Redemption opens like a familiar football story — with helmets, stadium lights, and the pressure to win — but quickly clarifies its real focus: Jesus changing lives inside The Ohio State Buckeyes’ program.

Available through The Wonder Project on Amazon Prime, this docuseries follows an ongoing spiritual revival that can’t be measured on a scoreboard. Behind it are two unlikely executive producers: Marlee and Matt Benson, a husband-and-wife duo who stepped into filmmaking because they believed the message mattered.

When Marlee shared how Redemption became a reality on the Cedarville Stories podcast, she made one thing clear: She and Matt didn’t start as film professionals. Marlee is a 2021 Cedarville University graduate with a degree in communication, and she and Matt are simply people who love sports and Jesus. They were surprised to find themselves telling a story so much bigger than their own experiences.

The docuseries idea was sparked at church. Marlee and Matt listened as former Buckeye tight end Gee Scott Jr. shared his testimony, and the idea arrived with clarity. They needed to share what God has been doing in and through these players.

Marlee and Matt didn’t have a roadmap, so they prayed. They prayed when they felt unqualified, when the logistics looked impossible, and when the responsibility of representing real people and real faith felt heavy.

Then, the prayers started turning into tangible steps. A production company came alongside them. Funding followed in the form of hundreds of thousands of dollars that seemed out of reach for two newcomers. And as the project grew, it gained the backing of former Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback Tim Tebow, lending his credibility and support to a story centered on Christ rather than fame.

Even with resources, the hardest work stayed relational. Marlee and Matt had to tell the stories of multiple players who stood for Christ without flattening them into slogans. They had to earn trust deep enough for players to share truthfully, not carefully. They chose transparency because the message mattered more than the optics: Jesus transforms lives, and that transformation gives hope in the middle of pressure, performance, and public scrutiny.

As the story took shape, Marlee kept noticing how the players talked about prayer: not as a lever to pull for wins but as a way to stay close to God when life doesn’t go the way they want. Gee Scott Jr. puts words to it near the end of the series: People sometimes treat prayer like a path to a national championship, but God doesn’t promise that. What He promises, as Romans 8:28 says, is to work all things together for good for those who love Him, even when the “all things” include delays, doubts, and hard conversations.

By the time Redemption was finished, Marlee realized the story had been working on her, too, reshaping how she saw faith in the middle of pressure and performance. Watching players talk about Christ’s joy shook her out of spiritual routine. Their excitement renewed her own faith and reminded her that God still changes people in the present tense.

That’s the quiet thread running through the whole project. Two fans stepped forward with open hands, not because they were experts, but because they were willing storytellers for God’s glory. They pursued excellence, faced obstacles honestly, and kept praying through every unknown, driven by the belief that if even one person met Jesus through this story, it would be worth it. And in the end, Marlee and Matt watched God create hope on the screen through testimonies that kept echoing long after the credits rolled.

https://share.transistor.fm/s/f5a8343b

https://youtu.be/tqF2jbZdyAc

A first-year teacher stands in an empty classroom with a key in her hand and a knot in her stomach. Twenty-six desks. Bare walls. One loud thought: School starts soon, and the room has almost nothing.

Dr. Megan Brown, an associate professor of education at Cedarville University, knows that moment well. Coursework can cover research and best practices. Training can shape strong habits. Still, the first year in a real classroom brings a different kind of weight — especially when the space begins as a blank slate.

Megan teaches literacy courses to future educators, and she talks plainly about what teaching requires. Learning is hands-on. Students need materials in their fingers so ideas can stick in their minds. Yet school budgets only stretch so far. Families can only do so much. Teachers often fill the gaps with their own money: pencils, tissues, notebooks, cleaning supplies, even backpacks. For a new teacher, those costs add up quickly.

That’s where Malena Ball comes in. A 2022 Cedarville graduate with a degree in strategic communication, Malena now serves as marketing director for Crayons to Classrooms. In that role, she helps connect educators to practical, personal support. The Dayton-area nonprofit provides free classroom supplies for teachers in 144 schools, reaching more than 50,000 students through the teachers it serves.

Malena has watched teachers push carts down the aisles and still expect a bill. “How much do I owe?” they ask, looking at the price tags left on some items to show their value. Volunteers smile back. “Nothing.” Relief softens shoulders, and gratitude shows up as tears. Being seen does that.

Crayons to Classrooms stocks the consumables that disappear by October — glue sticks, erasers, paper, pencils. But Malena calls it more than a resource center. It’s a care center. Teachers find air filters, hygiene products, Band-Aids, sanitizer, and tissues. Those supplies don’t just serve learning. They support dignity, comfort, and confidence.

Megan watched one new teacher arrive after visiting her classroom for the first time. Empty room. End of July. No paycheck yet. She left with two full carts squeezed into a small car and a face filled with relief. Now there was something to build with.

That “something” reaches far past academics. A spare notebook helps a student keep up. A backpack handed quietly to a child in foster care says, “This is yours.” A pencil offered without a lecture says, “You matter here.”

Megan and Malena shared these stories on the Cedarville Stories podcast. Their message? Equip teachers with training, care, and supplies. When teachers feel supported, students feel it too. And that feeling can shape those students’ futures.

https://share.transistor.fm/s/7fa1e2bd

https://youtu.be/_4X2P8hjSuk

The U.S. Secret Service lives by a simple standard: zero fail. Every route, every rooftop, and every split-second decision demands excellence because the mission leaves no room for mistakes.

Jeff Rinehart has built his career around that expectation. The 1993 Cedarville University graduate has spent nearly three decades with the Secret Service, rising into senior leadership and carrying the weight of protecting the nation and serving its government with quiet professionalism.

To most people, the Secret Service looks like dark suits, earpieces, and sunglasses. Rinehart understands the mystique, but he points to something deeper. The heart of the work, he says, is service — service to the United States, to its government, and to the people who rely on it.

That sense of purpose demands steady discipline. In a job where one mistake can change history, Rinehart has pursued excellence the way a craftsman pursues a clean finish: by doing the small things right every day. He has protected dignitaries and worked alongside world leaders, but he also recognizes that the agency’s mission stretches far beyond what the cameras capture.

The Secret Service investigates cybercrime and financial fraud, and Rinehart speaks about those cases with real conviction. When agents stop someone from draining a senior citizen’s life savings, the work matters. When they track down cyber predators who exploit children online, the reward runs even deeper. He does not glamorize the job. He honors it, and he honors the people it helps.

Over the years, Rinehart has stepped up to a wide range of assignments. He served on the presidential detail for President George W. Bush, handled sensitive work as a foreign attaché officer, and built cases as a criminal investigator. Each role demanded the same steady excellence day after day, whether anyone is watching or not.

In his current role, Rinehart has helped keep President Donald Trump safe during multiple visits overseas, including trips to Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. Those miles add another layer to the mission: unfamiliar terrain, shifting schedules, and constant coordination with host nations. Still, the expectation never changes. The detail must run clean, the planning must hold, and the team must be ready for anything.

Rinehart recently shared his story as a guest on the Cedarville Stories podcast. In his trademark steady way, he made it clear that the Secret Service is more than an image. It is a calling to serve something bigger than oneself and a daily commitment to excellence in a mission where “zero fail” is not a tagline but a promise.

https://share.transistor.fm/s/93bc077d

https://youtu.be/YtBjp1nYnOM

Baseball is a sport of failure that teaches a person to live between what’s hoped for and what’s in hand. There’s always another series, another chance, and another day to get better. Payton has carried his dream since childhood, the sort of long-held desire that feels as natural as a glove on his left hand. Tanner’s path has required the same steady grit — the willingness to keep showing up, keep competing, and keep believing that today’s work matters even when tomorrow’s roster is unknown.

What sets their story apart isn’t just the pursuit but the posture. The game can tempt players to measure life in innings pitched, box scores, and call-ups. Yet Payton and Tanner’s grounding runs deeper. They’ve learned to trust God’s timing the way a good ballplayer trusts the process: staying disciplined, resisting panic, and letting the season unfold one pitch at a time. Some prayers get answered quickly; others develop like a slow-breaking curve — still true, still on the way, still under control.

That big-picture perspective came through recently on the Cedarville Stories podcast, where both players reflected on baseball, faith, and the steadying confidence that comes from believing there’s a plan even when the details aren’t visible yet. They shared that when Cedarville friends show up in the stands, it turns the whole thing into something warmer than a career climb. It becomes a reminder that the journey is meant to be carried with others and that gratitude can keep ambition from getting too loud.

For Eeles and Gillis, the aim is still the big leagues, but the deeper goal is staying steady — playing hard, staying humble, and trusting the Author of the story to call the right pitch at the right time.

https://share.transistor.fm/s/691f2d02

https://youtu.be/wTqebZT93_k

Some of the most lasting lessons in life don’t come from classrooms or textbooks but from watching the people closest to you do hard things without complaint. For Dr. Jared Pincin, those lessons were learned early by watching his college-educated father take whatever work was necessary to provide for his family, even when that meant working as a janitor at McDonald’s during a tough recession.

