Raising Expectations with Pastor Joe Schofield

Raising Expectations with Pastor Joe Schofield, Melba Schofield, Stefanie Thayer, Dr. Craig Thayer, Dr. Paul Hall, and Ron Greer

Never Doubt the Power of a Positive Word

Dr. Sheila Schuller Coleman joins the Raising Expectations team for an uplifting conversation about hope, Christian identity, compassionate ministry, and the lasting influence of words spoken with faith and love.

Friends,

Here is a special word from Sheila Schuller Coleman just for you and tonight’s “Raising Expectations “show!

"Never Doubt the Power of a Positive Word!

Have you ever considered that you carry the power of life and death in your words?

When I became friends with a homeless man, Mark, I saw firsthand that the positive words I’d been taught by my father really can save lives!

It’s my mission in life to remind others that they, too, have this within themselves. To receive and even to give words of life to others."

It’s going to be a great and informative night together!

Guest Spotlight

Dr. Sheila Schuller Coleman brings a deeply personal and pastoral message shaped by her Christian faith, her ministry experience, and the teachings of her father, Dr. Robert Schuller. Throughout the episode, she reflects on lessons she received about reframing negative language, encouraging people through words of hope, and recognizing practical needs as an essential part of compassionate ministry. She shares stories from her work with homeless families, children, churches, international ministries, and individuals she has encountered in everyday places. Her message centers on the belief that even one sincere and compassionate statement can plant a seed whose eventual impact may be far greater than the speaker ever sees.

Don't forget to check out our guest, Dr. Coleman's books!

"The Heart of a Warrior: Delivering the Children of the World for Christ"

"The Living Tree"

"Unearthing the Lost Treasure: Wisdom"

"Claiming The Identity of Christ’s Children: A Handbook for Families"

Never Doubt the Power of a Positive Word

Dr. Sheila Schuller Coleman introduces the evening’s central theme by explaining how her father taught her to examine every word and reframe messages from a positive perspective. She acknowledges that speaking this way requires intention and discipline but says Christians can express the hope of Jesus Christ through language that encourages rather than discourages. To illustrate the principle, she recalls meeting a homeless man named Mark through a weekly meal ministry she established at the Crystal Cathedral campus. When Mark told her that he did not believe in God, she responded that God believed in him. Years later, she encountered him again and learned that he had embraced Christianity and was playing guitar in a worship band. For Dr. Coleman, the experience demonstrates how words can function like seeds whose growth may remain unseen for years.

Restoring Hope Before Despair Takes Hold

The conversation expands into the relationship between encouragement, despair, and the human need for hope. Dr. Paul Hall observes that the loss of hope can be associated with suicidal despair, prompting the panel to discuss the responsibility carried by parents, grandparents, pastors, teachers, counselors, and other caring adults. Dr. Coleman and the Raising Expectations team describe words as capable of producing either healthy or damaging fruit, especially when spoken repeatedly over children. Stefanie Thayer explains that an offhand criticism received in childhood can become a destructive belief that follows someone into adulthood. The speakers therefore encourage replacing inherited negative messages with Scripture-based affirmations and truthful declarations of identity. Their discussion presents hope as something that can be strengthened through intentional language, prayer, community, and compassionate attention.

Speaking Identity Over Children and Grandchildren

Dr. Coleman shares how she applies these principles within her own family by deliberately choosing affirming language for her grandchildren. Rather than calling an energetic child a “handful,” she calls him a “heartful,” reframing his liveliness as something valuable rather than burdensome. She tells the story of that grandson praying for a sibling and eventually welcoming triplets into the family, which she describes with humor and gratitude. Dr. Coleman teaches her grandchildren to describe themselves as one-in-a-million miracles, blessed and highly favored, and beloved children of the Most High God. She believes children must learn to claim their spiritual identity for themselves so they can resist harmful messages when parents and grandparents are not present. The panel agrees that repeatedly speaking loving and truthful words can help children develop healthier beliefs about their value, abilities, and purpose.

Lessons from Dr. Robert Schuller’s Ministry

A substantial portion of the program reflects on the ministry philosophy and personal example of Dr. Robert Schuller. Dr. Coleman explains that her father was frequently criticized for offering what some called a “feel-good gospel,” but she says his primary concern was reaching people who were not already connected to a church. He believed that those who were already Christians had assurance of heaven, while his calling was to communicate the gospel to people who might otherwise reject or never hear it. She recounts how his missionary uncle taught him that people in China first needed rice before they were prepared to receive a religious message. That lesson led Dr. Schuller to ask residents of Garden Grove what they needed and contributed to his well-known ministry principle, “Find a need and fill it.” The panel connects this approach with the ministry of Jesus, emphasizing that feeding people, healing them, helping them find deliverance, and assuring them of God’s love can be integral to spiritual outreach.

Compassion in Everyday Encounters

Dr. Coleman describes ordinary public encounters as opportunities to offer encouragement and recognize the dignity of others. She recounts meeting a grocery-store employee named Isaac who described his heart as small and dark and said he was not important to anyone. Dr. Coleman responded that he was important to God and continued praying for him whenever she saw him afterward. When she later saw Isaac smiling and laughing, she viewed the encounter as encouragement to keep praying and to continue planting positive words without assuming she would immediately see their results. The conversation also includes humorous examples of misunderstood comments in public places, reinforcing how quickly words can travel beyond their intended audience. The speakers encourage listeners to remain attentive during routine activities because people may be more willing to talk, receive prayer, or accept encouragement than expected.

The Heart of a Warrior and Faith During Difficult Seasons

Dr. Coleman discusses her book The Heart of a Warrior, which she says began as an assignment from God to address the spiritual needs of children. While researching the condition of young people, she encountered a statistic about rising suicide rates among 14-year-olds that deeply affected her and strengthened her commitment to prayer and ministry. She also reflects on helping prepare her father’s messages for publication, including Tough Times Never Last, But Tough People Do!, and offers its central encouragement to listeners facing hardship. Recalling a difficult season at the Crystal Cathedral, she describes going to a prayer garden and receiving renewed strength through the words of a hymn assuring her of God’s presence and sustaining power. Dr. Coleman encourages listeners to pray, as she does, “Lord, give me the same faith in You that You have in Yourself,” especially when confronting circumstances that appear immovable. Her testimony frames courage not as the absence of fear, but as choosing to trust and move forward despite fear.

From Encouraging Words to Active Ministry

The final portion of the conversation shows how Dr. Coleman’s message extends into tangible service. She describes Hope Center of Christ, her pastoral work, and partnerships with ministries supporting children, pregnant women and mothers, homeless families, churches, and communities in Kenya. One outreach began with the purchase of sheep for women in a Kenyan village and expanded as others contributed money and the animals multiplied, eventually helping one woman obtain a cow. Dr. Coleman also discusses her desire for a permanent church property where her congregation could establish programs for children, partner with ministries serving women in crisis pregnancies, feed homeless people, create a school, and provide additional community services. Melba Schofield prays for the property, the ministries, the mothers, and the children they hope to serve. Stefanie Thayer then prays for people serving in ministry and for provision for Raising Expectations, while Dr. Craig Thayer offers a separate prayer for BBS Radio TV, its staff, its continued operation, and its protection.

