MercyCast

Uncertainty is definitely not my favorite part of life.

In this episode of MercyCast, I had the joy of sitting down with the insightful and compassionate Becky Keife, author of  A Verse A Day For The Anxious Soul: A Hundred Days of Peace for the Calm You Crave, to talk about something that touches so many of us—anxiety. Whether it’s the tightness in your chest before a big decision, or a relentless mental loop that keeps you up at night, anxiety shows up in all kinds of ways. And yet, it’s something we often try to face alone.

But what if we didn’t have to?

Becky and I dive deep into the reality that mental health struggles like anxiety don’t disqualify us—they connect us. This conversation is all about vulnerability, emotional health, and learning to be honest about what we’re carrying. Together, we explore how anxiety isn’t something to hide from, but a signal—an invitation—to lean into community, faith, and even our own self-compassion.

We talk about what it means to live in the tension of being both anxious and at peace. About how calming our nervous system—through techniques like box breathing—can help us reconnect with the present moment and the God who is with us in it. We don’t gloss over the physical realities of anxiety, but we do push back against the lie that it defines us.

This episode is full of practical coping strategies, honest reflections, and reminders that your story isn’t over—and you’re not alone. Anxiety may feel overwhelming, but it can also be a surprising catalyst for personal growth, deeper faith, and greater compassion—for yourself and for others.

Highlights and takeaways from the conversation:

• Anxiety is more common than we think—and we don’t have to face it alone.
• Practice asking God, “what do you want me to know and what do you want me to do?”
• Being honest and vulnerable is a powerful first step toward healing.
• Anxiety shows up on a spectrum—from situational to clinical—and all experiences are valid.
• The physical symptoms of anxiety are real and deserve attention.
• Community support is crucial—we’re wired for connection.
• Faith doesn’t eliminate anxiety, but it reframes it.
• Simple practices like box breathing can help calm your nervous system.
• Daily reflection can uncover patterns and paths forward.
• Showing compassion to yourself empowers you to show compassion to others.
• Anxiety can be a gift—drawing us closer to God and each other.
• If this episode resonates with you, share it with someone who might need it. Let’s keep normalizing these conversations around mental health, support, and the beauty of showing up as we are.
• Thanks for being here.
• —Raleigh

Subscribe to MercyCast and leave a review.

Learn more about Becky’s work at her website, beckykeife.com. Pre-order her new book which comes out this month.

You can follow MercyCast on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

You can follow Raleigh on Twitter and Instagram.

Thanks for listening. We want to hear from you!

Email us at [email protected].

Art imitates life. However, art is most often born in the places that we fear the most.

In this episode of MercyCast, I had the honor of sitting down with the very talented tattoo artist and owner of First Class NYC, Mikhail Andersson. From the first moment we started talking, it was clear this wasn’t just a conversation about ink or murals—it was about the stories we carry, the pain we try to process, and the beauty we’re capable of creating in the midst of it all.

Mikhail opened up about his journey as a tattoo artist in New York City—a place that’s as relentless as it is inspiring. We talked about what it means to connect deeply with people, even in the brief moments shared across a tattoo needle. Each tattoo becomes more than art—it becomes a marker of resilience, a memory inked into the skin, and often, a step forward in someone’s healing process.

We also explored how urban spaces, when transformed through street art, become galleries of hope and defiance. And honestly, this conversation reminded me that art—in all its forms—isn’t just about expression. It’s about survival. It’s about connection. It’s about being seen.

Highlights and takeaways from the conversation:

• Street art has the power to transform entire neighborhoods into spaces of resilience and beauty.
• Tattoos are more than body art—they’re often deeply personal symbols of life's pivotal moments.
• The act of creating art can help process emotional pain and foster healing.
• There's something uniquely therapeutic in the bond between an artist and their client.
• Living deeply—taking in both the highs and lows—can fuel authentic artistic expression.
• New York City will test you, but it’ll also grow you if you let it.
• Long-term success requires showing up consistently, even when you don’t feel like it.
• Having hobbies and creative outlets outside of work can be a much-needed lifeline.
• Human connection isn’t optional—it’s essential for growth and understanding.
• When we invest in what we love, unexpected doors begin to open.

I walked away from this conversation reminded that we are all storytellers in some way—whether through words, art, or simply the way we choose to show up in the world. And when we take the time to really see each other, healing can begin.

Thanks for being part of this journey.

Subscribe to MercyCast and leave a review.

Follow Mikhail on Instagram..

You can follow MercyCast on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

You can follow Raleigh on Twitter and Instagram.

Thanks for listening. We want to hear from you!

Email us at [email protected].

In this episode of MoreMercy, a bonus episode of the MercyCast, I share a story that’s stuck with me—a visit to a centuries-old castle in Scotland, where I met a man named Sir Jack, a former member of Parliament. What started as a simple conversation turned into something deeper. As we talked, we found ourselves exploring themes of human vulnerability, social division, and the growing polarization that’s so evident in politics and life today.

But here's the thing—I believe mercy has something powerful to say in the face of all this division.

