MercyCast
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MercyCast episodes

  • Jaime Cowhick on the Path to Healing.
    Sometimes, healing hurts.

    Jamie Cowhick joins me to help guide us on our healing journeys. Jamie is the president of Yana Recovery Center of Fort Lauderdale and, as you will learn in this episode, a survivor of Sex Trafficking.

    In this episode, Jamie shares her journey of being trafficked and explores the heart of some of the most pressing issues we face today – from social justice and human trafficking to mental health and healing. Our conversation is a beacon of hope, offering honest, tangible solutions for creating positive change and discovering the answer to a question that baffles many of us: How do we heal?

    Highlights from the conversation:

    • The Importance of Community in Healing.
    • Understanding Trauma Bonds.
    • Finding Help in the Healing Process.
    • Discovering Hope and Healing.


    Learn more about Jaime and Yana. Connect with Jaime on Linkedin.

    Email us at [email protected]. You can follow MercyCast on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

    You can follow Raleigh Sadler on Twitter and Instagram.

    For more conversations like this one, check out my book, Vulnerable: Rethinking Human Trafficking.



    Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-mercycast/exclusive-content
    44 min
  • BONUS: Boz Tchividjian on Friendship.
    Do you ever surround yourself with people but still feel lonely? Do you ever wonder who your true friends are and why it's so hard to find them? We've all been there.


    In this podcast episode, we dive deep into a topic that affects each of us: Friendship.

    In this candid conversation between Boz Tchividjian and me, we dig into the difference between acquaintances and genuine friends, helping you understand who you can rely on. And just a note of caution: we don't just skim the surface. This isn't your typical "how to make friends" advice.

    We start by reminiscing about the beginning of our friendship journey. We discuss the changing landscape of friendships as we grow older. You see, it's not about quantity; it's about quality. We reveal the magic that happens when you find friends who let you be 110% yourself, no facades, just authenticity.

    Have you ever thought about your friendships as an inner circle? What happens when someone gets demoted to the outer circle? We tackle these questions head-on, providing invaluable insights into managing your social circle.

    As we chat, you'll discover the beauty of being yourself and the importance of approachability. Friendship isn't just about what you get; it's about what you give and share. We'll inspire you to step outside your comfort zone and cherish the connections that truly matter.

    But we don't stop there. We delve into the theological aspect of friendship, drawing parallels between our human relationships and our relationship with God. It's a profound exploration that might change how you see friendship.

    So, if you're ready for an authentic conversation about friendships, looking to deepen your connections, or simply seeking guidance on navigating the intricacies of human relationships, hit that play button now. I promise you won't want to miss this enlightening discussion.

    Learn more about G.R.A.C.E and BozLaw. Follow BozLaw PA on X and Threads. You can also buy his book, The Child Safeguarding Policy Guide for Churches and Ministries.

    Email us at [email protected]. You can follow MercyCast on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

    You can follow Raleigh Sadler on Twitter and Instagram.

    For more conversations like this one, check out my book, Vulnerable: Rethinking Human Trafficking.



    Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-mercycast/exclusive-content
    33 min
  • Boz Tchividjian on Abuse in the Church.
    Is your faith community a safe place for everyone?


    In this week's episode, Boz Tchividjian and I dive deep into an issue from the headlines that often lurks in the shadows of our faith communities – abuse, particularly within the church. Have you ever wondered what grooming means in the context of spiritual abuse? Or how power dynamics within religious organizations can lead to victimization?

    Boz, an author, founder, and Lawyer, shares his experiences and insights from working with survivors whom their faith communities have deeply wounded. But this episode isn't just about stories of pain; it's about empowerment. We explore the vital role of the law in addressing these issues and how it can help survivors reclaim their agency and seek justice. This episode is a call to action for all of us.

    Highlights from the conversation:

    • The Church and Trauma.
    • The Work of G.R.A.C.E.
    • The Reality of Adult Clergy Abuse.
    • Understanding Vulnerability and Power.
    • Discovering Hope and Healing.


    Learn more about G.R.A.C.E and BozLaw. Follow BozLaw PA on X and Threads. You can also buy his book, The Child Safeguarding Policy Guide for Churches and Ministries.

    Email us at [email protected]. You can follow MercyCast on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

    You can follow Raleigh Sadler on Twitter and Instagram.

    For more conversations like this one, check out my book, Vulnerable: Rethinking Human Trafficking.



    Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-mercycast/exclusive-content
    51 min
  • E. Benjamin Skinner on Responding to Human Trafficking.
    Human Trafficking happens in every country and every state. What can you do about it?

    Ben faced a dilemma as a journalist in Haiti. He was presented with the opportunity to buy a child. What would he do?

    In this episode, my friend, E. Benjamin Skinner, joins me to help answer this question. Skinner is the author of A Crime So Monstrous: Face-to-Face with Modern-Day Slavery. He is also the founder and president of Transparentem.