Raising Expectations Through Faith, Service, and Hope

Pastor Joe Schofield closes the program by drawing together the episode’s themes of identity, prayer, courage, encouragement, and compassionate service. He describes Dr. Coleman and the Raising Expectations team as people who have served faithfully in different ways and who encourage listeners to believe they can face hardship through prayer, faith, and their identity in Christ. The hosts invite the audience to raise their expectations, pray through financial or personal difficulties, and trust that hardship does not eliminate purpose or hope. Dr. Coleman’s stories reinforce the idea that ministry can begin with something as simple as a positive statement, a meal, a prayer, a sheep, or a willingness to ask another person what they need. The episode ultimately presents encouragement as both a spiritual discipline and a practical responsibility. Its closing message invites listeners to speak life, meet needs, remain faithful, and recognize the possibilities contained within even the smallest act of love.

Raising Expectations with Pastor Joe Schofield, Melba Schofield, Stefanie Thayer, Dr. Craig Thayer, Dr. Paul Hall, and Ron Greer

Faith, Freedom, and the Future of America

A spirited conversation about America’s founding principles, the responsibilities of citizenship, and the sustaining power of faith during times of national change.

Guest: Janet Price, Past President of GSRW (Golden State Republican Women)

Janet Price is a faith-centered civic advocate and a leader involved with Golden State Republican Women. During the conversation, she speaks about public education, constitutional awareness, election concerns, and her belief that citizens should remain informed, prayerful, and actively engaged in the future of their communities. Her enthusiasm for American history and her commitment to California shape much of the episode’s discussion.

Friends,

We are blessed and thrilled to have Janet Price: past President of GSRW, back with us on Monday night helping us celebrate our nation’s 250th Birthday and rejoice in what God is doing all around us through answered prayers! We will look back at our Founding Fathers and the sacrifices made to procure the Constitution and win an impossible war against the most powerful nation in history.

She often says as people of faith know... “God is in Control!”.

As a woman of great faith and leader in the creation of “Golden State Republican Women” , Janet shares heartfelt insight into the political situation and what it means to all of us in America today.

Her enthusiasm is contagious and anchored in her deep relationship with God through Jesus Christ!

Janet is part of our Raising Expectations family and loved by countless people of our audience in California, across the nation and around the world.

The discussion and interaction will be contagious and very enlightening for everyone… so tune in , call in, watch and listen.

A Celebration of Faith and American Heritage

Pastor Joe Schofield, Melba Schofield, Stefanie Thayer, Dr. Craig Thayer, and Dr. Paul Hall welcome Janet Price for a wide-ranging conversation inspired by the nation’s 250th anniversary celebrations. The participants reflect on Independence Day events, patriotic traditions, and the emotional significance of remembering the sacrifices made by previous generations. They also discuss the enduring influence of the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the nation’s founding ideals. Throughout the opening conversation, the speakers connect their appreciation for America with their Christian faith and their belief that gratitude should lead to greater personal responsibility.

Remembering the Sacrifices Behind America’s Freedom

The panel looks back at the courage, hardship, and personal sacrifice associated with America’s founding and later generations who defended the country. Pastor Joe and Janet emphasize that freedom should not be treated casually because it was secured through the efforts of people who risked their lives, families, property, and reputations. The discussion touches on George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, the Revolutionary War, and the spiritual convictions the speakers believe influenced the nation’s early leaders. They encourage listeners to study history more deeply rather than relying on simplified or incomplete accounts. The participants present historical understanding as an important safeguard against manipulation, political apathy, and the loss of national identity.

Education, History, and the Responsibility to Participate

Janet describes her efforts to promote education about the Constitution, the Declaration of Independence, flag protocol, and election integrity. She argues that many younger Americans have not been adequately taught the history of their country and may therefore be more vulnerable to misleading political messages. Stefanie adds that civic responsibility also requires participation, pointing to low voter turnout and the influence that small but highly organized groups can have on elections. The panel encourages listeners to research candidates, examine their records, and evaluate the principles demonstrated through their actions. Rather than simply complaining about political outcomes, the speakers urge citizens to vote, speak thoughtfully, and take responsibility for the direction of their communities.

Speaking the Truth Without Losing Compassion

A central theme of the episode is the challenge of expressing strong convictions without becoming consumed by anger or hostility. Dr. Paul Hall reflects on the dangers of silence when people recognize wrongdoing but choose not to speak, while other panelists stress that truth should be communicated with love and humility. The speakers discuss how arguments often create more conflict than understanding, especially when people feel personally attacked. Stefanie explains that she frequently returns to the Bible as her moral compass when difficult ethical questions arise, allowing the conversation to focus on principles rather than personal opinion alone. Together, the panel encourages listeners to develop courage, patience, and emotional steadiness while remaining willing to stand for what they believe.

Trusting God Through Uncertainty and Cultural Change

The participants share personal examples of turning to prayer when faced with anxiety, confusion, or unexpected circumstances. Janet describes beginning her day with devotionals and reminding herself that God remains in control even when current events feel overwhelming. Melba recounts moments when people unexpectedly approached her for prayer, guidance, or encouragement, reinforcing her belief that spiritual opportunities often appear without warning. Stefanie discusses surrendering her daily plans to God and allowing faith to replace the pressure of trying to control every outcome. These stories highlight the episode’s broader message that believers can remain peaceful and purposeful even while confronting difficult political, cultural, and personal realities.

Hope for California, the Nation, and the Next Generation

As the program moves toward its conclusion, Janet asks listeners to pray for honest and principled leaders in California, greater public awareness, and protection for the president, his family, and his administration. She expresses confidence that California can experience meaningful change and that citizens are becoming more willing to question deception and demand accountability. The hosts join her in emphasizing hope rather than despair, encouraging listeners to remain engaged while trusting that lasting transformation does not depend on one person alone. The episode closes with prayer, expressions of affection among the participants, and a reminder to seek God’s direction in everyday life. Listeners are invited to approach the future with courage, faith, informed participation, and a renewed commitment to serving others.

Raising Expectations with Pastor Joe Schofield, Melba Schofield, Stefanie Thayer, Dr. Craig Thayer, Dr. Paul Hall, and Ron Greer

America's 250th Anniversary, insights into the courageous Founding Fathers, Faith, Freedom, and the Duty to Keep the Republic Alive

Guest, Pastor Will Hobbs

Friends,

Pastor Will Hobbs is back with us on “Raising Expectations!”

“America's 250th” has arrived! Join us this Monday evening for a powerful discussion with Pastor Will Hobbs on 'Raising Expectations!' as he shares transformative insights on America's founding and the courageous individuals who shaped our nation's history.

Amidst today's challenges, let's stand strong in faith, gratitude, and trust in God's unwavering presence, power, love and faithfulness that guides us. His plans unfold with purpose, bringing Him glory, us guidance, and demonstrating His love…Experience His peace that transcends understanding. John 14:27!

Pastor Will and the 'Raising Expectations' team invite you to pray ahead, explore the facts, and discern your role in God's plans for your life and our nation.

Celebrate America 250 and express thanks for God's blessings!

A Fourth of July Conversation Rooted in Faith

In this episode of Raising Expectations, Pastor Joe Schofield, Melba Schofield, Dr. Paul Hall, Dr. Craig Thayer, and Ron Greer welcome Pastor Hill Hobbs of Kelview Baptist Church in Midland, Texas, for a Fourth of July-themed discussion about America’s founding, Christian faith, civic responsibility, and the spiritual meaning they attach to the nation’s 250-year legacy. Pastor Joe opens by reaffirming the show’s Christian foundation and introduces the team before welcoming Pastor Hill, who frames Independence Day not merely as a civic celebration but as a holiday connected to gratitude, biblical principles, and the opportunity to live out faith in public life.

