What's the Story?

How Do You Grieve a Child Who's Still Alive? James Luginbyhl said goodbye to his two daughters two and a half years ago. This is how he learned to grieve with God instead of running from Him. About this episode James grew up on a West Texas cattle ranch, where faith was inherited and feelings were buried. Then, in his late 30s, everything came apart at once. He lost his dad to cancer and his father-in-law within three months, his marriage ended, and a two-year custody battle followed over his two teenage daughters. To stop the fight from damaging the girls, James made the hardest decision of his life. He had to walk away from the custody battle and said goodbye, and he hasn't seen them since. In the middle of that loss, he finally found the grace he'd heard about his whole life. He tells Matt how he keeps hope without pretending, how he learned to forgive, and why he now writes so his daughters could find him if they ever go looking. This is an honest conversation about grief and faith held together. If you're carrying something heavy, this one is for you. Key moments 00:00 Welcome 03:32 From a West Texas ranch to culturally Christian 06:03 When everything fell apart 08:17 Saying goodbye to his daughters 17:07 The grace that found him 24:02 Learning to grieve with God 41:29 The one message he'd preach Raised to tough it out James was raised in the Texas Panhandle, working cattle with his granddad when he'd rather have been playing Super Nintendo. He loved it, and he also names the cost of the culture he grew up inside. "There's very much cowboy culture in Texas, that you tough it up, you handle everything yourself, you don't ask for help, you definitely don't ask for grace, and if you aren't good enough, you're just not good enough." He'd always called himself a Christian. Looking back, he describes a performance-based faith he felt he could never be good enough for, and he walked away from it in his early 30s. When everything fell apart In his late 30s the losses stacked up fast. His dad died of cancer. His father-in-law died within three months. His marriage ended as his faith and his wife's went in different directions, and a two-year custody battle over their two teenage daughters followed. James is careful here, and it matters. He won't say anything against the girls' mother, because his hope is that his daughters will one day hear this. "I chose to walk away from the custody battle after two years. It wasn't because I couldn't afford the elite lawyers anymore. It was just literally I could tell how it was damaging them." He said his final goodbye around two and a half years ago. He started writing on Substack so that, if his daughters ever Google his name, they would be able to find him. The grace that found him The turn came through a marriage class in Texas called Re-Engage. A leader there told James he didn't really understand grace. James thought he did. The leader said he didn't think so, and something started to shift. His conversion moment came later, alone in a Waffle House at three in the morning over a cup of cold coffee. "I remember sitting in a Waffle House, drinking some cold coffee and just being like, God, I can't do this without You." James describes learning grace in two directions at once. Grace towards the other person, and then grace towards himself, which changed how he saw himself in God's eyes. Learning to grieve with God For the last couple of years, James says, his faith has mostly been about learning how to grieve with God rather than away from Him. He fell in love with the Psalms, which he'd always skipped over as poetry, starting with Psalm 42 and then Psalm 13 and its honest cry of "how long?". He also found a new picture in the story of Jesus raising Lazarus. "Jesus knew the end story. He knew He was going to raise him, but instead He joined them in their grief and cried next to them. And I remember reading that story one time and just having a whole different lens of, okay, Jesus is just crying with me right now." He doesn't pretend the grief is gone. It still arrives every day, often through a photo on his phone or a song. He gives himself a moment, prays for his girls, and turns towards God rather than letting it pull him under. Forgiveness, he says, is something he sometimes has to pick back up. "I'm not gonna lie to you that there's a three AM every once in a while where I wake up just mad. That happens, but it's happening way less now than it used to." He prays for his ex-wife, a practice his wife taught him, and he's clear that his healing began with forgiveness. How to show up for someone grieving Matt and James land on something simple and freeing. You don't have to fix anyone's pain to be there in it. The people who helped James most were the ones who listened, let him cry, and didn't try to tidy it away with easy answers. "If you know someone who's grieving, bring food and your ears, and just hang out and spend time with them. And call them next week." James is honest that not everyone can carry grief with you, and that's all right. He leans on his wife and a couple of close friends, including a mate named Jeff who took his crying phone calls daily for a long stretch. The one message he'd preach When Matt asks for the one thing he'd say if he only had one message, James doesn't reach for anything complicated. "Find your meaning in Christ." He read Viktor Frankl's Man's Search for Meaning early in the journey, and it stayed with him. The people who found meaning were the ones who could survive. For James, that meaning became his writing, telling his story, and helping other men walk through their own grief. Be vulnerable, he says, and don't try to white-knuckle it alone. Find the people who can handle your grief with you. Key references Psalm 42 and Psalm 13, the laments James came back to again and again The book of Job, and staying solid in faith through loss The prodigal son, which James hears now from the father's side Jesus weeping and raising Lazarus (John 11), grieving with the family before the miracle Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl It Is Well With My Soul , the old hymn James tells the story behind, which closes his book Today's guest James Luginbyhl lives in West Texas, where he was raised on a cattle ranch. He hosts the Credo podcast, which is Latin for "I believe", and he's the author of Hymns for the Unfinished , a book of stories about grief and overcoming. He started writing so his daughters could find him one day, and it's grown into something that now helps other grieving men. Matt is writing his own book on Christian masculinity, Act Like Men , so the two share a lot of heart for this ground. Podcast credopodcast.com Book Hymns for the Unfinished on Amazon Links More real stories of faith at whatsthestorypodcast.com Find out more about Crowd Church at crowd.church New to faith or full of questions? A good place to start is the Alpha course, a relaxed 15-week online exploration of the basics of Christianity, with people joining from all over the world. Find it at crowd.church . Crowd Church — a community for those who might not see the point of church.

