

Email: [email protected] Websites: Pastorstoprisoners.org; Contagiousdisciplemaking.com

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In this episode, Aaron, Fred, and their special guest Charlie from College Ave., explore the foundational mission of Christian discipleship, centering on ministry work inside the R.J. Donovan Correctional Facility. The discussion emphasizes that true discipleship extends far beyond standard church attendance, passive gathering, or internal Bible studies. Grounded in both the Great Commission and the Great Commandment, the hosts detail an active, intentional approach to reaching others—one built around prayer, obedience, love, and steady consistency to help faith spread naturally within correctional settings.

Email: [email protected] Websites: Pastorstoprisoners.org; Contagiousdisciplemaking.com

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hosts Aaron and Fred welcome Charlie Hickok, a resident intern at College Avenue Church. Together, they explore the powerful intersection of youth-driven evangelism and prison ministry, shedding light on how a new generation is answering the call to share the gospel with urgent passion. Charlie shares his personal journey of faith, his heart for reaching college students, and his anticipation of stepping into prison chapels to witness God’s tangible presence behind bars. This inspiring discussion challenges believers of all ages to break through social narratives, step out in faith, and embrace the Great Commission wherever God leads.

Email: [email protected] Websites: Pastorstoprisoners.org; Contagiousdisciplemaking.com

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode features the core mission of Christian discipleship, with a specific focus on the ministry work at RJ Donovan Correctional Facility. The hosts emphasize that true discipleship extends beyond standard church attendance, internal Bible studies, or passive gathering. Grounded in the Great Commission and Great Commandment, we outline an active, intentional process for reaching others that is centered on prayer, obedience, love, and consistency.

Email: [email protected] Websites: Pastorstoprisoners.org; Contagiousdisciplemaking.com

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode we explore the essential heart posture required for effective Christian discipleship. Emphasizing that meaningful disciple-making begins from within, Aaron highlights the vital roles of repentance, immediate obedience, and personal humility. By encouraging listeners to regularly practice a "prayer of examine" and turn divine insights into practical, actionable steps, this inspiring message serves as both a roadmap and an invitation to cultivate a contagious faith capable of changing lives. Email: [email protected] 

Websites: Pastorstoprisoners.org; Contagiousdisciplemaking.com

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In this episode, hosts Aaron Buttery and Fred Vaught are joined for the first time by Aaron's wife, Vicky Buttery. The session focuses entirely on targeted prayer and intercession for the inmates, leaders, and chaplains across the five individual yards at Richard J. Donovan (R.J. Donovan) State Prison.

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In this episode hosts Aaron Buttery and Fred Vaught explore  a transformative disciple-making tool used behind prison walls: the "I Will" statement. Grounded in 2 Timothy 3:16–17, we discuss how moving from passive intentions to actionable, SMART commitments shatters spiritual stagnation. Discover how incarcerated men at R.J. Donovan are bringing a living faith to the prison yard, and learn how to apply this practice to your own daily walk with God.

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Aaron Buttery sits down with Pastor Roger Ziegler, a former chiropractor who gave up his practice to spend over 26 years in prison ministry at R.J. Donovan Correctional Facility. Together, they share powerful stories of divine transformation behind bars, including former satanists and Wiccans surrendering their lives to Christ. Listen to hear how no heart is beyond the gospel's reach.

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On this episode, host Aaron Buttery speaks with Pastor Roger Ziegler, who left a 25-year chiropractic career to pursue full-time prison ministry. Pastor Roger shares how he overcame hesitation, experienced miraculous financial provision, and witnessed transformed lives behind bars. Tune in for an inspiring look at what happens when you step out in faith and answer God's call.

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