Lives, Fortunes, Sacred Honor, and the Cost of Independence

Pastor Hill reflects on the Declaration of Independence, emphasizing the risk taken by the signers when they pledged their lives, fortunes, and sacred honor. He notes that many were willing to face death, loss of wealth, and public disgrace if the Revolution failed. He also discusses the timing of the Declaration’s approval, announcement, and signing, noting that July 4 became the public date of celebration even though the approval and signing unfolded across multiple dates. For Hill, the willingness of the founders to risk everything reveals the seriousness of the moment and the spiritual weight he believes they attached to America’s beginning.

The Founders, Prayer, and Christian Influence

A major theme of the episode is the team’s argument that America’s founding was deeply shaped by Christian thought, preaching, prayer, and biblical principles. Pastor Hill cites John Quincy Adams and John Adams to connect Independence Day with gratitude to God, while Ron Greer discusses Benjamin Franklin’s call for prayer during the founding debates. The group also discusses early congressional prayer, Bible study, the influence of pastors, George Whitefield, the Black Robe Regiment, and the way sermons helped shape the language and principles behind the Declaration of Independence. The discussion presents the founding not as perfect, but as intentionally aimed toward Christian moral order.

Slavery, Jefferson’s Draft, and the Imperfect Union

The conversation turns to slavery as one of the great contradictions and sins in American history. Pastor Hill discusses Thomas Jefferson’s original draft of the Declaration of Independence, which included a strong grievance against the king over the slave trade, a section that did not survive into the final version. Dr. Craig Thayer and Ron Greer then discuss the economic and social complications surrounding slavery at the time, while stressing that context is not the same as justification. Ron also brings up Anthony Johnson and John Casor as examples of the complexity of colonial slavery history. Pastor Hill grounds the discussion in Proverbs 14:34, saying righteousness exalts a nation while sin brings reproach.

History, Churches, and the Responsibility to Disciple

The panel repeatedly argues that America’s current cultural confusion is connected to historical ignorance and the church’s failure to disciple effectively. Pastor Joe contrasts the American Revolution with the French Revolution, highlighting George Washington’s refusal to become king as an example of servant leadership. Ron Greer says that Christians must return to the Great Commission, not merely sing, pray, or attend services, but actively make disciples. Pastor Hill adds that what happens in the home is more important than what happens in the White House, because discipleship, character, and cultural renewal begin with families, churches, and one person influencing another.

Young Men, Revival, and Hope for the Next Generation

The episode also looks at younger generations with a mixture of concern and hope. Melba reflects on parenting, children’s ministry, prayer for children, and the pain of watching younger adults drift from biblical values. Pastor Hill responds that social media can distort reality and that there are signs of spiritual hunger among younger people. Dr. Craig and Ron discuss young men returning to church, conservative campus movements, Charlie Kirk events, Christian schools, classical academies, and the renewed interest among some youth in meaning, truth, and faith. The panel sees these signs as evidence that the future is not settled and that revival or awakening remains possible.

Duty, Responsibility, and Results That Belong to God

As the episode closes, Pastor Hill tells the story of John Quincy Adams continuing to fight slavery after serving as president, even when he did not live to see the cause fulfilled. He summarizes the lesson with the idea that duty and responsibility belong to the believer, while results belong to God. Ron urges listeners to study American history and recommit to making disciples. Dr. Craig reminds listeners to remember why America is free, and Dr. Paul emphasizes the responsibility to guard and share that freedom. Pastor Joe closes in prayer, thanking God for the sacrifice of America’s founders and asking for boldness, righteousness, love, and purpose as the nation celebrates its birthday.

Raising Expectations with Pastor Joe Schofield, Melba Schofield, Stefanie Thayer, Dr. Craig Thayer, Dr. Paul Hall, and Ron Greer

Fathers, Faith, and the Legacy of Love That Outlives Loss

Guest, Will Cintron

Friends,

Will and his wife, Dr. Marianne Cintron, have been part of our Raising Expectations family for many years. Recently, God called Marianne home, and we all mourned, but also rejoiced in the fact that we will see her again.

Will has continued to be a loving, godly father to his family and to us all. He walks with the Lord and gives strength to his family, showing God's complete faithfulness in all ways.

Our Raising Expectations team will join with Will in discussion and uplifting conversation and joy about fathers in our lives…and being fathers!

A Family Conversation Rooted in Faith and Fatherhood

In this episode of Raising Expectations, hosts Pastor Joe Schofield and Melba Schofield, Stefanie Thayer and Dr. Craig Thayer, Dr. Paul Hall, and Ron Greer welcome returning guest Will Cintron for a warm, reflective conversation about Father’s Day, family, grief, legacy, and the faithfulness of God. Pastor Joe opens by celebrating the show’s sixth anniversary season, thanking BBS Radio TV, and reminding listeners that life’s deepest questions are answered through Christ: where believers are going after death, and how they are called to live in the meantime.

Remembering Mary Ann and Honoring Her in Yosemite

The team welcomes Will with tenderness, acknowledging the recent passing of his wife, Dr. Mary Ann Cintron, who had been part of the Raising Expectations family. Will shares about taking his family to Yosemite, a place filled with memories for him and Mary Ann. He describes driving the RV for the first time, traveling with family members, hiking familiar trails, visiting Happy Isles, and honoring Mary Ann by leaving some of her ashes near the river. The moment becomes a picture of grief held together with gratitude, memory, beauty, and the hope of seeing loved ones again in God’s presence.

A Father’s Love Shown Through Presence

The conversation turns to Father’s Day as Will reflects on his own father, who did not often say “I love you” or “I’m proud of you,” but showed affection through action. Will remembers his father taking time to hit baseballs to him and his brother, even though sports were not his strength, and recalls the handmade workbench his father built for him. These memories open a larger discussion about the many ways fathers communicate love, sometimes through words, sometimes through sacrifice, presence, work, tools, play, and the simple willingness to show up.

The Blessing and Responsibility of Being a Dad

Dr. Paul Hall, Melba Schofield, Ron Greer, and the rest of the team each add personal reflections on fathers, parenting, and the lifelong impact of being present for children. Paul recalls his father warming his cold hands while ice skating and later requesting “The Battle Hymn of the Republic” at his funeral. Melba remembers her father keeping his promise to take her and her brother to the rodeo despite dental pain, and how his encouragement helped her pursue education. Ron speaks passionately about fatherhood as a sacred title entrusted by God, emphasizing that fathers are called not only to provide, but to shape, teach, sharpen, and bless their children.

The Father Wound and the Power of Redemption

The team also discusses the pain caused when fathers are absent, emotionally unavailable, or unable to express love. Ron shares sobering statistics from prison ministry about the effects of father absence, including increased risks related to poverty, school failure, incarceration, and broken family patterns. Yet the conversation does not stay in despair. Ron explains how God changed his view of his own father, helping him see a man who may not have known how to express affection but never abandoned his family and worked tirelessly to provide. The group emphasizes that even deep father wounds can be healed, redeemed, and transformed through forgiveness, spiritual fathering, and God’s grace.