When the bad news keeps stacking up, is it still possible to be grateful? Kelly Green on the year that nearly broke him. About this episode Pastor Kelly Green was knocked out cold officiating an American football game and woke up in hospital with two brain bleeds. That was only the start. Over the months that followed came skin cancer, a benign brain tumour, the loss of his mum, and surgery after surgery. His wife nicknamed it "the Year of the Dragon." In this honest conversation, Kelly tells Matt why, in the middle of all of it, he found himself more grateful and closer to God than in 40 years of ministry. This is not a story about pretending it was easy. Kelly is open about breaking down, about the fear, and about the daily work of trusting God when everything feels like it is crumbling. If you are in your own hard season, this one is for you. What you'll hear How a single play on the football field ended with Kelly in hospital with two brain bleeds Growing up in the Lutheran church, the "you're worthless" moment in front of the mirror, and coming to faith at 24 40 years of ministry, being bivocational, and why calling matters more than the celebrity culture creeping into church The pile-up Kelly calls death by a thousand cuts, and why it is the small things stacked on top of each other that take us under "The Year of the Dragon" and the wife who walked every step of it with him The one message Kelly would preach if he could only preach one more Where to find Kelly's three books and how to reach him The moment it all started Kelly was the crew chief, the "white hat," standing 15 to 20 yards behind the play when two players collided into him. He doesn't remember the impact, only holding up his hands. "I woke up on the sideline again to the EMS saying, hey, we're going to load you and take you to the hospital." A CAT scan at Grant Hospital in Columbus found two small brain bleeds. It could have been far worse. Kelly is clear that he came away believing God had spared him for a reason, to tell others about the hope we have. When the small things stack up The injury was one blow. Then came skin cancer and surgery that took 38 stitches. Then losing his mum, who had dementia, at almost 96. Then a benign brain tumour that has to be watched with regular MRI scans. Kelly names something a lot of us feel in a hard stretch. "It's not the major things in our lives, the major trauma that takes us under. It's all the small things stacked on top of each other." He is honest that he has broken down more than once, and that things affect him more deeply now than they used to. His answer is not a tidy formula. It is turning to God again and again, and leaning on the people God places around us. The Year of the Dragon Kelly's wife gave the season its name. "She said, we're gonna name this the Year of the Dragon. She said, I've been dragging you from one doctor's appointment to the next." Matt reflects on watching his own wife, Sharon, go through skin cancer, and how her relationship with God deepened in the hardest of circumstances. Both men land in the same place. You would never choose the storm, but there is something God does in the middle of it that changes you. Grateful in it, not for it Kelly says the words plainly. "I'm thankful for my injury." He isn't celebrating the suffering. What he is grateful for is what God did in the middle of it, drawing him closer than 40 years of ministry ever had. Rather than asking "why me," Kelly landed somewhere freer. "Why not me? Who am I? I'm not special. God can do what He's always done without me, but I'm thankful that He invites me on the journey with Him." The one message When Matt asks what Kelly would preach if he only had one message left, the answer became the heart of his books. "We can be wounded, find healing, and be sent, because our wounds do not get to write the final chapter of our lives." It is why he writes and why he tells the story. Not to be known himself, but so that people who are struggling are given faith, hope, and a reason to keep going. Key references The disciples in the boat and Jesus calming the storm (Mark 4:35-41) Paul calling himself the worst of sinners (1 Timothy 1:15) How to Be Born Again by Billy Graham, the book that helped Kelly come to faith Scars Beyond the Surface , Healing Beyond the Surface and Beyond the Healing by Kelly E. Green Today's guest Kelly Green (Kelly E. Green) has pastored for around 40 years and lives in Zanesville, Ohio. Bivocational for much of that time, he also substitute teaches to supplement his income. After a serious head injury while officiating an American football game, he started writing about the wounds people carry beneath the surface. He is the author of three books, beginning with Scars Beyond the Surface . Substack kellygreen232127.substack.com Facebook "Pastor Kelly" (search Kelly E. Green) Amazon (search "Kelly E. Green") Kelly would love to hear from you, especially if you need prayer. Reach out through any of the above. Links More real stories of faith at whatsthestorypodcast.com Find out more about Crowd Church at crowd.church New to faith or full of questions? A good place to start is the Alpha course, a relaxed 15-week online exploration of the basics of Christianity, with people joining from all over the world. Find it at crowd.church . Crowd Church — a community for those who might not see the point of church.