Throughout our conversation, I kept thinking about how mercy isn’t just a nice idea. It’s a radical, counter-cultural force that pushes back against judgment and hostility. Drawing from Scripture—Micah, Matthew, James, Romans, and Colossians—I reflect on how God calls us to compassion, to forgiveness, and to the kind of love that doesn’t keep score.

This episode is about more than politics or polite conversation. It’s about what happens when we allow mercy to shape how we see others—and ourselves. I truly believe that embracing mercy can transform individual lives and even begin to heal some of the fractures in our society.

Thanks for joining me on this journey.

Does life always have to be “bigger and better” for it to have value?

No, there is a certain miracle found only in the mundane. In this powerful episode of MercyCast, host Raleigh Sadler sits down with Naghmeh Panahi to explore the deep intersections of compassion, vulnerability, and celebrity culture within the Christian community. Together, they unpack how our identity can become distorted by status and recognition, and why embracing grace in ordinary life is vital for spiritual health.

Through stories of suffering, healing, and the transformative nature of God’s love, Raleigh and Naghmeh reflect on the call to serve the least of these, the strength found in authentic community, and the importance of being grateful even in seasons of brokenness. The conversation is a raw, grace-filled reminder that contentment and deep spiritual growth often come from choosing humility over platform, presence and performance.

Highlights and takeaways from the conversation:

• Be transparent with many, but vulnerable with few.
• True connection requires wisdom in how we share our pain.
• Celebrity culture can distort our identity and purpose.
• When status becomes the goal, we lose sight of God’s call.
• Grace is found in ordinary life.
• You don’t need a platform to live a meaningful, Kingdom-driven life.
• Gratitude shifts perspective.
• Moving from scarcity to abundance begins with thankfulness.
• Authentic relationships are built in vulnerability.
• Community thrives when honesty and grace coexist.
• Advocacy begins with compassion.
• Serving the overlooked and marginalized reflects the heart of Christ.
• Suffering can deepen intimacy with God.
• Pain is not wasted—it can be a path to healing and transformation.
• God's love is unwavering.
• His grace meets us not in our strength, but in our need.
• Contentment is a spiritual posture.
• Recognizing God’s provision in every season brings peace.
• Embracing rock bottom leads to growth.
• Greatness in the Kingdom is often found in downward mobility.

Subscribe to MercyCast and leave a review if this conversation spoke to you. Let’s keep walking in trust, together.

Learn more about Naghmeh and buy her new book.

You can follow MercyCast on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

You can follow Raleigh on Twitter and Instagram.

Thanks for listening. We want to hear from you!

Email us at [email protected].

Have you ever questioned a belief that you've held for a long time?

In this episode of MercyCast, I sit down with Amanda Hope Haley—Harvard-trained archaeologist and author of Stones Still Speak—to talk about something that has the potential to challenge our faith: the way we understand scripture. Together, we explore the importance of context in interpreting the Bible and the often-overlooked role of biblical archaeology in revealing the world behind the words.

We dive into the tension between tradition and the text itself, wrestling with how historical context sheds light on biblical figures and events. Stories like David and Goliath aren't just ancient tales—they point to Christ as well as carry lessons for us today about preparation, leadership, and the everyday challenges of faith. Through our conversation, we recognize the need to approach scripture with compassion—not just for others, but for ourselves as we question, learn, and grow in our understanding.

Ultimately, we highlight the beauty of faith: the courage to sit with uncertainty and mystery. It’s okay to have questions, and it’s okay not to have all the answers. The journey of faith is just that—a journey. One where we don’t just cling to tradition, but we also allow space for exploration, reflection, and trust in a God who is bigger than our understanding.

Highlights and takeaways from the conversation:

• Context is king when it comes to understanding scripture.
• Traditions and interpretations can sometimes cloud the true message of the Bible.
• Archaeology helps us uncover the history that shapes the biblical narrative.
• Mary Magdalene’s identity as a prostitute is a misinterpretation, not a biblical fact.
• David’s story is one of preparation—God’s work in us before we step into leadership.
• Spiritual highs, or "mountaintop" experiences, aren’t the end goal—it's the daily walk of faith that matters most.
• The Garden of Eden narrative calls us to rethink how we interpret our beginnings and our relationship with God.
• Faith means embracing the mystery, even when we don’t have all the answers.
• Biblical archaeology helps us understand the context, but it doesn’t “prove” the scriptures.
• We must question interpretations, but we must also hold scripture with reverence and care.
• This episode invites us to lean into the mystery of faith, trusting that the journey itself holds value—whether or not we can answer every question along the way.

Subscribe to MercyCast and leave a review if this conversation spoke to you. Let’s keep walking in trust, together.

Follow Amanda Hope Haley and buy her new book.

You can follow MercyCast on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

You can follow Raleigh on Twitter and Instagram.

Thanks for listening. We want to hear from you!

Email us at [email protected].

In this heartfelt episode of the Mercycast, I sit down with Kelsey Bowie to explore the profound impact of faith and community in navigating life's toughest challenges. Kelsey was one of the first interns for Let My People Go and has become a good friend. She shares personal stories and reflections, which lead us to discuss how embracing vulnerability and leaning on a supportive community can lead to healing and growth.