    Highlights from the conversation:

    • The Quiet Heroism of Incremental Change
    • The Dilemma Behind Your Dollars.
    • Living simply so that others may simply live.
    • Why vulnerability is an essential key to understanding Human Trafficking.


    You can learn more about E. Benjamin Skinner and Transparentem. You can also buy his book, A Crime So Monstrous.

    Email us at [email protected]. You can follow MercyCast on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

    You can follow Raleigh Sadler on Twitter and Instagram.

    For more conversations like this one, check out my book, Vulnerable: Rethinking Human Trafficking.



    Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-mercycast/exclusive-content
    39 min
  • Karrie Garcia on experiencing true freedom.
    Are you experiencing true freedom?


    In this episode, Karrie Garcia, a pastor, author, and CEO, joins me to discuss her new book, Free and Fully Alive: Reclaiming the Story of Who You Were Created to Be.

    The conversation is brimming with real-life examples of how we can understand our own story and how it intersects with God's story of redemption and freedom. The truth is you can be free. Listen for the entire conversation.

    Highlights from the conversation:

    • The Gift of Exposure
    • The Lie Behind Our Self-protection
    • The Cycle of False Freedom
    • Why Engaging Your Own Story is Important
    • Invitation vs. Giving it to God
    • The Power of Connection


    You can follow Karrie on Facebook and Instagram. You can also learn more about her ministry and buy her book, Free and Fully Alive.

    Email us at [email protected]. You can follow MercyCast on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

    You can follow Raleigh Sadler on Twitter and Instagram.

    For more conversations like this one, check out my book, Vulnerable: Rethinking Human Trafficking.



    Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-mercycast/exclusive-content
    49 min
  • Sue Detweiler on Spiritual Healing.
    Healing is often a holistic process.


    In the latest MercyCast episode, I sit down with Sue Detweiler, who has spent over four decades in Christian ministry, and she has a remarkable story of resilience and healing to share.

    Picture this: Sue's life takes an unexpected turn when she travels to Brazil and starts experiencing mysterious health problems. Doctors couldn't pinpoint the cause, and she faced the uncertainty of autoimmune diseases like Hashimoto's Thyroiditis and chronic inflammatory response syndrome (CIRS). She knew nothing else but to ask God for healing.

    Highlights from the conversation:

    • The Story of Dre: The Origin of “Healing Rain.”
    • Building a healing team.
    • The need for “Spiritual Parents.”
    • Healing through Unconditional Love.


    You can follow Sue on Twitter and Instagram. You can also learn more about her ministry and buy her book, Healing Rain.

    Email us at [email protected]. You can follow MercyCast on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

    You can follow Raleigh Sadler on Twitter and Instagram.

    For more conversations like this one, check out my book, Vulnerable: Rethinking Human Trafficking.



    Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-mercycast/exclusive-content
    46 min
  • Guy Wasko on Addressing Vocational Dissonance.
    Have you ever felt stuck? 


    In the latest MercyCast episode, I sit down with my friend Guy Wasko, who's not just a pastor and chaplain, but also an entrepreneur. Guy shares his personal story of reaching the pinnacle of his career only to feel like something vital was missing. He wondered if there was more to life than what he was experiencing. He was experiencing vocational dissonance.

    But here's where it gets fascinating – Guy's journey led him to a different kind of solution, a life-changing process called the Life Plan. It's not about making you a millionaire or guaranteeing a perfect life. Still, it's about discovering who you are, learning your story, uncovering your core values, and finding your purpose amid adversity.

    Think about it: how would it feel to have a guide who can help you navigate your own life's journey? To uncover the clues from your past, recognize your unique strengths, and create a strategic plan that aligns with your values and passions? This episode isn't just a conversation about careers; it's about identity, belonging, and purpose – the things that make us human.

    Highlights from the conversation:

    • How to Navigate Change.
    • Aligning your purpose and Identity.
    • Small steps that lead to big impact.
    • Crafting a Life Plan.

    You can follow Guy on Twitter and Instagram. If you listened to the episode and want to create your own Life Plan with Guy, find out more here!


    I want to hear from you! Email us at [email protected]. You can also follow MercyCast on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. You can follow Raleigh Sadler on Twitter and Instagram.

    For more conversations like this one, check out my book, Vulnerable: Rethinking Human Trafficking.



    Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-mercycast/exclusive-content
    45 min
  • Diana Gerson on Leveraging Your Story to Care for Others.
    Your story matters.


    In this episode, we dive deep into the world of understanding our stories and creating meaningful connections in a busy and sometimes disconnected society. Join me and Diana Gerson, the associate Vice President of the NY Board of Rabbis, as we explore the transformative power of human connection and leverage your story to care for others.