Pincin, associate professor of economics at Cedarville University since 2023, isn’t just an expert in market theory. He’s a man shaped by humble beginnings, hard-earned wisdom, and a heart for guiding young people well.

Born and raised in Whitehall, Pennsylvania, Jared grew up watching his parents navigate life’s ups and downs with grit and grace. His dad took that janitorial job during an economic downturn. He never showed bitterness or complained; he simply did what was needed to care for his family. That quiet determination left a lasting mark. Jared’s own first job, stocking shelves for Nabisco, became a lesson in humility and trusting God’s timing.

His journey into economics began in middle school, sparked by a visiting stockbroker on career day. That interest grew through high school internships and eventually led him to earn a PhD. Though he didn’t initially plan on teaching, the doors to academia opened, and he found joy in the classroom, especially in connecting with students and helping them think deeply about real-world choices.

On a recent episode of the Cedarville Stories podcast, Jared shared more than just economic insight. He spoke candidly about his past involvement in fantasy sports and how it gradually led him to question the role of sports betting in his life. What started as a harmless March Madness bracket in high school ended with a suspension and a turning point. Over time, he began to see gambling not just as a financial risk but as a spiritual one.

Today, alongside Cedarville colleague Colonel (Ret.) Greg Thompson, he speaks to students about the hidden dangers of sports betting, particularly how easy access and secrecy can foster habits with long-term consequences. It’s not about legalism, he says, but stewardship and wisdom.

Jared’s story is one of thoughtful faith, honest work, and a calling to prepare the next generation not just for the workforce but for life.

https://share.transistor.fm/s/f745bac4

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M-v5CZjqM4I

Ondrej Plasil grew up in the Czech Republic with a basketball in his hands and a competitive spirit in his heart. The game gave him direction, discipline, and drive. But underneath it all, he was quietly searching for something more.

In a country where faith is often absent or minimized, Ondrej didn’t grow up in a strong Christian environment. He knew about God, but the idea of following Jesus personally felt distant. That began to change when he encountered believers who lived differently — people whose lives radiated joy, purpose, and hope that couldn’t be explained by talent or success alone.

Through a series of providential moments, Ondrej and his family came to know Christ as Savior, Lord, and Friend. That decision changed everything. His identity was no longer rooted in performance or approval but in grace. His view of life, success, and even basketball was transformed.

That journey brought him to Cedarville University, where he’s now a sophomore studying business management. Here, he stepped into a community that nurtures his young faith and challenges him to grow deeper. Surrounded by fellow students who love Jesus and live with boldness, Ondrej found accountability, inspiration, and a renewed sense of calling.

What was once a quiet faith became a passionate pursuit. He began to see his gifts and his story as part of something bigger than himself.

Ondrej’s dream is bold: to see revival in the Czech Republic. Whether through launching a Christ-centered academy, planting seeds of faith through education, or simply walking faithfully with the people of his country, he longs to be used by God.

He shared his story on the Cedarville Stories podcast, offering a glimpse of his hope-filled vision: to be a faithful voice in his homeland, pointing people to the truth of Jesus.

Wherever God sends him, Ondrej is ready. He’s living proof that when Jesus captures a heart, everything changes.

https://share.transistor.fm/s/da12250e

https://youtu.be/rqrunn4aGhA

Matthew and Daniel Leo grew up in the Middle East, where sunbaked streets doubled as soccer fields and neighbors quickly became family. Their childhood was filled with the rhythms of daily life, including shared meals, local traditions, and long afternoons chasing a ball through the dust. With parents devoted to humanitarian work, the brothers were immersed in a life of service and shaped by a deep love for people, culture, and faith that would stay with them wherever they went.

Now students at Cedarville University, the brothers lace up their cleats as members of the University’s soccer team. But if you ask them, they’ll tell you their identity goes far deeper than their roles on the field or in the classroom. As they shared recently on the Cedarville Stories podcast, they see themselves first and foremost as children of God — young men whose purpose isn’t just to win games but to live lives that reflect Christ.

Matthew shared how his identity as a follower of Jesus isn’t something he sets aside when he steps onto the field. When he's playing in front of a crowd or pushing through a tough match, his faith remains central to who he is. The way he competes, responds to pressure, and carries himself flows from that deeper commitment. For him, soccer isn’t separate from his spiritual life; it’s another place where his walk with Christ is lived out.

Daniel followed with a heartfelt message for those who may not yet know Christ. He encouraged listeners to explore the Bible with an open heart, describing it as a powerful collection of stories about real people — flawed, broken, and often struggling — who encountered God’s grace. Through those stories, he explained, there’s a clear picture of hope, redemption, and purpose. Both brothers emphasized that a life shaped by faith is not about perfection but about daily trust and living in a way that reflects something greater than themselves.

Their future plans? The Leo brothers hope to return to the Middle East after graduation to continue the work their parents started. They want to invest in people, love their neighbors, and serve in a region they still call home.

In a world often driven by status or stats, Matthew and Daniel’s story is refreshingly simple and deeply inspiring: two brothers chasing a ball, loving deeply, and running toward a calling far greater than themselves.

https://share.transistor.fm/s/aa08bb61

https://youtu.be/m9WnRUATlJE

Gracen Fletcher grew up under Indiana skies, where the wind danced across hayfields and horses ran free. A farm girl through and through, she learned to saddle up almost as early as she could walk. Her days were filled with muck boots, fiddle strings, and the steady hum of country life. Whether she was training one of her family’s Arabian horses, casting a fishing line at the pond, or hitting bullseyes with her bow, Gracen lived wide awake to the world around her.

Her brother got into archery first, and the rest of the family followed. At first, Gracen just tagged along. But the more she shot, the more she found herself hooked. The quiet focus, the feel of the release, the rhythm — archery used the same discipline she’d learned from horseback riding. And just like that, she discovered a lasting passion.

By the time she turned 10, Gracen was competing. At 17, she made history in Las Vegas, shooting a perfect 900 — something only a handful of women had ever done. The spotlight turned to her quickly, and, as a result, the Olympic door stood wide open.

But another door opened, too.

Gracen had long dreamed of earning a degree from Cedarville University, a school with a commitment to faith that matched her own. She thought she'd have to choose: train for the Olympics or attend college. But Cedarville’s new fully online accounting program made it possible to do both.

Now, from her family’s farm in Boonville, she balances Olympic-level training with online studies. Her days start early with chapel, continue with coursework, and end with hours of practice in the barn or the field. It's a full life, but one anchored in purpose.

Gracen doesn’t see archery as her identity — it’s a gift. She competes with grit, but her aim stays fixed on something higher. Through every arrow and every assignment, she’s living to honor God, knowing He’s the one who gave her these passions to begin with.

She recently shared more of her journey on the Cedarville Stories podcast, reflecting on how faith, family, and focus have shaped her both on the range and in the classroom.

Gracen’s story is a reminder: Sometimes you don’t have to pick one dream over another — sometimes, with faith and the right fit, you can live both.

https://share.transistor.fm/s/49abb142

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b2dfe3GFjPo

Lucy Malmberg’s life began in the shadow of World War II. Born in a refugee camp and carried onto a plane bound for America inside a handmade box, she traveled hidden beneath a blanket with nothing but a handwritten birth certificate and her father’s whispered prayer. Her parents had fled the devastation of Ukraine with no home, no country, and little more than their steadfast faith in Jesus. That improbable journey — marked by desperation, courage, and divine protection — became the opening chapter of a life defined by God’s unwavering faithfulness.

From her earliest memories, Lucy recognized God’s fingerprints on every detail of her story. He met her family with miracles both great and small, providing exactly what they needed when they needed it. Through seasons of hardship and abundance, Lucy learned to trust His timing, His provision, and His plan.

Pharmacy eventually became Lucy’s calling, but it was never just about medicine. She approached her work as a ministry, caring for the whole person — body, mind, and soul. Together with her late husband, George, she founded Wedgewood Pharmacy and helped build it into one of the nation’s most respected veterinary compounding pharmacies. Yet professional achievement was never her ultimate goal. What mattered most was stewarding the platform God had given her to share the hope of Jesus.

Lucy inherited her passion for introducing people to Christ from her father, a man whose ever-present smile opened the door to countless Gospel conversations in grocery lines, gas stations, and diners. She carries that same joyful boldness. More than anything, Lucy longs to live a life that helps populate heaven.

When the opportunity arose to invest in Christian pharmacy education, she didn’t hesitate. Her recent $1 million gift to Cedarville University’s School of Pharmacy will equip future pharmacists to serve as both excellent clinicians and courageous ambassadors for Christ. Meeting students whose lives were transformed through the scholarship moved Lucy to tears. For her, it was unmistakable confirmation that God was at work.

