A generation raised on constant stimulation is struggling with anxiety, delayed development, and an inability to disconnect—and many parents don’t realize how early those patterns begin. In this episode of the Covenant Eyes Podcast, Karen Potter and Theo McManigal sit down with retired pediatric physical therapist Ginny Cruz to discuss how excessive screen exposure is impacting children’s brains, emotional regulation, communication, and development.

Drawing from over four decades of experience in pediatric therapy and early intervention, Ginny explains why face-to-face interaction, boredom, physical play, and family connection are essential for healthy childhood development. She also shares practical encouragement for parents who want to reduce screen dependence without guilt or overwhelm.

This conversation offers hope for families who want to create healthier rhythms at home and reminds listeners that children were designed to grow through real-world relationships, not endless digital stimulation.

Episode Topics Discussed
• How excessive screen exposure impacts early childhood development
• Why anxiety and decision-making struggles are increasing in children
• The connection between technology and delayed speech development
• Face-to-face interaction and why it matters for brain development
• What children are missing when they spend too much time on devices
• Fine motor skill delays and overstimulation in young kids
• Why boredom, creativity, and play are essential for healthy growth
• Practical ways parents can reduce screen dependence at home
• How parental screen habits also impact children
• Understanding “virtual autism” and overstimulation symptoms

Resources Mentioned
The New Mom’s Guide to Help and Hope for Babies First Year by Ginny Cruz
Tummy Time Prayers Facebook Group
Ginny Cruz Website 

Timestamps
00:00 – How Excessive Screen Time Impacts Child Development
00:31 – Welcome to Ginny- Her Background in Pediatric Therapy
01:36 – Developmental Delays and Screen Exposure After Covid
03:23 – The New Mom’s Guide to Help and Hope for Babies First Year
05:05 – Research on Anxiety, Screens, and Cognitive Development
09:09 – Reigning in the Risk of Early Exposure to Digital Stimulation
10:58 – Why Face-to-Face Interaction Matters for Development
13:54 – Fine Motor Skills, Focus, and Real World Learning
15:28 – Tools to Use in Place of Screens 
18:58 – Can Brain Pathways Be Rewired?
22:23 – How Parents’ Own Screen Habits Affect Their Children
25:36 – Why Offline Connection Matters More Than Ever
28:22 – Boredom, Creativity, and Hearing From God
31:22 – Building Confidence Through Real World Experiences
33:05 – Reclaiming Family Connection and Simplicity
36:50 – Understanding “Virtual Autism” and Overstimulation
40:34 – When Parents Should Seek Early Intervention
42:31 – Resources, Encouragement, and Final Thoughts

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© 2026 Covenant Eyes, All Rights Reserved

A hidden struggle can exist behind outward success, and for many men, achievement becomes the mask that keeps deeper battles buried. In this episode of the Covenant Eyes Podcast, Karen Potter and Rob Stoddard sit down with entrepreneur, coach, and speaker Frank Rich to discuss identity, personal growth, and the deeper issues driving destructive habits.

Frank shares his journey from high performance success to helping men rebuild their lives through faith, purpose, discipline, and identity transformation. Together, they unpack the connection between mental health, isolation, anxiety, personal development, and unwanted behaviors, while offering hope for men who feel trapped behind shame or performance-based living.

This conversation challenges listeners to pursue holistic growth rather than surface-level behavior management and reminds them that true freedom starts with transformation from the inside out.

Episode Topics Discussed

• Why outward success can hide internal struggles
• The connection between identity and lasting freedom
• Faith, fitness, family, finance, and personal growth
• How anxiety, depression, and loneliness fuel destructive habits
• Why holistic healing matters for long-term change
• Rebuilding confidence, discipline, and purpose
• The role of neuroscience and psychology in behavior patterns
• Why community and accountability are essential for growth
• Helping men move from shame into transformation
• How purpose-driven living changes decision making

Resources Mentioned

The Rebuilt Man – Coaching and resources for men
Super Human Life Podcast – Hosted by Frank Rich
Covenant Eyes – Tools and accountability resources for digital integrity