Why a Dying Pastor Calls These His Best Years Told he had two to three months to live in January, Allan Finnegan says these are the best years of his life — and means it. About this episode Allan Finnegan is a Baptist minister from Liverpool, a stand-up comedian, and the author of I Didn’t Ask For Any Of This — Church, Comedy and Cancer (Broad Place Publishing, 2026). On the 20th of January this year, he was told he had two to three months left. He’s still here, still finishing things, and remarkably at peace. In this honest, often funny conversation Allan talks to Matt about the comedy course that quietly changed his preaching, the hour he spent crying in a Tesco’s car park because he’d realised he had no friends outside church, the night his old mates told him they thought he’d been dead for thirty years, and what he’s learning about finishing well now that the medicine has stopped working. Timestamps 00:00 Welcome and Wednesday Night Finnegans 01:23 The book — I Didn’t Ask For Any Of This 03:30 How a preaching class led Allan to a stand-up comedy course 06:20 Why comedy techniques make for better sermons 10:58 Certainty kills faith — giving people permission to doubt 13:24 “I started a podcast instead of a prayer meeting” 14:30 Becoming the minister he never wanted to be 17:43 Trying to engineer being sacked 18:32 Crying in a Tesco’s car park in Litherland 21:00 Walking back into a Bootle pub after thirty years away 24:00 Why comedy saved his faith 28:27 Comedy needed him less than he needed comedy 32:50 Steve the nudist Baptist minister 35:08 Britain’s Got Talent — the four yeses 38:30 The Zoom semi-final disaster and the £9 Primark shoes 42:18 “It’s only a freckle” — the cancer diagnosis 50:00 Told he had two to three months on the 20th of January 51:34 “I am truly in the hands of God now” 52:38 The last sermon and the last comedy gig 53:56 What Allan has learned about finishing well 54:42 Philippians 1:6 as the verse that holds his life together 1:00:00 Just keep turning up Key references Philippians 1:6 — “He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion.” Allan’s anchor verse since he came to faith aged 16. Jonah — Allan reaches for Jonah’s story to make sense of his own. The hard work, he reckons, often needed to be done on the messenger as much as the message. I Didn’t Ask For Any Of This — Church, Comedy and Cancer by Allan Finnegan (Broad Place Publishing, 2026). Available on Amazon in Kindle and Audible. The audiobook intro is read by Allan; the rest is narrated by Christian comedian Andy Kind. Wednesday Night Finnegans — the podcast Allan ran with Tom Grant during and after lockdown. Tom has also been a guest on What’s The Story — listen to his episode here: crowd.church/whats-the-story/breaking-out-of-our-comfort-zone-being-part-of-an-eden-team-tom-grant Comedy Trust Liverpool — where Allan did the six-week stand-up course (taught by Sam Avery and Brendan Reilly) that started everything. Britain’s Got Talent 2020 — Allan’s audition at the London Palladium got four yeses, with Simon Cowell calling it the best audition of the day. Quotes from the episode “Certainty kills faith. Faith has to exist in the doubts and the uncertainty.” — Matt Edmundson “I always thought I was kind of the worst Christian, and I was just putting this veneer on to hide so no one would get through and see that I was really rubbish at following Jesus.” — Allan Finnegan “I started a podcast instead of a prayer meeting. Still got no idea how I got away with that.” — Allan Finnegan “I am truly in the hands of God now. I’m not receiving any medication to make me better or keep me better. I am only receiving it for palliative care.” — Allan Finnegan “I think what I’m learning about finishing well is sticking in there. God will finish it. I just need to stick in there. Just stay. Don’t give up.” — Allan Finnegan Links Crowd Church — crowd.church More episodes of What’s The Story — crowd.church/whats-the-story Allan’s book on Amazon — I Didn’t Ask For Any Of This — Church, Comedy and Cancer (Kindle and Audible) Broad Place Publishing — Allan’s publisher Crowd Church — a community for those who might not see the point of church.