    Rabbi Diana shares her childhood experiences of dealing with trauma and abuse and how she channeled that into helping others facing similar challenges. She emphasizes the significance of listening deeply to others, being present for them, and offering a safe space for sharing. This episode underscores the power of empathy, vulnerability, and shared experiences in fostering healing and support for others.

    Highlights from the conversation:

    • The Importance of Intention: We discuss how small, intentional steps toward connection can make all the difference in someone's life and our own.
    • Empathy in Action: Learn how empathy can be a catalyst for change and how understanding the feelings of others can lead to remarkable personal growth.
    • Overcoming Barriers: Discover how to overcome shyness, social anxiety, and other barriers that hinder genuine connections and how these victories can have a lasting impact.
    • Technology and Connection: Dive into the effects of technology on our social interactions and how to use it to bring us closer together instead of pushing us apart.
    • Finding Joy in Unlikely Places: Explore how unexpected conversations and interactions can bring immense joy and broaden our horizons in ways we never thought possible.


    So, if you're ready to be inspired, uplifted, and motivated to foster deeper connections in your own life, this episode is for you. Tune in, and let's embark on this journey together. Click that play button now!

    Learn more about the NY Board of Rabbis, and follow Diana on Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

    Email us at [email protected]. You can follow MercyCast on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

    You can follow Raleigh Sadler on Twitter and Instagram.

    For more conversations like this one, check out my book, Vulnerable: Rethinking Human Trafficking.



    Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-mercycast/exclusive-content
    36 min
  • Joe Potasnik on Learning to Begin Again.
    If you are reading this, then your story is not finished.


    Step into a world of compassion and love with our latest MercyCast episode featuring an inspiring interview with the “Radio Rabbi” Joe Potasnik. Joe is the executive vice president of the New York Board of Rabbis and a chaplain of the New York Fire Department.

    As you listen to his remarkable journey through adversity, you'll be moved by the strength he gained from his parents' experiences as Holocaust survivors. Their story became the foundation of Rabbi Joe's compassion, shaping how he interacts with others and spreading love wherever he goes.

    In this heartfelt conversation, we delve into the transformative power of broadening our circles, embracing those in front of us, and understanding the experiences behind us. Rabbi Joe's wisdom reminds us of the profound impact of compassion and our responsibility to perpetuate the memory of those who can no longer speak.

    The episode also touches on the aftermath of 9/11, paying tribute to the bravery and resilience of first responders and the human spirit that is not broken by tragedy. Through every moment of this captivating dialogue, the theme of starting anew and facing reality with love and courage emerges, leaving a lasting impression of hope and the undeniable power of human connection.

    Don't miss this opportunity to be inspired by the incredible capacity for empathy and love within each of us.

    Episode Highlights:

    • Silence is Not Golden; It’s a Golden Calf.
    • Discovering the Heart of Compassion.
    • Learning to Begin on Page Two.
    • How to Make the world a little bit better
    • The Gift of Giving
    • The Experience of Shalom


    Listen to Joe’s podcast, The Rev and the Rabbi, learn more about the NY Board of Rabbis, and buy Joe’s book, Just Give Me A Minute: Insights from the Radio Rabbi, here. Follow him on Twitter.

    Thanks for listening. We want to hear from you!

    Email us at [email protected]. You can follow MercyCast on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

    You can follow Raleigh Sadler on Twitter and Instagram.

    For more conversations like this one, check out my book, Vulnerable: Rethinking Human Trafficking.



    Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-mercycast/exclusive-content
    36 min
  • Josiah Haken on Privilege and Poverty.
    Not every one of your neighbors lives in a house.


    In this episode, I dive into the story of one of my friends, Josiah Haken. He is the Chief Executive Officer of City Relief, a non-profit organization dedicated to connecting the unhoused community to hope and resources while empowering ordinary people to make an extraordinary impact by seeing, serving, and supporting their neighbors without doors. He oversees and strategizes countless outreaches, volunteers, and follow-up care efforts.

    Growing up as the son of missionaries in Yaoundé, Cameroon, and working in the streets of New York City since 2010, Josiah has a unique perspective on the complexities of urban poverty and homelessness. He believes our homeless neighbors deserve our best, not just our leftovers. He is also the author of Neighbors With No Doors: The Truth about Homelessness and How You Can Make a Difference.

    Episode Highlights:

    • Navigating Privilege and Poverty
    • What is True Wealth
    • The Lie of the Deserving Poor
    • The Power of Proximity
    • Discovering Integrity in Poverty


    You can learn more about Josiah, his organization, City Relief, and buy Josiah’s book here. Follow him on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.


    We want to hear from you! Email us at [email protected]. You can follow MercyCast on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

    You can follow Raleigh Sadler on Twitter and Instagram.



    Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-mercycast/exclusive-content
    52 min

About MercyCast

From the publisher's feed

Have you ever hit a wall and asked yourself, "What do I do now? How will I ever get past this?" If you are human and have a pulse, you probably have. The MercyCast is a podcast dedicated to…