Eddiefied

In this episode of Eddiefied, I sit down with my brother Christian Okeze to walk through a powerful testimony of redemption, restoration, and the transforming power of the gospel.Christian was born in Nigeria and immigrated to the United States at a young age. His life was marked early on by loss, instability, and responsibility beyond his years. As life unfolded, those pressures led him down a difficult path of addiction, broken relationships, and eventually time in prison.But this isn’t just a story about brokenness — it’s a story about how God meets us there.After hitting rock bottom and finding himself in Sacramento with nowhere to turn, Christian was led to Union Gospel Mission, where everything began to change. For the first time, the gospel became real — not just something he had heard growing up, but something he truly understood, believed, and surrendered to.Since then, the Lord has radically transformed his life.Today, Christian serves as the Head Chef at Union Gospel Mission, using his gifts to serve others and give back to the very community he once depended on. His life is now marked by purpose, humility, and a deep gratitude for the grace of God.In this episode, we talk about:Growing up around faith but not truly knowing ChristLoss, trauma, and the weight of responsibility at a young ageAddiction, brokenness, and hitting rock bottomHow God uses unlikely places to draw us to HimselfWhat it means to truly hear and believe the gospelThe ongoing process of healing, restoration, and walking in obedienceEncouragement for believers who are struggling or feel far from GodThis conversation is a reminder that no one is too far gone.No matter your past, your mistakes, or how broken things may seem — God is able to redeem, restore, and give new life through Jesus Christ.📖 “And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works…” — Hebrews 10:24If this episode encouraged you, make sure to like, comment, and subscribe. Share this with someone who needs to hear this testimony.

What happens when culture and Christ feel like they’re pulling in different directions?In this episode of the Eddiefied Podcast, I sit down with Pastor & Author Eugene Kovalenko, associate pastor at House of the Gospel in Fresno, California, and author of Cultural Crossroads, to unpack one of the most important, and often unspoken topics today — the tensions that ethnic churches navigate today.From generational divides to language barriers, from identity struggles to mission drift, many believers—especially those in immigrant and ethnic church contexts—find themselves caught between two worlds.Together, we explore:The tension between culture and faith in today’s churchesThe difference between 1st, 2nd, and 1.5 generation believersWhy some churches struggle with mission and growthThe dangers of ethnocentricity and inward-focused communitiesAssimilation vs. separation vs. integration — and what actually worksHow the Missio Dei (mission of God) reshapes the church’s purposePractical models for building healthy, gospel-centered churchesThis conversation is not about rejecting culture—but about putting it in its proper place under Christ.If you’ve ever felt disconnected in church, wrestled with identity, or longed for a healthier, more mission-minded community, this episode will challenge and encourage you.📖 I would highly encourage you to purchase Eugene’s book: Cultural CrossroadsAmazon link: https://www.amazon.com/Cultural-Crossroads-Challenges-Churches-American/dp/B0GQ2SS616/ref=sr_1_2?crid=36F0GRDE0HYAQ&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.56OaHOV5EkgXbHfnEwHeGj13vLfWX9M6TnzgZ1mhsphFsPmGNggBQMPxlE2h9PoXjwRdr1bCGXxuGOFJxJYZFk5dlP-9uYIEOenMgdaU25vkZ6JktZzxdma86rCGDg3U-EzH_h5eZPa8PAPa--zH-ispycbZ7zsVbKrvctPjBPf5QnBILf_njad2CrGhuBCVTN2wk5Vpri04kiKJyTHfO8OcTlmQnoC_HclHtsxeoLY.f0gT-85E7__2aJb4oEYcWIPbW9CghjRbe6yWQXBs2YM&dib_tag=se&keywords=cultural+crossroads&qid=1777361890&sprefix=cultural+crossroa%2Caps%2C210&sr=8-2🎙️ Subscribe for more conversations that stir us toward love and good works (Hebrews 10:24)