Episode Summary In this soul-stirring conversation, Laura Nicholson shares her remarkable journey of finding value beyond relationship status. As Director of Second2None School Support, worship leader, and soon-to-be adoptive mum, Laura opens up about navigating church hurt, embracing singleness, and discovering her unchanging worth in God. Contrary to what many church cultures imply, Laura demonstrates how a single life can be filled with purpose, community, and impact—proving that our value isn't determined by our status but by who we are in Christ. About Our Guest Laura Nicholson is the founder and director of Second to Non School Support, providing clerking services to over 150 schools across the northwest UK and beyond. Beyond her professional achievements, Laura is an accomplished worship leader and musician in her local church. She has experience as a foster carer and is currently in the process of becoming an adoptive parent. Laura's journey through performance Christianity to authentic faith offers wisdom for anyone struggling to find their place in church or society. Key Takeaways Your value transcends status - "Knowing your value in God is crucial because that's the thing that will never change. Your feelings will come and go, but your value, where you put your trust, is crucial." Community heals - "Pray to God that he brings the right people to you at the right time. He doesn't want you on your own." Church culture needs balance - Laura challenges the family-centric nature of many churches: "It's not about what you don't have. It's looking at all the amazing things that are going well." Singleness has unique benefits - "My forties have been some of my best years so far. I'm the most steady and secure I've ever been." Faith empowers purpose - Laura's journey into fostering and adoption demonstrates how faith can empower significant life decisions regardless of relationship status. Join the Conversation Have you struggled with finding your value beyond relationship status or navigating church as a single person? We'd love to hear your thoughts and experiences. Connect with us: Website: crowd.church Instagram: @crowdchurch Listen to More Episodes New episodes of What's The Story? are available every week. Subscribe to hear more stories of faith and courage from everyday people. What's The Story? is a podcast aimed at people who are curious about faith but don't see the point in church, sharing real stories of God moving in the lives of everyday people.

What if the door that seems permanently closed is actually leading somewhere beautiful? Kim Patton's decade-long infertility journey became the unexpected pathway to adopting two biological sisters and working with teenage girls in foster care. In this raw conversation with Anna Kettle, Kim shares how her anxious resistance to God's call transformed into purpose and peace. From struggling with health issues and career confusion to managing a household of toddlers and teenagers, Kim reveals how surrender and daily dependence on God can sustain us through seemingly impossible seasons. Her story proves that our most painful chapters can become doorways to a life more meaningful than we could have planned. --- What You'll Learn How Kim's 10-year infertility journey led to adopting biological sisters and a ministry with teenage girls Practical ways to manage anxiety and overwhelm while serving others Why "absolute dependence on God" is the key to surviving impossible seasons How to build a support system of prayer partners during difficult transitions The transformative power of seeing your life as a "living sacrifice" --- Main Links Kim Patton's website: kimpatton.com Kim's book "Nothing Wasted: Struggling Well Through Difficult Seasons" on Amazon (both print and audiobook versions) Book Therapy Podcast (released bi-weekly) Ministry Links Waiting in Hope Infertility Ministry Her View From Home (publication Kim writes for) CROWD Church Links CROWD Church website: crowd.church What's the Story Podcast website: whatsthestorypodcast.com Social Media Kim's Instagram CROWD Church's Instagram

Join Sadaf Beynon on "What's the Story?" as she explore tales of faith and resilience with guest Tamala Anderson, an inspiring author and founder of Pursuing Christ Ministries. Discover Tamala's journey through personal trials and her unwavering faith that led to a transformative ministry. Subscribe for more uplifting stories and visit Crowd Church for a digital sanctuary to explore the Christian faith. --- Timestamps: 0:00 Intro 1:41 Introduction of Tamala Anderson 4:22 Tamala's Background and Faith Journey 7:07 Facing Unexpected Challenges 11:31 Navigating Early Days of Single Parenthood 16:09 Impact on Children and Family Dynamics 21:33 Health Challenges and Miraculous Recovery 28:42 Transformation Through Faith 34:01 Tamala's Ministry and Writing 38:56 Key Message and Encouragement 41:42 Conclusion and Farewell --- Key Takeaways: 1. Embrace Faith During Hardships: Tamala emphasises the importance of seeking a deeper connection with God during life's challenges. She shares how her faith was transformed through personal trials, highlighting that turning to God can provide strength and guidance when facing adversity. 2. The Power of Forgiveness: Tamala discusses the significance of forgiveness, even when deeply hurt. She acknowledges the difficulty of forgiving those who have wronged us but stresses that it is essential for healing and moving forward. This process often requires divine assistance, as it can be beyond human capability alone. 3. God's Faithfulness and Our Role: Tamala underscores that while God is always present and faithful, individuals must actively seek Him. She points out that God asks us to take steps towards Him through prayer, waiting, and being still. This active pursuit allows us to experience His presence and guidance more profoundly.

