Livin' The Bream Podcast

Author of The Digital Delusion, Jared Cooney Horvath discusses the negative impact of technology on children's learning and development. He weighs the advantages of banning smartphones in schools and highlights the positive results on student performance. Jared explains why tech usage often fails to benefit students and shares practical ways teachers can drive progress, including the power of simple pen-and-paper methods. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What happens when a custom t-shirt, an adorable yellow lab named Brando, and a simple leap of faith hit the pavement? After losing his job during the COVID-19 pandemic, Author Mark Buckley took a chance on a dream and began walking the beach offering simple prayers, a friendly ear, and a little tail-wagging joy to total strangers. Mark shares his inspiring book, Stories from the Strand: Do You Need Prayer?  He describes how he took bold steps to help others connect with their faith and some of the strangers he's shaped along the way.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this special bonus edition of Livin' the Bream, podcast favorite Pastor Max Lucado shares insights from his book, Unbreakable Courage: Strong Faith in an Age of Anxiety, Chaos, and Exhaustion. He draws parallels between the biblical story of Elijah and modern struggles with anxiety, isolation, and burnout. Pastor Lucado shares how life's challenges, trials, and "boot camps" serve as training grounds to build faith and deeper reliance on God. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Bestselling author, speaker, and artist Ruth Chou Simons discusses her new book, This Moment Matters: 100 Ways to Cultivate a Grace-Laced Life. Ruth opens up about balancing a busy household of six sons, navigating seasons of family crisis, and reclaiming lost time from screen addiction and doomscrolling.  Shannon and Ruth also share practical tips on incorporating scripture into daily routines, celebrating life’s small wins, and recognizing God’s presence beyond Sunday service.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As America keeps the 250th birthday party rolling, political consultant and author Kelley Paul stops by to share two delightful new books: Good Night, Little American and Good Night, Young American. Think of them as the ultimate bedtime story upgrade! Kelley dives into\ how our littlest citizens can discover the story of how America came to be, reminding us that our rights come from God and celebrating the brave souls who protected them.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

West Virginia Congressman Riley Moore discusses his ongoing efforts to protect global religious freedom and push for accountability in Nigeria. And as a professional welder who took a non-traditional route into public service, he explains why more young Americans should consider trade schools over college debt and why he believes the H-1B visa program undercuts American workers. He also previews the upcoming legislative battles on Capitol Hill, sharing an inside look at his role on the House whip team working to secure a Continuing Resolution. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Following a series of traumatic life events, husband and wife Rhonda and Jason Halbert didn’t know where to turn. To heal and find a way forward, they collaborated under the pen name R.J. Halbert to write a captivating supernatural fiction series, The Good Pasture Chronicles. The Halberts sit down to discuss Architect, the final book in their trilogy, sharing how the creative process became a pathway to healing. They also open up about how God gave them the strength to fight through their toughest battles and rebuild their lives. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

FOX & Friends Weekend co-host Rachel Campos-Duffy shares her new book, All American Patriotism: Celebrating 250 Years of America’s Greatness. The book dives into personal, true stories of grit, hope, and what the American Dream truly means to them. Rachel also reveals how Gen Z is reconnecting with faith as a massive spiritual resurgence stretches across the country. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Michael Calvin and Rabbi Naftali Schiff discuss their powerful new book, Miracle: The Boys Who Escaped the Gas Chamber at Auschwitz. They share the extraordinary, true story of the October 1944 miracle, when a group of young boys was forced into an Auschwitz gas chamber, only to be miraculously spared at the last possible second when the doors suddenly reopened. Michael and Rabbi Schiff share how their defiant resilience serves as a vital blueprint for confronting the terrifying modern resurgence of anti-Semitism.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Contemporary Christian vocal group Point of Grace, Shelley Breen, Denise Jones, and Leigh Cappillino, discuss their new album, Lady Wisdom, inspired by the Book of Proverbs. Drawing from motherhood, grief, and life experience, they describe the writing process and collaborating with new artists like Katy Nichole. They also preview their upcoming cookbook, Food and Family, and Shelley (the group's designated chef) shares some foolproof, easy recipes.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter & best-selling author Anne Wilson introduces her newest book, Rebel: Following Jesus When the World Walks the Other Way, which recounts her journey as a Christian and country music artist. Anne shares how her faith was a source of strength following the tragic death of her brother and how she transformed her daily journaling into the hit song "My Jesus." Anne also highlights her "Hey Girl Nation" initiative, a platform that provides a supportive community where young girls are reminded of their identity in Christ. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Investigative journalist Billy Hallowell discusses his documentary series, Investigating the Supernatural: Angels and Demons. Billy explains how he balances faith with journalistic skepticism, using testimonies from theologians and psychiatrists to verify modern accounts of the supernatural. He highlights stories of encounters ranging from UFO sightings to demonic activity, revealing that his studies of these chilling encounters have transformed his own faith and perspective on divine healing. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Do you want better relationships? Psychotherapist Jason VanRuler, author of Discovering Your Communication Type: The Five Paths to Deeper Connections and Stronger Relationships, overviews his five communication styles to transform how we connect. The book is packed with practical advice on navigating conflicts, social awkwardness, and generational gaps, which Jason explains offer a roadmap to deeper empathy and vulnerability. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Is your career merely a means to an end, or is it the space where you fulfill your purpose? Chief Investment Officer of The Bahnsen Group and author of Full-Time: Work and the Meaning of Life, David Bahnsen explains the theological connection between worship and work. He describes why "vain ambition" differs from godly excellence and explores what it truly means to live a fruitful, purpose-driven life.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