Timestamps

00:00 – Faith, Fitness, Finance, Family & Freedom
00:16 – Welcome Back Frank Rich
00:32 – The Rebuilt Man and Helping High Achieving Men
02:00 – Success, Identity Transformation, and Holistic Growth 
05:59 – The Connection Between Destructive Habits and Mental Health
07:36 – Identity Transformation Through Doing Hard Things                                          14:41 – The Super Human Life Podcast                                                                                19:35 – When Willpower Fails, Identity Wins 
23:40 – Why Men Need Community and Accountability                                                  27:35 – Focusing on the Future, Not the Past                                                                      30:51 – Final Thoughts and Where to Connect with Frank Rich

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© 2026 Covenant Eyes, All Rights Reserved

In this episode of the Covenant Eyes Podcast, a powerful challenge is laid out: what if the real crisis facing men today isn’t just behavior—but identity? Theo McManigal is joined by John Heinen and Devin Schadt of The Catholic Gentleman to unpack the deeper roots of masculinity, shame, and purpose in a culture that has lost its way.

Together, they explore how the breakdown of authentic masculinity has led to isolation, confusion, and destructive habits—and why reclaiming identity as sons, husbands, and fathers is essential for healing. Drawing from Scripture, personal experience, and years of ministry, John and Devin point to a countercultural truth: real strength is found not in control or dominance, but in sacrifice, responsibility, and self-giving love.

This conversation dives into the role of shame, the importance of brotherhood, and the necessity of spiritual discipline in forming men who can lead with courage and integrity. They also address cultural extremes—from passivity to domination—and offer a grounded, faith-filled vision of masculinity rooted in relationship, purpose, and truth.

Whether you’re navigating your own struggles, leading a family, or seeking clarity on what it means to be a man in today’s world, this episode offers both conviction and hope: transformation begins when you embrace your identity and allow God to work through your life.

Episode Topics Discussed

• The crisis of masculinity and loss of identity
• Why shame keeps men stuck and isolated
• The difference between passivity and domination
• Reclaiming masculinity through responsibility and virtue
• The role of brotherhood and accountability
• Why prayer and discipline are essential for growth
• Cultural confusion around relationships and marriage
• The impact of fatherlessness on young men
• Learning to embrace sacrifice, not avoid it
• How authentic masculinity is rooted in self-giving love

Resources Mentioned

The Catholic Gentleman
Fathers of Saint Joseph
The Meaning and Mystery of Man by Devin Schadt 

Timestamps

06:26 – The Root of Lust & Disordered Desire
11:36 – How Shame Impacts Men’s Lives
17:50 – Embracing Littleness & True Strength
18:46 – Forming Men Who Take Responsibility
21:39 – Brotherhood, Prayer & Spiritual Growth
24:55 – Discipline, Habits & Self-Mastery
29:53 – Cultural Confusion Around Masculinity
33:36 – Marriage, Fear & Misconceptions
34:43 – The Power of Relationships & Purpose
38:54 – Love, Sacrifice & the Meaning of the Cross
44:55 – How Division Distorts Masculinity and Femininity                                                    47:13 – Marriage as a Mirror: Identity, Growth, and Self-Awareness                                51:29 – Fatherhood: What Sons and Daughters Need
59:31 – Final Encouragement & Living with Purpose

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© 2026 Covenant Eyes, All Rights Reserved

In this episode of the Covenant Eyes Podcast, host Karen Potter sits down with Ashley Jameson of Pure Desire to talk about one of the most overlooked conversations in the church today—how these struggles are impacting women, marriages, and entire congregations. While many still view this as a men’s issue, the reality is far more complex and far more widespread.

Ashley shares from years of experience walking alongside individuals and churches, highlighting both the challenges and the hope she has seen firsthand. From powerful stories of freedom to the ongoing gaps in resources, she explains why this is one of the greatest discipleship opportunities facing the church right now. When people feel safe enough to bring their stories into the light, real healing can begin.