Faith, Memory, and the Joy Children Teach Their Parents

The hosts reflect on how children remember affection, laughter, silliness, and shared moments more than perfect lessons or polished speeches. Pastor Joe talks about long conversations with his daughter, playful memories, and the importance of children knowing that their parents delight in them. Dr. Paul adds that parenting is not only about what adults teach children, but also what children teach adults. The group shares humorous family memories, including toilet-paper pranks, tools, guitars, and the everyday stories that become lifelong signs of love. These memories point to a larger truth: legacy is often carried through ordinary moments made sacred by affection.

Seeking God, Listening, and Carrying Love Forward

As the episode closes, Will encourages listeners to seek the Lord, stay in God’s Word, get quiet, and listen for His voice. He recalls how Mary Ann modeled that daily devotion and attentiveness to God. Stefanie and Melba then pray over Will, honoring Mary Ann’s legacy, asking God to strengthen Will, and thanking Him for the connections and love formed through the Raising Expectations family. Pastor Joe closes by reminding listeners that God speaks in many ways, sometimes directly and sometimes gently, but always with love, blessing, and the promise that He is near.

Raising Expectations with Pastor Joe Schofield, Melba Schofield Stefanie and Dr Craig Thayer, Dr Paul Hall, and Ron Greer

Comedy, Courage, and the Cost of Discipleship in America Today

Guest, Conservative Comedian: Brad Stine!

Friends,,

Tonight we have special guest, Brad Stine, God's Comic!

Brad Stine pulls no punches as he takes on cancel culture, political correctness, and the upside-down logic of modern America. With his signature blend of righteous outrage and razor-sharp wit, Stine challenges the cultural gatekeepers, defends free speech, and dares audiences to laugh at what we're all thinking but too afraid to say.

Recorded live in Nashville, Tennessee and produced by Honest Fox Media, this unapologetically honest performance hits hot-button topics like identity politics, free speech, race, gender, COVID mandates, and America's spiritual crisis—all rooted in Stine’s deep convictions as a conservative Christian. 

Whether he's dissecting the absurdity of word policing or poking fun at generational fragility, Brad reminds us that comedy is meant to provoke, unite, and most of all—set us free.

This is more than a comedy show. It’s a call to courage. It’s truth wrapped in laughter. It’s a reminder that freedom isn’t free—and sometimes the most rebellious thing you can do is laugh.

Laugh hard. Speak truth. And above all—laugh while it’s still legal! 

Don’t Miss Brad Stine- God has a message just for you…

Check out more of Brad Stine's work on his website:

https://bradstine.com/

Don't forget to follow Brad Stine's Podcast: Brad Stine Has Issues on Youtube!

https://www.youtube.com/c/bradstinehasissues

Faith, Family, and a Night of Bold Conversation

In this episode of Raising Expectations, Pastor Joe Schofield opens the program by welcoming listeners and reminding them that the show is rooted in faith in Jesus Christ, the belief that Christ answers the deepest questions of life, and the desire to help people raise their expectations from “good to better to best together.” He introduces the full team: Melba Schofield, Stefanie Thayer, Dr. Craig Thayer, Dr. Paul Hall, and Ron Greer, each presented as part of a faith-centered family of believers committed to truth, grace, encouragement, and Christian witness.

Introducing Brad Stine, “God’s Comic”

The guest for the hour is conservative comedian Brad Stine, described as a nationally known performer whose comedy takes on cancel culture, political correctness, free speech, identity, gender, COVID mandates, race, politics, and America’s spiritual crisis. Pastor Joe notes that Brad has been called “God’s Comic” and recalls meeting him personally in church settings where his humor and ministry made a strong impression. The show then plays an extended clip of Brad’s stand-up, giving listeners a sense of his rapid-fire style, cultural commentary, sarcasm, and willingness to confront controversial subjects directly.

Laughing at the Language of Cultural Confusion

In the comedy clip, Brad takes on modern identity politics, pronouns, cancel culture, and the way language is used to redefine reality. He jokes about being a man “the old-fashioned way,” being Christian, being white, and being conservative, while arguing that people are often manipulated through changing definitions. He uses examples such as “super spreader,” “peaceful protest,” “insurrection,” “domestic terrorist,” and “safe for democracy” to make the point that whoever controls language can control public perception. His larger message is that people must learn to “laugh while it’s legal” and call out what he sees as cultural absurdity.

Conserving Common Sense

Brad explains in the clip that being conservative does not necessarily mean being loyal to a political party. He says he wants to conserve the original intent of the Constitution, history, wisdom, and common sense. He criticizes elites and billionaires who, in his view, tell ordinary people how to live while promoting climate policies that he finds hypocritical or impractical. His jokes about cows, flatulence, windmills, fossil fuels, and miniature cow-powered turbines use absurdity to make a broader point about energy, environmental policy, and what he sees as the loss of practical reasoning.

From Stand-Up Comedy to Ministry

After the clip, Brad joins the conversation and explains how he began as a stand-up comic in nightclubs while maintaining his Christian convictions. He says he avoided profanity and sexual material because he wanted to compete at the highest level without compromising his faith. Over time, he felt drawn beyond entertainment into ministry. Comedy, he says, became the “flavor” or delivery system for a deeper message about culture, freedom, faith, discipleship, and America’s need to remember what made it free and spiritually grounded.

A Missionary to America

Brad describes himself as a “missionary to America.” He says he loves the country without worshiping it, believes America is historically significant and uniquely free, and feels responsible for defending both religious liberty and the Christian foundations that shaped the nation. He argues that cultural Marxism, progressive ideology, secular religion, and spiritual deception are working to weaken the West from within. For Brad, comedy is not merely entertainment; it is a way to confront what he sees as lies, hypocrisy, and spiritual compromise.

Christianity Versus Discipleship

One of the strongest themes of the conversation is Brad’s distinction between being a “Christian” in name and being a true disciple. He says many American churchgoers treat Christianity as a label rather than a costly calling. Salvation, he explains, is free because of Christ’s work, but discipleship costs everything. Brad argues that believers in America often have not had to suffer for their faith in the way believers do in places such as Nigeria, Iran, Iraq, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Turkey, Myanmar, India, North Korea, China, and other countries where persecution is real and visible.

The Cost of Truth

The team discusses suffering, boldness, and the willingness to speak truth even when it causes offense. Brad says truth is supposed to offend when it exposes what is false, because conviction is meant to lead people toward repentance and freedom. Dr. Paul Hall connects this to Scripture, especially the idea that Christ’s suffering was central to salvation and that believers should not be surprised when following Christ also involves suffering. Brad and the hosts agree that American churches often avoid this message because it is uncomfortable, but they see it as essential to authentic faith.

Comedy as a Gift Given Back to God

Dr. Craig Thayer comments on Brad’s ability to take cultural untruths and expose them through humor. Brad responds by reflecting on the meaning of a spiritual gift. A gift, he says, is not something a person earned or created; it is something given. Because of that, no one should brag about it or treat it as a personal trophy. The only faithful response is to give the gift back to God so it can be used for His purposes. Brad says his comedy, communication style, and boldness are not superior to anyone else’s gifts, but they are the specific tools God entrusted to him.