No matter the length, heartfelt cries can reach God’s throne and spark miracles. Senior Pastor of Free Chapel, Jentezen Franklin, author of The Power of Short Prayers, reveals how short, simple messages to God can fuel great blessings. Jentezen also provides insight on how to break the barriers of prayer intimidation through heartfelt, scriptural dialogue. Exciting news! Livin' The Bream is officially a nominee for Podcast Impact at the K-LOVE Fan Awards. Vote HERE! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What does it truly mean to prepare for Jesus' return? International minister and co-founder of Messenger International, John Bevere introduces his new book, The King Is Coming: It's Time to Prepare for the Return of Christ, which guides Christians in preparation for the Second Coming of Jesus Christ. This book provides a practical roadmap for believers to transform their lives and deepen their intimacy with God. John discusses his own shift toward recognizing the urgency of this message, informing readers that believing in the return of Christ is both a vital wake-up call and a source of profound hope. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"Everything He allows us to go through has a purpose." - Anne Graham Lotz Preachers and best-selling authors Anne Graham Lotz and Rachel-Ruth Lotz Wright introduce their new book; God Won't Leave You There: Joseph's Story. They reflect on their personal journeys of relying on God during dark seasons, offering a roadmap for choosing forgiveness and maintaining faith when life feels like it's falling apart. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

No matter how far you go, you're never out of God's reach. Retired NASA Astronaut and United States Navy test pilot Butch Wilmore reveals the moment he realized he was stranded in orbit and how his faith kept him grounded. The veteran commander discusses his unexpected months-long stay on the International Space Station, an experience he details in his new book, Stuck in Space. Butch shares technical insights into the Artemis II mission, the reality of "operational excellence," and how his trust in God provided peace when he wasn't sure he would return to Earth. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"The only work the Father asks of us is to believe." — Stephen McWhirter Worship leader and author of Radically Restored Stephen McWhirter shares his powerful journey from addiction to redemption. He reflects on how a strained relationship with his father sparked a life-changing encounter with God, transforming him into the worship leader and man he is today. Later, Stephen explains the transformative grace of God and the importance of finding one's identity in Christ, rather than in one's past or circumstances. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Still Here. Still rooted in faith. Still in love. Mary Beth and Steven Curtis Chapman share a transparent look into their 42-year marriage and the beautiful, refining process of growing and sharing a life together. Highlighting their brand-new book, Still Here: Life Together on the Long Way Home, they emphasize that while they are total opposites, they continue to choose each other every single day. They share stories of faith, parenting, and why "bearing with one another in love" is always worth it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This Resurrection Sunday, Author and Pastor Dr. Jeremiah Johnston shares the profound story of the greatest overcomer, Jesus Christ. He providestheological evidence that Jesus was a real, approachable human who would become "the ultimate overcomer of sin and death." Dr. Johnston describes the brutal cost Jesus willingly paid to redeem our sins and forge an everlasting relationship with us on earth. He highlights the depth of the biblical phrase "Shalom," emphasizing that even in our most impossible challenges, we can flourish because we surrounded by the "Prince of Peace." Nothing Is Impossible with God is available NOW! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Author and Pastor Darren Tyler shares the powerful story of how God redirected his path, leading him to ministry. He reflects on how Moses's story in the Bible provided him with peace amid his discomfort with public speaking. Pastor Darren explores Moses's story, highlighting how his courageous leadership and the miraculous way God works through those who are willing to answer His call on their lives. Nothing Is Impossible with God is available NOW! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"The antidote to self-doubt is not more self, but more God." - Lee Strobel Investigative journalist and New York Times best-selling author of The Case for Christ Lee Strobel shares the story of Gideon in the Bible, a man who evolved from being fearful in the face of adversity to a mighty warrior through God's strength.  Lee provides encouragement that when God calls people to seemingly impossible tasks, He provides the necessary equipment and strength to carry them through. Shannon’s new FOX Book, Nothing Is Impossible with God! Order HERE Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Would you remain faithful in the face of temptation, luxury, and power? Pastor Gary Hamrick shares the story of Daniel, a young Jewish exile whose faith was tested after being taken captive to Babylon. Though promised a new life of privilege, Daniel refused to compromise on his beliefs and remained devoted to the Lord. Pastor Hamrick explains how Daniel’s unwavering integrity serves as a powerful example for believers, showing how to stand firm in faith despite societal pressures.  Shannon’s new FOX Book, Nothing Is Impossible with God! Order HERE Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

