What if the story you’re living right now—yes, even the painful parts—is being written by God with more intention than you can see?

In this episode of Your Biggest Breakthrough, we sit down with our dear friends Joe and Tamara Battaglia, and we promise you this conversation will move you. You’ll laugh, you may cry, and you’ll walk away reminded that nothing in your life is random.

Joe’s journey through Christian media, Tamara’s deeply personal miracles of motherhood, the heartbreaks, the waiting seasons, and the surprising love story God orchestrated between them—it all points to one powerful truth: God is always working behind the scenes, even when we don’t recognize it in the moment.

Tamara shares the heart behind her devotional, Written in Heaven—a collection of real stories from women who’ve walked through infertility, loss, divorce, illness, loneliness, and restoration. These aren’t polished testimonies; they’re honest, faith-filled reminders that God sees you, hears you, and is still writing your story.

We also talk about marriage, purpose, second chances, loneliness, worship as warfare, and why sharing your story—no matter how ordinary it feels—might be exactly what someone else needs to hear.

Chapters:

[00:00] Podcast Preview

[01: 15] Topic and Guest Introduction

[04:09] Welcoming Joe & Tamara Battaglia

[07:15] Joe’s Jesus breakthrough & God’s providence

[10:50] Tamara’s salvation story at age 12

[12:22] How God orchestrated their meeting

[18:20] Recognizing God’s hand in their relationship

[20:40] Tamara’s infertility journey & miracle story

[29:12] Why Tamara felt called to collect other women’s stories

[31:23] Every kind of pain is represented in Written in Heaven

[32:16] Marriage, covenant, and “holding up her arms”

[36:30] When God feels silent and seasons feel long

[40:30] Inside the Written in Heaven devotional

[42:14] Why does God bring couples together for a purpose

[49:30] Why real community still matters

[55:50] Final encouragement & blessing

Resources mentioned:

Written in Heaven: His Story, Our Lives by Tamara Hester Battaglia

1. Amazon
2. Christianbook

Joe Battaglia's Website: jobattaglia.com

The Business Bible

Guest's bio and social handles:

Joe Battaglia and Tamara Hester Battaglia are a faith-driven couple whose lives and marriage reflect God’s providence, redemption, and purpose across every season.

Joe Battaglia is a veteran broadcaster, best-selling author, and the founder and president of Renaissance Communications, the media company behind the nationally syndicated radio program Keep the Faith. With decades of leadership in Christian radio and media, Joe has helped shape countless faith-based initiatives, promoted major Christian films, and served on influential industry boards, including the Gospel Music Association. Known for his journalistic insight and bold biblical perspective, Joe continues to champion faith, family, and community through media, writing, and mentorship.

Tamara Hester Battaglia is an author, devoted wife, and global traveler who has spent nearly two decades sharing God’s love around the world through her work as a flight attendant. She is the author of the devotional Written in Heaven: His Story, Our Lives, a 40-day collection of powerful testimonies designed to help readers recognize God’s presence and purpose even in life’s hardest valleys. Her writing is rooted in lived experience, deep faith, and a passion for encouraging others through authentic God-stories.

Together, Joe and Tamara live in Franklin, Tennessee, where they continue to pursue creative ministry, encourage couples and individuals to trust God’s unfolding story, and model a marriage grounded in covenant, faith, and shared calling.

Call to action:

Make sure to visit yourbiggestbreakthrough.com for your FREE access to our e-book and audiobook, "Unstoppable: Divine Intervention in Overcoming Adversity," showcasing six powerful real-life stories. Get ready to be inspired by these mind-blowing breakthroughs!

To learn more about Wendie and her Visibly Fit program, visit wendiepett.com

To find out more about Todd and his coaching program for men, find him on the web at toddisberner.com.

All the links you need to subscribe to the podcast are at both our websites! And if you feel so inclined, we'd be honored if you were to leave a rating and review of our show. It definitely helps with us being more visible to more people.

And if we like it, we might just read your review on the podcast!

What happens when divorce shakes your faith?

In this episode, we sit down with Hannah Ayers, who went through a divorce while pregnant, deeply confused, angry at God, and still showing up every morning as a Christian radio host, smiling on air while her heart was breaking behind the scenes.

If you’ve ever felt like you had to hold it together for everyone else while falling apart inside… this conversation is for you.

We talk honestly about grief, divorce, faith, anger, shame, and healing—and what it actually looks like to walk with God when you don’t feel very “Christian” at all. Hannah shares how God met her in practical, undeniable ways, how community and honesty changed everything, and why real healing only happens when we stop trying to avoid pain and finally face it.

This episode isn’t just about divorce.

It’s about loss, disappointment, unanswered prayers, and the moments when you wonder if God is really still good.

If you’re hurting, isolated, or tired of pretending—you’ll find hope here. Not hype. Not platitudes. Real hope.

👉 Stay to the end, because Hannah also shares practical steps for healing and offers a free coaching session for those who need support right now.

Chapters

[00:00] Podcast Preview

[01:24] Topic and Guest Introduction

[03:26] Welcome & Why Hannah’s Story Matters

[04:24] Divorced While Pregnant: Hitting Rock Bottom

[06:43] When Disappointment with Life Turns into Disappointment with God

[08:17] Angry at God While Hosting Christian Radio

[09:16] The Call That Changed Everything

[11:03] Feeling Like a Fraud in Ministry

[12:38] Seeing God’s Intervention in Hindsight

[14:35] Reframing Pain: Stop Asking “Why”

[16:23] Owning Your Part Without Shame

[18:58] The Danger of the “Perfect Christian” Mask

[20:26] The Power of Vulnerability

[21:55] Learning to Trust God Again

[23:00] When God Shows Up in the Smallest Details

[26:04] Honest Prayers God Can Handle

[28:28] The Bear Hunt Principle Explained

[32:16] Healing Through Community

[33:52] Where True Healing Begins

[36:55] How Her Son Was Impacted

[38:24] Free Coaching Offer & Final Encouragement

Resources mentioned:

FREE 30-minute 1-on-1 coaching: divorcecoachhannah.org

Use Promo Code: BREAKTHROUGH

Guest's bio:

Hannah Ayers is a nationally certified divorce coach, speaker, and founder of DivorceCoachHannah.org. Eleven years ago, Hannah walked through a devastating divorce while pregnant with her son—a season that brought her to rock bottom and ultimately set her on a new path of healing and purpose.

After attending a divorce recovery course that changed her life, Hannah discovered there was real hope on the other side of divorce. That experience ignited a passion to help others navigate heartbreak with clarity, courage, and faith. For nearly a decade, she has walked alongside individuals through some of the hardest chapters of their lives, helping them find healing, resilience, and a renewed sense of purpose.

Hannah is a Jesus-loving single mom and a compassionate, truth-telling guide who believes healing happens through honesty, community, and faith. Through her coaching, she continues to offer hope to those who feel lost, reminding them they are not alone and that restoration is possible.

Call to action:

Make sure to visit yourbiggestbreakthrough.com for your FREE access to our e-book and audiobook, "Unstoppable: Divine Intervention in Overcoming Adversity," showcasing six powerful real-life stories. Get ready to be inspired by these mind-blowing breakthroughs!

To learn more about Wendie and her Visibly Fit program, visit wendiepett.com

To find out more about Todd and his coaching program for men, find him on the web at toddisberner.com.

All the links you need to subscribe to the podcast are at both our websites! And if you feel so inclined, we'd be honored if you were to leave a rating and review of our show. It definitely helps with us being more visible to more people.

And if we like it, we might just read your review on the podcast!

What does it really look like to raise a child when doctors say he won’t survive?

In this episode of Your Biggest Breakthrough, Ken and Mary Sue Grein share the deeply personal story of raising their son, Jacob Grein, over the course of 37 years. Born six weeks premature, Jacob faced severe medical complications, physical disabilities, deafness, and ongoing health challenges that required constant care from the day he entered the world.

Ken and Mary Sue open up about the realities of parenting a medically fragile child—the fear, exhaustion, faith struggles, marriage pressures, and the daily decisions to keep going when answers didn’t come easily. They reflect on the moments when they had to surrender outcomes to God, redefine what healing and success truly meant, and learn to live with hope amidst long-term caregiving.

This episode isn’t about a quick miracle. It’s about faith lived out over decades, love that never wavers, and a son whose life profoundly shaped his family in lasting ways.

If you’re a parent walking a difficult road, a caregiver feeling unseen, or someone wrestling with unanswered prayers, Jacob’s story—and his parents’ journey—will encourage you to keep going, one day at a time.

Chapters:

[00:00] Podcast Preview

[01:30] Topic and Guest Introduction

[03:25] Jacob Grein’s Traumatic Premature Birth

[04:35] Surrendering Jacob’s Life to God

[06:54] Doctors Give Jacob Six Months to Live

[09:50] Learning to Live Moment by Moment

[11:40] Bringing Jacob Home After 137 Days in NICU

[13:50] Discovering That Jacob is Deaf

[15:14] How Jacob’s Illness Tested Their Marriage

[18:21] Years of Surgeries and Setbacks

[20:32] Raising Other Children While Caring for Jacob

[22:00] Accepting Jacob’s Disabilities

[23:53] Caregiving as a Lifelong Calling

[26:14] How Jacob Became Their Greatest Teacher

[27:53] New Definition of Success and Purpose

[28:30] Jacob’s Joy Despite Suffering

[33:04] Losing Jacob After 37 Years

[36:44] Healing After Caregiving Ends

[39:13] Why Jacob’s Story Brings Hope to Others

[40:50] Where to Find Jacob’s Story Book

Resources mentioned:

Get Your Copy of Jacob’s Story

Website

YouTube

Instagram

Facebook

Guest's bio and social handles:

Kenneth and Mary Sue Grein have been married for over four decades and are the parents of four children: Jacob, Hannah, Luke, and Grace. Their love story began at Rockmont College in Denver, Colorado, where they met during freshman orientation in 1977.
Ken, a former college basketball player and lifelong contractor, grew up on his family's farm in Brighton, Colorado, where he learned the values of hard work and perseverance that would serve him throughout Jacob's medical journey. Mary Sue, a gifted pianist and devoted mother, became Jacob's primary caregiver and fiercest advocate, developing an expertise in medical terminology and special needs care that few parents possess.

Together, they navigated 37 years of medical challenges, hospital stays, and daily caregiving while raising three other children and maintaining their faith through the darkest moments. Their experience as parents of a child with multiple disabilities taught them profound lessons about love, resilience, and finding joy in the smallest victories. The Grein’s unwavering commitment to treating Jacob as a full member of the family—never as a burden—became a model for other families facing similar challenges.

Call to action:

Make sure to visit yourbiggestbreakthrough.com for your FREE access to our e-book and audiobook, "Unstoppable: Divine Intervention in Overcoming Adversity," showcasing six powerful real-life stories. Get ready to be inspired by these mind-blowing breakthroughs!

To learn more about Wendie and her Visibly Fit program, visit wendiepett.com

To find out more about Todd and his coaching program for men, find him on the web at toddisberner.com.

All the links you need to subscribe to the podcast are at both our websites! And if you feel so inclined, we'd be honored if you were to leave a rating and review of our show. It definitely helps with us being more visible to more people.

And if we like it, we might just read your review on the podcast!

Step inside the world of The Lost Healer with filmmaker and storyteller Wilson Hickman, a rising Christian creative who is using fantasy to bring biblical truth to life in fresh, compelling ways.

In this conversation, Wilson shares how his personal encounter with Jesus shaped his calling, why fantasy can powerfully reveal spiritual realities, and how storytelling can reach hearts without sounding preachy. He also opens up about the message behind The Lost Healer, the good-versus-evil themes woven throughout the project, and his passion for creating media that points the next generation toward truth.

Whether you’re a parent, filmmaker, writer, or someone searching for your God-given purpose, this episode will encourage you to use your gifts boldly and trust God’s timing in the process.

Tune in to discover how faith and creativity come together to make an eternal impact.

Chapters:

[00:00] Podcast Preview

[01:25] Topic and Guest Introduction

[03:58] Understanding the Gospel for the First Time

[08:14] What Changed After Meeting Jesus

[10:22] How Faith Shaped His Writing

[13:33] Becoming a “Media Missionary”

[14:54] Introducing The Lost Healer

[18:05] Balancing Truth Without Preaching

[20:42] Biblical Foreshadowing in Storytelling

[22:18] Spiritual Warfare Elements in The Lost Healer

[25:54] Advice for Aspiring Christian Artists

[29:39] Films That Shaped Wilson’s Vision

[31:07] Why This Generation Is Drawn to Fantasy

[33:27] What He Hopes People Take Away from The Lost Healer

[35:42] Wilson’s Life Verse

Resources Mentioned:

The Lost Healer Website

Tomorrows Filmmakers

Guest's bio and social handles:

Website: wilsonhickmanfilm.com

Wilson Hickman is a spiritual storytelling visionary and a devoted follower of Jesus with a deep passion for crafting meaningful, God-honoring stories. From a young age, Wilson began writing books across multiple genres, and his creativity eventually led him into the world of visual storytelling and film.

Today, Wilson uses his gift to create stories that reflect real human struggles, spiritual truths, and the ongoing battle between good and evil. When developing a film, he often draws inspiration from his own life—learning, growing, and discovering meaning alongside the characters he creates.

His latest work is an award-winning proof-of-concept episode for a Christian-themed fantasy TV series called The Lost Healer, a project inspired by real-world spiritual warfare and designed to transport viewers into a rich new world while helping them navigate their own struggles. Think Pilgrim’s Progress meets Narnia—a compelling blend of imagination, adventure, and biblical truth.

Recognizing the power of media to shape culture, Wilson is committed to creating entertainment that is excellent, engaging, and grounded in a Christian worldview. His work aims to reach broad audiences while pointing them toward hope, goodness, and the heart of God.

Call to action:

Make sure to visit yourbiggestbreakthrough.com for your FREE access to our e-book and audiobook, "Unstoppable: Divine Intervention in Overcoming Adversity," showcasing six powerful real-life stories. Get ready to be inspired by these mind-blowing breakthroughs!

To learn more about Wendie and her Visibly Fit program, visit wendiepett.com

To find out more about Todd and his coaching program for men, find him on the web at toddisberner.com.

All the links you need to subscribe to the podcast are at both our websites! And if you feel so inclined, we'd be honored if you were to leave a rating and review of our show. It definitely helps with us being more visible to more people.

And if we like it, we might just read your review on the podcast!

Have you ever grown up in church, done “all the right things,” and still battled with a deep ache inside, the kind you just can’t explain to anyone? In this episode, we sit down with our friend Charles Wagner, and wow… his story is going to speak to so many of you who have carried silent pain, hidden shame, or unanswered questions about God’s love.

Charles grew up immersed in Scripture, Christian school, and church life… yet he spent decades believing God didn’t — and couldn’t — love him. His journey took him through trauma, identity confusion, depression, a painful divorce, and even suicidal thoughts. And yet, God interrupted his life with a love so powerful it melted years of fear, lies, and inner brokenness.

If you've ever wondered why you keep cycling through old wounds… or why you’re still battling thoughts that don’t match what you believe… or if you’ve questioned whether it’s “too late” for God to turn things around, this conversation is for you.

Chapters:

[00:00] Podcast Preview

[01:18] Topic and Guest Introduction

[03:47] Charles’ early church background

[05:00] Childhood trauma and identity confusion

[08:30] Hitting the lowest point: divorce & despair

[10:55] Meeting the counselor God used to heal him

[12:53] Why it’s never too late for God to transform your life

[14:21] Understanding rebellion & letting God take His rightful place

[17:26] The power of personal testimonies in the church

[18:45] Why “simple stories” matter too

[21:56] How brokenness transformed his prayer life

[23:27] Writing 700-page prayer books

[25:54] Overcoming depression through community & confession

[27:43] When secular counseling falls short

[29:25] Encouragement for late bloomers

[31:34] The biggest lesson about God’s redemptive love

[33:04] How to renew your sense of God’s love

[35:17] The Gramazin Testimony Center

[36:50] Charles’ fun hobbies & new music journey

Resources mentioned:

Gramazin Testimony Center

Charles Wagner's Books

Guest's bio:

Charles Wagner is a prolific author with a deep passion for God's Word. He has written five books, including powerful prayer commentaries, and is known for being an avid, lifelong student of the Bible. Charles doesn’t just study Scripture—he lives it, writes it, and teaches it with clarity, vulnerability, and authenticity.

He’s also a radio host and the founder of Gramazin, a ministry inspired by “Amazing Grace,” dedicated to equipping believers and churches to share the real-life stories of how God shows up. Through this growing testimony movement, Charles helps believers find their voice, share their journey, and build a stronger, more connected body of Christ.

Beyond his ministry and writing life, Charles is the husband of Karen, father to Chad and Stephanie, an avid walker, and even a pickleball enthusiast.

Call to action:

Make sure to visit yourbiggestbreakthrough.com for your FREE access to our e-book and audiobook, "Unstoppable: Divine Intervention in Overcoming Adversity," showcasing six powerful real-life stories. Get ready to be inspired by these mind-blowing breakthroughs!

To learn more about Wendie and her Visibly Fit program, visit wendiepett.com

To find out more about Todd and his coaching program for men, find him on the web at toddisberner.com.

All the links you need to subscribe to the podcast are at both our websites! And if you feel so inclined, we'd be honored if you were to leave a rating and review of our show. It definitely helps with us being more visible to more people.

And if we like it, we might just read your review on the podcast!

We’ve got an episode today that’s going to stop you in your tracks. You’re going to meet Joel Sheagren, an award-winning filmmaker whose story feels like a movie itself, only this one’s real, raw, and full of God’s fingerprints.

Joel grew up in a funeral home, had demonic encounters as a kid, found himself guiding canoes in the wilderness as an agnostic teen, and somehow, through a horror movie of all things, found his way to Christ. But that was only the beginning.

What happens when the bottom falls out of your career, your faith gets tested through years of anxiety, and you’re suddenly raising two adopted children, one with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD), and you realize God’s been writing a redemption story through it all?

In this powerful conversation, you’ll hear how Joel turned his pain into purpose through prayer, perseverance, and creativity. His story will help you see your own trials differently. Because sometimes, what feels like chaos is actually the setup for your calling.

Chapters:

[00:00] Podcast Preview

[01:38] Topic and Guest Introduction

[04:24] The Awakening: From Agnosticism to Faith

[13:00] The Long Path: Growth Through Trials

[19:48] Learning Patience When God’s Timing Feels Slow

[22:45] Overcoming Anxiety and Learning to Trust

[25:25] The Moment Joel and His Wife Said “Yes” to Adoption

[28:00] The Miraculous Two-Month Adoption Story

[30:00] Recognizing Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD)

[34:30] Navigating Parenting Challenges with FASD

[36:48] How God Used Filmmaking to Raise Awareness for FASD

[40:07] Teaching Neuroplasticity and Renewing the Mind

[43:05] Spiritual Breakthroughs and Mindset Shifts

[47:21] About the Embracing Hope Caregiver Guide

[49:35] Final Encouragement and Where to Find Joel’s Resources

Resources mentioned:

Embracing Hope Book

Guest's bio:

Joel Sheagren is an award-winning filmmaker, photographer, and storyteller whose greatest inspiration comes from home—raising two children, one of whom lives with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD).

His incredible journey from agnosticism to faith began in the most unexpected places—a canoe in the wilderness and a night watching The Exorcist—moments that led him into a lifelong pursuit of telling redemptive stories through the lens of God’s grace.

Joel is the founder of Sam in a Can Productions (named after his son) and the visionary behind The Embrace Movement, a media-driven initiative shedding light on the hidden link between prenatal alcohol exposure and societal issues like homelessness, trafficking, and fatherlessness.

Through his films, books, and caregiver resources, Joel equips families, churches, and communities to better understand and support neurodiversity while bringing hope to those navigating life’s challenges.

He and his wife continue to walk in faith—turning pain into purpose and using their story to help families find strength, healing, and breakthrough through Christ.

Call to action:

Make sure to visit yourbiggestbreakthrough.com for your FREE access to our e-book and audiobook, "Unstoppable: Divine Intervention in Overcoming Adversity," showcasing six powerful real-life stories. Get ready to be inspired by these mind-blowing breakthroughs!

To learn more about Wendie and her Visibly Fit program, visit wendiepett.com

To find out more about Todd and his coaching program for men, find him on the web at toddisberner.com.

All the links you need to subscribe to the podcast are at both our websites! And if you feel so inclined, we'd be honored if you were to leave a rating and review of our show. It definitely helps with us being more visible to more people.

And if we like it, we might just read your review on the podcast!

In this episode of Your Biggest Breakthrough, we sit down with former New York State Trooper turned motivational speaker David Atkins, who proves that one courageous decision, rooted in faith, can completely change your life.

David’s story will resonate with anyone who’s ever struggled with debt, doubt, or direction. From battling financial stress and burnout to leading thousands through health, mindset, and faith-based transformation, David shows how one conversation, one leap of faith, and one act of courage can create a ripple effect that transforms your marriage, finances, and future.

Chapters:

[00:00] Podcast Preview

[01:08] Topic and Guest Introduction

[03:24] The Breaking Point: Living Paycheck to Paycheck

[05:24] A One Decision to Have a Conversation with His Wife

[06:36] From Debt to Millionaire: the Beachbody journey

[08:16] Discovering His God-Given Gift to Speak

[09:19] Taking a Leap of Faith and Retiring Early

[10:10] How Faith Became His Foundation

[12:54] The Secret to Overcoming Fear and Self-Doubt

[14:25]The Morning Routine That Changed Everything

[16:58] How Courage and Faith Work Together

[19:31] What “One Decision Away” Really Means

[21:17] The Riffle Effect of His Decision to His Family

[24:24] Losing Everything and Responding with Gratitude

[26:47] The Truth About Loneliness and Staying Motivated

[30:57] Surrendering to God in Every Season

[32:18] Breaking Free from Comparison

[35:22] It’s Never Too Late to Start Again

[38:18] David’s Hobbies

[39:24] David’s Go-To Bible Verse

Resources mentioned:

Grab David’s book “One Decision Away” on Amazon

Guest's bio:

Website: davidatkinsspeaks.com

Facebook: @CoachDavidAtkins

Instagram: @david_w_atkins

David Atkins is a former New York State Trooper, 9/11 first responder, and recipient of both Trooper of the Year and Investigator of the Year honors. After more than two decades in law enforcement, David transitioned into entrepreneurship—building a multi-million dollar direct sales organization from the ground up.

Today, he’s a sought-after keynote motivational speaker, author, and the founder of the “One Decision Away” philosophy—a mindset that empowers people to take bold action, overcome fear, and create meaningful breakthroughs in every area of life.

David has inspired audiences of over 20,000 people, including Fortune 500 companies, through his message of courage, faith, and resilience. A devoted husband and proud father of three daughters, David’s life and story reflect his belief that you are always one courageous decision away from changing your life.

Call to action:

Make sure to visit yourbiggestbreakthrough.com for your FREE access to our e-book and audiobook, "Unstoppable: Divine Intervention in Overcoming Adversity," showcasing six powerful real-life stories. Get ready to be inspired by these mind-blowing breakthroughs!

To learn more about Wendie and her Visibly Fit program, visit wendiepett.com

To find out more about Todd and his coaching program for men, find him on the web at toddisberner.com.

All the links you need to subscribe to the podcast are at both our websites! And if you feel so inclined, we'd be honored if you were to leave a rating and review of our show. It definitely helps with us being more visible to more people.

And if we like it, we might just read your review on the podcast!

Could the next great revival begin with teenagers who are bold enough to share their faith?

In this episode of Your Biggest Breakthrough, we’re joined by Greg Stier, author, evangelist, and founder of Dare 2 Share Ministries, who has spent over 30 years equipping teenagers to share their faith with confidence and courage.

Greg shares his wild, faith-filled journey from growing up in a violent neighborhood to leading a global movement of youth evangelism. You’ll hear how one bold act of evangelism transformed his entire family and why he has devoted his life to helping teenagers share the gospel with courage and clarity.

You’ll hear about how revival is already stirring among young people, what’s changing in youth spirituality, and why, when equipped and empowered, teens are the most effective missionaries on earth.

This conversation is filled with hope, inspiration, and practical steps for parents, pastors, and anyone passionate about reaching the next generation.

Chapters:

[00:00] Podcast Preview

[01:26] Topic and Guest Introduction

[03:21] Welcoming Greg Stier to the Podcast

[05:10] Greg's Early Life and Faith Journey

[08:46] The Impact of Evangelism on Family

[10:10] Focusing on Teenagers for Evangelism

[12:12] Revival is Stirring Among Youth Today

[13:50] Current Trends in Teen Spirituality

[15:20] What Sets Christianity Apart: Grace, Not Works

[16:57] How Parents Can Build Faith at Home

[20:46] Research Insights on Youth Ministry

[22:55] The Urgency of Sharing the Gospel

[25:23] How to Start Sharing Your Faith Naturally

[27:12] Join the Global Day of Youth Evangelism

[28:04] Gospel Advancing Movements

[30:04] Are We on the Edge of Global Revival?

[31:44] Greg’s Life Verse and Final Encouragement

Resources mentioned:

Dare 2 Share Ministries

Greg Stier's Website

Guest's bio and social handles:

Facebook: @greg.stier

Instagram: @gregstier

Greg Stier is an evangelist, author, and speaker passionate about seeing teenagers live and share their faith boldly. He’s the founder of Dare 2 Share Ministries, a global movement equipping teens to share the gospel with their friends and communities.

Growing up in a violent, inner-city Denver family of bodybuilders, Greg experienced firsthand how the power of the gospel can transform lives—starting with his own family. That transformation ignited his lifelong passion for evangelism.

In 1999, after the tragic Columbine High School shooting near his hometown, Greg left his pastorate to focus on Dare 2 Share full-time, dedicating his life to helping youth leaders and teens reach the next generation for Christ.

Today, Greg continues to speak, write, and train others through his books, articles, and global ministry initiatives, inspiring Gospel Advancing movements around the world. His favorite roles, however, remain husband to Debbie and dad to Jeremy and Kailey.

Call to action:

Make sure to visit yourbiggestbreakthrough.com for your FREE access to our e-book and audiobook, "Unstoppable: Divine Intervention in Overcoming Adversity," showcasing six powerful real-life stories. Get ready to be inspired by these mind-blowing breakthroughs!

To learn more about Wendie and her Visibly Fit program, visit wendiepett.com

To find out more about Todd and his coaching program for men, find him on the web at toddisberner.com.

All the links you need to subscribe to the podcast are at both our websites! And if you feel so inclined, we'd be honored if you were to leave a rating and review of our show. It definitely helps with us being more visible to more people.

And if we like it, we might just read your review on the podcast!

What do you do when life stacks the odds against you? Poverty, a broken family, and a dangerous environment could have easily defined Kendall Qualls’ future. But instead, his story is proof that your past doesn’t have to dictate your destiny.

In this episode of Your Biggest Breakthrough, Kendall shares how he went from Harlem’s streets and trailer park living to becoming an Army officer, corporate leader, nonprofit founder, and even running for governor. His story is packed with lessons about resilience, faith, forgiveness, and choosing a different path—even when everything around you is pulling you down.

We talk about the role of family, the power of education, and how faith transformed Kendall’s heart, healed his relationship with his father, and gave him the courage to step into leadership. His journey isn’t just inspiring; it’s a roadmap for anyone who feels stuck in their circumstances or unsure if change is possible.

If you’ve ever wondered, “Can I rise above where I came from?” this conversation will show you that with God’s grace, courage, and determination, you absolutely can.

Chapters:

[00:00] Podcast Preview

[01:10] Topic and Guest Introduction

[03:38] Kendall Qualls: A Journey from Adversity to Success

[06:37] The Impact of Family Dynamics on Personal Growth

[08:40] Navigating Two Worlds: Harlem and Oklahoma

[11:24] Education as a Pathway to a Better Life

[14:50] Finding Love and Building a Family

[18:16] Faith and Transformation: A New Beginning

[21:15] The Power of Forgiveness and Healing Relationships

[24:56] Finding Community and Faith in Tulsa

[27:28] Overcoming Fear and Embracing Courage

[28:43] Unexpected Twists in Life and Faith

[33:48] Understanding Racial Dynamics and Family Issues

[39:56] Running for Governor: Lessons Learned and God’s Timing

[44:18] Vision for Minnesota: Prosperity, Safety, and Schools

[47:42] Clearing Misconceptions and Final Thoughts

Resources mentioned:

Kendall’s Nonprofit Organization: TakeCharge

The Prodigal Project: Amazon link

Guest's bio:

Kendall Qualls is a results-oriented leader dedicated to uniting Americans around shared values and a common heritage. His inspiring journey began in the projects of Harlem, New York, and later in a trailer park in rural Oklahoma. Despite those humble beginnings, Kendall worked his way through college, became a U.S. Army officer, and went on to earn three graduate degrees. He later rose to serve as Global Vice President of a Fortune 100 healthcare company.

Today, Kendall is the founder and president of TakeCharge, a nonprofit committed to promoting the promise of America for all people, regardless of race or social standing. His powerful message has reached millions through speaking engagements and appearances on national platforms such as Fox & Friends and The Dennis Prager Show. He is also the author of The Prodigal Project, a deeply personal book that highlights his story of perseverance, faith, and breakthroughs.

Kendall and his wife, Sheila, have been married for 40 years. Together, they have raised five children and are proud grandparents of two boys. He is also a Republican candidate for Governor of Minnesota in 2026.

Call to action:

Make sure to visit yourbiggestbreakthrough.com for your FREE access to our e-book and audiobook, "Unstoppable: Divine Intervention in Overcoming Adversity," showcasing six powerful real-life stories. Get ready to be inspired by these mind-blowing breakthroughs!

To learn more about Wendie and her Visibly Fit program, visit wendiepett.com

To find out more about Todd and his coaching program for men, find him on the web at toddisberner.com.

All the links you need to subscribe to the podcast are at both our websites! And if you feel so inclined, we'd be honored if you were to leave a rating and review of our show. It definitely helps with us being more visible to more people.

And if we like it, we might just read your review on the podcast!

What if something as simple as a pulled pork sandwich could remind people they aren’t forgotten? In this episode of Your Biggest Breakthrough, we sit down with Stan Hays, co-founder of Operation Barbecue Relief, whose story began in the aftermath of the devastating Joplin tornado. What started with a few smokers in a parking lot has now grown into an organization that’s served over 13 million meals in disaster zones and communities in need.

We loved this conversation because it’s not just about barbecue, it’s about faith in action, taking that first step without having all the answers, and discovering your “why” through serving others. You’ll hear how God used ordinary skills and a willing heart to meet extraordinary needs, and how something as simple as food can unify people, restore hope, and remind them of love.

If you’ve ever wondered how to find your purpose, where to start serving, or whether your gifts really matter, this episode is for you. Stan’s story will challenge you, inspire you, and encourage you that God can use your passion, no matter what it is, to change lives.

👉 Learn more about Operation Barbecue Relief, get involved, or support their mission by visiting https://operationbbqrelief.org/

Chapters:

[00:00] Podcast Preview

[01:10] Topic and Guest Introduction

[03:58] The Joplin Tornado That Started Everything

[09:12] Cooking Under Tornado Sirens

[11:57] Serving Thousands of Meals on the First Day

[15:25] A Woman’s Words that Changed My Perspective

[19:18] Building a Sustainable Relief Effort

[24:51] How Faith Reshaped Stan’s Priorities

[27:55] The Growth of Operation Barbecue Relief

[29:22] Why The Simplest Acts Matter Most

[33:26] Volunteering as a “Selfish Act”

[34:42] Culinary Therapy for Heroes and Veterans

[36:15] Being Called a CNN Hero

[39:02] Find Your Passion and Start Serving

[42:36] Three Ways YOU Can Help Today

Guest's bio:

Stan Hayes is the CEO and co-founder of Operation Barbecue Relief, a nonprofit organization founded in the aftermath of the 2011 Joplin, Missouri, tornado. What started as a simple idea to serve meals to disaster survivors has grown into an organization that has provided over 13 million meals across 42 states and the Bahamas.

A seasoned competitor on the barbecue circuit, Stan’s passion for cooking and helping those in need came together through Operation Barbecue Relief. His work has earned national recognition—he was named a CNN Hero in 2017—yet he remains humble, always pointing back to the volunteers and community behind the mission.

Stan has also showcased his culinary talents on television, finishing as the runner-up on Food Network’s Chopped Grill Masters in 2015 and winning Food Network Canada’s Fire Masters in 2019. He is the author of two cookbooks: Operation Barbecue and Grilling with Golic and Hayes (co-authored with Mike Golic).

Call to action:

Make sure to visit yourbiggestbreakthrough.com for your FREE access to our e-book and audiobook, "Unstoppable: Divine Intervention in Overcoming Adversity," showcasing six powerful real-life stories. Get ready to be inspired by these mind-blowing breakthroughs!

To learn more about Wendie and her Visibly Fit program, visit wendiepett.com

To find out more about Todd and his coaching program for men, find him on the web at toddisberner.com.

All the links you need to subscribe to the podcast are at both our websites! And if you feel so inclined, we'd be honored if you were to leave a rating and review of our show. It definitely helps with us being more visible to more people.

And if we like it, we might just read your review on the podcast!