The conversation also explores the unique challenges women face, including shame, betrayal, trauma, and confusion around identity and worth. Ashley offers practical insight for churches, leaders, and individuals who want to take the next step—reminding listeners that healing is not instant, but it is possible with the right support, community, and commitment to the process.

Episode Topics Discussed

• Ashley Davidson’s role at Pure Desire and ministry background
• The vision and impact of Pure Desire’s counseling and group programs
• Her book Girl Talk and resources for moms and daughters
• The growing need for continued care beyond initial recovery
• Why this issue is a major discipleship opportunity for the church
• Current statistics and the gap in church resources
• How small churches can implement support systems
• The importance of testimonies and creating safe spaces
• Challenges women face, including shame, betrayal, and insecurity
• Why repeated struggles often point to deeper work that needs to be done
• The realities facing younger generations today
• Trauma, betrayal, and how it impacts the mind, body, and relationships
• Signs of unresolved trauma and unhealthy relational patterns
• How churches can better support individuals and spouses
• Encouragement for those feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or alone

Resources Mentioned

Pure Desire Ministries – https://puredesire.org
Pure Desire Online Groups and Church Partnerships- https://puredesire.org/groups
Girl Talk by Ashley Jameson- https://puredesire.org/shop/girl-talk

Timestamps

00:00 – Why This Conversation Matters
00:32 – Introduction to Ashley Davidson
00:37 – Pure Desire’s Impact and Ministry Overview
03:15 – Girl Talk and New Resource Development
06:44 – How to Connect with Pure Desire
07:28 – The Reality in Churches Today
11:30 – Supporting Small Churches and Leaders
14:10 – Addressing Hidden Struggles in the Church
16:39 – Unique Challenges Women Face
19:38 – The Younger Generation and Growing Needs
23:06 – Trauma, Betrayal, and Its Impact
25:59 – Signs of Unresolved Trauma
28:31 – How Churches Can Better Support Spouses
31:32 – Final Encouragement: You Are Not Alone

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© 2026 Covenant Eyes, All Rights Reserved

"Most marriages don't fall apart overnight, they unravel through small compromises over time."

In this episode of the Covenant Eyes Podcast, host Karen Potter sits down with Jim Ramos, founder of Men in the Arena and author of multiple books focused on equipping men to lead with strength, integrity, and purpose. Jim shares practical, hard-earned wisdom on how men can build guardrails to protect their marriages and avoid the small compromises that often lead to devastating consequences.

Drawing from decades of marriage and ministry experience, Jim unpacks the importance of boundaries, emotional connection, and intentional leadership in relationships. He explains that strong marriages don’t happen by accident—they are built through daily choices, disciplined habits, and a commitment to honor your spouse both privately and publicly.

The conversation also dives into deeply personal moments from Jim’s own marriage, including lessons learned through failure, repentance, and growth. Listeners will walk away with actionable insight, biblical encouragement, and a renewed understanding of what it means to build a marriage that lasts.

Episode Topics Discussed

• The mission behind Men in the Arena and calling men into action
• Why marriages need guardrails to stay strong
• Common relational pitfalls that lead to broken trust
• The importance of emotional connection in marriage
• Healthy ways to interact with the opposite sex
• Why certain compliments and conversations can cross boundaries
• The biblical meaning of “cleaving” and pursuing your spouse
• Building a marriage marked by intentional pursuit and connection
• The power of how you speak about your spouse to others
• How “framing” your spouse shapes how others see them
• Repentance, growth, and restoring trust within marriage
• Guardrails for singles and preparing for future relationships
• Living above reproach and protecting your integrity

Resources Mentioned

Men in the Arena – https://meninthearena.org
Pre-order Jim Ramos’ latest book- https://www.amazon.com/Men-in-the-Arena-Podcast/dp/B08K5BVH21
Men in the Arena Podcast – https://podcast.meninthearena.org/ 

Timestamps

00:00 – Why Guardrails Matter in Marriage
00:20 – Welcome and Introduction to Jim Ramos
00:34 – The Mission of Men in the Arena
01:24 – The Heart Behind the New Book
03:24 – Guardrails in Everyday Interactions
05:52 – Staying Emotionally Connected to Your Spouse
06:42 – The Meaning of “Cleave” in Marriage
10:46 – The Power of Speaking Well About Your Spouse
11:33 – Confession, Growth, and Restoring Trust
16:37 – A Word for Women and Shared Responsibility
17:46 – Guardrails for Singles
19:13 – Living Above Reproach and Protecting Integrity
22:27 – Where to Find the Book and Get Connected

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© 2026 Covenant Eyes, All Rights Reserved

"If we want to see real transformation, we have to stop talking about behavior and start talking about the heart, the brain, and the trauma behind it."

In this episode of the Covenant Eyes Podcast, host Karen Potter and the team welcome Hannah Ashwell, a therapist from the United Kingdom specializing in trauma psychology and modern behavioral addictions. Hannah brings clinical insight and pastoral sensitivity to a topic many churches still struggle to address openly.

Hannah shares about her upcoming book Quit Porn, written to make complex psychological and spiritual concepts accessible to everyday readers. Drawing from her work as a therapist and her own life journey, she explains why recovery often requires both personal responsibility and compassionate support. Rather than focusing only on behavior change, the conversation explores deeper issues like shame, trauma, and the importance of honest conversation.

The discussion also highlights the role of the church in addressing this growing issue. Hannah emphasizes that silence allows struggles to deepen, while open conversations can bring hope and healing. From the impact on relationships and mental health to the importance of pastoral support and professional counseling, this episode encourages churches and individuals alike to step into the conversation with wisdom and courage.

Episode Topics Discussed

• Why pornography is often misunderstood as only a men’s issue
• The growing societal impact on relationships, families, and mental health
• Hannah’s background in trauma psychology and addiction counseling
• The inspiration behind her book Quit Porn
• Modern addictions beyond drugs and alcohol
• Why shame keeps people trapped in silence
• The difference between guilt and shame in recovery
• The role of trauma, opportunity, and digital access in behavioral struggles
• Why churches struggle to address the issue openly
• The importance of conversation, accountability, and community support
• How pastors can support people without carrying the entire burden alone
• When professional therapy becomes an important part of healing

Resources Mentioned

Hannah Ashwell Wellness: https://www.facebook.com/HannahAshwellWellness/
Quit Porn – https://www.quit-porn.com/
Quit Porn by Hannah Ashwell – Print edition available in the UK, audiobook and ebook releasing soon

Timestamps

00:00 – The Hidden Impact of Pornography on Society
00:35 – Meet Hannah Ashwell
01:26 – Writing the Book Quit Porn to Making Resources Accessible to Everyone
03:01 – Hannah’s Personal Journey and Motivation
04:49 – Why the Church Struggles to Address This Issue
07:11 – How Pornography Impacts Relationships and Society
09:00 – Helping Church Leaders Understand the Issue
10:46 – Addressing Pornography in the US vs. the UK                                                      11:37 – Why Shame Keeps People Silent
13:39 – The Difference Between Guilt and Shame
15:46 – Addressing the Roots of Shame
17:41 – How Churches Can Support People in Recovery
19:47 – Where to Find Hannah’s Resources
20:43 – Final Advice for Churches and Individuals
21:41 – The Core Message of Quit Porn

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© 2026 Covenant Eyes, All Rights Reserved

"Video games aren't just entertainment—they are the primary school for identity and values for the next generation."

In this episode of the Covenant Eyes Podcast, host Karen Potter welcomes Brent Dusing, founder and CEO of TruPlay Games, to discuss one of the fastest-growing influences in children’s lives today: digital gaming. As screens increasingly dominate how kids learn, play, and interact, Brent shares why the gaming industry is not just entertainment—it’s shaping identity, values, and worldview.

Brent explains the heart behind TruPlay Games, a faith-based gaming platform designed to give families a safe and engaging alternative in a space often filled with harmful or low-quality content. Rather than simply telling parents what to avoid, TruPlay Games offers something better—story-driven games rooted in biblical principles, designed to inspire, teach, and build character.

The conversation also dives into the evolving role of artificial intelligence in gaming, including how it can be used to manipulate behavior, increase screen time, and even filter what content is allowed to reach families. Brent challenges parents to be informed, intentional, and proactive in guiding their children through an increasingly complex digital landscape.

This episode is both a wake-up call and a source of hope, reminding parents that while the challenges are real, there are still ways to create safe, meaningful digital experiences for the next generation.

✨ Episode Topics Discussed

• The current state of the gaming industry and its impact on children
• Why screen time and digital content are shaping identity and values
• The vision behind TruPlay Games and faith-based gaming alternatives
• Story-driven gameplay and its influence on character development
• The loss of narrative and attention span in short-form content culture
• How artificial intelligence is being used in modern gaming
• The risks of manipulation through in-app purchases and engagement tactics
• Concerns about content filtering and bias in major tech platforms
• Practical ways parents can guide and protect their children online
• Creating safe digital environments without removing technology entirely

📘 Resources Mentioned

TruPlay Games – Available on Apple App Store and Google Play Store
7-Day Free Trial Available
TruPlay Games Website and Platform

⏱️ Timestamps

00:00 – A Better Alternative for Kids in a Digital World
00:23 – Introduction to Brent Dusing and TruPlay Games
02:07 – Screen Time, Content, and Cultural Influence
03:26 – The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Gaming
06:38 – The Importance of Storytelling and Identity Formation
11:37 – How to Access TruPlay Games
13:42 – The Future of Gaming and AI
15:35 – Creating Safe Digital Spaces
16:42 – Age Ranges and Family Engagement
17:38 – Taking Action as Parents
19:25 – Final Encouragement

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© 2026 Covenant Eyes, All Rights Reserved

"What happens when you set out to prove the Bible is a lie, and the Bible wins?"

In this episode of the Covenant Eyes Podcast, host Karen Potter sits down with Ed Griffenhagen, pastor, author, and former skeptic, to share his powerful journey from a deeply rooted Jewish upbringing to a life transformed by faith in Christ. What began as an intellectual challenge to disprove the Bible quickly became something far more personal, leading Ed to a life-changing encounter with truth.

Ed shares how reading Scripture with honesty and curiosity opened his heart in unexpected ways. His story highlights the power of God’s Word to withstand scrutiny and reveal truth to those willing to seek it. From late-night study sessions to a moment of surrender on a dark, rainy morning, Ed’s testimony is a compelling reminder that faith is not blind—it is discovered.

This conversation also explores the cost of following Christ, including strained family relationships, difficult conversations, and the courage it takes to stand firm in truth. Through it all, Ed points back to the faithfulness of God, the power of prayer, and the beauty of Scripture when we truly dive in and understand it.

✨ Episode Topics Discussed

• Ed’s Jewish upbringing and early life in the Bible Belt
• His decision to read the Bible with the intent to disprove it
• How Scripture held up under scrutiny and transformed his thinking
• The moment he surrendered his life to Christ
• Family tension, rejection, and eventual reconciliation
• Sharing the gospel with his father in his final days
• The role of persistent prayer in salvation stories
• Being called into ministry later in life
• How Scripture connects from Genesis to the New Testament
• The deeper meaning found through studying original biblical languages

📘 Resources Mentioned

Ed Griffenhagen’s Devotional Book (Releasing March 3) – Available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Walmart, and more
The Case for Christ & The Case for Faith by Lee Strobel
Works by Josh McDowell

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© 2026 Covenant Eyes, All Rights Reserved

"Why is the world suddenly craving cleaner, faith-centered entertainment?"

In this episode of the Covenant Eyes Podcast, host Karen Potter is joined by actor Bailey Chase to discuss his work with Angel Studios and the Homestead series. Bailey shares how his involvement with faith-centered storytelling developed, why clean entertainment matters for families, and what viewers can expect as the series continues.

Bailey reflects on how meaningful it is to be part of projects that align with his faith and values while still delivering compelling action and drama. The conversation highlights the growing demand for entertainment that families can enjoy together without compromising content standards.

Listeners will also hear behind-the-scenes insights about filming, the transition from film to series format, and how stories rooted in faith, community, and resilience are connecting with audiences.

✨ Episode Topics Discussed

• Bailey Chase’s journey into faith-centered entertainment
• Working with Angel Studios and the impact of purpose-driven storytelling
• Why audiences are seeking cleaner, family-friendly content
• Behind-the-scenes insights from the Homestead series
• The transition from film to episodic storytelling
• Themes of faith, community, and resilience in modern entertainment
• Anticipating what’s ahead in season two

📘 Resources Mentioned

Angel Studios – https://angel.com
Homestead Series – Available through Angel Studios platform

⏱️ Timestamps

00:00 – Clean entertainment and why it matters for families
00:23 – Welcome back Bailey Chase
01:35 – How Bailey connected with Angel Studios
03:30 – Themes of survival, faith, and community in the story
04:34 – Season one releases and behind-the-scenes filming insights
05:41 – What to expect moving into season two
07:14 – Closing encouragement and final thoughts

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© 2026 Covenant Eyes, All Rights Reserved

In this episode of the Covenant Eyes Podcast, host Karen Potter sits down with Dr. Stephen Cutchins, pastor, professor, author, and executive director at the Southern Evangelical Seminary’s Innovative Training Center. With decades of experience in ministry, leadership, education, and executive coaching, Dr. Cutchins brings a thoughtful and balanced perspective to one of today’s most pressing topics: artificial intelligence.

As AI continues to reshape industries, education, and everyday life, Christians are faced with new questions about ethics, discernment, and how to faithfully navigate rapidly advancing technology. Dr. Cutchins explores how believers can engage these tools wisely without abandoning the timeless foundations of theology, moral reasoning, and spiritual disciplines.

Throughout the conversation, he emphasizes that while AI presents new opportunities, it also exposes deeper cultural challenges—such as the devaluing of wisdom, the rise of extended adolescence, and the temptation to replace spiritual discernment with technological convenience. Instead of reacting with fear or blind acceptance, Dr. Cutchins encourages Christians to approach AI with wisdom, humility, and a commitment to redeem technology for kingdom purposes.

Ultimately, this discussion reminds listeners that while artificial intelligence may offer powerful capabilities, it can never replace divine intelligence. Prayer, community, and biblical truth remain the essential tools for navigating the future faithfully.

✨ Episode Topics Discussed

• Dr. Stephen Cutchins’ background: ministry, leadership, & higher education
• Why AI is raising new ethical questions for Christians & churches
• The difference between intelligence, discernment, & spiritual wisdom
• How technology is advancing faster than society’s moral framework
• Cultural shifts that are impacting how people interact with AI
• The importance of valuing wisdom, experience, & mentorship
• Why Christians should neither reject nor blindly embrace AI
• The role of discernment when using AI tools in ministry & education
• Understanding true freedom versus false freedom in a technological age
• Why prayer & spiritual disciplines are essential in navigating modern technology

📘 Resources Mentioned

Dr. Stephen Cutchins- https://stephencutchins.com/meetstephen-2/

Southern Evangelical Seminary- https://ses.edu/people/dr-stephen-cutchins/

⏱️ Timestamps

00:00 – Wrestling with a Technology No Generation Has Faced
00:37 – Introduction to Dr. Stephen Cutchins & Background
05:27 – Why the Church Must Talk About AI
06:09 – Technology Advancing Faster Than Moral Frameworks
07:25 – Cultural Shifts Impacting Wisdom and Maturity
12:03 – Faith, Discernment, and Artificial Intelligence
16:09 – Should Christians Use AI for Sermons and Bible Study?
20:22 – Learning from Previous Generations and Reverse Mentorship
22:20 – Why AI Requires Wisdom, Not Just Information
25:22 – Preparing the Church for a Technological Future
27:17 – Understanding True Freedom vs. False Freedom
32:13 – AI as a Tool, Not a Moral Authority
36:47 – Practical Advice for Christians Navigating AI
41:37 – Final Encouragement for Believers

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© 2026 Covenant Eyes, All Rights Reserved