To be faithful is to consistently walk with God. International minister, co-founder of Messenger International, and author of the new book, The King Is Coming, John Bevere shares the profound reality of what it looks like to walk with God through a century of drought and public ridicule. He explains how Noah's story reminds us that preparing for the return of Christ is not about fear, but about the joy of a bride preparing for a long-awaited wedding.  Something special is coming March 10th — Shannon’s new FOX Book, Nothing Is Impossible with God! Pre-Order HERE Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"When you get to the end of yourself, you get to the beginning of God." - Pastor Greg LauriePastor Greg Laurie explains how God can use even our most stubborn moments to lead us where He's called us to be.  Pastor Greg dives deep into the Book of Jonah, describing the prophet not just as a man fleeing a big fish, but as a reluctant prophet who had to overcome his own prejudices and comfort zone to deliver a message of mercy to his enemies.Something special is coming March 10th –Shannon’s new FOX Book, Nothing Is Impossible with God! Pre-Order HERE Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"So much of our brokenness can be where God shows up." Pastor Jonathan "JP" Pokluda dives into the life of Peter, explaining how the Apostle's journey serves as a powerful emblem of the truth that Nothing Is Impossible With God. He highlights how Peter’s experience demonstrates that even our biggest mistakes and moments of failure don't disqualify us. Instead, God can transform our deepest mess into a message and a ministry used for His purposes and glory.  Something special is coming March 10th —Shannon’s new FOX Book, Nothing Is Impossible with God! Pre-Order HERE Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Press forward in faith — Joshua's journey is a testimony of how embracing God's provision requires faith. Shannon and best-selling author, Pastor Max Lucado highlight Joshua’s story of faith and courage in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges to serve as an inspiration. Pastor Lucado explains that remembering God’s past faithfulness and miracles is essential for building the courage needed to move forward and face new giants. Something special is coming March 10th — Shannon’s new FOX Book, Nothing Is Impossible with God! Pre-Order HERE Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Positioned for a purpose — Nehemiah's journey is a story of how God equips us to overcome opposition. On this episode of the Nothing Is Impossible with God series, Shannon and best-selling author and beloved bible teacher Lisa Whittle discuss Nehemiah's journey in the Bible, illustrating how he moved from a trusted position in the King's palace to rebuilding Jerusalem's walls. They highlight Nehemiah's character, integrity, and strong desire to follow a path set out for him by God.  Something special is coming March 10th — Shannon’s new FOX Book, Nothing Is Impossible with God! Pre-Order HERE Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