Inspiring Others to Speak

Brad says people often thank him for being brave or for saying what they were thinking but were afraid to say. While he appreciates that encouragement, he also tells listeners that inspiration should lead to action. If his boldness inspires someone, then that person should “go forth and do likewise” in the territory God has assigned them. He stresses that every believer has a “Nineveh,” a specific area of responsibility where they are called to speak, serve, and obey.

The Church as a Place of Refreshing and Sending

Brad also challenges the idea that church is mainly where nonbelievers should be brought to get saved. He says the church is where believers should be strengthened, refreshed, and equipped so they can go into the marketplace and share the gospel. This leads to a broader critique of what he sees as shallow American Christianity, where church attendance can replace actual discipleship, courage, and public witness. For Brad, the church must train believers to carry truth into the world, not merely gather comfortably inside church walls.

Speaking Truth With Love and Boldness

Stefanie Thayer shares a recent personal experience about having a difficult conversation with someone who was unchurched and surprisingly open to spiritual truth. She reflects that people outside the church may sometimes be more receptive than those shaped by denominational comfort or religious assumptions. Brad agrees that love without truth is not truly love. The conversation emphasizes that Christians are called to speak boldly, but with purpose, conviction, and obedience, not with cruelty or arrogance.

Dangerous Times and a Willingness to Keep Going

Brad acknowledges that his kind of comedy and ministry can come with real risk. He speaks about opposition, threats, and the possibility that the cultural climate may become more hostile toward Christians and conservatives. Still, he says he intends to keep speaking. The hosts respond by affirming their prayers for Brad, his family, and his ministry. Brad says he has seen growing interest from churches, conservative groups, GOP events, and ministries that now recognize the importance of the warnings he has been giving for decades.

Closing With Prayer, Gratitude, and Raised Expectations

The episode closes with Pastor Joe thanking Brad for his time, courage, and ministry. Brad directs listeners to BradStine.com, mentions his podcast Brad Stine Has Issues, and says he is available for comedy events, church services, men’s events, apologetics, marriage conferences, and other ministry settings. Pastor Joe and the team promise to keep him in prayer and close the program by reminding listeners to keep raising expectations in their homes, hearts, faith, families, and future.

Raising Expectations with Pastor Joe Schofield, Melba Schofield, Stefanie Thayer, Dr. Craig Thayer, Dr. Paul Hall, and Ron Greer

Comedy, Courage, and the Cost of Discipleship in America Today

Guest, Conservative Comedian: Brad Stine!

Friends,,

Tonight we have special guest, Brad Stine, God's Comic!

Brad Stine pulls no punches as he takes on cancel culture, political correctness, and the upside-down logic of modern America. With his signature blend of righteous outrage and razor-sharp wit, Stine challenges the cultural gatekeepers, defends free speech, and dares audiences to laugh at what we're all thinking but too afraid to say.

Recorded live in Nashville, Tennessee and produced by Honest Fox Media, this unapologetically honest performance hits hot-button topics like identity politics, free speech, race, gender, COVID mandates, and America's spiritual crisis—all rooted in Stine’s deep convictions as a conservative Christian. 

Whether he's dissecting the absurdity of word policing or poking fun at generational fragility, Brad reminds us that comedy is meant to provoke, unite, and most of all—set us free.

This is more than a comedy show. It’s a call to courage. It’s truth wrapped in laughter. It’s a reminder that freedom isn’t free—and sometimes the most rebellious thing you can do is laugh.

Laugh hard. Speak truth. And above all—laugh while it’s still legal! 

Don’t Miss Brad Stine- God has a message just for you…

Check out more of Brad Stine's work on his website:

https://bradstine.com/

Don't forget to follow Brad Stine's Podcast: Brad Stine Has Issues on Youtube!

https://www.youtube.com/c/bradstinehasissues

Faith, Family, and a Night of Bold Conversation

In this episode of Raising Expectations, Pastor Joe Schofield opens the program by welcoming listeners and reminding them that the show is rooted in faith in Jesus Christ, the belief that Christ answers the deepest questions of life, and the desire to help people raise their expectations from “good to better to best together.” He introduces the full team: Melba Schofield, Stefanie Thayer, Dr. Craig Thayer, Dr. Paul Hall, and Ron Greer, each presented as part of a faith-centered family of believers committed to truth, grace, encouragement, and Christian witness.

Introducing Brad Stine, “God’s Comic”

The guest for the hour is conservative comedian Brad Stine, described as a nationally known performer whose comedy takes on cancel culture, political correctness, free speech, identity, gender, COVID mandates, race, politics, and America’s spiritual crisis. Pastor Joe notes that Brad has been called “God’s Comic” and recalls meeting him personally in church settings where his humor and ministry made a strong impression. The show then plays an extended clip of Brad’s stand-up, giving listeners a sense of his rapid-fire style, cultural commentary, sarcasm, and willingness to confront controversial subjects directly.

Laughing at the Language of Cultural Confusion

In the comedy clip, Brad takes on modern identity politics, pronouns, cancel culture, and the way language is used to redefine reality. He jokes about being a man “the old-fashioned way,” being Christian, being white, and being conservative, while arguing that people are often manipulated through changing definitions. He uses examples such as “super spreader,” “peaceful protest,” “insurrection,” “domestic terrorist,” and “safe for democracy” to make the point that whoever controls language can control public perception. His larger message is that people must learn to “laugh while it’s legal” and call out what he sees as cultural absurdity.

Conserving Common Sense

Brad explains in the clip that being conservative does not necessarily mean being loyal to a political party. He says he wants to conserve the original intent of the Constitution, history, wisdom, and common sense. He criticizes elites and billionaires who, in his view, tell ordinary people how to live while promoting climate policies that he finds hypocritical or impractical. His jokes about cows, flatulence, windmills, fossil fuels, and miniature cow-powered turbines use absurdity to make a broader point about energy, environmental policy, and what he sees as the loss of practical reasoning.

From Stand-Up Comedy to Ministry

After the clip, Brad joins the conversation and explains how he began as a stand-up comic in nightclubs while maintaining his Christian convictions. He says he avoided profanity and sexual material because he wanted to compete at the highest level without compromising his faith. Over time, he felt drawn beyond entertainment into ministry. Comedy, he says, became the “flavor” or delivery system for a deeper message about culture, freedom, faith, discipleship, and America’s need to remember what made it free and spiritually grounded.

A Missionary to America

Brad describes himself as a “missionary to America.” He says he loves the country without worshiping it, believes America is historically significant and uniquely free, and feels responsible for defending both religious liberty and the Christian foundations that shaped the nation. He argues that cultural Marxism, progressive ideology, secular religion, and spiritual deception are working to weaken the West from within. For Brad, comedy is not merely entertainment; it is a way to confront what he sees as lies, hypocrisy, and spiritual compromise.

Christianity Versus Discipleship

One of the strongest themes of the conversation is Brad’s distinction between being a “Christian” in name and being a true disciple. He says many American churchgoers treat Christianity as a label rather than a costly calling. Salvation, he explains, is free because of Christ’s work, but discipleship costs everything. Brad argues that believers in America often have not had to suffer for their faith in the way believers do in places such as Nigeria, Iran, Iraq, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Turkey, Myanmar, India, North Korea, China, and other countries where persecution is real and visible.

