Let Me Tell You a Story with Steve and Becky Lyles

They Never Expected the Career Paths that Brought Them TogetherNeither Adrienne nor Frank Signorino expected to spend the bulk of their employment years serving as guards in California jails. Join us for a fascinating discussion of the challenges and rewards that came with doing their best to provide a safe environment for incarcerated individuals...even as they put their own safety and well-being on the line.(Podcast sound effects source: ⁠⁠http://www.freesfx.co.uk⁠⁠)

High Flying!We had a good time learning about aerial arts from LuAnne Moresco, who's written a book on the subject titled "Aerial Visions: An Introduction to Silks, Hammock, Lyra, and Other Aerial Arts." That's quite a mouthful, but a fitting title for a sport that entails far more than dangling daintily in the air. Take a listen, and you too may be bitten by the aerialist bug and the full-body fitness, joy and freedom it offers.(Podcast sound effects source: ⁠⁠http://www.freesfx.co.uk⁠⁠)

I Am Sparrow: A Story of Healing from Sexual AbuseMeghan Carlisle joined us on this podcast to talk about her first novel, a somewhat autobiographical story of a young girl trapped by an abuser. She graciously answered all our hard questions and then read an excerpt from "I Am Sparrow." Meghan has a passion to shed light on the paths women walk through life’s hardest challenges and their journeys to healing. She's an excellent writer and speaker who'd love to talk to your group about abuse, transformation and hope.contact: [email protected]://meghancarlisle.wixsite.com/meghan-carlisle(Podcast sound effects source: ⁠⁠http://www.freesfx.co.uk⁠⁠)

Long Journey to JoyRuby Contreras's big smile and enthusiasm could give the impression she's had an ideal life. But that would be a false assumption. Her story begins with parents who not only neglected their children but introduced them to drugs at early ages. In and out of foster homes until she turned 18, Ruby continued to struggle with addiction and abusive relationships. Finally, the day came when she could no longer live that life and reached out for help.(Podcast sound effects source: ⁠⁠http://www.freesfx.co.uk⁠⁠)

Seeing Jesus in the PainEarnie Lewis’s journey to emotional health has not been easy. Yet, he’s never given up, and he’s been able to help others along the way. Through tears, Earnie graciously shared with us the trauma and the trials—and the steps he took to wholenesswith the help and prayers of therapists, family members and friends. His story of healing will challenge, inspire and encourage you.

The Many Hats of Ray EllisFrom policeman to pastor, teacher, author, book coach and publisher, Ray has done it all and done it well. In podcast #175, we talk with Ray about his multiple careers as well as what it was like to grow up in the American South during the Civil Rights Movement. And, of course, Steve threw in some cop questions. :-)https://www.passioncm.org/(Podcast sound effects source: ⁠⁠http://www.freesfx.co.uk⁠⁠)

They Grew Up in Prison yet Found a Fulfilling Future Renee and Mike Book both experienced abusive childhoods that led to addictions and crime--and a search for healing. On this podcast, the Books share not only their incredible journeys but amazing wisdom about life, marriage, parenting, emotional and spiritual growth, and so much more. Tune in and be challenged!!!

A Story about CheatingWhat a fun time we had interviewing the Bryant family about their new children's book titled "Trusting Timothy: A Story about Cheating."https://www.trustingtimothy.com/(Podcast sound effects source: ⁠⁠http://www.freesfx.co.uk⁠⁠)

Brick by BrickRick Archuleta shares fun stories of restoring Bay Area buildings inside and out, including San Francisco's City Hall, a.k.a. the People's Palace, the Russ Building, and the basement of the Wax Museum at Fisherman's Wharf, among others. Now an Idaho resident, he provides Treasure Valley residents with a unique handyman service . https://archuletass.com/

Pines in the WastelandAuthor Barb Sulfridge, lover of mountains and forests, talked with us about her journey through the wilderness of suffering and sorrow to find hope and peace as well as joy. Her new book recounts a nearly 40-year journey of learning to depend on God when life did not turn out the way she hoped or planned.https://www.backwoodsbarb.com/(Podcast sound effects source: ⁠⁠http://www.freesfx.co.uk⁠⁠)