From the pit to the palace, Joseph’s journey is a reminder that faith can move mountains.  In this first episode of the Nothing Is Impossible with God series, Shannon and Senior Pastor of First Baptist Dallas Church, Dr. Robert Jeffress reflect on the life of Joseph in the Bible.  Drawing inspiration from Joseph's own betrayal, Shannon and Dr. Jeffress share practical advice on how to release bitterness and embrace peace in God’s sovereignty. Something special is coming March 10th — Shannon's new FOX Book, Nothing Is Impossible with God! Pre-Order HERE Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"God is really moving in Hollywood in a way that I've never seen before." Director, producer, and co-founder of Kingdom Story Company, Andrew Erwin, introduces his new film, "I Can Only Imagine 2." He describes the process behind creating the sequel and themes the film explores. Andrew also discusses the evolution of the film industry and the growing demand for faith-based content in Hollywood.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Shannon revisits her conversation with Pastor and Author of Joy Bomb: Unleash Jesus’s Explosive Joy for an Extraordinary Life, Tauren Wells, who discusses his book and how to find authentic happiness through the joy of the Lord. He also shares the impact of having Jesus by your side to walk you through each season of life.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

How do we get better at prayer?  The lead pastor of GO Church and host of the "On the GO" podcast, Pastor JC Worley, introduces his new book, Deeper21, covering the miraculous power of prayer and fasting. He explains why prayer does not need to be formal or complicated, but rather honest and vulnerable. The Pastor also offers guidance on incorporating fasting into spiritual practice. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"Any bit of encouragement that we can bring to the Hill is important." - Steve Amerson Singer, songwriter, and recording artist Steve Amerson highlights his successful music career and his mission to encourage others through praise and worship. Steve discusses how he began conducting a weekly worship service in the U.S. Capitol building, which evolved into a significant staple on Capitol Hill. He also shares how he now extends a message of unity and faith beyond party lines to members of Congress and their staff.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As the New Year approaches, are you looking to spend more time rooted in God's word? Speaker, Author, and Host of the podcast The Bible Recap, Tara-Leigh Cobble, aims to help people better understand the Bible. She describes how The Bible Recap offers digestible plans that allow listeners to dive deep into Scripture within minutes. Tara-Leigh emphasizes the importance of understanding Scripture and how it can help people grow their faith throughout their lives. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas!   With unshakeable faith, Film and Television Director, Dallas Jenkins reflects on his nearly 20-year journey to create the Christmas movie, "The Best Christmas Pageant Ever." He shares how he first came across Barbara Robinson's book and why he fell in love with the story and needed to make it a film.   Dallas also shares exciting updates on some of his other projects, including the hit series The Chosen and the upcoming mini-series Joseph of Egypt. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

From Elton John to Michael Jackson, Barry Morgenstein has been behind the lens of greatness! Award-winning photographer Barry Morgenstein shares mesmerizing stories behind his most iconic photographs of legendary musicians featured in his new book, Rock & Soul Portraits.  Barry explains how photography has evolved since the start of his career and its influence on his approach to capturing concerts. He also highlights some of his favorite musicians and concerts he's photographed.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Let the countdown to Christmas begin! This week, Shannon and Author, TV host and producer Megan Alexander are diving into the Christmas zone. Megan invites listeners to read her new book, The True Gifts of Christmas: Unwrapping the Meaning Behind Our Most Cherished Traditions, which uncovers the fascinating treasures behind a few faith-based traditions of the holiday season. Megan shares the real meaning behind some popular Christmas traditions, including Santa, and shows how many of them connect to stories from the Bible. Later, she highlights her new movie, The Best Thing About Christmas, out December 19th on UPTV.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Actress Candace Cameron Bure discusses her newest project, a devotional book titled "Rise and Renew." She explains why this project is extra special to her and how she hopes readers will find hope, strength, and joy in God's word through the devotional. Candace also highlights how she stays grounded in the values she considers crucial, remains vulnerable with her audience, and how she navigates married life after nearly 30 years. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today's episode is particularly divine! Owner of Puccia Sauce Chef Giancarla Bodoni joins Shannon to discuss delicious food and friendship. They highlight wonderful memories surrounding meals they've shared.  Chef Giancarla describes the joy of bringing people together through food and her desire to feed people quality ingredients. She also shares a glimpse of her new line of pasta sauce, Puccia Sauce.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Former NFL star and host of The Just Life podcast, Benjamin Watson, highlights his advocacy work, raising awareness for the persecution of Christian overseas, specifically those targeted in Nigeria. He also explains the importance of engaging and supporting believers around the world, sharing highlights from a recent mission trip his family took to Guatemala. Later, Shannon and Benjamin discuss the current phase of College Football and why living in the moment matters.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Semper Fi & America's Fund Chief Program Officer, Case Management East, Karen Hetherington, highlights her organization's initiative to serve veterans and their families. She explains some of the services the organization provides and upcoming volunteer opportunities. As a military spouse herself, Karen understands firsthand the experiences of military family members. She discusses the organization's aim to make their lives a little easier. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"Don't let fear dictate your decisions. Live by faith." - Pastor Mark Batterson New York Times bestselling author and Pastor Mark Batterson shares his new book, Gradually Then Suddenly: How to Dream Bigger, Decide Better, and Leave a Lasting Legacy. He discusses the importance of dreaming big, trusting God and embracing gradual progress over immediate gratification. Pastor Mark also explains why legacies are a beautiful reminder of how our decisions shape the lives of others. Gradually Then Suddenly will be available Tuesday, November 4th.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Who are the forgotten heroes of the Christmas story?   Best-selling author Pastor Robert Morgan discusses Zechariah and Elizabeth, an elderly couple from the Bible, who are intertwined in the Christmas story. He describes some of the struggles they faced in their life and the lessons they can teach Bible readers.  Pastor Morgan shares his new book, God Hasn't Forgotten You: 24 Remarkable Ways God Is Working In You And Through You, which covers Zechariah and Elizabeth's story and the early chapters of the Gospel of Luke.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