What is the heart of worship—and what happens when the very thing you use to worship is taken away?In this episode of the Eddiefied Podcast, I sit down with Serge Moskalets, Creative Pastor at Bayside Auburn, to talk about what it truly means to live a life of worship—not just on stage, but in everyday life.Serge has been serving in worship ministry for over 20 years. From leading youth worship at 3rd Slavic Baptist Church, to serving at Heights Church in Citrus Heights, to stepping into an Executive Worship Pastor role at Skyline Church in San Diego, and now back in the Sacramento area at Bayside Auburn—his journey has been shaped by calling, faithfulness, and a deep love for the local church.But this conversation goes beyond his experience.On Christmas Eve 2025, Serge lost his voice—the very instrument he had used for decades to lead others in worship. What followed was a 3–4 month season of recovery that challenged not only his ability to lead, but his understanding of worship, identity, and calling.In this episode, we discuss:What the Bible says about true worship (John 4:23-24, Romans 12:1)The difference between calling and performance in worship ministryHow to guard your heart as a worship leaderWhat worship looks like when there’s no musicHow God uses trials to refine our faith (James 1:2-4)What to do when God pauses or removes something you feel called toSerge also shared a powerful resource for worship leaders and ministry teams looking to grow and evaluate where they are in their calling:👉 https://worshipos.co/This tool is designed to help leaders identify where they currently stand in their ministry and challenge them to grow with greater clarity and intentionality.This episode is for worship leaders, musicians, and anyone seeking to follow Jesus more faithfully in every area of life.If you’ve ever wrestled with identity, purpose, or what it means to truly worship God—this conversation will challenge and encourage you.📅 New episodes drop weekly🎧 Available on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts👉 Don’t forget to subscribe, like, and share to help spread the message.

You’ve probably seen him… standing on a freeway overpass in Sacramento, wearing a bright orange “John 3:16” shirt, waving at every car that passes by.But who is the man behind the message?Before we dive in—if you’d like to support Sean and his ministry, I would really like to ask that you take part in supporting Sean by purchasing his book, “The Long Day Before My Birthday” on Amazon, and/or supporting him financially here through this GoFund me page:https://gofund.me/d759d1a6bIn this episode of the Eddiefied Podcast, I sit down with Sean Parrish, known by many locals as the “John 3:16 guy.” For years, Sean has stood on Highway 50 overpasses in Sacramento, simply waving and pointing people to one of the most well-known verses in the Bible: John 3:16.But behind the sign is a story most people have never heard.Sean shares his journey of faith, his past, and the calling that led him to boldly live out his beliefs in public. We talk about his experience with homelessness, ongoing physical pain, and what it truly means to depend on God for daily provision. Sean opens up about how, in the middle of suffering, he has experienced God’s presence in a powerful and personal way.This conversation goes beyond surface-level Christianity and challenges what it really looks like to trust God—not just in comfort, but in uncertainty, hardship, and complete surrender.We also discuss:The meaning and impact of John 3:16What motivates Sean to stand on overpasses week after weekHis journey of writing poetry and books inspired by his childrenHow God has provided for him in unexpected waysA message to the Church about living out authentic, everyday faithWhether you’ve seen him before or this is your first time hearing his story, this episode will encourage you, challenge you, and point you back to what it means to truly follow Christ.📖 “For God so loved the world…” — but what does that actually look like lived out?🎙️ About the Podcast: Eddiefied Podcast exists to stir one another up to love and good works (Hebrews 10:24) through real conversations, testimonies, and Christ-centered encouragement.👍 If this episode encouraged you:Like, comment, and shareSubscribe on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple PodcastsHelp us spread the message

Fatherhood is more than a role — it’s a calling.In this episode of the Eddiefied Podcast, Eddie sits down with Pastor Chris Ritter of Doxa Church in Rocklin, California, to talk about what it truly means to be a Christian father in today’s world.Chris shares his personal testimony, how the Lord led him into ministry, and why fatherhood has become one of the most important and weighty callings in his life.This conversation dives deep into biblical fatherhood — not just in theory, but in real, practical ways that every dad can apply.We discuss:• Fatherhood as a calling and stewardship before God• How fathers reflect the character of God to their children• Discipline, grace, and leading without provoking• Balancing provision with presence in a busy world• Discipling your children in everyday life• Modeling repentance and humility in the home• Navigating marriage, ministry, and fatherhood• Encouragement for fathers who feel like they’ve failed• How young men can prepare now for future fatherhoodWhether you’re a father, a husband, or a man who desires to lead a family one day — this episode will challenge, convict, and encourage you.The world needs faithful fathers.Homes need men who lead with strength, humility, and love.And by God’s grace — it’s not too late to start.If this episode encouraged you, share it with another dad, subscribe to the channel, and help us continue to stir one another up toward love and good works (Hebrews 10:24).🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube📲 Follow for more conversations that edify and equip

