Plowing Mules, Picking Cotton, Finding God, The Michael Carpenter Story // July 30, 2026

Michael Carpenter grew up plowing mules and picking cotton in Hernando, Mississippi—one of ten children abandoned by his father at age three. Raised by loving grandparents and later embraced by a stepfather who showed him what acceptance looks like; Michael's journey took a dramatic turn on a drive to work when suicidal thoughts overwhelmed him. In his darkest moment, Michael tuned into Bott Radio Network and heard Chuck Swindoll teaching on the blood of Jesus. That broadcast led him to pull into a hospital emergency room and surrender his life to Christ. Today, Michael serves as a chaplain to troubled youth at a state-run facility—a ministry he's faithfully carried since 1994. He shares about forgiving his absent father, reconnecting broken family ties, and why he believes there's hope for America's next generation. This is a story about the power of Christian radio, the resilience of faith, and how God can redeem even the most painful beginnings.