Discover how faith acts as a guiding light, offering hope and strength in the darkest times. Join us for an inspiring conversation about resilience, redemption, and the transformative power of compassion.

Highlights and takeaways from the conversation:

•  Embracing vulnerability is not a sign of weakness but a powerful act of strength that allows for genuine connections and personal growth.
• A supportive community can be a lifeline during difficult times, providing love, accountability, and a sense of belonging that helps individuals overcome adversity.
• Faith offers hope and resilience, acting as a guiding light through life's darkest moments and reminding us of our inherent worth and purpose.
•  Finding contentment in the present and practicing gratitude can shift perspectives, helping individuals focus on what they have rather than what they lack.
• Life's challenges, though difficult, often lead to personal growth and a deeper understanding of oneself and one's faith, ultimately strengthening one's resolve and character.

Subscribe to MercyCast and leave a review if this conversation spoke to you. Let’s keep walking in trust, together.

Follow Kelsey on Instagram.

You can follow MercyCast on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

You can follow Raleigh on Twitter and Instagram.

Thanks for listening. We want to hear from you!

Email us at [email protected].

In this episode of the Mercy Cast, host Raleigh Sadler explores the profound themes of death, change, and spiritual transformation. Joined by Joshua Porter, former frontman of the punk rock band Showbread and author of 'How to Die: Chaos, Mortality, and the Scandal of Christian Discipleship,' they discuss how life is a series of deaths that lead to transformation and the inevitable changes one must face. They delve into the idea of accepting suffering and loss as pathways to experiencing the love of God and becoming who we are meant to be. This compelling conversation highlights the importance of time, patience, and the presence of God in transforming our lives.

Highlights and takeaways from the conversation:

• All of life is a series of deaths.
• Death to self is how we become more of who we were meant to be.
• Pain is unavoidable and that’s okay.
• Our culture of immediacy has made growth all the more difficult because we no longer value patience.

Subscribe to MercyCast and leave a review if this conversation spoke to you. Let’s keep walking in trust, together.

Learn more about Josh’s book, How to Die. Follow him on Instagram.

You can follow MercyCast on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

You can follow Raleigh on Twitter and Instagram.

Thanks for listening. We want to hear from you!

Email us at [email protected].

In this episode of MercyCast, I talk with with Morgan Gleason, Assistant Executive Director of Pillars of Hope, an anti-trafficking nonprofit in the Bay Area. We discuss Morgan's journey from intern to her current role, the importance of direct services in supporting trafficking survivors, and the emotional toll of working in this field. We also delve into the definition of human trafficking, the misconceptions surrounding it, and how individuals can educate themselves and take action to support those affected by trafficking.

Highlights and takeaways from the conversation:

• Pillars of Hope provides direct services to trafficking survivors.
• Morgan's journey highlights the importance of internships in finding one's path.
• Direct services involve working hand-in-hand with survivors to empower them.
• Empowerment is key; survivors must make their own choices to change their lives.
• The emotional toll of working in anti-trafficking is significant and requires self-care.
• Human trafficking is often misunderstood; it is modern-day slavery.
• Education about human trafficking is crucial for community awareness.
• Many trafficking cases involve familial relationships, not just strangers.
• The importance of humility and learning in the nonprofit sector.
• Building relationships with survivors is essential for effective support.

Subscribe to MercyCast and leave a review if this conversation spoke to you. Let’s keep walking in trust, together.

Learn more about Pillars of Hope. 

You can follow MercyCast on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

You can follow Raleigh on Twitter and Instagram.

Thanks for listening. We want to hear from you!

Email us at [email protected].

Join me on the Mercy Cast as I reconnect with Alexander John Shaia, founder of Quadratos and author of "Heart and Mind" and "Returning from Camino." In this episode, we explore the transformative power of pilgrimage, the art of slowing down, and the wisdom found in embracing life's seasons. Discover how the journey home can be as enlightening as the journey itself, and why the Camino is more than just a path—it's a way of life. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about finding meaning in the present moment and the beauty of returning home changed.

Highlights and takeaways from the conversation:

• The way home is to go slowly.
• Distraction robs you of the present.
• Pilgrimage is a way of stepping away from your ordinary life to experience change and step back into it.
• What if we looked at the things that we went through as seasons that will change eventually?
• Shaia who is an anthropologist explains how the start of the day for the Celtic Tribes in the area where He now lives started in the darkness.

Subscribe to MercyCast and leave a review if this conversation spoke to you. Let’s keep walking in trust, together.

Learn more about Alexander John Shaia and Quadratos. You can his book, Returning From Camino.

You can follow MercyCast on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

You can follow Raleigh on Twitter and Instagram.

Thanks for listening. We want to hear from you!

Email us at [email protected].

In this episode of The Mercy Cast, I share a personal story about reconnecting with old college friends and delve into the themes of shame and vulnerability. I start by recounting a particular dream of unpreparedness and analyzes its symbolism, relating it to the Genesis narrative of Adam and Eve. Then I transition into how humanity's attempts at covering shame are inadequate and highlights the importance of biblical scripture in addressing these deep-seated fears. We are now free to confront our shame and embrace the righteousness offered by Jesus Christ.