When God Steps InDevotional author Earline Kline joined us to talk about how God has led her through several decades of life, how she got started writing devotionals, and how she and her husband became prison volunteers...including some of her adventures "on the inside."https://meditationsofmyheart.wordpress.com/(Podcast sound effects source: ⁠⁠⁠http://www.freesfx.co.uk⁠⁠⁠)

Creation Care & the ChristianTri Robinson, a man who's traveled the world and worn many hats over the years, graciously joined us to talk about his latest book, “A Journey of Gratitude: Traversing Four Seasons of Life.” We covered a lot of topics in this podcast, including his experience teaching in a gifted-and-talented program, reviving a family homestead, starting a church, and fulfilling his and his wife, Nancy's, dream of creating a beautiful Idaho ranch where they enjoy and example stewardship of the land.https://timberbuttehomestead.com/https://cowboyandpreacher.com/(Podcast sound effects source: ⁠⁠http://www.freesfx.co.uk⁠⁠)

High-Elevation EducationSeveral years ago, our guest, Dr. Bryan Williams, and others saw a need for higher education in the mountains of central Idaho and began the process of establishing McCall College. We talked with Dr. Williams about the college as well as his many other interests, including his special love for bioethics.http://mccallcollege.org(Podcast sound effects source: ⁠⁠http://www.freesfx.co.uk⁠⁠)

Life Is Precious This podcast features two special ladies, both named Cathy, who graciously share their pregnancy trauma/s with us. Through ignorance and pain, they sought solutions to unwanted pregnancies that they both now regret. Yet, they've experienced God's forgiveness and emotional healing and want to share the peace and joy they've found with others who suffer the same regrets. (Podcast sound effects source: ⁠⁠http://www.freesfx.co.uk⁠⁠)

Greener Grass Syndrome Infidelity nearly destroyed Nancy and Ron Anderson's marriage 40+ years ago, a story they share in a book titled "Avoiding the Greener Grass Syndrome: How to Grow Affair-Proof Hedges Around Your Marriage." In this Let Me Tell You a Story episode, through laughter and tears, they talk about the intentional steps they took to rebuild their relationship and regain love and respect for each other. Whether all is well in your marriage or you're attempting to restore a broken one, the Andersons have much to say to spur couples toward marital harmony. http://nancycanderson.com/ (Podcast sound effects source: ⁠⁠http://www.freesfx.co.uk⁠⁠)

Empty Arms In recent podcasts, we've talked with several people about the trauma and pain of losing a child. Another Becky (we're on a roll!) joined us this time to discuss how very difficult that time is and how friends and family supported her through the healing process. And how we can do the same for grieving couples and families. https://www.emptyarmsbereavement.org/ Podcast sound effects source: ⁠http://www.freesfx.co.uk⁠

Journey to Joy Our longtime friends Linda and Bob talk about deep losses in their family and how they found healing, followed by a sweet friend named Terri who shares a poem she wrote, which beautifully chronicles the losses she and her husband, Larry, experienced. Although both couples' trauma was exceedingly painful, they eloquently relay the process and steps needed to walk through grief and come out the other side with even stronger marriages and faith. https://www.griefshare.org/ (Podcast sound effects source: ⁠http://www.freesfx.co.uk⁠)

Christmas Ridge, Colorado Patti Shene, author of "Cathy's Christmas Confession," a Christmas Ridge Romance, Book Three, joined us to talk about her contribution to the series. Her fun novella features a colorful cast of characters, including a heroine and hero who are challenged to step out of their comfort zones. If you'd like to enter a drawing for a $50 Amazon card, you can do so by registering for Patti's newsletter at -- https://tinyurl.com/2p82kx9 (deadline midnight December 6, 2024) Or go to her website: https://pattishene.com/ See the book: https://pattishene.com/pattis-christmas-novella

And Then You Were Gone Becky Avella graciously agreed to discuss the painful loss of four children through miscarriage plus talk about the book she wrote to help other families who've faced the same trauma. Her transparency and sweet spirit, along with her suggestions for healing and ways to support anyone who's lost a loved one, are sure to encourage listeners, whether female or male. Becky on Amazon: https://tinyurl.com/43ec2ur4 (Podcast sound effects source: ⁠http://www.freesfx.co.uk⁠)

Temper Tantrums Ever had an angry moment (or several) you'd rather not talk about? Or buried resentment deep inside? Our guest, author Kathy Collard Miller, shares stories from her life and from others who contributed to her latest book. Then she shows us from the Bible how Jesus handled similar situations. I highly recommend "Managing Anger--Jesus Style" for everyone, whether your temperament is set on slow simmer or leans toward the volcanic. :-) https://kathycollardmiller.com/ (Podcast sound effects source: ⁠http://www.freesfx.co.uk⁠)

Movement Matters Katy Nelson's enthusiasm for bringing smiles and movement to older adults is contagious. She has a special love for helping those with memory loss. In addition, she offers lots of tips for caregivers--not just how to help their loved ones but reminders to care for their own well-being. https://knc-movementmatters.net/ (Podcast sound effects source: http://www.freesfx.co.uk)

To Russia and Back Our longtime friend, Lee Eddy, has taught the Bible in churches in America, Russia and Latvia and has a deep desire to see relationships healed. Russia is where he developed the materials for his Pure Man Ministry. Along with discussing that focus, we talk about his Face to Face (counseling) Ministry and Great Romance (marriage) Ministry. Although the subject matter is serious, Lee has a great sense of humor, and we had plenty of laughs throughout the podcast. https://crossandswordministries.com/

Cop Culture Larry Miller's law enforcement career spanned several decades and taught him much about human nature, especially about himself. He and his wife, Kathy, shared with us how police work affected their marriage and family and the changes they had to make to survive. https://kathycollardmiller.com/

A Fun Ride In her 40-year radio career, Bridget Bonde has adapted to numerous technological advances as well as studio format and music style changes. We had a great time asking about her DJ experiences and the ups and downs of hosting solo radio shows in the Treasure Valley. (Podcast sound effects source: http://www.freesfx.co.uk)

The Wonderful World of Worms Our guest, Agronomist Jerry Arledge, was privileged to spend many years in Latin America learning from farmers and working with them to increase crop yields. Together, they developed techniques that included the lowly earthworm and resulted in amazing harvests. You'll enjoy Jerry's enthusiasm for his work and the people he met along the way.

A Day in the Life of a Union Steward We had a fun talk with our friend Larry who serves his coworkers as a union steward. Whether you have experience with unions or not, you'll enjoy Larry's unique, honest perspective and sense of humor. (Podcast sound effects source: http://www.freesfx.co.uk)

Roller Derby, Anyone? How fun to talk with Cyndy Radovich about her new passion, roller derby competition. If you're like the two of us, you know little or nothing about the sport. Here's a quick explanation told with Cyndy's wonderful enthusiasm plus a short introduction to Becky's latest novel in the Children of the Light series, Crimson Arches. https://tvrderby.com/ (Podcast sound effects source: http://www.freesfx.co.uk)

Smiles & Sweets Cyndy Radovich, owner of Sweet Zola's, a Boise candy shop, loves her work and loves her employees, a special group of young people finding their place in the work force. Her enthusiasm is contagious and you'll come away with a smile on your face! :-)

Warhawk Air Museum Carson Spear, executive director of the Warhawk Air Museum in Nampa, Idaho, talked with us about the museum's 35-year history and all the amazing activities and opportunities available there today. We also asked about his combat experience as a platoon leader in Southern Baghdad, where he was deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom II and awarded a Bronze Star and a Purple Heart. https://warhawkairmuseum.org/ (Podcast sound effects source: http://www.freesfx.co.uk)

No More Anger Author Kathy Collard Miller not only writes award-winning, bestselling books—more than 60 of them, she also blogs and records videos and speaks around the country and the world on subjects we all can relate to. In addition, Kathy and her husband, Larry, provide faith-based lay counseling for individuals as well as couples. https://kathycollardmiller.com/ (Podcast sound effects source: http://www.freesfx.co.uk)

WHY RWANDA? When we learned Bill Miller has made several trips to Rwanda, we had to ask why. In this podcast, we talk about what first caught his interest in such a beautiful but faraway country. He's been privileged to serve a school there by training teachers how to teach the children English. In turn, they've taught him how to become a better trainer. (Podcast sound effects source: http://www.freesfx.co.uk)

Christian Chapter Book Author Wendy Mattox's enthusiasm for kids and books for kids shines in this podcast. Her three series include stories about time-traveling twins, a boy who shrinks, and an animal spy team. Wendy describes her stories, which can be read in any order, as books kids love and parents trust. Wendy's website: https://www.wendyannmattox.com/  Podcast sound effects source: http://www.freesfx.co.uk

Utopia Abandoned Laurie Bower joins Steve and Becky to talk about the latest book in her Utopian Series. This one is titled "Utopia Abandoned" and features a beautiful city beneath the treacherous wasteland that lies outside the dome. We talk with Laurie about the skill and research required to write dystopian fantasy and conclude with her reading the first chapter of "Utopia Abandoned" for listeners' enjoyment. https://llbower.com/ (Podcast sound effects source: http://www.freesfx.co.uk)

Crimson Arches Here's your chance to hear Becky read the prologue to the second book in her "Children of the Light" series, Crimson Arches. Like Shadow Ranch, the first book in the series, this one is named after the ranch where the story is set and continues to focus on modern-day polygamy. Steve follows her reading with questions and comments sure to entertain. :-) (Podcast sound effects source: http://www.freesfx.co.uk)

Cold Turkey, Warm Culture "Cold Turkey" follows an American schoolteacher's sometimes fun, sometimes frustrating romp through Istanbul, a metropolis bustling with welcoming, warmhearted citizens--who speak another language. Talking with the novel's author, Jodi Cowles, who experienced many of the same ups and downs when she was a foreign aid worker, was definitely on the fun side. With a subtitle like "How Much Chaos, Crowds, and Colorful Adventure Can One Woman Take?" you can understand why the book is a great read for explorers, travelers, teachers and those who enjoy clean comedy with a hint of romance. https://www.jodicowles.com/

Cruisin' with the Lyles We had a fun time interviewing Steve's brother, Don, and sister-in-law, Karen, about the many ocean cruises they've enjoyed. If you've ever been on an ocean cruise or hope to someday go on one, you'll enjoy their descriptions of places they've gone, sights they've seen, friends they've made, and the myriad of fun things to do on a cruise ship and shore trips.

Hands of Gold Award-winning author Roni Robbins talks with us about her novel, Hands of Gold, a fictionalized account of her Jewish grandfather's immigration to America. His journey was long and arduous, and his life in the USA not easy. All too soon, he learned it's not a land of milk and honey and the streets are not paved with gold. But he was a survivor and made the best of it with hard work, humor, and the support of his loving wife and family. https://ronirobbins.com/ Podcast sound effects source: http://www.freesfx.co.uk

Walking the Terminal We like to talk with people who have unusual occupations. Our interviewee for podcast #143, Warren Milanowski, retired from 39 years of airline work and stepped into a new role, one he'd never before considered. Tune in to learn all about it.

Zaidy's War Four Armies, Three Continents, Two Brothers. One Man's Impossible Story of Endurance. Martin Bodek penned his grandfather's WWII story, and quite a story it is. The author and his book can be found on social media, anywhere books are sold online, and at martinbodek.com.

Adoption Adventure After several years of marriage and still no children in their home, Andrea and Adam Graham decided to look into adoption alternatives. They are now the proud parents of cute little EJ, but their journey to parenthood wasn't easy. The long process required persistence, flexibility and faith. https://nightlight.org/snowflakes-embryo-adoption-donation/ (Podcast sound effects source: http://www.freesfx.co.uk)

The Irresponsible Reader We often invite authors to talk with us on this podcast, but today we’re speaking with one of the many people authors value the most—readers! H.C. Newton is not only an avid, and I mean avid reader, he hosts a blog and a website called The Irresponsible Reader that's all about books and their authors. You can read his reviews and connect with him here -- [email protected]://irresponsiblereader.comhttps://twitter.com/HCNewtonhttps://www.facebook.com/irresponsiblereaderhttps://www.goodreads.com/HCNewton

The Secret Life of a Secret Service Agent Bob West's career with the United States Secret Service is long over, but you'll enjoy his memories of the days when he conducted criminal investigations and protected U.S. political leaders and their families as well as visiting foreign heads of state. Want to know which president he most enjoyed serving? Take a listen. :-) (Podcast sound effects source: http://www.freesfx.co.uk)

Old Time Radio with Adam Graham We usually bring authors to our podcast to highlight their books, but we talked with Adam about his books and his podcasting because he’s a prolific podcaster, with five old-time radio podcasts to monitor. You can find them under these names: Great Detectives, The Old Time Dragnet Show, The Old Time Radio Superman, The Amazing World of Radio, and The War. Feeling nostalgic for the good ol' days? Take a listen. Website: https://www.greatdetectives.net/detectives/ (Podcast sound effects source: Adam Graham)

What's In Your Howl? Author Doug Gamble has written a beautifully illustrated story for young children that features an armadillo and a coyote who learn to appreciate each other's differences. We had a fun conversation with Doug and are sure you'll enjoy our talk as much as we did. https://www.xulonpress.com/bookstore/index.php?keyword=what%27s+in+your+howl&searchtype=title&qfunction=search&record_per_page=40 (Podcast sound effects source: http://www.freesfx.co.uk)

Idaho Black Bear Rehabilitation Terri and Larry Limberg spent several years transporting young black bears around the West. Tune in to learn the whys and hows of such a potentially dangerous endeavor -- and to learn about the Idaho Black Bear Rehab program.  https://www.bearrehab.org/

The Apprentice of Buchenwald We were privileged to interview Oren Schneider, author of "The Apprentice of Buchenwald: The True Story of the Teenage Boy Who Sabotaged Hitler's War Machine," and know you'll enjoy learning about his amazing grandfather's survival tactics. Here are a few lines from the back-cover blurb. Using their last reserves of wealth and  influence to escape extermination, the Rosenbergs go underground to avoid the Gestapo. Eventually exposed, captured, and taken to Buchenwald, the largest concentration camp in Germany, Alexander and his father collaborate to survive one day at a time. A  chaotic chain of events puts young Alexander at the heart of a massive armament sabotage scheme. When his father is gravely injured and disappears after an air bombing, it is up to industrious Alexander to create leverage and use wartime machinations and raw talent to save his father’s life. https://apprenticeofbuchenwald.com/ (Podcast sound effects source: http://www.freesfx.co.uk)

The Road to Karachi When Drew Brown came to our house to help us with audio equipment, we learned something about him and his family that piqued our curiosity and generated lots of questions. Join us to learn where they've journeyed so far and where they're headed in the future. It's a fun story! https://drewallenbrown.com/ https://chogglobal.org/team/dsbrown/ (Podcast sound effects source: http://www.freesfx.co.uk)

What Lurks in the Shadow Ranch Shadows? In episode #133, Steve and Becky talk about her latest novel, the first in the Children of the Light series, and finish off with Becky reading the Shadow Ranch prologue -- just to wet your appetite for the rest of the story. :-)

Living a Principled Life Our guest, Richard Matteson, has been with us before, and we always enjoy talking with him. This time, we discuss some of the "80 universal principles of life" he writes about in his new book. Toward the end of the podcast, we asked him to read an excerpt titled the "Peace Principle." I think we can all agree this war-weary world is in need of a good dose of peace. :-)  

Raptor Rapture Considered a sport by some and an art form by others, falconry has been practiced for hundreds of years in the United States and in other countries. Many have called the sport a "bond with the wild." It can be both exciting and disappointing, and requires much dedication and hard work. (Podcast sound effects source: http://www.freesfx.co.uk)