In this episode of the Eddiefied Podcast, Eddie sits down with Moseley Collins—a personal injury attorney, Bible teacher, evangelist, and host of Real Christianity—to talk about what it truly means to live boldly for Jesus in everyday life.With over 40 years of experience as a lawyer and more than five decades of walking with Christ, Moseley shares how he views his career not as his identity, but as a platform for the gospel. From placing Scripture on his law firm letterhead to regularly praying with people to receive Christ, his life challenges the idea that faith should stay private.In this conversation, we explore:Moseley’s powerful testimony and journey to faithHow God led him from Bible college into a legal careerWhat it looks like to be a Christian in a secular professionWhy every believer is called to be a missionaryPractical ways to share the gospel without fearA simple and effective way to lead someone to ChristThe danger of “burying” the gifts God has given youThis episode is a direct challenge to believers who feel hesitant, unqualified, or afraid to speak about their faith. It’s also an encouragement that God can use anyone—right where they are—for His glory.As Hebrews 10:24 reminds us, “Let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works.” That’s exactly what this conversation is about.If you’ve ever wondered how to live out your faith more boldly, this episode is for you.👉 Subscribe for weekly conversations that encourage and equip believers👉 Share this episode with someone who needs to be challenged and encouraged👉 Follow on Instagram: @Eddiefied_Podcast

In this episode of the Eddiefied Podcast, we sit down with Pastor Rick Gregory and his wife Pat to talk about what it means to faithfully shepherd God’s church — and what it looks like to pass the baton to the next generation of leadership.After more than 40 years in pastoral ministry, including over two decades as Senior Pastor of Grace Bible Church in Fair Oaks, California, Pastor Rick shares biblical wisdom on stewardship, leadership, and the responsibility of preparing future shepherds.Together, Rick and Pat reflect on their upbringing, their journey to faith in Christ, their marriage in ministry, and the lessons God has taught them through decades of serving His people.This conversation dives deep into questions many pastors and churches don’t often talk about openly:What does it mean to be a steward, not an owner, of Christ’s church?What are the dangers of authoritarian leadership in ministry?Why is pastoral succession so important — and often neglected?How can pastors faithfully prepare the next generation of leaders?What does a healthy church culture look like when raising up leaders?How should believers support and pray for their pastors during seasons of transition?Whether you’re a pastor, church leader, or faithful member of a local church, this episode will challenge and encourage you to think biblically about leadership, humility, and faithfulness in the body of Christ.🙏 If this episode encouraged you, please share it with a pastor, leader, or friend who would benefit from this conversation.

In this episode of the Eddiefied Podcast, Eddie sits down with Pastor Tony Arnds, founding pastor of Folsom Bible Church, for a deep and encouraging conversation about one of the most important — and sometimes controversial — doctrines in Scripture: the Sovereignty of God.After graduating from The Master’s Seminary, Tony faithfully served as a pastor of a rural church in Northern California from 2002 until January of 2021. By God’s providence, he was later called to Folsom, California, where he began planting Folsom Bible Church, a gospel-centered, Christ-exalting church that has been gathering weekly since January 2022.In this conversation, Pastor Tony shares his personal testimony, reflecting on how the Lord led him to salvation and eventually into pastoral ministry. From there, the discussion moves into the rich biblical doctrine of God’s sovereignty, exploring what Scripture teaches about God’s rule over all things and how that truth shapes the life of a believer.Together, Eddie and Pastor Tony discuss:• What the Bible actually teaches about God's sovereignty• How God’s sovereignty relates to human responsibility• Why this doctrine often creates tension or disagreement among Christians• How to think about suffering, tragedy, and hardship in light of God's rule• Why belief in God’s sovereignty should fuel evangelism rather than hinder it• How the sovereignty of God brings assurance, hope, and comfort to believers• How Christians can maintain unity while holding strong theological convictionsThis conversation also addresses common objections such as:“If God is sovereign, why does suffering exist?”“Does sovereignty remove free will?”“Does it make prayer or evangelism unnecessary?”Ultimately, the goal of this episode is to encourage believers and help us think biblically about the God who reigns over all things. When properly understood, the sovereignty of God does not produce anxiety — it produces humility, confidence, hope, and deeper worship.As Hebrews 10:24 reminds us:"And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works."Our hope is that this conversation will strengthen your faith and encourage you to trust the God who rules over every detail of life.