Lucy recently shared her testimony on the Cedarville Stories podcast. With warmth and humility, she reflected on a life shaped by hardship, hope, and the joy of Jesus. She sees Cedarville as a place where students are not only trained with excellence but also sent out to share the Gospel wherever God leads.

For Lucy, that is the legacy that matters most: hearts turned toward heaven, one faithful life at a time.

https://share.transistor.fm/s/09c46197

https://youtu.be/nd03ddxGU5w

Bill Bolthouse’s story began in the rich black soil of Grant, Michigan, where long rows of onions shaped both his childhood and his character. Working alongside his family on their muck farm, Bill learned early what honest labor demanded — often on his knees, pulling weeds under the summer sun. Each season, his dad entrusted him with three-quarters of an acre to manage himself. The deal was simple: He could keep whatever profit he earned.

Bill tried to take shortcuts, tidying the edges while letting weeds take over the middle. His dad quickly saw through it, and the lesson stuck: Real work means doing the whole job and doing it well.

That conviction carried Bill far beyond those onion rows. Though he once imagined a future in missions, he eventually realized God was leading him back to the family business — Bolthouse Farms. There, he helped transform a modest vegetable farm into the nation’s top carrot producer. Under his leadership, Bolthouse Farms didn’t just grow carrots; it reshaped how they were packaged, marketed, and delivered to families across America.

But for Bill, farming was never just about crops. It was about people and purpose. He saw his work as a mission field — a way to live out his faith every day. Whether managing fields, leading sales, or guiding the business as president, Bill sought to honor Christ in every decision. “You treat people right,” he said. “Run your business like you answer to the Lord — because you do.”

From 1996 to 2013, Bill served on Cedarville University’s Board of Trustees, believing deeply in the school’s mission to train young people for Kingdom impact. His name now graces the Bolthouse Center for Music and the upcoming Bolthouse Academic Center, though he’s quick to shrug off the recognition. “I’m not interested in buildings,” he shared. “I want to see kids on fire for Jesus — going out into the world and making a difference.”

Bill recently shared his story on the Cedarville Stories podcast, reflecting on a life on mission — not in a pulpit but in the dirt, at the sales desk, and in the boardroom. His passion is simple: “Before Jesus comes, I want to see as many people in heaven as possible.”

And that’s the legacy he’s still cultivating.

https://share.transistor.fm/s/c4baac23

https://youtu.be/XLeSKDlGO04

In the world of sports, stats tell stories — and for Paul “Hembo” Hembekides, they’ve written a full chapter of his life.

Hembo graduated from Cedarville University in 2012 after four seasons of college baseball, where he started 170 games and set the program’s all-time record with 128 walks. That patience and discipline at the plate hinted at the steady, focused approach he would later bring to a much bigger stage.

After finishing grad school in Philadelphia, Hembo met an ESPN recruiter at a seminar and saw his opening. He followed up, stayed persistent, and eventually earned his shot. Over a decade later, he’s one of the network’s most trusted researchers and storytellers.

On the Cedarville Stories podcast, Hembo looked back on the road that brought him from the batting plate at Cedarville to the studios at ESPN. He shared how the habits, values, and community at Cedarville shaped his thinking and built a strong foundation for life in a fast-paced, high-profile industry. While some of those lessons only became clear with time, they stuck — and they mattered.

Today, Hembo wears many hats: researcher, co-author, on-air contributor, husband, and father of three daughters. He sees his work at ESPN as more than a career. It’s his calling and his platform. Whether he’s teaming up with longtime colleague Mike Greenberg or providing insights to NFL analyst Dan Orlovsky — who shares his Christian faith — Hembo stays rooted in the values that shaped him.

He recalled watching Orlovsky pray on live TV after Damar Hamlin’s collapse, calling it a moment that revealed the quiet power of faith in the sports world. These days, Hembo sees more athletes, coaches, and broadcasters living their beliefs out loud — and he counts it a privilege to be one of them.

Through it all, Hembo keeps showing up with excellence, humility, and purpose. His story reminds us that in the middle of all the stats, scores, and highlight reels, there’s still room for faith, family, and calling — and those might just be the most important wins of all.

https://share.transistor.fm/s/0db04051

https://youtu.be/UHGkR65spdE

Dr. Trent Rogers doesn’t fit the stereotype of a Bible professor and college dean. Sure, he’s got the credentials — a doctorate in New Testament, years of pastoral experience, and a deep love for Scripture. But he also once bench-pressed 670 pounds, setting a world record. That same drive to be the best shapes everything he does, from the classroom to his leadership at Cedarville University.

Trent’s path to academic ministry wasn’t direct. He started with a degree in ancient and classical Greek from Wabash College, aiming to read the New Testament in its original form. He imagined life in church ministry, not on a college campus. In fact, when he joined Grace Baptist Church in Cedarville, he ranked “college ministry” dead last on his list of preferences.

But God had different plans.

When the college ministry volunteer stepped away, Trent unexpectedly stepped in — and what began as a reluctant assignment quickly became a passion. He discovered students who were eager to grow, ask meaningful questions, and pursue Christ with conviction. Their hunger for direction and truth stirred something in him. Over the next five years, not only did his heart change, but so did the direction of his calling.

Today, as Dean of the School of Biblical and Theological Studies, Trent brings the same passion to shaping students as he once brought to training with elite athletes. Before Cedarville, he worked as a personal trainer in Chicago, coaching everyone from businessmen to NFL stars like Devin Hester. Whether he’s teaching Greek, launching academic programs, or designing a personal fitness regimen, his goal remains the same: to do it well and purposefully.

What began as reluctance has become calling. Now, Trent leads with clarity, compassion, and a deep belief in Cedarville’s mission to equip students for a lifetime of faithful service.

To hear more of his story, check out the Cedarville Stories podcast.

https://share.transistor.fm/s/4ce82391

https://youtu.be/26dd7nqxTj8

Sports have always played an important role in Hayden Lee’s life. Now a Doctor of Pharmacy/MBA student at Cedarville University, Hayden’s journey from high school athlete to aspiring sports pharmacist shows how passion and purpose can collide in powerful ways.

Growing up, Hayden was all in — on the field, in the weight room, and in the classroom. His love for biology and fascination with how the body works fueled his curiosity. He noticed how athletes managed pain, sometimes relying heavily on medications like ibuprofen before games. But as he dove deeper into his studies, he discovered how pre-treating pain with NSAIDs could actually hinder recovery, muscle growth, and bone health. This insight lit a fire: What if athletes had pharmacists guiding their training and recovery?

That question led Hayden to the emerging field of sports pharmacy, a dynamic intersection of athletic performance and pharmaceutical care. “We’re stewards of our bodies,” he shared on the Cedarville Stories podcast, “and sports pharmacy helps us perform and heal in a way that honors that responsibility.”

Hayden now serves as a student board member for the U.S. Sports Pharmacy Group, where he advocates for his peers, builds mentorship bridges, and helps shape the future of the profession. The field is growing fast — so fast that it may not be long before sports pharmacists are regulars on the sidelines with college and professional teams.

With his faith as a guide and a playbook full of purpose, Hayden Lee is training for more than a career — he’s on a mission to help athletes steward their health and shine both on and off the field.

https://share.transistor.fm/s/00891df0

https://youtu.be/m_tqgjpmFxA

Sports are Jeff Gilbert’s passion. What started as a hobby of cutting out sports stories from newspapers and magazines and crafting his own narrative for each story has blossomed into a thrilling career as the beat reporter for the Ohio State Buckeyes football team and assistant professor of journalism at Cedarville University.

In this week’s Cedarville Stories Podcast, Jeff steps up to the plate to share his journey of painting word pictures to tell stories from the gridiron, basketball court, baseball fields — and much more.

His secret to writing compelling stories has been his curiosity — always being fascinated with asking unique questions that leads the reader past the obvious and into some behind-the-scenes information. In fact, Jeff believes the greatest attribute of a gifted journalist is their curiosity, something that he developed through his 20-year journalism career.

Jeff's approach isn't just about the game; it's about capturing the pulse of the crowd, the heartbeat of the athletes, and the spirit of the moment. His Christian worldview infuses his work, adding a dimension that elevates his storytelling to new heights.

Whether diving into his passion with the Buckeyes, covering local athletes, or looking for stories that bring a person’s faith in Jesus to light, Jeff's reporting is a slam dunk.

Join us as we step into the press box with Jeff Gilbert on this week’s Cedarville Stories Podcast.

https://share.transistor.fm/s/ce76c52e

https://youtu.be/xw_QWqeM-QY

Erica Smith woke up in a hospital bed, confused and restrained, believing she’d been abandoned and tortured. She had just survived a weeklong medically induced coma caused by a sudden, life-threatening allergic reaction — one that nearly stole her life. At the same time, her mother was dying of cancer. And just a few months earlier, her husband Greg had lost his 10-year coaching job.

They were staring down career uncertainty, financial strain, and a medical crisis — all at once.But that wasn't the end of their story. It was the beginning of something deeper.