The Cost of Truth

The team discusses suffering, boldness, and the willingness to speak truth even when it causes offense. Brad says truth is supposed to offend when it exposes what is false, because conviction is meant to lead people toward repentance and freedom. Dr. Paul Hall connects this to Scripture, especially the idea that Christ’s suffering was central to salvation and that believers should not be surprised when following Christ also involves suffering. Brad and the hosts agree that American churches often avoid this message because it is uncomfortable, but they see it as essential to authentic faith.

Comedy as a Gift Given Back to God

Dr. Craig Thayer comments on Brad’s ability to take cultural untruths and expose them through humor. Brad responds by reflecting on the meaning of a spiritual gift. A gift, he says, is not something a person earned or created; it is something given. Because of that, no one should brag about it or treat it as a personal trophy. The only faithful response is to give the gift back to God so it can be used for His purposes. Brad says his comedy, communication style, and boldness are not superior to anyone else’s gifts, but they are the specific tools God entrusted to him.

Inspiring Others to Speak

Brad says people often thank him for being brave or for saying what they were thinking but were afraid to say. While he appreciates that encouragement, he also tells listeners that inspiration should lead to action. If his boldness inspires someone, then that person should “go forth and do likewise” in the territory God has assigned them. He stresses that every believer has a “Nineveh,” a specific area of responsibility where they are called to speak, serve, and obey.

The Church as a Place of Refreshing and Sending

Brad also challenges the idea that church is mainly where nonbelievers should be brought to get saved. He says the church is where believers should be strengthened, refreshed, and equipped so they can go into the marketplace and share the gospel. This leads to a broader critique of what he sees as shallow American Christianity, where church attendance can replace actual discipleship, courage, and public witness. For Brad, the church must train believers to carry truth into the world, not merely gather comfortably inside church walls.

Speaking Truth With Love and Boldness

Stefanie Thayer shares a recent personal experience about having a difficult conversation with someone who was unchurched and surprisingly open to spiritual truth. She reflects that people outside the church may sometimes be more receptive than those shaped by denominational comfort or religious assumptions. Brad agrees that love without truth is not truly love. The conversation emphasizes that Christians are called to speak boldly, but with purpose, conviction, and obedience, not with cruelty or arrogance.

Dangerous Times and a Willingness to Keep Going

Brad acknowledges that his kind of comedy and ministry can come with real risk. He speaks about opposition, threats, and the possibility that the cultural climate may become more hostile toward Christians and conservatives. Still, he says he intends to keep speaking. The hosts respond by affirming their prayers for Brad, his family, and his ministry. Brad says he has seen growing interest from churches, conservative groups, GOP events, and ministries that now recognize the importance of the warnings he has been giving for decades.

Closing With Prayer, Gratitude, and Raised Expectations

The episode closes with Pastor Joe thanking Brad for his time, courage, and ministry. Brad directs listeners to BradStine.com, mentions his podcast Brad Stine Has Issues, and says he is available for comedy events, church services, men’s events, apologetics, marriage conferences, and other ministry settings. Pastor Joe and the team promise to keep him in prayer and close the program by reminding listeners to keep raising expectations in their homes, hearts, faith, families, and future.

Raising Expectations with Pastor Joe Schofield, Stefanie and Dr Craig Thayer, Dr Paul Hall, and Ron Greer

Fatherhood, Identity, and the Healing Power of Godly Mentorship

Guest Teri Werner, Author of Train Wreck to Triumph

Friends,

Join us for a heartfelt discussion with Teri Werner, 'Raising Expectations' family member, as she shares her expertise in helping people overcome trauma and life's challenges, offering a message of hope and transformation. Special insights on what a Father is and means to us all!

Teri, a renowned coach, author, and speaker, will inspire and uplift us with her gift of encouragement, alongside her husband Dave, a special witness for Jesus Christ.

Pastor Joe Schofield Opens Raising Expectations

In this episode of Raising Expectations, host Pastor Joe Schofield welcomes listeners and introduces the program’s faith-centered mission of raising expectations through Christ, family, freedom, finances, and encouragement. He notes that Stefanie Thayer and Dr. Craig Thayer are not present for this episode, while Dr. Paul Hall, Ron Greer, and Melba Schofield join the conversation. Pastor Joe also welcomes returning guest Teri Werner, describing her as part of the Raising Expectations family and highlighting her work as a transformative coach and author of Train Wreck to Triumph.

Teri Werner Reflects on Father’s Day and God’s Loving Kindness

Teri opens the main discussion by reflecting on the approaching Father’s Day season and the spiritual importance of fatherhood. She shares how deeply her own father shaped her understanding of God’s loving kindness, describing the biblical idea of loving kindness as covenant loyalty, mercy, forgiveness, grace, unconditional love, and steadfast affection. Teri explains that many women told her that getting to know her father helped them better understand the Heavenly Father, because he gave them a visible example of godly love, strength, and care.

Fathers, Daughters, and the Formation of Identity

A central theme of the episode is the powerful influence fathers have on daughters. Teri says daughters often see themselves, the world, and future relationships through the lens their fathers give them. If a father shows love, respect, attention, and honor, a daughter is more likely to expect those things from others. If he withholds them, she may become comfortable with neglect, disrespect, or emotional distance. Teri also discusses how girls who do not know their importance to their father by adolescence may later search for validation through overachievement, overproduction, or unhealthy relationships.

Ron Greer on Fatherlessness and Social Breakdown

Ron Greer responds by drawing on his years of ministry and research, including work with prison ministry and men’s discipleship. He says the absence of a biological father in the home is strongly connected to many social problems, including incarceration, gang involvement, school dropout rates, suicide risk, sexual assault, and cycles of family breakdown. Ron emphasizes that the damage of fatherlessness can continue across generations, affecting children, grandchildren, marriages, and spiritual identity. He argues that nothing is more important than a biological or godly father figure who reflects the character of the Heavenly Father.

The Struggle to Understand God as Father

The group also discusses how painful father experiences can make it difficult for people to understand God as a loving Father. Ron explains that when he trained people for prison ministry, he warned them to be careful using phrases like “loving Father,” because many inmates had no positive concept of fatherhood. To them, “father” could mean abandonment, hurt, harsh discipline, or distrust. Teri adds that hopelessness can enter when a person cannot trust an earthly father and then struggles to trust God. The conversation frames healing as a process of separating God’s true character from wounded earthly examples.

Gender Identity, Masculinity, and the Family

Dr. Paul Hall raises the question of gender identity and how it may connect to father absence, family confusion, and cultural instability. Ron responds that many identity struggles are tied to the lack of strong father figures and the destruction of biblical masculinity. He argues that Satan’s attack on manhood, marriage, and family begins in Genesis and continues today. The discussion also touches on feminism, the cultural shifts of the 1970s, abortion, the Ahab and Jezebel spirits, and the ways both men and women can abandon or distort their God-given roles. Teri stresses that these issues are not simply about blaming one gender, but about recognizing spiritual patterns that damage families.

Mentorship, Spiritual Fathers, and Restoring Young Men and Women

The conversation then turns toward solutions. Ron describes resources from Man in the Mirror, including tools for spiritual fathers, mentoring, and discipleship, designed to help older men pour wisdom into younger men. He says men do not need to be trained theologians to mentor; they simply need life experience, scars, humility, and willingness to be transparent. Teri asks how similar mentoring could be created for women, suggesting that women also need trusted guides who can help them grow in identity, faith, and emotional health. The group agrees that mentoring must be built on trust, transparency, and real engagement rather than lectures or shallow church activity.