What is Christian moralism — and why is it dangerous for the church?In this episode, Pastor Robert Briggs explains why the church must recover confidence in the gospel of Jesus Christ, not moral behavior alone.In this episode of the Eddiefied Podcast, Eddie sits down with Pastor Robert Briggs, pastor of Immanuel Baptist Church and Executive Director of the Union Gospel Mission Sacramento, for a powerful conversation about the gospel, Christian moralism, and the mission of the church.Pastor Briggs has faithfully served in pastoral ministry for over 34 years. A native of Scotland, he has pastored Immanuel Baptist Church in Sacramento for 22 years and recently stepped into the role of Executive Director of Union Gospel Mission, where he now leads a ministry serving the poor, the homeless, and those in need throughout Sacramento. He also serves as the chaplain for Sacramento Republic FC.Pastor Briggs holds a Bachelor of Divinity from Queen's University in Belfast and a Master of Theology in Historical Theology from Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary in Grand Rapids, Michigan.In this conversation, we explore:• The history and mission of Union Gospel Mission Sacramento• How the gospel transforms lives among the poor and broken• Powerful stories of redemption and restoration• Why the church must recover confidence in the power of the gospel• What Christian moralism is and why it is dangerous• The difference between behavior modification and true heart transformation• The proper relationship between God's law and the gospel• How believers can avoid performance-based Christianity• Why the gospel—not moralism—is the power of God unto salvationPastor Briggs shares pastoral wisdom from decades of ministry and firsthand experience working among the poor, reminding us that true change does not come through moral effort alone, but through the transforming grace of Jesus Christ.This episode will encourage pastors, church leaders, and everyday believers to keep the gospel central in their lives, churches, and ministries.As Hebrews 10:24 reminds us:"Let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works."If this conversation encouraged you, consider sharing this episode with someone who needs to hear it.Union Gospel Mission Sacramentohttps://ugmsac.com/📍 Learn More

In this powerful episode of the Eddiefied Podcast, Eddie sits down with his friend Omari Lee to walk through a raw and honest testimony of redemption.Omari shares about his upbringing, the decisions that led him into prison, life on the streets, addiction, relapse, and the moment when religion stopped being enough — and true surrender to Jesus Christ became real.What began as a drug deal gone wrong turned into prison time. But prison was not the end of his story. Through conviction, brokenness, a life-altering accident, and the mercy of God, Omari experienced real transformation.Today, Omari is married to his wife Maria, a father to his three-year-old daughter Priya, and is currently pursuing certification as a substance abuse counselor — helping others walk out of the same darkness he once lived in.This episode explores:• Prison and consequences• Addiction and relapse• Religion vs true surrender• The transforming power of the gospel• Marriage, fatherhood, and sanctification• Ministry to the homeless and addicted• How the church should biblically respond to people with a pastNo one is too far gone for grace.Whether you are battling addiction, coming out of prison, struggling with sin, or wondering if God can use your story — this conversation is for you.Hebrews 10:24 calls us to spur one another toward love and good works. This episode is a reminder that God redeems broken stories and uses surrendered lives for His glory.If this episode encourages you, share it with someone who needs hope.Subscribe for more powerful testimonies and gospel-centered conversations.

How should Christians share their faith in today’s culture...especially on college campus's?In this episode of the Eddiefied Podcast, Eddie sits down with Anthony Marquez as he shares his testimony of transformation and his years of evangelism at Sacramento State University.Raised Roman Catholic, Anthony later walked through a season of rebellion and became involved in the International Church of Christ—a group he now describes as spiritually manipulative and works-based. After experiencing disillusionment and bitterness toward Christianity, God pursued him. At age 29, after losing his career, Anthony encountered Jesus Christ personally and was radically changed.Since then, he has devoted his life to faithfully sharing the gospel—without manipulation, without pressure, and without fear of results.In this conversation, we cover:✔️ True conversion vs religious tradition✔️ Legalism, spiritual pressure, and false assurance✔️ Law and gospel in evangelism✔️ Compassion and boldness in public ministry✔️ Reaching Gen Z on secular college campuses✔️ How to overcome fear when sharing your faith✔️ Faithfulness vs visible results✔️ Living on mission under the local churchIf you’ve ever struggled with fear, felt unqualified, or wondered how to share your faith in today’s culture, this episode will challenge and encourage you.Hebrews 10:24 reminds us to stir one another up to love and good works. Our hope is that this conversation does exactly that.👉 Subscribe for more conversations that strengthen your faith and sharpen your walk with Christ.👉 Share this episode with someone who needs encouragement.

What happens when God redirects a faithful pastor of nearly 30 years into global missions — without a clear roadmap?In this episode of the Eddiefied Podcast, Pastor Alan and Bev Ginn share their journey from growing up in non-Christian homes, to decades of pastoral ministry in Sacramento, and ultimately stepping into the mission field to train and equip pastors in regions where Christianity is restricted and often persecuted.Pastor Alan opens up about the catalysts that reshaped his calling — including a major health crisis and short-term mission trips that ignited a burden for under-resourced church leaders. Together, he and Bev share what it means to walk in obedience, surrender comfort, and trust God when the next step isn’t fully visible.In this conversation, we discuss:- Growing up and coming to faith in Jesus Christ- Long-term pastoral ministry and lessons learned- How God redirects calling later in life- Serving in “creative access” countries- Training pastors in persecuted regions- Faith under pressure- The role of a wife in missions- Practical encouragement for those feeling called to the mission field- How believers can wisely support global missionsThis episode is a reminder that obedience doesn’t require a full blueprint — just a willing heart.To Support Pastor Alan's Mission Work: If you feel stirred toward missions or want to support the work Pastor Alan is part of, you can learn more or give through WordPartners by using the website below and & choosing "Asia" or to support the work in that region:👉 https://wordpartners.org/give/Whether you're sensing a call to go, to send, or simply to grow deeper in faith — this conversation will encourage you.If this episode blesses you, consider sharing it and subscribing so you don’t miss future conversations.

In this episode of the Eddiefied Podcast, Eddie sits down with pastor, teacher, and coach Denis Gerasimov for one of the most honest and necessary conversations the church needs right now.Together, they address a struggle that affects millions of believers—but is rarely talked about openly: sexual lust, shame, and hidden sin, and how these battles quietly impact marriages, leadership, mental health, and spiritual life.Denis shares his personal story of wrestling with lust over many years—even while serving in ministry—and how secrecy, shame, and isolation kept him stuck. Rather than focusing on surface-level behavior management, this conversation goes deeper into the heart, exploring how unmet emotional needs, distorted beliefs, and lack of healthy community often fuel destructive patterns.This episode covers:• Why lust is often a coping mechanism for deeper emotional pain• The difference between temptation and sin—and why clarity matters• How shame isolates believers and keeps them from healing• The devastating impact hidden sin can have on marriage and trust• Why accountability alone is not enough for lasting freedom• How renewing the mind, understanding identity in Christ, and building healthy rhythms lead to real change• What Hebrews 10:24 looks like in real life—not theory• Why freedom is possible, even if you’ve struggled for yearsThis is not a conversation about condemnation or “trying harder.”It’s about bringing things into the light, rediscovering hope, and learning how God’s grace transforms us from the inside out.If you’re a man who feels stuck, disqualified, or exhausted from fighting alone—or if you’re a leader, husband, or believer who wants to walk in integrity—this episode is for you.👉 Connect with Denis Gerasimov for coaching and support:https://www.instagram.com/denisgerasimovvv/🎧 Listen, reflect, and share this episode with someone who needs encouragement and hope.

What happens when a marriage reaches the breaking point — and God steps in?In this episode of the Eddiefied Podcast, Eddie sits down with Amy and Matt Atkins where they share a deeply honest Christian marriage testimony marked by separation, repentance, forgiveness, and restoration through Jesus Christ.Matt and Amy walk through their upbringing, early faith, how they met, and what their marriage was built on — before everything began to drift. They openly share a painful season of isolation, broken trust, and separation, including the moment they realized something was seriously wrong. Most importantly, they testify to how God intervened, confronted lies with truth, and rebuilt their marriage through the power of the gospel.This conversation covers:- Early warning signs of marital drift- The danger of isolation and lack of accountability- What real repentance looks like beyond words- How forgiveness works when it feels impossible- Rebuilding trust after betrayal- The role of Scripture and church community- What a gospel-centered marriage looks like when life gets hardThis episode is an honest picture of the gospel lived out — showing that no marriage is too far gone, no sin is beyond God’s grace, and restoration is possible when hearts are surrendered to Christ.If you’re a Christian struggling in your marriage, feeling disconnected, or wondering if restoration is possible — this episode is for you.📖 Hebrews 10:24 — “And let us consider how to stir one another up to love and good works.”👉 Subscribe for weekly faith-based conversations👉 Like & share to help others hear stories of redemption👉 Comment: What stood out to you in this episode?

In this episode of the Eddiefied Podcast, Eddie sits down with Peter Kondrashov, pastor over the English service at Bryte Church, for a powerful and honest conversation about faith, calling, obedience, and the mission of the Church.Before stepping into pastoral ministry, Peter served in the corporate world as a Vice President over the Enterprise Project Management Office at One Inc. — a role that offered stability, success, and security by worldly standards. Yet God was quietly shaping his heart through years of faithfulness, generosity, and obedience, preparing him to step into ministry when the time came.In this episode, Peter shares:His upbringing and testimony to faith in JesusHow God used his time in the corporate world to prepare him for ministryWhat it looked like to wrestle with obedience and let go of worldly definitions of successThe cost — and joy — of following God’s callingBryte Church’s journey from a Slavic-speaking church to a multicultural, bilingual congregationHow Scripture speaks to church culture, language, tradition, and missionBiblical wisdom for believers navigating generational and cultural tensions within the ChurchWe also anchor the conversation in Hebrews 10:24, discussing how believers are called to stir one another up to love and good works — pursuing a Christ-centered culture rather than a tradition-centered one.Whether you’re discerning your calling, wrestling with obedience, serving in ministry, or navigating church life in a multicultural context, this episode offers biblical clarity, pastoral wisdom, and real encouragement.👉 If this episode encourages you, be sure to like, subscribe, and share it with someone who needs it.Thanks again for tuning in, and as always — stay faithful, stay encouraged, and stay Eddiefied.

In this powerful and deeply moving episode of the Eddiefied Podcast, Eddie sits down with Dellena Hoyer to share a story of profound brokenness—and even greater redemption through Jesus Christ.Dellena’s journey spans an extremely difficult upbringing, years marked by trauma, addiction, exploitation, and loss, and a long road of survival before encountering the transforming power of the gospel. This conversation is raw and honest, yet handled with care. While we do not shy away from the realities of her past, this episode ultimately points us to the faithfulness of God and the redeeming work of Christ.Through every season— her life before Christ, searching for hope, to finally surrendering her life to Jesus—Dellena’s story testifies to a powerful truth: no one is beyond God’s reach, and no season is beyond His redemption.Today, Dellena serves as a certified biblical counselor and is the incoming Ministry Director of the Women’s Damascus House in Woodinville, Washington. As she steps into this next chapter—she will be leading a gospel-centered residential ministry that helps women find healing, freedom, and new life in Christ.This episode will encourage anyone who:Is carrying wounds from their pastIs walking through addiction, shame, or brokennessWonders if real change is possibleNeeds to be reminded of God’s mercy and grace⚠️ Listener Discretion: This episode includes discussion of trauma and addiction. Listener discretion is advised.For women seeking a Christ-centered residential program focused on healing, discipleship, and restoration, Dellena invites you to learn more about The Damascus House:🌐 Website: https://thedamascushouse.com/📞 Contact: Dellena (916) 213-4640This podcast is rooted in Hebrews 10:24—“Let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works.”Our prayer is that Dellena’s story would stir your faith, strengthen your walk, and point you to Christ.If this episode encouraged you, please consider liking, subscribing, and sharing it with someone who needs hope today.💌 Resources & Support📖 Scripture Focus

What does the Bible actually say about money?In this episode of the Eddiefied Podcast, Eddie sits down with Chris Grellas, CFP® and co-founder of ProsperPlan Wealth, for a deep, honest, and Scripture-grounded conversation on faith, finances, and biblical stewardship.Chris shares his personal journey—from growing up in Sacramento, to encountering Jesus, to leaving a large financial firm to build a 100% fiduciary, fee-only advisory practice rooted in Christian conviction. This conversation goes far beyond budgeting and investing—it gets to the heart behind money.Together, Eddie and Chris unpack some of the most controversial and misunderstood topics Christians face today, including:• Is it wrong for Christians to be wealthy?• Is investing in the stock market biblical—or just gambling?• Should Christians avoid debt at all costs?• Is tithing still a command, or a conviction of the heart?• Is it okay for believers to spend money on themselves?• Is retirement biblical—or are Christians called to lifelong Kingdom impact?Throughout the episode, Scripture is used to bring balance, wisdom, and grace—reminding us that money is not our master, Jesus is, and that everything we have is entrusted to us by God.If you’re a Christian trying to navigate money with wisdom, integrity, and faith—or if you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, guilty, or unsure about finances—this episode is for you.📖 “And let us consider how to stir one another up to love and good works.” — Hebrews 10:24Advisory services offered through NewEdge Advisors LLC, a registered investment adviser. The opinions expressed are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. ProsperPlan Wealth and its representatives do not provide tax or legal advice; therefore, it is important to coordinate with your tax or legal advisor regarding your specific situation. 👉 Subscribe for more faith-centered conversations👉 Like, comment, and share to help spread the message👉 New episodes weekly

What does it look like to follow Jesus in modern medicine? In this episode of Eddiefied, Eddie sits down with Dr. AndyTak, an internal medicine physician with over 30 years of experience and anelder at City Bible Church (Sacramento).Dr. Andy shares his personal testimony, his journey intomedicine, and what it looks like to follow Jesus faithfully in one of the most demanding and ethically complex professions. From navigating moral and cultural pressures in modern healthcare to balancing professional boundaries withspiritual care, this conversation explores how faith shapes conviction, compassion, and integrity in the exam room. This podcast addresses:- How Christian doctors can practice medicine with humilityand integrity- Navigating moral and ethical gray areas with biblicalconviction- The role of prayer, healing, and medical intervention- Caring for patients spiritually while honoringprofessional boundaries-  Guarding identity,compassion, and faith in a demanding field- Encouragement for students, residents, and believerspursuing medicine At its core, this episode is about calling — and how Goduses believers in every sphere, including healthcare, to be salt and light. 📖 Hebrews 10:24 remindsus to “consider how to spur one another on to love and good works.” Our prayeris that this conversation encourages you to do exactly that. 👉 If this episodeencouraged you, please Like, Share, and Subscribe to support the podcast.

In this episode, Eddie sits down with Ralph and Ana Mendez for a raw, honest, and deeply encouraging conversation about redemption, obedience, and walking faithfully with Jesus through every season of life.Ralph shares about growing up in a broken home, the environments that shaped his early worldview, and how God met him in a place he never expected. Together, Ralph and Ana open up about their journey of faith, marriage, trusting God through disappointment and waiting, and learning to remain available to the Lord wherever He leads.This conversation also addresses important topics for believers today, including:- Overcoming a victim mindset through a biblical worldview- Understanding identity, responsibility, and purpose in Christ- Learning to serve God faithfully regardless of past mistakes- What it means to be “useful” in God’s Kingdom How Hebrews 10:24 shapes everyday Christian livingWhether you are new to faith, wrestling with your past, or seeking encouragement to keep serving where God has placed you, this episode is a reminder that no story is beyond God’s redemption and no life surrendered to Christ is wasted.📖 “Let us consider how to stir one another on to love and good works.” — Hebrews 10:24👉 If this episode encourages you, please Like, Subscribe, and Share it with someone who needs hope today.Thank you for watching—and as always, stay encouraged, stay faithful, and stay Eddiefied.