Before this time of hardship, life was full of movement — Greg’s coaching career took them across the country. But after his role at the University of Toledo ended unexpectedly, the Smiths faced a tough decision: pivot to a new life outside athletics or trust God to open another coaching door. 

Greg was ready to give up coaching. But Erica reminded him who he was: a coach called to lead. At the very last moment, a coaching position at Cedarville University opened, and the path became clear.

Today, Greg and Erica both serve faithfully at Cedarville — Greg as the head women’s volleyball coach and Erica as the executive assistant to the Dean of the School of Nursing. They’re thriving in roles that allow them to pour into students and staff with skill and deep empathy forged through hardship.

Their trials run deep. Greg survived stage 4 cancer as a young man and later underwent quadruple heart bypass surgery due to complications from his treatments. Erica, once the rock of her household, had to relearn how to trust after waking from her coma. Even through that darkness, they found light in prayer, community, and renewed purpose from the Lord. 

Today, they use their journey to encourage others — students, colleagues, and anyone walking through hard places. Their story, featured on the Cedarville Stories podcast, is one of grace, grit, and the relentless love of the God who never let go. Sometimes, it’s in the hardest places that hope grows deepest.

https://share.transistor.fm/s/5966486a

https://youtu.be/Tn0-R1I0OMI

Basketball season is back in full swing at Cedarville, and the Yellow Jackets are charging into year two under Head Coach Rob Jones. With a season of experience already under his belt, Coach Jones is building more than just a competitive team — he's shaping a culture rooted in faith, grit, and brotherhood.

In this episode of the Cedarville Stories podcast, Coach Jones reflects on the journey that brought him here — from street ball in Missouri to coaching stints at Richmond and Liberty. His coaching resume is impressive, but it's his heart for mentoring young men that truly stands out.

The story of his arrival is still something out of a basketball movie — phone calls flying, quick interviews, and a campus visit just days apart. Even amidst the whirlwind interview process, he and his wife, Kristina, were sensing that Cedarville was exactly where God wanted them to be. What sealed the deal was the people and purpose they found on campus.

Now well into his second season, Coach Jones is settling into the rhythm of Yellow Jacket basketball. His focus? Building a program that competes fiercely while honoring Christ in every practice, game, and huddle. He’s got a roster of young talent and is determined to teach each student the kind of lessons that outlast the final buzzer — lessons about discipline, spiritual growth, and becoming men of character.

Coach Jones brings the fire, the faith, and a game plan that goes far beyond wins and losses. And as the Yellow Jackets hit the court this season, one thing’s clear — Cedarville basketball is in good hands.

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https://youtu.be/v4eptp26CMk

Aaron Welty grew up with his eyes on the stars — not just the ones overhead, but the ones in stories. Galaxies far, far away, rings of power, and caped crusaders filled his imagination. But while most kids left those adventures behind when the movie ended, Aaron carried them with him. For him, those tales weren’t just entertainment — they were roadmaps pointing the way toward courage, sacrifice, and a bigger purpose.

From the very start, Aaron’s life has looked a bit like a hero’s journey — not with blasters or superpowers, but with quiet strength and a steady resolve shaped by life’s challenges.

He recently shared more about that journey on the Cedarville Stories podcast, opening up about how God has worked through his weakness to create something beautiful and unexpected.

Aaron was born 10 weeks early and diagnosed with cerebral palsy not long after. That alone could have written a different kind of story. But he kept going one chapter at a time: first as a student at Cedarville University, then as a staffer on Capitol Hill, and now as a speaker and author of a nearly finished trilogy of memoirs.

His interest in public service took root back in the seventh grade, when a lesson on U.S. presidents sparked something inside him. Friends told him he’d make a great president someday, and instead of brushing it off, Aaron dared to believe them. That dream found real footing at Cedarville, where he studied public administration and graduated in 2005.

He packed up for Washington, D.C. soon after, spending years working behind the scenes on Capitol Hill and later with the Department of Transportation. His focus? Advocating for disability inclusion and making sure workspaces welcomed everyone.

“It was about affirming the dignity of work,” Aaron said. “Even if only 1% were affected, it mattered to that 1%.”

But Aaron’s impact isn’t just in policy papers and meetings. Over the years, he’s mentored high school and college students, often connecting with them through summer leadership programs. He doesn’t shy away from the hard questions — in fact, he invites them. And more often than not, he draws on the stories that shaped him growing up.

From Star Wars to Lord of the Rings to Marvel’s sprawling universe, Aaron sees more than special effects — he sees lessons on calling, identity, and the grit it takes to keep going.

“These stories aren’t just for fun,” he said. “They’re invitations — to think, to wrestle, to become.”

Aaron knows a thing or two about wrestling. He’s lived through pain and loss and disappointment. But rather than wish those things away, he’s learned to see them differently.

“God didn’t take the pain away,” he said. “He gave me perseverance instead.”

It’s something he calls the “heroics of weakness” — a way of seeing suffering not as something to escape but as the place where purpose can be born. “So often, it’s the thing we wish God would take away that ends up being the thing He uses most,” he said.

One of the pictures Aaron clings to is from Scripture — the idea of fragile “jars of clay” carrying something far greater inside. That’s how he sees his life: breakable, yes, but brimming with meaning.

“You’re not just here to be entertained,” he said. “You’re here to engage — to become who you were meant to be.”

And that’s exactly what Aaron is doing. In a world chasing fame and titles, he’s living something deeper — a quiet legacy of perseverance, presence, and purpose.

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Born a Buckeye near Columbus, Ohio, Dr. Georgia Purdom grew up in public school where she got a solid education — but something was missing. The classroom instruction didn’t point to the Bible, and the lessons never once started with Scripture. Even as a teenager, Georgia knew she wanted more than just academics — she wanted truth grounded in God’s Word.

That desire led her to Cedarville University, a Christian college nestled in the heart of Ohio, where she graduated in 1994 with a degree in biology. It wasn’t just the labs and lectures that shaped her — it was the biblical worldview woven into every subject.

One Truth That Changed Everything

Years later, on a return visit to Cedarville’s campus, Georgia had a moment that would shape the rest of her career. She realized the truth that death didn’t exist before sin — a foundational biblical principle — and it struck her deeply. That idea, rooted in Scripture, turned her thinking upside down and lit a fire in her heart. If you start with the Bible, everything — from science to society — makes a whole lot more sense.

From the Lab to the Lens of Scripture

Today, Dr. Purdom serves as the Vice President of Educational Content at Answers in Genesis, where she’s not only teaching others but also defending the faith with a scientist’s eye and a believer’s heart. She serves as an expert on Answers News, a video YouTube program, where current events and scientific discoveries are unpacked through the lens of Scripture. Whether she’s diving into debates about evolution or discussing the impact of artificial intelligence, she brings clarity by always starting with God’s Word.

Why She Believes What She Believes — and Helps Others Do the Same

Her work is about more than sharing facts — it’s about helping people understand why they believe what they believe. Georgia knows that the world throws a thousand messages at Christians every day, but her advice is simple and steady: Go back to the Bible. It speaks to every challenge we face, even the ones wrapped in modern-day tech and culture.

Recently, she sat down with the Cedarville Stories podcast to share her journey — how a curious young girl from Ohio became a leading voice in creation science. Her path hasn't always been easy, but it’s always been purposeful. Every step grounded in truth. Every message rooted in Scripture.

And if Georgia Purdom has learned anything along the way, it’s this: When you build your life on God’s Word, you never walk alone — and you’re always on solid ground.

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For Lauryn Leslie, the stars were never just distant lights in the sky — they were a destination. As a child, she’d look up and wonder what it might be like to explore the universe God had spoken into being. Today, that childhood dream is blazing into reality.

A 2024 Cedarville University graduate, Lauryn now works at NASA, helping design communication systems that will connect astronauts on future missions to the moon and beyond. Her work is part of Lunar 3GPP — a groundbreaking project to bring mobile communications to space.

But Lauryn’s story isn’t just about rockets and research. It’s about faith, perseverance, and the kind of courage that steps forward even when the next move isn’t clear.

At Cedarville, Lauryn juggled a demanding engineering program with collegiate sports — first softball, then tennis. When an injury sidelined her, it felt like her plans were collapsing. Instead, it became a launchpad. While playing in a local tennis league, she met two female NASA engineers who encouraged her to apply for an internship. Despite her doubts, Lauryn took a leap of faith. “God opened that door,” she said, “and I walked through it.”

That leap led to two NASA internships — opportunities awarded to just a few — and eventually, a full-time role advancing space technology. “At NASA, we face challenges bigger than any one person,” she shared. “There are moments I’ve prayed, ‘Lord, give us wisdom.’ And He always provides.”

Now pursuing a master’s in communications and electromagnetics at Purdue University, Lauryn continues preparing for her ultimate dream of becoming an astronaut. Yet she keeps her heart anchored where her dream began. “I’d love to go to space,” she said, “but more than anything, I want to be where God wants me.”

From the fields of Cedarville to the frontiers of space, Lauryn Leslie’s journey is a reminder that when faith fuels our dreams, not even the stars will hold us back. Hear more from Lauryn on the Cedarville Stories podcast.

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Dr. Pete Savard, a 1990 graduate of Cedarville University, never imagined his life would be defined by clean water and the Gospel. A nurse educator and medical innovator, Pete once designed mobile hospitals for the U.S. government. But when that chapter closed, God began to stir something deeper in his heart. What started as a broad vision to improve healthcare around the world soon narrowed into a single, life-sustaining mission: providing clean water to those in desperate need.

Years ago, Pete faced a personal “Nineveh moment.” India — a hot, rice-laden, unfamiliar place — was not where he wanted to go. But God had opened the door. Pete said yes. He took that first trip with his daughter and an engineer, not knowing it would change everything. What he saw there was heartbreaking: children sick from sewage-filled water, mothers unable to work, fathers out of jobs due to typhoid.

Every hour in India, 171 children under five die from dirty water — over 4,100 every day. Pete couldn’t unsee that. He had to act.

That first water purification project in India took three years to fund. Pete, by his own admission, is a “terrible fundraiser.” But God provided through unexpected gifts — even a check from a widow who had just lost her husband. The water plant opened, and lives began to change. Illnesses disappeared. Children returned to school. Parents returned to work.

From that humble beginning, Global Water Consortium (GWC) has grown to serve over 4 million people through projects in India, Nepal, Honduras, and soon, Kenya. Each GWC site produces and sells clean water sustainably — millions of liters annually — while opening doors for Gospel conversations.

In Kenya, Pete spoke to high schoolers about health, respect, and the love of Jesus. After two days, 416 students accepted Christ — and asked that a pastor visit their homes to share the Gospel with their families.

Pete doesn’t see himself as a preacher. “I know health,” he says. “God uses that.” His ministry’s model is rooted in Romans 12 — using the gifts God has given to serve others. And the results? Physical health, spiritual hope, and communities transformed.

Pete recently shared his story on the Cedarville Stories podcast. He said yes to God even when it was hard. And through his obedience, entire villages now drink safe water — and Living Water.

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When Ellie Wyse arrived at Cedarville University as a freshman, she carried more than just the typical college nerves. She brought with her the deep wounds of trauma — wounds inflicted on May 7, 2019, when her high school in Highlands Ranch, Colorado, was attacked by an active shooter. That day changed everything. A classmate lost his life, others were injured, and Ellie, just a freshman at the time, was left to navigate the emotional and spiritual aftermath of surviving something unimaginable. 

On the Cedarville Stories podcast, Ellie bravely shared her journey. She recounted the fear and confusion of that lockdown, the painful realization that one of the shooters had been a friend, and the long, winding road of healing that followed. Her struggles with anxiety and depression were real and raw, compounded by the isolation of the COVID-19 pandemic. But through biblical counseling, the support of her family and church, and eventually, the nurturing environment at Cedarville, Ellie found hope again. 

Now a senior majoring in psychology, Ellie is preparing to graduate in May. Her time at Cedarville has strengthened her academically and spiritually, helping her reconcile with God and rediscover His faithfulness. 

Ellie’s passion is clear: She wants to help teens and children walk through trauma with the care and compassion she once needed. Whether the next step is a doctoral or master’s program, her goal remains the same — to be a counselor who listens first, leads with empathy, and gently points others toward healing, forgiveness, and hope. 

Photo by Stephen Swofford, Denver Gazette

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Rebecca Robinson grew up in a home marked by both deep love and quiet sacrifice. Her older sister, Kara, was born with severe Cerebral Palsy. From the beginning, Kara required round-the-clock care, medical equipment, and endless patience — needs her parents met with unwavering devotion and compassion. Their home was filled with the tenderness of a family bound together by something far stronger than circumstance: love.

But amid the visible weight her parents carried, Rebecca faced an invisible burden of her own. As the younger sibling, she often felt the pressure to be “the easy one.” She learned not to complain, not to need too much, and not to add stress to her already overwhelmed parents. This quiet phenomenon, known as Glass Child Syndrome, left Rebecca feeling transparent.

“I didn't want to be a burden,” she shared in a recent episode of the Cedarville Stories podcast. “My parents were doing everything they could for Kara. I just didn’t want to take up more space.”

Now a 2025 graduate of Cedarville University, Rebecca has taken her story and transformed it into a gift for others. Her children’s book, Penelope Panda’s Peculiar Family, gives voice to the complex emotions that siblings of children with disabilities often experience — grief, love, confusion, and resilience. With warmth and whimsy, it helps families talk about what often goes unsaid.

Rebecca’s heart for ministry doesn't stop at home. Her book is being translated into Japanese to address a culture where disabilities often remain hidden in silence. She hopes it will open doors for compassion, healing, and Gospel conversations.

Though Kara has since passed, Rebecca holds fast to her faith. “She’s with Christ now,” she says. “And while my past shaped me, my identity is in the hope of what’s to come.”

From the quiet corners of her childhood to the global impact of her words, Rebecca’s story is one of grace woven through pain — a light shining through even the most delicate glass.

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When Sean Kisch moved to Los Angeles, he wasn’t chasing the spotlight — he was answering a call to serve.

Sean works as a music copyist at JoAnn Kane Music Service, one of the top music preparation firms in the film industry. If you’ve seen a big-budget film in the last decade, there’s a good chance JoAnn Kane had a hand in it — and Sean might have too.

So, what exactly does a music copyist do? “I get asked that a lot,” Sean laughed during a recent episode of the Cedarville Stories podcast. “My job is to serve composers so they can serve the picture.” That means prepping sheet music, formatting parts for musicians, and making sure every note is ready for recording sessions — sometimes with just hours to spare.

It’s high-pressure work, but also high-impact. Sean has worked on films like The Minecraft Movie, Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny, and Avatar: The Way of Water, collaborating with legendary composers like John Williams and Alan Silvestri. For a lifelong music-lover, working with his heroes is still a little surreal.

But for Sean, Hollywood isn’t just about career milestones — it’s about calling.

In a city where many arrive hoping to build a platform and chase personal success, Sean is focused on something different. His goal is to serve — his colleagues, his community, and ultimately Christ.

Sean graduated from Cedarville University in 2017, and his time there helped shape his mindset. There, he not only developed his musical skills but also deepened his understanding of how faith and vocation intersect. The University’s focus on excellence and biblical integration gave him the tools to pursue his craft with purpose. Those values now guide his work in every studio session and industry interaction.

In LA, Sean is part of a strong community of believers quietly making a difference in the entertainment industry. He attends Reality LA, a solidly biblical church, and supports local ministries working to share the light of Christ.

“There’s more light in Hollywood than people think,” Sean said. “God is doing amazing things here.”

Even in an industry known for glamor and competition, Sean sees Hollywood as a mission field. He continues to invest in the city and its people — through his church, his work, and his quiet, faithful presence behind the scenes.

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Brad Silvius, a 1992 graduate of Cedarville University, was shaped by a foundation of faith built in the Village of Cedarville — a faith that continues to guide his life and ministry today. That deep-rooted love for Jesus has laid the groundwork for Little Leaders — a vibrant multimedia platform that helps children grow in biblical truth while building motor skills, learning language, and mastering early education basics.

Little Leaders is more than a show — it’s a hands-on, faith-filled learning experience. The platform blends colorful animation, music, movement, storytelling, and language lessons. Each piece works together to fully engage kids — mind, body, and spirit. It’s fun, interactive, and rooted in Scripture.

Brad shared the heart behind the project on the Cedarville Stories podcast. “We just have to be willing and faithful,” he said. “Then we let God grow what He wants to grow.”

His whole family is behind the mission. Brad’s wife, who has Brazilian roots, brings her business and finance experience from the University of Michigan into the work. Together, they’ve built Little Leaders not just as a platform — but as a calling.

Living in Ann Arbor, Michigan — a hub of global culture — has expanded their vision. The Silvius family has formed close friendships with people from India, Pakistan, and South America. That diversity has shaped the content and widened its reach across cultures and continents.

Little Leaders helps children grow through structured play, engaging visuals, and Christ-centered messages. Every video and activity is carefully crafted to raise up the next generation of confident, faith-filled young leaders.

Want to see it in action? Visit littleleaders.com and discover how big faith starts with little steps — and a whole lot of love.

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Catie Holt’s story reads like a favorite chapter book — warm, engaging, and full of purpose. A 2006 Cedarville University alumna, Catie’s years on campus gave her more than a degree; they gave her a biblical lens with which to view the world. That foundation became her anchor as she traveled across continents, teaching in China and later in the heart of Chicago’s bustling Chinatown.

Catie’s influence and heart for young learners have had an impact far beyond the classroom. She played a creative role in developing the Cedarville Cursive Google font, a handwriting style that has gained widespread popularity for its charm, readability, and nostalgic beauty. It’s now used in everything from educational materials to digital design, becoming a small but meaningful part of how ideas are shared.

Today, Catie lives along the peaceful lake shore in southwest Michigan, where her days revolve around faith, family, and a lifelong love for books. With her young children in school, she’s turning her energy toward expanding her collection of online lesson plans — offering thoughtful resources shaped by years of hands-on experience.

In a recent appearance on the Cedarville Stories podcast, Catie reflected on her time at Cedarville and how it equipped her to engage the world with confidence and conviction. Whether in overseas classrooms, urban neighborhoods, or as a mom, her passion for education and truth has remained steady.

Catie Holt’s journey is a quiet testament to the power of faith, creativity, and lifelong learning — written in cursive and lived with grace.

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Religious liberty isn’t just a topic for scholars or lawyers — it’s something that touches everyday life. It matters when a business owner faces pressure to go against their faith. It matters when a worker is told they have to choose between their job and their religious convictions. And that’s exactly why the work of Randall Wenger, Chief Counsel at the Independence Law Center in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, deserves attention.

On a recent episode of the Cedarville Stories podcast, Randy shared how his legal work — and his deep personal commitment to religious freedom — have shaped not only court decisions but the lives of ordinary Americans.

Take the Conestoga Wood Specialties Corp. v. Burwell case. A family-owned woodworking business in Pennsylvania faced steep fines for refusing to provide abortion-inducing drugs in their employee healthcare plan — something that went directly against their Christian beliefs. Randy helped take their case all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court. The ruling in their favor didn’t just protect one family — it affirmed that people of faith don’t have to set their convictions aside when they run a business.

Then there’s Groff v. DeJoy. Gerald Groff, a postal worker, had faithfully kept Sundays as a day of rest and worship. But the Postal Service kept scheduling him anyway — until he felt forced to resign. With Randy's help, that case also reached the Supreme Court. The Court sided with Groff, strengthening the right of all workers to seek religious accommodation on the job.

These victories are more than legal milestones — they’re reminders that religious liberty is not an abstract principle. It protects real people in real situations across the country.

On the podcast, Randy spoke not just as a lawyer but as a father — one who’s seen his own children grow in faith at Cedarville University. His message was clear: If we want to pass on a country where faith is free to flourish, we need to defend it now.

Because religious liberty isn't just a legal issue — it's a human one.

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From Cedarville to the Indianapolis Colts and now the University of Kansas Jayhawks, Kyler Conn’s journey is one stitched together by purpose, perseverance, and a deep-rooted faith.

A recent graduate of Cedarville University’s rigorous BA in sports medicine and Master of Athletic Training five-year program, Kyler's path has never been just about tape and treatment tables. It’s been about serving others through athletic training while staying grounded in his walk with Christ. He recently shared his story on the Cedarville Stories podcast, reflecting on the power of mentorship, faith, and family in his life.

Kyler’s hands-on experience began with high-level internships at Baylor University, where he worked with both the football and men’s basketball programs. From assisting in sideline emergencies to supporting long-term rehab for elite athletes, Kyler’s experiences gave him a close-up view of what it takes to perform under pressure at the highest level. Then came the NFL — an internship with the Indianapolis Colts where Kyler worked alongside seasoned professionals in one of the most competitive sports environments.

It was during his time in Indy that he connected with a strength coach who recognized Cedarville’s name and faith foundation. He eventually invited Kyler to College Park Church, which became a spiritual home during that season.

While sharpening his skills on the field, Kyler also invested in the classroom. His academic research centered on Emergency Action Plans (EAPs) — the critical blueprints sports medicine teams follow during catastrophic injuries or athlete collapse. He examined how preparedness, communication, and clearly defined roles can save lives in high-pressure moments. For Kyler, EAPs aren’t just paperwork — they’re lifelines, and he’s passionate about equipping teams to respond with precision when seconds matter most.

He’s also a strong advocate for mentorship, crediting much of his development to those who invested in him. “I wouldn’t be where I am without the guidance of those ahead of me,” he shared.

Now, Kyler is preparing to join the University of Kansas as the athletic trainer for men's basketball and baseball. With his faith as his compass and a heart for service, he’s ready to make an impact in Lawrence — one athlete, one rep, one moment at a time.

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As a Cedarville University graduate in athletic training, Melissa Harris '02 believed she had a clear calling — serve student-athletes and be a light for Christ through her profession. But God had an unexpected direction in mind, calling her instead into recreation ministry — a shift she hadn’t planned but embraced in faith.

That same willingness to trust God when life took an unforeseen turn would become crucial when tragedy struck years later. During what was supposed to be a peaceful family hike in Hocking Hills State Park, a horrific accident nearly claimed the life of her youngest daughter, Mia.

In an instant, the joy of the outdoors turned into a nightmare. As emergency crews raced to respond, Melissa and her family were left clinging to prayer, unsure if Mia would survive. Yet even in the chaos, Melissa describes a peace that defied logic. “There’s no explanation for it,” she shared on the Cedarville Stories podcast. “It was Jesus — He calmed my fears and reminded me of eternity.”

The months that followed were filled with recovery, reflection, and raw faith. Melissa realized that their story wasn’t just about surviving trauma — it was about surrendering control and trusting God in every unknown. The same God who redirected her career path years earlier had now walked her through the darkest valley of her life.

It was during this healing season that Melissa felt a quiet but clear prompting from God: Tell the story. Melissa wrote her book, Rewrite This Tragedy, not to spotlight tragedy, but to proclaim God’s presence during it. “Even if He hadn’t saved Mia,” said Melissa, “He was still with us. That’s what carried us.”

Her story reminds us that faith isn’t about having a perfect plan — it’s about trusting the One who does.

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It wasn’t over coffee or during a conference that the idea for Rooted in Truth was born — it grew slowly, quietly, over years of shared ministry. Drs. Jon Wood and Trent Rogers have been walking alongside college students for a long time, answering the same honest, heartfelt questions about faith, life, and purpose.

After hearing “What should I do with my life?” and “Can I really trust the Bible?” for what seemed like the hundredth time, they both realized that maybe it was time to write a book.

So, they did.

On the Cedarville Stories podcast, the two men — friends, colleagues, and fellow shepherds — talked about the journey of writing Rooted in Truth, which was released on July 8. With a dose of humor (and some playful teasing), they shared how the project took shape. Rogers joked that he only wanted to co-write with someone smarter, which led him straight to Wood. In turn, Wood credited Rogers for bringing structure and depth to the project.

But beneath the laughs was a serious and heartfelt purpose: helping young adults become spiritually grounded.

The book tackles 20 of the most common questions they hear from students about identity, relationships, vocation, and why truth still matters. Drawing on Psalm 1, they use the imagery of a tree planted by water to show what happens when a life is rooted deeply in God’s Word. Whether it’s used as a devotional, a small group guide, or a resource for a high school senior on the edge of adulthood, Rooted in Truth was written to steady the hearts of young believers in a world that often feels unsteady.

What sets this book apart? It’s clear, concise, and full of Gospel hope. It’s not lofty theology for scholars — it’s real answers for real students written by two men who first spent years listening.

“We want them to know they’re not just the future of the Church,” Dr. Wood said. “They are the Church.”

And with Rooted in Truth, Jon and Trent are handing them the tools — and the truth — to live like it.

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There’s something special about the bond between twins — but Ari and Julie Tompkins take it to a whole new level. This week, the small-town sisters from Mogadore, Ohio, began their 1000 Days™ at Cedarville University, walking into college hand-in-hand — just like they’ve done with most things in life.

Faith-filled and full of heart, Ari and Julie are joining the track and cross-country teams, ready to give it all they’ve got. But they’re not just here to run races. They’re here to grow, serve, and walk closer with Jesus every step of the way.

On a recent episode of the Cedarville Stories podcast, Julie described Ari as “quiet, aggressive, and humble,” while Ari grinned and said Julie was “talkative, energetic, and loud.” The sisters are two halves of a whole, different in their own ways but always cheering each other on.

Their journey hasn’t been easy. They’ve stood on podiums and wiped away tears after photo-finish losses and struggled with personal family issues. But through every high and low, they’ve clung to prayer and each other. “Our sport doesn’t define us,” Ari shared. “God still loves us whether we win or lose.”

Raised in a home where faith was lived out daily — especially after their father quit drinking and began reading the Bible with them — Ari and Julie learned early what it means to grow through grace. “It changed everything,” Julie said. “We finally understood what it meant to follow Jesus for ourselves.”

That’s why Cedarville stood out. It was a place where they could not only compete at a high level but grow in a community that shares their love for Christ. “We didn’t want to just bring others to faith — we wanted to be surrounded by people already walking it too,” they said.

Julie dreams of becoming a pro sports physical therapist. Ari’s heart is set on becoming a firefighter and EMT. Their paths may someday lead them in different directions, but for now, they’re running this race side by side — spiritually grounded, joyfully competitive, and ready for whatever the Lord has next.

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After nearly four decades in banking — culminating in a role leading over 7,000 employees across 1,000 Huntington Bank branches—Jon Greenwood knows a thing or two about leadership. He didn’t just climb the corporate ladder; he built the culture beneath it, rooted in trust, consistency, and hard work. A self-proclaimed “overachiever,” Jon thrived by showing up, outworking everyone around him, and staying grounded in who he was in Christ.

Now, he’s bringing that lifetime of experience back to where it all started — Cedarville University.

Jon’s path to Cedarville wasn’t exactly planned. As a high school senior in Springfield, Ohio, he was bound for Taylor University — just like many of his family members. But through a series of unexpected twists, including a last-minute golf tournament and his pastor father’s connection to Cedarville University, he became a Yellow Jacket.  That seemingly small pivot shaped everything that followed — from his marriage to his professional life — and taught him to trust God’s guidance, even when it didn’t make sense.

That trust became the foundation of Jon’s leadership style. Throughout his banking career, he focused on building cultures where people could thrive, trust mattered more than titles, and integrity trumped efficiency. Even to this day, he believes “culture eats strategy for lunch.”

Now, Jon is pouring that wisdom into CU Lead, Cedarville’s new leadership initiative. It’s more than a program — it’s a movement. CU Lead will help college students and business leaders discover how God wired them. It reaches across disciplines — welcoming pastors, pharmacists, engineers, and teachers alike — because every field needs leaders who are anchored in character.

CU Lead also opens doors to the marketplace through conferences, a speakers series, and practical partnerships with businesses. The goal? To produce graduates who are not only professionally competent but spiritually grounded — leaders who can be trusted with influence.

Jon Greenwood’s story is a testament to what God can do with a life fully surrendered. And now, he’s helping others write their own stories — starting with who they are in Christ. He recently shared more about this journey on the Cedarville Stories podcast, offering listeners a behind-the-scenes look at the faith and leadership that have defined his path.

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Rachel Burgoon didn’t just choose pharmacy — she chose a mission. As an infectious disease pharmacist, her work is ministry through medicine. Every treatment she recommends is driven by a deep desire to serve others and honor Christ.

Her journey began in Maryland but found clarity and calling at Cedarville University, where the integration of faith and science in Cedarville’s Doctor of Pharmacy program shaped her purpose.

“It wasn’t just about becoming a pharmacist,” Rachel explains. “It was about becoming someone who could serve the Lord by serving patients — especially the most vulnerable.”

Today, Rachel works in the high-stakes world of infectious diseases, tackling complex cases involving antibiotic stewardship and life-threatening infections. Her work demands both clinical precision and heartfelt compassion.

“This is critical work,” she says. “If we don’t use the right therapies in the right way, we risk resistance and harm. It’s a space where science must be excellent — and so must our care.”

Beyond her clinical responsibilities, Rachel invests deeply in mentoring students and residents — a passion born from her own experience.  She recalls Cedarville faculty pouring into her life as a student, and she desires to mirror that service with the people she interacts with each day.

Recently, Rachel shared her story on the Cedarville Stories podcast, offering listeners a glimpse into the heart behind her profession — a heart committed to glorifying God through healing and hope.

Through every patient she treats, every student she mentors, and every advancement she makes in infectious disease research, Rachel Burgoon is faithfully living out her calling to reflect Christ by caring for the sick with excellence and compassion.

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In a quiet town just outside Dayton, Ohio — where the history of aviation runs deep — Dr. Joe Miller’s journey took flight with a love for airplanes and a desire to serve God. As a high school student, deeply moved by the courage of missionary aviators and the powerful message of Elisabeth Elliot’s Through Gates of Splendor, Joe began to ask a bold, life-shaping question: How can I use engineering to glorify Christ and serve the world?

That question became his compass, and God used it to guide him to Cedarville University — first as a student, then, years later, as a professor.

After nearly two decades in aerospace — collaborating with the U.S. Air Force on advanced innovations and leading elite engineering teams — Joe had no plans to leave the field he loved. But when Cedarville called and God stirred his heart, he recognized a higher calling.

“I had no desire to leave,” he recalls. “But I was called to something bigger — training the next generation of Christ-centered engineers.”

For Dr. Miller, teaching is more than a profession — it’s a mission. He sees engineering not just as a discipline of problem-solving but as a calling to serve people, protect life, and steward creation. His classroom hums with purpose: a place where technical rigor meets Gospel clarity.

His vision is clear: to mentor engineers who are technically excellent, spiritually grounded, and passionately committed to using their gifts for God’s glory. Through collaborations with organizations like Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Dr. Miller helps students connect classroom theory to real-world innovation — always with Christ at the center.

“The Gospel,” Joe tells his students, “isn’t something we tack onto our careers — it’s the foundation. Everything flows from that.”

Dr. Miller isn’t just instructing engineers. On this week’s episode of the Cedarville Stories podcast, hear how he’s shaping disciples — leaders who will carry light into launchpads, boardrooms, and beyond.

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Dr. Craig and Carolyn Williford, Cedarville University’s 2025 Alumni of the Year, have walked a beautiful path of ministry — one paved with prayer, servant leadership, and steadfast faith. Their journey began in the 1970s at Cedarville, where their deep love for Christ and hearts to serve took root and began to flourish. 

Craig led with purpose and humility, serving as president of several Christian institutions — Denver Seminary, Trinity International University, Multnomah University, and Warner University. In each role, he brought wisdom, courage, and a deep dependence on God, shaping the next generation of leaders. By his side was Carolyn — ever encouraging, guiding, and caring for students and fellow leaders with remarkable grace. Through her authorship of multiple books and her powerful voice as a conference speaker, she enriched their shared ministry with her own godly wisdom. 

Their hearts have always been drawn to students.  

“We always prayed for the students,” Carolyn shared gently. “But we had no idea what many were going through — illness, loss, financial hardship.” Those heartfelt prayers grew into a lifelong ministry of compassion that has followed them from season to season. 

In recent years, their focus has turned toward nurturing weary pastors. Especially after the pandemic, as ministry leaders faced growing stress and burnout, Craig and Carolyn stepped in to offer safe, welcoming spaces for them to rest and heal.  

“There’s loneliness in ministry, even in large churches,” Craig noted. “We help leaders know they’re not alone.” 

Their marriage stands as a quiet testimony to God’s faithfulness — built on trust, mutual respect, and unshakable character.  

“Craig does the right thing, no matter the cost,” Carolyn reflected. “That gift of integrity has been a foundation in our home and ministry.” 

Throughout their marriage, they’ve endeavored to say yes to the Lord and serve Him faithfully. That simple act of obedience has defined every step of their journey. 

Recently, Craig and Carolyn shared their story on the Cedarville Stories podcast — a tender, inspiring reminder of how God’s faithfulness weaves through every chapter of life. Their love for Cedarville, for each other, and for the calling God placed on their lives continues to shine brightly. 

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When wildfires swept through Lahaina, Maui, in 2023, they left more than ashes behind — they left a community in mourning. Homes were destroyed, lives were uprooted, and hope felt fragile. However, during a recent spring break, hope arrived in the form of a team of students and faculty from Cedarville University led by Col. (Ret.) Greg Thompson and Dr. Patrick Oliver.

The idea began in a moment of connection. Greg, who had recently moved to Ohio from Hawaii, met Mark and Dawn Brown — Hawaiian parents of a Cedarville student — during Getting Started Weekend. What started as a conversation about community turned into something much bigger: an opportunity to serve.

“I reached out to the Made In Hope ministry the Browns mentioned and learned they had enough room for our group,” Greg shared. “We slept on cots — five-star location, one-star accommodations — but it was perfect.”

That setting became the base for a week of powerful ministry. The team didn’t just come to rebuild homes or pass out supplies — the needs had shifted. Instead, they got to rebuild hearts. Through prayer, presence, and listening, the students poured into a hurting community.

“It wasn’t just physical work,” Greg said. “It was about being there — about showing the love of Christ in a place that desperately needed comfort.”

What the team gave may seem simple, but it left a deep impact: game nights with families, worship with locals, and heartfelt conversations with those still grieving. It was a reminder that healing isn’t always measured in walls rebuilt but in souls encouraged.

And the work isn’t finished. As Mark Brown shared, “There will be many stages of recovery — prayer, rebuilding, financial support. But God has been faithful.”

Cedarville’s team was a living testimony to that faithfulness. Through simple acts of service, they brought the message that Lahaina is not forgotten — by them or by the God who walks with them.

Learn more about this labor of love on this week’s episode of the Cedarville Stories podcast.

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https://youtu.be/p_17V2TPdGg

When wildfires tore through Maui in August of 2023, they left behind a trail of devastation — homes lost, lives uprooted, and hearts heavy with grief. For Mark and Dawn Brown, longtime Maui residents and faithful servants in their local ministry, the fire hit close to home — literally and spiritually. But even in the darkest smoke, God’s light came shining through.