“Only God can do the impossible.”  - Ruth Chou Simons Author and artist Ruth Chou Simons joins Shannon to discuss her new devotional, The Way of the Wildflower: Gospel Meditations to Unburden Your Anxious Soul. Ruth writes about the importance of having a dependent relationship with God and recognizing that only He can do the impossible. She also shares meditations to help combat different issues. As a mother of six, Ruth discusses how she balances family life and career by cultivating her spiritual life through the quiet moments of everyday decisions.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On Wednesday President Trump announced that a peace deal had been reached in the Israel-Hamas war, a momentous day  for the families of the remaining hostages and those living within the region. Editor-in-Chief of All Israel News Joel Rosenberg joins Shannon to reflect on the current phase of the ceasefire deal and how he can feel God at the center of the restoration that will come to Gaza. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"There's an excitement in following God, and we don't even know where He's going to bring us tomorrow." - David Green Founder and CEO of Hobby Lobby, David Green, and CEO of Legacy Stone, Bill High, share their new book, "The Legacy Life: Leading Your Life To Make A Difference For Eternity." They discuss why their personal understanding of legacy has evolved and how they're redefining the concept to encourage readers to discover God's purpose for their lives.  David and Bill highlight a section from their book on 'Legacy Adventures' which shares testimonials on families faithfully defining their legacies. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"My life was changed when I stepped into the water." - Jamie MacDonald on her new song "Left It In The River." Christian singer and songwriter Jamie Macdonald joins Shannon to share why she surrendered her music career to God. She discusses the importance of faith when she battled a turbulent season in her life, and the influence her relationship with God has on the music she creates. After the loss of her father, Jamie shares how she reconnected to music, drawing on her own experiences to write songs that can provide comfort to people. She also shares how faith and forgiveness helped her reunite with her mother.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In a world saturated with false information, is there a way to defeat false truths? Host of Stay True Podcast and New York Times bestselling author, Madison Prewett Troutt shares her new book, "Dare To Be True: Defeat The Lies That Bind You And Live Out The Truth That Frees You."  Madi explains how to conquer toxic worldly thoughts and live a life that's authentic to who you are. She also addresses purity culture and what it means to be pure of heart, both in attitude and action Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Do you ever feel like something is getting in the way of your happiness?  New York Times best-selling author and Parker Gilbert Montgomery Professor at Harvard University, Arthur Brooks, introduces his new book, "The Happiness Files: Insights on Work and Life." The book helps readers navigate their lives, redefine success to find inner happiness.   Arthur discusses many factors that impact people's mentality on life, thus depleting their happiness; however, he explains that finding a connection to faith or looking beyond oneself helps people find meaning in their work and life.  Arthur's new podcast, Office Hours with Arthur Brooks is available HERE! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices