Talks For Christ

Having a website does not necessarily mean you have an effective web presence. Tom Donovan, founder of Him First Media Group, explores the four pillars of an effective web presence and how websites, SEO, social media, maintenance, and other digital tools can work together. He also discusses how organizations can establish priorities without becoming overwhelmed by changing technology. For Christian leaders, the conversation goes deeper: pursue digital excellence while keeping Christ, people, stewardship, and the God-given mission at the center. Ep-2

Christian singer-songwriter Eddy Mann joins Dr. Oliver to discuss “We Are,” his jazz-influenced worship song inspired by Revelation 4:8b and 4:11. Eddy shares how the song emerged during a quiet devotional moment and unexpectedly found its home in a 5/4 rhythm. Beyond the music is a deeper message about worship, identity, unity, and purpose. Discover what changes when God becomes the center and believers move beyond a culture focused on “me” to rediscover the Biblical importance of “we.” You will want to stay with us all the way to the end as Eddy has given permission for us to share with you his new song: "We Are". You will be blessed.

Dr. Barney Maddox, retired physician and author of "Darwin’s Big Lie: Sophistry Gone Wild", shares his journey from atheism to faith in Jesus Christ and later from accepting evolution to becoming a creationist. Dr. Maddox discusses what he calls “Darwin’s Big Lie,” along with DNA, genetics, mutations, origins, and Genesis 1–11. Discover why he believes Christians should thoughtfully examine evolutionary claims and how studying creation has strengthened his confidence in God, Scripture, and Jesus Christ.

More than 35 years after communism’s collapse, a new generation of Christians is emerging across former Soviet nations. Pastor Eric Mock of Slavic Gospel Association shares how local evangelical churches are training young pastors, reaching children and teenagers, and serving families facing extraordinary hardship. Hear the remarkable story of Alexander, an abandoned child who became a youth leader. You will be blessed to learn what God is doing in other parts of the world through SGA.

Pastor Tom Donovan returns to share the growing vision behind LordsBook and introduce the new LordsBook mobile app. Pastor Tom explains why he believes Christians need digital spaces where Christ and Biblical values remain central. He discusses features designed for believers, churches, and ministries, the response from users, challenges encountered during development, and plans for the future. Most importantly, Pastor Tom shares how his personal faith in Jesus Christ guides the decisions he makes as technology changes and the LordsBook vision continues to develop.

Tom Donovan, founder of "Him First Media Group", shares the vision behind his faith-based technology and digital marketing company. Discover what putting “Him First” means in business, why Quality, Service, & Integrity guide the company, and how churches, ministries, Christian businesses, and nonprofits can develop an effective digital presence. Tom also discusses using websites, mobile technology, social media, search engines, and artificial intelligence wisely while keeping Christ, Biblical wisdom, and the mission God has given us firmly at the center. Ep-1

Award-winning author Robert N. Ruesch joins Dr. Bruce Oliver to discuss the powerful story behind "The Long Road Home: A Family's Journey Through Addiction", co-written with his daughter Jennifer. Robert recounts three decades of addiction, heartbreak, perseverance, and God's sustaining grace. Robert shares practical insight for families struggling to balance love with healthy boundaries while encouraging listeners to trust God even during life's most uncertain seasons. This conversation offers hope, wisdom, and Biblical encouragement for anyone praying for a loved one's recovery.

Pastor Tom Donovan shares the inspiring story behind LordsBook and God's vision for building a Christ-centered online community where believers can connect, encourage one another, and grow in their faith. Learn what makes LordsBook different from mainstream social media, why Biblical community matters in today's digital world, and how Christians can use technology as a tool to strengthen relationships, support ministries, and point people to Jesus Christ.

Dr. Laurette Willis, CBT shares her remarkable journey from addiction and New Age spirituality to a life transformed by Jesus Christ. Dr. Oliver and Dr. Laurette both discuss why renewing the mind is essential for lasting spiritual growth, why willpower alone often falls short, and what every Christian should understand about yoga and the Christ-centered alternative she developed through PraiseMoves®. This encouraging conversation points listeners to the hope, freedom, and lasting transformation found in Christ.

Today it is my pleasure to welcome Rose Graebner, winner of the Georgia Right to Life "True to Life Student Contest" for her inspiring video, "Every Life Is Precious; Every Life Is a Gift." The Georgia Right to Life "True to Life Student Contest" encourages students to communicate the God-given value and sanctity of every human life through creative, original videos. Rose, congratulations on your achievement. We believe this interview will encourage young people to step out in faith, stand courageously for what they believe, and use their God-given gifts to make a difference for Christ.

We appreciate our returning guest Richard Lynch spending time with us to discuss the heart behind "Wait For Me." His passion for preserving traditional country music while sharing messages of faith and hope reminds us that meaningful songs can leave a lasting impact for generations. As you reflect on today's conversation, may you be encouraged to thank God for those who have shaped your life and to live each day with the joyful expectation of the hope we have through Jesus Christ. For those who listen all the way to the end, Richard has given our Talks For Christ community an opportunity to hear the whole song "Wait For Me". Dr. Oliver says "this is a very special song from Richard."

Every believer will eventually face seasons of disappointment, loss, or unanswered questions. Yet throughout Scripture, we see that God often does His greatest work in the middle of life's most difficult moments. In this editionDe. Oliver is joined by author John DiGirolamo and his guests Reagan Perry, and Kim Marvin. John writes about Reagan and Kim's testimonies in his inspiring book called "It's Not About the Broken Road". Together they share how God brings hope, healing, and purpose through suffering, teaches us to trust Him when His plans are not yet clear, and reminds us that no life is beyond His redeeming grace. If you've ever wondered where God is during life's hardest seasons, this conversation will encourage your heart.

Every life tells a story, but some stories remind us that God's grace shines brightest in life's darkest moments. Joining us today are John DiGirolamo, author of "It's Not About the Broken Road", along with Reagan Perry and Kim Marvin, whose personal journeys reveal God's faithfulness through overwhelming hardship. Their experiences are different, yet each points to the same truth—that Christ brings hope, purpose, and peace even when life doesn't unfold as we expected. We believe today's conversation will encourage every listener facing a difficult season.

Today Pastor Bruce is joined by Blake Mattocks author of “Monsters Live in the Dark: Overcoming Addiction Through Faith.” Blake is a pastor and founder of 365 Christian Stories. Through decades of ministry and his own journey of overcoming addiction through faith, Blake has witnessed countless stories of transformation through Jesus Christ. In this conversation, he discusses the hidden battles many people face, why freedom begins with truth, and how God brings healing to broken lives. This episode is a reminder that no struggle is beyond the reach of God's grace and restoration.

Sometimes the greatest struggles in life happen within our own families. Today you'll meet Debra Mcninch, founder of BATTLECRY Moms, who shares how one unexpected family crisis became the beginning of a worldwide prayer movement. Together we'll explore what it means to trust God through heartbreak, love our children unconditionally while standing firmly on Biblical truth, and continue believing that no one is beyond the reach of God's grace. If you've ever prayed for someone you love, this conversation will encourage your heart.

Identity is one of the biggest conversations in our culture today—but where do we discover who we truly are? Joining us is Tom Anderson, author of "From Sinnership to Sonship: The Story of Becoming." Drawing from more than fifty years of walking with Christ, Tom shares how God transformed fear into faith, striving into rest, and uncertainty into confidence as one of God's beloved children. If you've ever struggled with feeling like you're not enough, this conversation offers Biblical hope and practical encouragement for your own journey.

Join Jeremiah and Wendy Ginsberg, composers, producers, and creators of the award-winning Off-Broadway musical Mendel's Messiah, now adapted into a feature film directed by Emmy Award-winning filmmaker Bradford May. Jeremiah and Wendy discuss Mendel's Messiah and their lifelong calling to share the Gospel through music, theater, and film. Learn why understanding the Jewish foundations of Christianity enriches our faith, how God guided this project over many years, and why the message of Jesus Christ remains a source of hope for every generation. This encouraging conversation reminds us that hope, redemption, and the Gospel continue to transform lives.