Join host Matt Edmundson on "What's the Story?" as he explores faith and courage with guest Jonathan Lewis, founder of Fathers for Fathers. Discover insights into healthy masculinity, the power of faith, and the journey of overcoming life's challenges. Subscribe for more inspiring stories and visit Crowd Church for a digital sanctuary to explore the Christian faith. --- Timestamps: 0:00 Intro 5:31 Political Climate 11:47 Eternal Perspective 18:54 Trust in God 26:48 Masculine Expectations 35:06 Personal Struggles 43:53 Joy in Trials 50:26 Godly Masculinity --- Key Takeaways: 1. Seek Peace Beyond Material Wealth: Jonathan emphasises the importance of finding peace that transcends material possessions and financial security. He suggests that true peace comes from a deeper spiritual understanding and relationship with God, rather than relying solely on tangible assets. 2. Embrace Humility and Character Building: He highlights humility as a key characteristic of a godly man. Jonathan shares that going through life's challenges with a humble spirit can refine one's character, leading to personal growth and a deeper connection with God. 3. Trust in God's Plan Amidst Life's Trials: Jonathan advises trusting in God's plan, even when life presents significant challenges. He shares personal experiences of hardship and how maintaining faith and trust in God can lead to personal peace and eventual positive outcomes, even if they are not immediately apparent.

Join host Sadaf Beynon on "What's the Story?" as she explores the inspiring journey of Thomas Abbott, a missionary kid turned global traveller, who shares his experiences of faith, family, and cultural transitions. Discover how Thomas's upbringing in Pakistan and his work in China shaped his worldview and spiritual convictions. Don't forget to subscribe for more compelling stories and visit Crowd Church for a digital space to explore faith. --- Timestamps: 0:00 Intro 6:04 Thomas Abbot's Global Journey 13:59 Experiencing Faith in Pakistan 23:32 Baptism in China 32:18 Returning to the UK 37:59 Meeting Rachel 47:23 Belief in Six-Day Creation 55:29 Authority of Scripture 1:03:53 Church Leadership 1:11:27 Jesus Manifesto --- Key Takeaways: 1. Embrace Your Unique Path : Thomas highlights the importance of recognising and embracing one's unique journey, especially when it involves cultural and faith-based differences. Growing up in diverse environments, he learned to be comfortable with being different and saw it as a purposeful part of his life. 2. Live with Integrity and Faith : Thomas credits his parents for living a life of integrity and faith, which deeply influenced his own beliefs. He emphasises the significance of not just talking about faith but living it out authentically. 3. Understand the Urgency of Mission : Through his belief in a literal six-day creation, Thomas developed a sense of urgency about living a life on mission. He suggests that understanding the world through a biblical lens can instil a sense of immediacy in fulfilling one's purpose and sharing the gospel.

Join Matt Edmundson on "What's the Story?" as he explores tales of faith and courage with guest Steven Pemberton. Discover Steven's journey from an angry youth to a devoted Christian, husband, and father, and how his faith transformed his life and family. Subscribe for more inspiring stories and visit whatsthestorypodcast.com for show notes and updates. --- Timestamps: 0:00 Intro 3:58 Steven's Early Faith Journey 7:04 Clarification on Being "Saved" 10:15 Teenage Years and Faith Challenges 14:24 Leaving the Church 18:34 Forgiveness and Personal Growth 23:10 Church's Decision on Marriage 27:25 Anger and Personal Development 30:42 Marriage Challenges and Overcoming Infidelity 33:04 Returning to Church and Renewed Faith 36:53 Impact on Family and Community 41:23 Surviving Infidelity in Marriage 47:51 Lessons from Adversity 51:12 Outro --- Key Takeaways: 1. Embrace Forgiveness: Steven highlights the importance of forgiveness, not just as a religious concept but as a practical tool for personal well-being. He shares how holding onto anger and resentment can manifest physically and emotionally, and how releasing these feelings through forgiveness can lead to a healthier, more peaceful life. 2. Value Community and Relationships: Steven discusses his journey from being isolated and angry to valuing community and relationships. He emphasises the significance of surrounding oneself with community because "that's where God does his best work". 3. Trust in God During Adversity: Steven's story illustrates the power of faith in overcoming life's challenges. He shares how trusting in God during difficult times, such as marital struggles and career changes, has led to personal and spiritual growth. His experience underscores how faith and God's grace can provide strength, direction, and the means to endure when facing adversity.

Here’s a summary of this week’s story: Welcome to this weeks episode of "What's the Story," in this episode host Matt Edmundson interviews Jonathan Lewis, President of Eastport Financial Group Incorporated, author of "Deep Water" and "More Than Money," and founder of Fathers for Fathers. Jonathan shares his faith journey, struggles, and the transformative power of Christianity in his life. Key Takeaways: The Transformative Power of Faith : Jonathan's faith journey highlights the significant transformation that true convictional Christianity can bring to a person's life. At 34, he experienced a pivotal moment of surrender to Christ, which profoundly impacted his approach to life, business, and relationships. His story emphasizes the importance of trusting in God's plan and letting go of personal idols to experience genuine spiritual growth. The Importance of Forgiveness : Forgiveness plays a central role in Jonathan's narrative. His decision to forgive his ex-wife and seek her forgiveness, despite the pain and difficulty, led to a profound sense of freedom and healing. This act of forgiveness not only improved his personal well-being but also demonstrated the power of following Christ's commands in bringing about reconciliation and personal peace. Supporting and Empowering Men : Jonathan's initiative, Fathers for Fathers, addresses the critical issue of male despair and suicide, particularly among those estranged from their children or struggling with personal failures. The organization aims to support men through various means, including mentorship, immersive studies, and practical guidance. Jonathan's call to action for men to rise above victimhood and villainy, embrace their God-given identity, and take actionable steps toward personal and spiritual growth is a powerful message of hope and empowerment. If this episode connected and you would like to find out more join us for our weekly Crowd Church livestream every Sunday at 6pm. God Bless.

Join us in this powerful episode of "What's The Story?" as host Sadaf Beynon sits down with Eunice Hill, a remarkable woman whose life story is a testament to the strength of faith, resilience in the face of adversity, and the transformative power of forgiveness. Eunice opens up about the significant loss she faced in her early life, her passionate dedication to missionary work, and the invaluable lessons she has learned about faith and forgiveness along the way. Episode Highlights: Early Life and Loss: Eunice shares the impact of losing both her parents at a young age and how their deep faith provided a strong foundation for her own spiritual journey. Missionary Calling: Discover how Eunice's commitment to missionary work and education, particularly in Pakistan, was driven by a desire to support missionary kids separated from their parents. Challenges and Triumphs: Eunice recounts the difficulties she faced while living and working in a different culture, and how her faith helped her overcome these challenges. The Power of Forgiveness: Learn about Eunice's insights into the importance of forgiveness, both in seeking it and granting it, to prevent bitterness and promote healing. God's Timing and Goodness: Eunice reflects on how her understanding of God's timing and goodness has evolved through her life experiences and shaped her resilient spirit.

In this episode of "What's the Story," Anna Kettle sits down with Esther Stamp, a remarkable woman whose faith and resilience were put to the ultimate test when her husband, Darren, was falsely accused and arrested for a crime he did not commit. Esther's story is one of unwavering faith, community support, and finding joy amidst the darkest times. Join us as we delve into her journey of navigating this life-altering challenge while holding onto her faith and supporting her family. Episode Highlights: Faith Over Feelings: Esther shares how she chose to believe in God's goodness despite feeling distant from Him throughout the ordeal. She emphasizes the importance of clinging to theological truths over fleeting emotions. Community Support: Discover how Esther's church family rallied around her, providing practical and emotional support that helped her navigate the challenging two-year period. Finding Joy in Darkness: Despite the grim circumstances, Esther and her family found moments of joy and laughter. She discusses how they maintained a sense of normalcy and humor during this difficult time. Navigating Public Scrutiny: Esther opens up about the challenges of dealing with public gossip and judgment while trying to maintain a sense of normalcy for her children. Lessons Learned: Reflecting on the entire experience, Esther shares the invaluable lessons she learned about faith, resilience, and the power of community. Join us for an inspiring conversation that explores the depths of faith and the strength of the human spirit. Whether you're facing your own trials or looking for a story of hope and resilience, this episode is sure to resonate with you. Connect with Us: Website: What’s The Story Podcast Crowd Church: Crowd Church

In this episode of "What's The Story Podcast," host Sadaf Beynon sits down with John Boyle, who shares his incredible journey of overcoming a traumatic childhood, battling PTSD and alcoholism, and ultimately finding hope and redemption through faith in God. John’s candid and raw account provides deep insights into the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of faith and support. Episode Highlights: John’s Early Life: Growing up in a violent home in West Virginia and its profound impact on his mental health. Struggles with PTSD and Alcoholism: How John coped with his PTSD through alcohol and the eventual realisation of his dependency. Turning Point: The moment John decided to ask God for help and began his journey toward sobriety and healing. The Role of Faith: How returning to church and developing a relationship with God provided John the strength to overcome his addiction and manage PTSD. Life After Recovery: John’s continued efforts to help others by sharing his story, writing his memoir "Appalachian Kid," and volunteering to support those struggling with similar issues. Join us as we get into John Boyle’s raw and inspiring story, illustrating that no matter the adversity, there is always a path to recovery and hope. Be sure to listen, subscribe, and leave a review. Connect with Us: Website: What’s The Story Podcast John's Book: Appalachian Kid: How Hope Changed Everything Social Media: LinkedIn - John P Boyle Crowd Church: Crowd Church Don’t miss this riveting episode filled with resilience, hope, and the power of faith. Listen now to "What's The Story Podcast" and be inspired by John Boyle’s journey of surviving a violent childhood and overcoming life's toughest challenges.

In this moving episode of the "What's The Story Podcast," Julie Sunne shares her heart-wrenching yet inspiring journey through the darkest valleys of grief and loss to finding unwavering faith and strength. Julie's candid discussion about her experiences with multiple miscarriages, raising a child with special needs, and navigating the emotional complexities of having a dependent adult daughter offers a raw and real perspective on the transformative power of faith in adversity. Episode Highlights: From Loss to Faith: Julie opens up about the painful reality of losing her unborn children and how these profound losses reshaped her understanding of God and faith. Raising a Child with Disabilities: Discover how Julie's journey with her firstborn, who faced physical disabilities, and her youngest daughter, who requires lifelong care, has been filled with challenges that have deepened her reliance on spiritual strength. The Dream That Changed Everything: Julie shares a pivotal moment when a dream provided comfort during her grief, reaffirming her faith and setting her on a path of healing and purpose. Life Lessons in Surrender and Trust: Explore the essential lessons Julie learned about surrendering control and trusting in a higher plan, insights that have granted her peace amidst ongoing trials. Authoring Faith: Learn about Julie’s motivation to write her book, "Sometimes I Forget," which focuses on remembering God’s attributes in daily life to sustain faith through any hardship. Join us for this episode of "What's The Story" as Julie Sunne invites us into her life’s trials and triumphs, demonstrating that even in the face of immense sorrow, faith can survive and thrive. This episode is not just a testament to Julie's strength but an invitation to anyone facing their own battles to find hope and renewal in their faith.

Join us on this episode of What's The Story, featuring the remarkable Anna Hamill. Hear her journey from deep personal challenges to launching a thriving business during lockdown. From Crisis to Creation: How Anna transformed severe lockdown challenges into a groundbreaking creative venture. Building Blocks of Success: Discover the steps Anna took from battling depression and isolation to founding And Hope Designs. Inspiration in Adversity: Learn how Anna's faith and the support of her community played pivotal roles in her success. Entrepreneurial Wisdom: Anna shares crucial advice for anyone navigating personal crises while building a business. Explore More: Check out And Hope Designs to see Anna’s work. Follow us for more stories of courage and creativity. Don’t miss out on more inspiring stories—subscribe to What's The Story? Podcast and share this episode to spread hope and motivation!

In this episode of "What's The Story?", we get into how faith influences every aspect of our lives with our guest, Benjie Craig. Join us as Benjie shares his personal journey of integrating faith with business, community, and family. What You'll Learn: Faith and Business: How Benjie's deep-rooted beliefs guide his entrepreneurial decisions and help him navigate the challenges of running a business. Community Engagement: Insights into how faith motivates Benjie to actively participate and make a difference in his local community. Family and Faith: The role of spirituality in family life and how it shapes personal relationships and parenting. Overcoming Challenges: Benjie discusses the pivotal moments when faith played a crucial role in overcoming life's unexpected challenges. Daily Faith Practices: Practical tips on incorporating faith into daily routines, fostering a deeper connection with spiritual beliefs. Key Takeaways: Be busy, work hard but always be ready to come alongside others and love them If Jesus was you, what would it look like? Love where you live Don’t forget to subscribe to our podcast and follow us on our social media for more inspiring stories and life lessons grounded in faith and practical wisdom.

Welcome to this profoundly moving episode of our podcast, where Katherine Gantlett shares her heart-wrenching journey through the darkest seasons of her life—losing her daughter Libby and enduring multiple miscarriages. This episode delves into the depths of spiritual and emotional resilience, as Katherine explores the complex relationship between grief, faith, and justice. In this episode, you'll discover: Katherine’s Personal Story: A detailed account of her journey from the joy of expecting to the agony of sudden loss, and how these experiences have shaped her understanding of faith and God's presence in pain. Faith and Doubt: How Katherine wrestled with her faith in the face of overwhelming grief and what sustaining faith in times of doubt looks like. The Role of Community: Insights into how community support played a crucial role in her process of grieving and finding ground again in life. Spiritual Insights: Katherine shares her transformation from personal tragedy to spiritual guidance, including her current role in helping others navigate their grief. Practical Wisdom for the Bereaved: Strategies and thoughts on managing grief, the importance of lament, and embracing vulnerability as a source of strength. Additional Resources: Book Mention: Katherine talks about her book, "Walking Through Winter," where she uses the metaphor of winter to describe the process of dealing with grief and loss. Community Support: Highlighting the importance of finding and leaning on a supportive community during times of deep personal loss. Spiritual Direction: Katherine discusses her ongoing work as a spiritual director, facilitating retreats and workshops to help others walk through their own winters. This episode is not just a narrative; it's an exploration of the profound questions about God's fairness and presence in our suffering. It's about finding hope in the darkest places and the unexpected ways God shows up in our lives. Join Katherine and us for a journey through pain and faith, and perhaps find a fragment of light in your own winter.