What does faith look like when the battle doesn’t end after the first victory?In this deeply personal episode of The Eddiefied Podcast, Eddie sits down with close friends Dan and Anna to share their journey through cancer — a battle Anna has faced three separate times since 2020, including a recent surgery earlier this year.This is not a story about having all the answers, or surface-level encouragement. It’s about walking with God through uncertainty, learning how to trust Him when the future feels fragile, discovering peace when fear wants to take over, and clinging to biblical truth when uncertainty tries to take over.Special ThanksI want to personally thank @yarikpetrashfilms for incredible filming and editing work, and Slide Thru Media (Fair Oaks) for studio access, sound engineering, and support of this episode.This podcast wouldn’t be what it is without their support, generosity, and excellence behind the scenes. If you’re a creator, business, or church looking for high-quality production or studio services, these are people you can trust and work with confidently.Links and contact info below:yarikpetrashfilms: https://www.instagram.com/yarik_p/Slide Thru Media: www.slidethrumedia.comDan and Anna open up about:Receiving a stage-4 cancer diagnosisNavigating treatment decisions during COVIDChoosing an integrative approach to healingFacing multiple recurrences after remissionGuarding their hearts against fear, bitterness, and discouragementBalancing medical stewardship with spiritual trustHow suffering reshaped their marriage, parenting, and faithWalking forward with peace as they await future scansThroughout the episode, Eddie grounds the conversation in Scripture and the heart of Hebrews 10:24 — encouraging believers to stir one another toward love, endurance, and obedience, especially in seasons of suffering.If you or someone you love is walking through illness, chronic pain, or fear of the unknown, or simply wrestling with the question “Why would God allow this?”— this episode is for you. And if you’re supporting someone in a hard season, this conversation will help you love them well.🎙️ Listen, be encouraged, and remember: God is near you in the valley.

What is a Christian’s role in politics?Is disengagement faithfulness — or surrender?In Episode 3 of Eddiefied, Eddie Lyashenko sits down with Sam Chung, a senior leader in California government and public policy, to wrestle with one of the most divisive questions facing believers today: How should Christians engage politics without compromising the gospel?Sam shares his personal journey — from growing up in a Korean-American household, to coming to faith in Christ, to serving at the highest levels of state government as a Chief of Staff and senior advocate. Drawing from nearly two decades inside the political arena, Sam offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at how policy is shaped, how power really works, and why Christian presence still matters — even when outcomes don’t go our way.This episode tackles hard but necessary questions:Should Christians withdraw from politics because the system is broken?How do believers remain salt and light in morally gray environments?What is Christian nationalism, and how does it differ from faithful public witness?How should Christians respond when measures they oppose still pass?What does Hebrews 10:24 look like lived out in public life?Rather than offering partisan talking points, this conversation calls believers to faithful presence, humility, courage, and obedience — trusting God’s sovereignty while refusing to disengage from loving our neighbors through public life.📖 “And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works.” — Hebrews 10:24 (ESV)Whether you’re discouraged, disengaged, or discerning your calling, this episode is an invitation to rethink how faith, love, and good works show up beyond the church walls.

In this Episode of Eddiefied, Eddie sits down with Tyler and Kristin Miller to share the powerful story of how God led them from fostering to adopting three children into their family of five.What began as a simple step of obedience turned into a life-changing journey of love, resilience, and radical faith. Tyler and Kristin open up about the moment God stirred their hearts, the challenges and beauty of the foster system, the confirmations that carried them forward, and how adoption reshaped their understanding of God’s love for His people.This episode is a living picture of Hebrews 10:24 — “let us consider how to stir one another to love and good works.”If you’ve ever wondered what it looks like to say “yes” to God in the unknown, this conversation will encourage and inspire you.In this episode:• The calling that led them to foster• Unexpected challenges & God’s faithfulness along the way• How fostering became adoption• Building a family on obedience, sacrifice, and grace• Encouragement for believers feeling called to foster or adoptWhether fostering, adopting, or simply wanting to live a faith that moves — this story will stir your heart.Stay encouraged. Stay faithful. Stay Eddiefied.

Part 2 continues the story with Pastor Vlad as we look at how God shaped him through Seminary, and the calling to plant City Bible Church.This episode is full of encouragement for anyone pursuing ministry, leadership, or a deeper obedience to Christ.Follow us on IG: @Eddiefied_PodcastHosted by Eddie Lyashenko.

Part 1 of our conversation with Pastor Vlad Burlaka explores his testimony, early faith journey, and the moment God called him into ministry.If you’re wrestling with purpose, calling, or spiritual identity, this episode will encourage and strengthen your faith.Follow us on IG: @Eddiefied_PodcastHosted by Eddie Lyashenko.