Join Dr. Bruce Oliver as he welcomes Katherine Hartley, Esq., Staff Attorney with Pacific Justice Institute, for a timely discussion of the U.S. Supreme Court's landmark decision upholding state laws preserving separate athletic competition for women and girls based on biological sex. As a member of the legal team that helped prepare Pacific Justice Institute's amicus brief in Hecox v. Little, Katherine provides valuable insight into the case and its constitutional significance. Discover Pacific Justice Institute's role in this important legal victory as Katherine explains the purpose of an amicus brief, the Court's decision, and what this ruling may mean for women's athletics, state authority, and future legal challenges across the United States.

Dr. Bruce Oliver, welcomes his returning guest Mr. Brad Dacus, a nationally recognized constitutional attorney and Founder of Pacific Justice Institute. Together we'll explore how faith, freedom, and respectful dialogue intersect in today's culture. Whether you're concerned about religious liberty, free speech, or simply desire to better understand these important issues from a Christian perspective, I believe this discussion will challenge and encourage you.

Can a movie open someone's heart to the Gospel? Jen Katzfey believes it can. As President of Distribution & Marketing at Hawk Hill Pictures and a member of the NRB Film Committee, she is helping bring professionally produced Christian films to audiences worldwide. Today we'll talk about the growing influence of faith-based cinema, and why powerful stories continue to point people toward hope, grace, and God's love. We invite you to join us for this encouraging conversation.

Dr. David Chotka joins Dr. Oliver as he shares how decades of ministry, Biblical scholarship, and International teaching have strengthened his conviction that God still speaks, still heals, and continues to work powerfully in the lives of His people. Together they discuss prayer, the Lord's Prayer, spiritual warfare, the Gospel of Mark, and practical ways believers can develop a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ. This encouraging conversation reminds us that the Gospel remains as powerful and relevant today as it was in the first century.

Today's guest with Dr. Bruce Oliver is Dr. Jeremy W. McMeen, O.D., together they discuss the cause of Neurodegenerative Diseases. Dr. Jeremy W. McMeen, O.D., optometric physician, Superior Vision, P.C., presented at both the 19th and 20th International Conferences on Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s Diseases and Related Neurological Disorders. He discovered the cause of macular degeneration, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and multiple sclerosis. His practice has operated for over 30 years in Superior, NE and Mankato, KS. He graduated from Southern College of Optometry in Memphis, TN in 1996. His first book will be published this summer.

Welcome to another podcast with a special guest, Cathy Colver Garland. Cathy is the co-author of "Revelationship" and author of "Known". She discusses why Christianity is about relationship rather than routine, how God reveals Himself throughout Scripture, and how His character becomes the foundation for our identity and freedom. You'll also hear how seasons of loss, difficult questions, and personal trials became opportunities to experience God's faithfulness in powerful ways.

Our guest today is Curry Pikkaart, a longtime pastor, author, and ministry leader whose life has been dedicated to helping others follow Jesus faithfully. From serving local congregations to supporting pastors in Kenya and Pakistan, Curry has witnessed God's faithfulness across many seasons of ministry. Today we'll discuss faith, purpose, leadership, encouragement, and how every believer can make an eternal impact. Curry brings wisdom gained through decades of service and a heart for helping Christians remain strong in their walk with the Lord.

Across the world, millions of children need more than temporary help—they need hope, truth, and discipleship rooted in Jesus Christ. Today, Dr. Bruce Oliver sits down with Bill Nienhuis, President of Childcare Worldwide. Together they discuss the power of the local church, the importance of investing in children, and why lasting transformation happens through faithful discipleship rather than short-term programs. If you care about the future of the Church and the next generation of believers, this conversation will encourage and inspire you.

Today Dr. Oliver is joined by Timothy Stobbe, a pastor, poet, podcaster, husband, father, and grandfather who recently stepped into a new season after serving as a pastor for 24 years. Timothy now hosts Meet Me in the Word: The Daily Devotional With a Weekly Rhythm and is passionate about helping people discover God's peace during seasons of uncertainty, transition, and growth. If you have ever wondered how to trust God when life takes an unexpected turn, this conversation will encourage your heart.

Have you ever wondered if God is still pursuing people who seem far from Him? On this episode, Dr. Bruce Oliver welcomes Fletch Wiley, Grammy-nominated composer, arranger, jazz trumpeter, author, and longtime member of Andraé Crouch and the Disciples. Fletch shares stories from a remarkable life journey, including his dramatic encounter with Christ, decades in Christian music ministry, and the message behind his new book, "God Doesn't Play Fair (And That's a Good Thing!)". This conversation is filled with faith, wisdom, and encouragement for anyone who needs a reminder that God never stops seeking His children.

In this powerful conversation Dr. Oliver welcomes Marit Welker as she shares how faith helped her navigate both sides of family estrangement. The discussion explores emotional healing, neuroscience, social influences, and the importance of discovering identity in Christ beyond motherhood alone. This episode offers Biblical encouragement and practical wisdom for listeners facing broken relationships while seeking peace, healing, and renewed trust in God.

How can Christians communicate Biblical truth in today's culture without compromising the Gospel? In this inspiring episode, Dr. Bruce Oliver sits down with Chester Delagneau, the author of "Imaginative Apologetics". They discuss imaginative apologetics, the importance of beauty, philosophy, theology, storytelling, and the role creativity plays in helping people encounter Jesus Christ. Chester holds degrees in sociology-psychology and theology. He is a Christian apologist, philosopher, theologian, and spoken-word poet whose passion is helping people discover Biblical truth through imagination, creativity, and compelling storytelling. In this episode, you'll discover practical insights for defending your faith with wisdom, compassion, and confidence while encouraging others through the gifts God has entrusted to you.

Dr. Bruce Oliver interviews a returning guest talking about the U.S. Army Hymn. "Eternal Father, Hear Our Prayer," the official institutional United States Army Hymn, was composed in June 2024 by Chaplain (MAJ) James F. Linzey, U.S. Army (Ret.), in memory of the Four Chaplains Immortal of the USAT Dorchester. Major General William D. Waff, U.S. Army (Ret.), Executive Director of the Military Chaplains Association, has declared it the Official United States Army Hymn. Official sheet music and recordings are available at ArmyHymn.com.

Dr. Lee Long joins Dr. Bruce Oliver to discuss the powerful message behind his book, "WAIT, Where Am I in This?" Drawing from nearly three decades of counseling experience, he explains why many people struggle with self-doubt, unhealthy relationship patterns, and emotional confusion. Dr. Long shares practical insights on self-awareness, healthy boundaries, and discovering greater clarity in everyday life. This encouraging conversation helps listeners understand how personal growth and deeper relationships often begin by honestly examining where they stand emotionally and spiritually. This episode will inspire those who are looking for answers.

Today, we are joined by Jody Hudson, an author, speaker, philanthropist, and founder of the Alex Hudson Lyme Foundation. Jody's journey includes foster care, adoption, divorce, financial hardship, and the heartbreaking loss of her daughter, Alex, after a long battle with Lyme disease. Yet through every challenge, she discovered God's faithfulness in the midst of life's storms. In this powerful conversation, Jody shares how faith carried her through suffering, how grief became purpose, and how God continues to use her story to encourage others. This is an episode filled with hope, courage, and the reminder that God is present even in our darkest moments.

Today we are joined by Wendy Bower, author of "Gratitude Attack". Wendy believes gratitude is much more than a spiritual discipline—it is a natural response to knowing and enjoying God's love. As an author, mother, music educator, and teacher, Wendy brings a refreshing perspective on faith, joy, hope, and spiritual growth. Join Pastor Bruce as they discuss how believers can experience authentic gratitude that transforms daily living and deepens their relationship with Christ.

Today we welcome Julie Wentz, founder of Freedom Healthcare. Driven by a calling from her Heavenly Father, Julie has dedicated her life to helping individuals discover a more proactive and faith-centered approach to health and wellness. In this inspiring conversation, she explains how Freedom Healthcare connects people with education, resources, and providers who support healing of the spirit, mind, and body. Join us as Julie shares her testimony, vision, and hope for a healthier future built on God's design.

Our guest today is Tony Stolzfus, author, coach, and ministry leader. After decades of helping people understand their calling and walk closely with God, Tony embarked on a remarkable Biblical study of heaven that became his latest book, *Heaven: Experience the Extraordinary*. Together we discuss common misconceptions about heaven, the promise of the new heaven and new earth, and how a clearer understanding of eternity can transform the way we live today. This is a conversation filled with hope, encouragement, and a deeper look at God's eternal plan.

Former Air Force Captain James F. Linzey is the composer of the official United States Space Force Hymn, Creator of the Universe, and the author of the United States Army Cadet Command Prayer. He served under United States Air Force Space Command at Vandenberg Air Force Base and completed 24 years of military chaplaincy service in the United States Air Force and United States Army, retiring with the rank of Major as an Army chaplain.

As we conclude this special series, historian Jane Hampton Cook and host Bruce Oliver examine the enduring legacy of faith and freedom that continues to influence America today. Explore the stories of Benjamin Franklin and Phillis Wheatley, the importance of religious liberty, and the values that helped shape the nation's character. As America marks 250 years of independence, this conversation invites us to reflect on the freedoms we enjoy, the responsibilities they carry, and the legacy we hope to leave for future generations.

Welcome to Part 2 of 3 of our celebrating America 250. The birth of the United States was shaped by courageous leaders, influential ideas, and extraordinary sacrifices. In this conversation, historian Jane Hampton Cook explores the early life of George Washington, the powerful impact of Thomas Paine's Common Sense, and the events that transformed thirteen colonies into thirteen independent states. Visitors will also discover how faith, perseverance, and personal sacrifice influenced America's founding generation during one of the most pivotal periods in history. From the road toward independence to the debates that led to July 4, 1776, these stories provide valuable insights into the leadership, convictions, and determination that helped establish a new nation.

As America celebrates its 250th Anniversary, Talks For Christ presents a special three-part series featuring historian and author Jane Hampton Cook. Through engaging conversations and historical insights, discover how faith, gratitude, courage, and sacrifice helped shape the American story.

Today we welcome Dave Durbin, who serves as the United States Manager for UCB Ireland. Dave has spent years working in leadership, ministry, and Christian media while helping expand awareness of UCB Ireland and its mission of sharing Biblical truth through broadcasting. During our conversation, Dave discusses God's calling on his life, the power of Christian radio, the importance of Christian heritage, and why reaching people with the message of Christ remains as important as ever. You will not want to miss this encouraging discussion.

Our guest today is Briana Bass, a Christian romance and romantasy author whose passion is helping women discover their God-given worth and confidently follow God's plan for their lives. Through books, devotionals, discipleship resources, and her Proverbs and Pearls ministry, Briana encourages women to find belonging in Christ and remain grounded in Biblical truth. In this conversation, we explore how God often calls ordinary people into extraordinary assignments when they are willing to trust Him one step at a time.

Dr. Bruce Oliver is joined by Scott Maderer, author, speaker, coach, and founder of Inspired Stewardship. Inspired Stewardship was founded as a business to serve entrepreneurs who are struggling to live out their calling. Scott works to help align the way you use your time, your talent, and your treasures so that you can live a fully authentic life. Scott has served over 1000 clients in 20 countries through his work. He also authored Inspired Living: Assemble the Puzzle of Your Calling by Mastering Your Time, Your Talent, and Your Treasures.

Our guest today is Mia Godfrey, a certified life coach and author whose life journey reminds us that God's grace can meet us in life's darkest moments. From leaving Romania to build a new life in America, to overcoming addiction, widowhood, and the pain of caregiving during her sister's battle with cancer, Mia has experienced seasons that tested her faith in profound ways. Her memoir, "Buried, Not Broken", is a powerful reminder that God can bring beauty from brokenness and purpose from pain. I believe today's conversation will inspire anyone who needs renewed hope. If you’ve ever felt buried by pain, let Mia’s story remind you—you’re not broken. You’re being planted for something beautiful.

Founded by Raymond and Leslie Funk, Three Cord Marriage was birthed after they received healing in their own marriage and the Lord called them to make their ministry their vocation. Today, they serve as Marriage Missionaries and Certified Coaches. If you need more for your marriage you will be encouraged by this episode. If you need more for your marriage you will be encouraged by this episode.

In this powerful episode, Dr. Bruce Oliver sits down with Pastor Valentyn Syniy, a Ukrainian pastor, educator, and ministry leader whose life was forever changed by the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Pastor Valentyn Syniy is the author of "Serving God Under Siege: How War Transformed a Ukrainian Community." As President of Tavriski Christian Institute, Pastor Valentyn witnessed the destruction of his campus, the loss of a treasured library, and the displacement of his community. Yet through it all, his faith in Christ remained steady. Together, they discuss leadership during chaos, how war reshaped his understanding of Scripture, and why the Church must continue carrying the Gospel even in the darkest moments. If you have ever wondered how believers endure suffering while holding onto hope, this conversation will encourage and challenge your heart.

Have you ever wondered if the difficult moments in your life were actually preparing you for something greater? In this episode of Talks For Christ, Dr. Bruce Oliver talks with Jason Ward about discovering God’s hand in life’s unexpected turns. Drawing from his book *Find Your Gold Thread*, Jason explains how patterns from the past can reveal purpose, calling, and direction. This conversation is filled with hope for listeners searching for clarity, encouragement, and renewed trust in God’s timing.

What sustained America’s founders during war, uncertainty, and division? In this meaningful conversation, Jane Hampton Cook explores the role of prayer, thanksgiving, and faith during the American Revolution. Listeners will hear remarkable stories about George Washington, religious liberty, and America’s founding generation while also discovering Jane’s personal testimony of perseverance through health struggles and family challenges. A thoughtful episode filled with encouragement, history, and hope for the future of America.

Freedom of Religion is often discussed but rarely understood. On this episode of Talks For Christ, Andrew Linn joins Dr. Bruce Oliver to discuss the historical journey that led Roger Williams to establish Rhode Island on the principles of liberty of conscience and religious freedom. Through the lens of documentary filmmaking, Andrew Linn shares how persecution, courage, and unwavering conviction helped shape ideas that continue influencing culture today. This is a thoughtful conversation about faith, discernment, history, and the importance of preserving truth in challenging times.

Today’s episode explores faith, technology, discipleship, and the enduring power of God’s Word. Dr. Bruce Oliver welcomes Gary Ray to Talks For Christ for a conversation about GraceVoice™, an innovative Christian resource helping people pray, study Scripture, and ask spiritual questions through Biblically grounded AI technology. Gary shares insights from decades of ministry experience, his heart for reaching the unchurched, and why he believes the Church must creatively engage people who are spiritually searching. Gary has a long history of serving the Lord with his family. His ministry experience includes serving as a senior pastor and leading several parachurch ministries. His passion is to reach the lost and help believers grow in their faith.

What does it mean for the New Jerusalem to be described as “a City set on a hill”? In this compelling conversation, Howard B. Becker and Dr. Bruce Oliver explore the spiritual meaning of the Holy City, the Bride of Christ, and the renewing power of righteousness. The episode also highlights the often-overlooked role women play in carrying faith, wisdom, grace, and devotion into homes, churches, and communities. Through powerful Scripture passages and thoughtful discussion, listeners are encouraged to seek truth, honor virtue, and reflect the light of Christ in everyday life.