In this deeply moving episode of "What's The Story Podcast," host Sadaf Beynon engages in a poignant conversation with Debra McNinch, the inspiring founder of Battle Cry Mom. Debra, a steadfast believer and a mother who has navigated the tumultuous waters of parenting through faith, shares her riveting journey. This episode not only explores Deborah's personal experiences and the inception of Battle Cry Mom but also delves into the powerful lessons she's learned about faith, resilience, and the impact of community support. Key Takeaways: The profound impact of faith in personal growth and in fostering family unity through trials. The importance of resilience and love in the face of adversity, and how embracing these values can lead to deeper understanding and acceptance. The role of supportive communities in overcoming personal trials, highlighting the significance of collective strength and shared faith. Join us on this episode of "What's The Story Podcast" as we uncover the layers of Debra McNinch's faith-filled journey, her battle through trials, and the heartwarming creation of Battle Cry Mom. Whether you're a parent facing your own set of challenges or someone seeking inspiration to navigate life's unpredictable paths, Debra's story offers valuable insights and hope for the future. Remember to subscribe to our podcast and YouTube channel for more inspiring stories like Debra's. Share this episode with anyone who might find solace and strength in Debra's powerful message of faith and resilience.

In this powerful episode of "What's the Story," Matt Edmundson sits down with Pete Farrington to discuss his inspiring journey of faith, overcoming depression, self-harm, and finding hope in the midst of crisis. Pete shares his story of transformation and the life-changing revelation of God's love that brought him from brokenness to wholeness. Show Notes Introduction to Pete Farrington and his story Pete's struggles with depression and self-harm as a teenager The impact of bullying and feeling different The onset of self-harm and suicidal thoughts The challenges of growing up in a Christian family while struggling with mental health 2. The turning point: Pete's experience at a discipleship training school in Germany Understanding the depth of God's love and the power of the gospel Overcoming depression and stopping medication Finding purpose and a deeper relationship with God 3. Facing a crisis: When Pete's newborn son nearly lost his life The harrowing experience of his son's battle with strep meningitis Feeling helpless and afraid during the hospital stay Clinging to faith and the knowledge of God's love during the darkest times 4. The transformative power of God's love How understanding God's love changed Pete's perspective on his past struggles Recognising God's presence in the midst of pain and hardship The importance of preaching the gospel to oneself 5. Encouraging others who may be struggling with depression or self-harm The importance of seeking help and talking to someone Remembering that God is always with you, even when it doesn't feel like it Holding onto hope and the truth of God's unconditional love The significance of God's name, "El Roi" (the God who sees) , and its relevance to Pete's story This episode is a must-listen for anyone who has ever struggled with depression, self-harm, or feelings of worthlessness. Pete's raw and honest account of his journey will inspire you to hold onto hope and trust in the transformative power of God's love, no matter how dark the circumstances may seem.

In this deeply moving episode of our podcast, we sit down with Emma Fast for an intimate conversation about her life's journey, marked by multicultural experiences, profound loss, and an unwavering faith. Emma's story offers unique insights into the complexities of identity, belonging, and the healing power of faith through the most challenging times. Key Takeaways: The vital role of faith in providing solace and direction through life's ups and downs. The enriching impact of a multicultural upbringing on one's identity and perspective. Understanding grief and loss through the lens of faith and community support. The significance of small acts of faith and kindness in making a profound difference. Join us as we explore these themes with Emma, whose resilience and deep faith provide a compelling narrative of hope, understanding, and the power of belief in the face of life's complexities. --------------------------- Whether you're navigating your own journey of faith, identity, or loss, Emma's story resonates with universal truths about the human experience and the anchoring force of faith. Don't miss this insightful conversation that not only sheds light on the struggles many of us face but also celebrates the strength and beauty found in diversity and faith. Remember to subscribe to our podcast for more inspiring stories like Emma's, and if Emma's story touched you, reach out to us with your thoughts and experiences. Let's continue the conversation.