Churches, Leadership, and the Need for Relevance

The hosts and guest also discuss the need for churches and denominations to become more engaged with real-life struggles rather than relying on old formats, dark stages, loud worship, institutional meetings, or surface-level programming. Teri argues that leadership is a skill requiring intentional study, engagement, and the ability to connect with people where they are. Ron adds that many pastors themselves grew up in an era affected by fatherlessness and may not have been trained in biblical manhood or discipleship. The group says churches need to return to making disciples, not merely drawing people into buildings, and must provide meaningful guidance for young men and women searching for significance.

Transparency, Brokenness, and the Cross

Near the end, Dr. Paul Hall points to brokenness and the necessity of the cross, saying people must understand that they were bought with a price and fiercely loved by Christ. Teri adds that real connection comes through emotional intimacy, trust, and transparency. She says people are changed when leaders are willing to be honest, vulnerable, and Christlike, not when they simply perform or try to be popular. Pastor Joe closes by emphasizing that painful experiences can become sources of strength, peace, and purpose when brought under Christ’s healing. He thanks Teri, Ron, Paul, and Melba, previews next week’s guest Brad Stine, and encourages listeners to lift their expectations to the Lord and trust Him for a cure rather than a temporary bandage.

Raising Expectations with Pastor Joe Schofield, Dr. Paul Hall, Stefanie Thayer, Dr. Craig Thayer, Pastor Ron Greer

Digital Threats, Family Safety, and Faithful Preparedness in a Changing World

Guest, Frank Roberson with the Black Rhino Protection Agency

Friends,

Monday night we're thrilled to welcome back our dear friend and valued family member Frank Roberson. With expertise in protective services, counterintelligence, and threat analysis, Frank will share insights on safeguarding political leaders, like President Trump, and cultivating 'Situational Awareness' for everyday life.

By learning from Frank's expertise, you'll gain clarity on navigating life's challenges and understand the importance of preparedness in the face of adversity. Lives can depend on it, and with this knowledge, you'll be better equipped to protect and serve your loved ones.

Frank will offer practical wisdom to help you navigate life's complexities with confidence.

You won’t want to miss this powerful discussion.

Pastor Joe Opens Raising Expectations

In this episode of Raising Expectations, Pastor Joe Schofield welcomes listeners and introduces the show’s regular team, including Stefanie Thayer, Dr. Craig Thayer, Dr. Paul Hall, Ron Greer, and the wider Raising Expectations family. Pastor Joe reminds listeners that the program is rooted in Christian faith, encouragement, prayer, and practical wisdom for life in America today. He also highlights the show’s website, the hosts’ books, and the program’s ongoing desire to help people move forward with hope, clarity, and stronger faith.

Frank Roberson and Black Rhino Group

The guest for the episode is Frank Roberson, founder of the Black Rhino Group, a protection and security organization. Pastor Joe introduces Frank as someone who works in protective services, counterintelligence, and security preparedness for families, businesses, and public leaders. When Frank joins the show, he shares that Black Rhino is expanding and may be acquiring its first security company to build out a uniformed division. He also says the world of protection is changing quickly because technology is evolving so fast.

Smart Glasses, AI, and the New Surveillance Problem

A major focus of the conversation is emerging technology, especially Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses and similar devices. Frank explains that glasses with hidden or subtle camera functions create new security risks because people can record video, capture documents, photograph credit cards, observe jewelry stores, or gather private information without others realizing it. The group discusses how this can affect malls, medical offices, corporate meetings, financial institutions, and everyday family privacy. Frank emphasizes that the same tools available to security professionals are also available to criminals.

Data Privacy, Cloud Storage, and Digital Exposure

The discussion expands into data privacy and the risks of cloud storage, facial recognition, AI-generated images, and social media data. Frank explains that uploaded videos, photos, and recordings may pass through systems controlled by third parties, contractors, or cloud providers, leaving people uncertain about who has access. He also discusses AI photo tools that can create realistic images of people using uploaded pictures, warning that someone could gather photos from social media and create fake profiles, poses, websites, or misleading content.

Scams, Phishing, and Protecting Personal Information

Frank gives several examples of modern scams, including fake invoices, fraudulent text messages, fake Apple or AT&T alerts, payday-loan threats, gift-card scams, fake legal-service calls, and voice imitation scams targeting grandparents. He explains that criminals may study billing patterns, imitate companies, slightly alter email addresses, and trick people into paying fake bills. His advice is to avoid clicking suspicious links, independently look up company contact information, call the company directly, and never volunteer personal details just because someone on the phone asks for verification.

Social Security Numbers, Travel Posts, and Everyday Risk

The hosts discuss how easily people give away identifying information. Frank explains that social security numbers, birth dates, addresses, and travel information can be combined to steal identities, commit fraud, or target homes. He warns against posting vacation photos while still away, because criminals can use public social media information to know that a house is empty. The group also discusses family code words as a practical tool when someone receives a frightening call that appears to be from a relative in danger.

Security, Churches, and the Problem of Visibility

The conversation turns to physical security, including churches, public events, and protective details. Frank says many churches are vulnerable because they are open, welcoming, and often not security-minded. He also criticizes overly visible security teams that draw attention to themselves with tactical gear, open firearms, or dramatic behavior. In his view, good protection often means blending into the environment, staying unnoticed, and positioning people wisely rather than making a show of force.

Protective Work and Practical Wisdom

Frank uses examples from jewelry escorts, public figures, high-net-worth families, restaurants, malls, and public events to explain how proper security works. He says protection is often about preparation, observation, and quiet placement, not ego or intimidation. Pastor Joe and the team connect Frank’s practical advice to a larger theme of preparedness: people should not live in fear, but they should be aware, wise, and ready. The episode closes with Dr. Paul Hall praying for Frank, his wife Chrissy, Black Rhino, and all those involved in protection work, asking for wisdom, safety, and God’s guidance.

Raising Expectations with Pastor Joe Schofield, Stefanie and Dr Craig Thayer, Dr Paul Hall, and Ron Greer

Faith, Freedom, and America’s Heritage: The Star-Spangled Banner, Biblical Values, and Civic Action

Guest, Denice Gary-Pandol, Faith Former United States Senatorial Candidate

Friends,

If you love America and believe Americans must turn to God with faith (Matthew 19:26) to become responsible, knowledgeable citizens… you must read below the words of our dear friend, former U.S. Senatorial candidate Denice Gary-Pandol!

“Across America, primaries are underway. The challenge before Republicans is not merely to energize the faithful, but to awaken the millions of Americans who have stopped voting because they no longer believe their voice matters.

The winning message is clear: America can still be restored — but only if ordinary citizens rise before decline becomes irreversible.

America's blessings and prosperity cannot be separated from the practice of God's principles, which are found in our Judeo-Christian beliefs. Benjamin Franklin wrote: Without His concurring aid . . . we ourselves shall become a reproach and a byword down to future ages." Our Founders understood that America must embrace and honor God.

As our nation approaches its 250th Anniversary, we should remember that America was forged by men and women who risked not only their lives, but everything for liberty, self-government, limited government, opportunity, and the God-given rights of free people.

People follow movements that believe in their country.

Americans have some good leaders who speak with moral confidence about faith, family, freedom, national strength, secure borders, economic opportunity, and the dignity of productive work — not as relics of the past, but as the foundations of the greatest republic in human history.

America must remain a nation of liberty and self-government — or continue down the path of economic decline, bureaucratic control, and national weakness.

The voters who stopped participating must be reminded that their vote still matters, their country is still worth fighting for, and America’s best days can still lie ahead.”

My best regards,

Denice Gary-Pandol

Former United States Senatorial Candidate

661.747.1829

Raising Expectations Through Christian Faith and National Reflection

In this episode of Raising Expectations, host Joe Schofield is joined by his wife and co-host Melba, along with co-host Dr. Paul Hall. Joe opens by identifying the program as a Christian show focused on what God is doing in people’s lives and in the world. He emphasizes belief in Jesus Christ, gratitude for the United States, and anticipation of America’s 250th anniversary. Joe then welcomes returning guest Denice Gary-Pandol, introducing her as a popular guest prepared to discuss national events, faith, public policy, and developments affecting the country and the Middle East.

Francis Scott Key and the Faith Behind the National Anthem

Denice begins by discussing remarks she recently delivered at a One Nation Under God event in California’s Central Valley. Her subject was The Star-Spangled Banner and the Christian faith of its writer, Francis Scott Key. She describes Key as a deeply religious man, husband, father of eleven children, lawyer, hymn lyricist, and supporter of Sunday school education. Denice emphasizes that the national anthem contains four verses, focusing especially on the fourth verse and its references to God’s power, national preservation, justice, and the phrase “In God is our trust.” She presents Key’s words as evidence that faith in God was central to his understanding of America’s survival and freedom.

Fort McHenry, the War of 1812, and Divine Protection

Denice retells the circumstances surrounding Key’s writing of the anthem during the War of 1812. She explains that President James Madison sent Key to help negotiate the release of American prisoners, including Dr. William Beanes, and that Key remained aboard a British vessel during the attack on Fort McHenry. She describes the British bombardment, the presence of civilians within the fort, and the survival of the American flag through the night. Denice interprets the fort’s endurance, including accounts of rain extinguishing bomb fuses, as possible evidence of God’s protection over the country. For her, Key’s response at dawn reflected gratitude that America had endured the attack.

Founding Principles, Scripture, and the Ten Commandments

The conversation broadens into Denice’s view of America’s religious foundation. Referring to quotations she attributes to early American leaders, including John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, George Washington, Samuel Adams, James Wilson, and Benjamin Franklin, she argues that the founders regarded biblical principles as essential to a moral and free society. She calls for the Ten Commandments to be restored in American schools, saying they teach children the moral foundations needed for civilized conduct. Denice also speaks at length about the Jewish people, describing them as central to biblical history and strongly supporting Israel, while criticizing antisemitism, Islamic extremism, and what she sees as failures within modern education and politics.

Calling Listeners to Political Action

Denice urges listeners to contact elected officials and the president’s comment line about specific issues. She promotes passage of H.R. 22, which she identifies as the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility Act, or SAVE Act, describing it as requiring proof of citizenship and photo identification for voting in federal elections. She encourages listeners to call their senators, including Senate Majority Leader John Thune, and to press California senators Alex Padilla and Adam Schiff to support the legislation. Denice also promotes the Unlock American Energy Jobs Act of 2026, which she says would increase American oil, gas, liquefied natural gas, and nuclear energy production and strengthen United States influence abroad.

California Holidays, Prayer, and Returning the Nation to God

In the final portion, Denice criticizes a California bill she identifies as AB 2017, which she says would establish two Muslim observances as state holidays. She contrasts this proposal with the absence of comparable recognition for Jewish holidays and argues that California and the nation should honor Judeo-Christian history and values. Joe and Paul affirm her broader appeal for moral clarity, civic engagement, and prayer. The episode closes with Paul praying for Denice, the nation, and the show’s audience, while Joe encourages listeners to make calls, pray for leaders and families, support the program, and remember that God loves them.

Raising Expectations with Pastor Joe Schofield, Stefanie and Dr Craig Thayer, Dr Paul Hall, and Ron Greer

Finding faith-based identity and Healing through Transparent Communication

Guest, Teri Werner, Author of Train Wreck to Triumph

Friends,

Join us for a powerful discussion with Teri Werner, 'Raising Expectations' family member, as she shares her expertise in helping people overcome trauma and life's challenges, offering a message of hope and transformation.

Teri, a renowned coach, author, and speaker, will inspire and uplift us with her gift of encouragement, alongside her husband Dave, a special witness for Jesus Christ.

This episode of "Raising Expectations" features guest Terri Warner and a panel of co-hosts discussing the profound intersection of spiritual identity, family trauma, and the life-saving power of honest communication. The conversation moves from the emotional complexities of Mother’s Day to scientific evidence linking transparent dialogue with physical longevity.

The Foundation of Identity: Being a Child of God

The discussion opens with Terri Warner sharing a personal spiritual experience where the Holy Spirit centered her on the simple yet transformative phrase, "Jesus is Lord." She emphasizes that before any earthly roles—such as being a wife, mother, or professional—a woman’s primary identity is as a daughter of God. This shift in perspective is crucial for maintaining "purity of purpose" and intimacy in all other areas of life. The panel explores how aging and societal pressures often cause individuals to dismiss this foundational identity, leading to burnout and a sense of being overwhelmed by life's "whirling plates."

Healing Generational Trauma and the "Mother’s Day Void"

A significant portion of the dialogue addresses the pain Mother’s Day can bring to those with broken family histories, including adoption, loss, or abusive parenting. The co-hosts discuss how God "makes up the difference" for those who lacked natural nurturing, often using that very void to call individuals into "mentoring" roles for others. Ron Greer and Paul Hall share insights from prison ministry and personal loss, noting that many struggle to see God as a loving Father because of traumatic experiences with their biological parents. The group concludes that healing comes from renouncing "generational curses" and replacing lies with the truth of God’s restorative nature.

The Science of Communication and Longevity

Terri Warner introduces a compelling Harvard study that tracked 4,200 women over 18 years, revealing that those who felt unable to speak their truth ("saying they were fine when they were not") faced significantly higher risks of cardiac arrest and immune disorders. The study suggests that suppressing one's truth creates chronic low-grade inflammation, effectively reducing life expectancy by an average of eight years. Conversely, as little as 23 minutes of transparent, heart-driven conversation per week can eliminate these inflammation markers and fundamentally alter a person's health trajectory.

Practical Tools for Deep Connection

To bridge the gap between "intellectualizing" and true heart-connection, the panel offers specific communication techniques. These include setting "connect coffee dates" and using the "arrowhead" finger posture to maintain focus on the speaker. The "Tell me more" prompt is highlighted as a powerful tool to build trust and validate others without immediately jumping to solutions. The co-hosts emphasize that true intimacy is not about winning a debate but about being "seen" and "known" by another person.

The episode concludes with a powerful reminder that while relationships are the "toughest challenges in the world," they are also our primary design. By moving from passive or "compliant" communication to active, heart-centered transparency, individuals can heal generational wounds and significantly improve their physical and spiritual well-being.

The Team!

Pastor Joe Schofield, 

Dr. Paul Paul Hall, 

Stef Stefanie Shaw Thayer, 

Dr. Craig Craig Tank Thayer, 

Pastor Ron Ron Greer.