Ashley Nichols is the Executive Director of Hope Network, a ministry providing transitional housing and support for women in recovery in Rutherford County, North Carolina. Ashley shares her journey with the organization and elaborates on the programs designed to help women overcome addiction, homelessness, and incarceration. The episode provides insights into the history of Hope Network, their current operations, and how the community can support their mission. Listeners will learn about the comprehensive support services offered, the challenges and successes of the program, and the impact it has had on many women's lives.

00:00 Introduction to Small Town, Big God

00:52 Meet Ashley Nichols

01:59 History of Hope Network

03:30 Hope Network's Transitional Housing Program

07:37 Challenges and Successes

17:07 Ashley Nichols' Personal Growth

20:57 Supporting Hope Network

25:02 Conclusion and Call to Action

Hope Network: https://www.hopenetwork.net/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HopeNetworkRC

Amazon wish list: https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/A6LERXNLHNA4/ref=hz_ls_biz_ex

find more of Mikel's work: https://www.mwcollins.org/

In this episode of 'Small Town, Big God,' host Mikel Collins continues the inspiring story of Hope House Coffee in Rutherford County, North Carolina. The focus of this episode is Carl Schultz, the coffee shop's manager, who shares his remarkable journey from feeling called to ministry while working as a chef to becoming a pivotal figure at Hope House Coffee. Carl discusses the challenges and confirmations he experienced, his approach to discipleship, and the profound impact he has had on the community, including his relationship with a young man named Robert Lee. Carl's story highlights the transformative power of surrendering to God's plan and the importance of having hard spiritual conversations.

00:00 Introduction to Small Town, Big God

01:06 Carl Schultz's Journey to Rutherford County

03:24 A Calling to Ministry

04:40 The Turning Point: Surrendering to God's Plan

07:09 Becoming a Campus Pastor

10:03 The Vision of Hope House Coffee

15:25 Opening Hope House Coffee

18:07 The Ministry of Hope House Coffee

20:25 Discipleship and Fatherhood

21:55 Robert Lee

27:53 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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Hope House Coffee is a relatively new coffee shop in Forest City that serves more than just great beverages—it's a ministry aimed at fostering community and supporting global missions. Mikel speaks with J.R. Blanton and Eddie Nichols, key figures behind the coffee shop's creation, as they recount the journey from its inception as a mission trip idea in 2017 to its current status as a non-profit in a former laundromat. They share the challenges faced, the divine guidance they received, and the unique impact Hope House Coffee is making both locally and globally. The episode also highlights the importance of community involvement, the significance of their chosen name, and a sneak peek into the favorite drinks of the founders.

00:00 Introduction to Small Town Big God

00:12 The Birth of Hope House Coffee

00:45 The Ministry Vision Behind the Coffee Shop

02:28 Inspiration from a 2017 Missions Trip

05:21 Launching the Coffee Shop Plans

05:51 Challenges and Career Changes

09:44 Starting Small: The Basement Coffee Shop

11:48 The Impact of COVID-19

12:19 Acquiring the New Property

17:27 Transforming the Laundromat

22:45 Hope House Coffee's Mission and Success

26:37 The Name and Tagline: Hope House Coffee

33:19 Community Impact and Leadership

38:33 Conclusion and Next Episode Teaser

39:20 Favorite Drinks at Hope House Coffee

Rutherford Count, NC, also known as Small Town Friendly. Is an incredible place where God is doing some amazing things. Stick around to hear about all the incredible things God is doing in Small Town Friendly.