Mark and Dawn, who both have deep roots with Cedarville University, shared their experiences during the 2023 Maui fire on this week’s episode of the Cedarville Stories podcast.

The Browns are proud alumni, and their daughter Lila is a current student. Cedarville has always been more than just their alma mater — it’s part of their extended family. So when a team of 14 Cedarville students, along with professors Col. (Ret.) Greg Thompson and Dr. Patrick Oliver, landed in Maui to help, it wasn’t just a service trip — it was a homecoming of sorts.

The students came with no agenda but love, no plan but to serve.

“We’ll do whatever you need,” they told the Browns — and they meant it. They painted, cleaned, hauled, prayed, and, most of all, stood in the gap alongside hurting people.

Mark, who serves on a federal disaster medical team, has responded to tragedies all over — from New York City to Key West to Saipan. Years ago, his young daughter Lila once asked him why he did it. He told her, “Someday, we’re going to need help too — and I want people to come.”

That moment came. 
And people came — wearing Cedarville blue and gold.

For the Browns, it was a humbling reminder that the body of Christ truly works. God didn’t just send help — He sent family. And in the ashes of disaster, they saw grace rebuild what flames had taken.

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In the heart of rural Zimbabwe, where roads often wash away during the rainy season and clean water is scarce, a powerful partnership has formed — one that blends innovation with compassion. Faculty and students from Cedarville University’s School of Engineering and Computer Science have teamed up with Karanda Mission Hospital to tackle these serious infrastructure issues while creating opportunities for ministry.

The collaboration began when former missionary Ken Atkinson, now a Cedarville engineering lab technician, returned from Karanda with a heavy heart and a hopeful vision. The hospital faced severe water shortages and needed help.

Cedarville students rose to the occasion. They engineered a small-scale municipal water treatment plant, creating a system that could purify river water and save lives — especially in a region where wells had run dry.

But the mission didn’t stop with water. Seeing how local roads were often impassable, Cedarville students, including recent graduate Brian Reiff, designed and built a pull grader — a massive earthmover that attaches to Karanda’s tractor. What began as a senior design project quickly became a symbol of how technical skills can serve a greater purpose.

More than just technical accomplishments, these projects are shaping lives. Students who once saw themselves working in labs or offices are now exploring how their skills can be used in missions. Some are even preparing to return to Karanda long-term.

From clean water to better roads, from Ohio to Zimbabwe, this collaboration proves that engineering can be a ministry — solving physical problems while planting seeds of hope.

Listen to this story of hearts and minds united for a cause greater than themselves on this week’s Cedarville Stories podcast.

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John and Lou Ann Mohler’s story began on the campus of Cedarville University, where a Michigan girl met an Ohio boy in concert chorale. What started with a warm February day, a convertible ride to the Indian Mound, and a first date filled with talk of old girlfriends (John’s idea of charm, perhaps?) bloomed into a 46-year marriage built on shared faith, music, and ministry.

After college, the Mohlers began their careers as teachers — John directing bands and orchestras and Lou Ann teaching English and drama. But as their hearts leaned more toward church ministry, God led them to Patterson Park Church in Dayton, Ohio. In 1985, John stepped into a pastoral role, and what began as a small church of about 200 has flourished under their leadership.

For 40 years, John has faithfully directed worship, blending hymns with modern praise songs in a way that draws generations together. With a full choir and orchestra — a rarity these days — the Mohlers have crafted a worship experience that is both reverent and joyful.

Their legacy isn’t just in music or programs — it’s in the people. From small groups to mission trips to Albania, from raising their children in the church to mentoring younger pastors, John and Lou Ann have cultivated community all their lives. Even as retirement nears, John continues to teach future worship leaders, ensuring that what he’s helped build will endure.

In a fast-moving world, the Mohlers have been a steady presence — faithful, humble, and full of grace. And for those at Patterson Park, their legacy is more than music — it’s love lived out loud.

Learn more about this couple’s amazing journey on the Cedarville Stories podcast.

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Cedarville University junior Matt Black is living proof that storytelling — when fueled by faith and purpose — can open extraordinary doors. A broadcasting, digital media, and journalism major, Matt is the founder of Matt Black Media and a rising force in performance photography. But his latest endeavor has taken him from concert stages to biblical epic: he’s joined the Wonder Project team for House of David, a dramatic series created by Jon Erwin (Jesus Revolution) and now streaming on Amazon Prime Video.

Matt brings more than technical skill to the set — he brings heart. His journey started in 2018 at Word of Life camps in New York, where his camera and his calling first intersected.  That passion deepened during his time as a student media supervisor at Word of Life Institute, where he saw how visual storytelling could serve ministry.

Since enrolling at Cedarville, his impact has only grown. In 2023, a spontaneous “yes” to photograph Winter Jam in Tampa, Florida, became a defining moment. Since then, Matt has worked with artists like Crowder, Lecrae, Danny Gokey, and For King and Country. His content has reached thousands through social media and promotional campaigns — each image a message of hope.

Now, as part of House of David, Matt helps bring Scripture to life on screen, using his visual gifts to illuminate truth for a global audience. On the Cedarville Stories podcast, he urges young creatives to “embrace opportunities and say yes.” Clearly, he’s done exactly that.

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At Cedarville University, Cam Arminio is known for helping students get ready for life after graduation. As the Associate Director of Career Services, he coaches them through résumé prep, mock interviews, and LinkedIn tips — all with the heart of someone who truly wants to see others succeed.  

From Day One to Day 1,000, Cam is in their corner. 

But there’s another side to Cam’s story — one that plays out on the basketball court. Listen to his encouraging interaction with the game on this week’s Cedarville Stories podcast. 

Cam has loved basketball his whole life. Back in high school, it was his identity. But when he became a Christian at 17, everything changed. What once took center stage became a way to serve something bigger. And today, he’s using that same game to point others to Christ through the Cedarville Basketball Ministry. 

Each Sunday during the school year, dozens of students gather to play. Some come for the love of the game, others are fueled by the adrenaline rush of competition — but all of them find more than they expected. At halftime, Cam and his group of student leaders pause to share something lasting: the message of Jesus. 

It’s not flashy. It’s not forced. It’s just real people connecting through a shared love for basketball and encountering something deeper along the way. 

During the week, those connections continue through Bible studies, as student leaders follow up with guys they’ve met on the court. The goal is simple: to reach young men who may not be ready for church pews but will show up to play. And once they’re there, to open a door to faith and friendship. 

Looking ahead, Cam has big plans. More events off campus. New ways to connect. And even a Global Outreach trip to the Czech Republic in 2026 — carrying on the legacy of Coach Don Callan by using basketball to share the Gospel overseas. 

For Cam and the team, it all comes down to this: meaningful competition, Gospel-centered outreach, and life-giving community. Because sometimes, the court is where the real ministry begins. 

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https://youtu.be/CZbA05jExcQ

Dr. Kevin Jones knows that time is a gift — and he’s not about to waste a minute of it.

From his early years teaching Sunday school to now leading the School of Education and Social Work at Cedarville University, Dr. Jones has always seen education as a mission field. With conviction, he knows that “Man cannot live on bread alone, but on every word of the Scripture.” (Matthew 4:4)

That belief is the heartbeat behind everything he does.

Recently, Dr. Jones poured his heart into the Armor of God Bible, a children’s Bible published by Thomas Nelson. After reading hundreds of storybooks and listening closely to the insightful questions of his own children, Kevin penned over 500 notes and 50 devotions. Each one is designed to help young readers — and their families — see how God's truth weaves through every page of Scripture, from Genesis to Revelation.

“Kids have the best questions,” Kevin says with a chuckle, “and somebody’s got to answer them.” His prayer? That the students trained at Cedarville would go out and teach those answers in every town, every church, and every corner of the globe.

Dr. Jones isn’t just shaping educators; he’s cultivating eternal impact. One student, one classroom, and one child at a time.

You can hear more about Kevin’s story, his work on the Armor of God Bible, and how to make each day count for Christ on this week’s Cedarville Stories podcast. It’s a reminder to all of us: Time is short, but when we use it to glorify God, its impact lasts forever.

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Practice may not always make perfect, but at Cedarville University, it launches futures. The University’s mock trial team is preparing students for legal careers and inspiring them to model the love of Christ in the courtroom.

Colonel (Ret.) Greg Thompson, a 20-year veteran of the U.S. Air Force Judge Advocate General’s (JAG) Corps, brought his extensive legal background to Cedarville as a Professor of Criminal Justice. With experience in criminal prosecution, defense, and national security law — as well as time coaching mock trial at the U.S. Air Force Academy — he was well-equipped to launch the University’s mock trial program.

One of the first students on the team was Katie Baker, a passionate social work major who found her calling in the courtroom.

Katie, now heading to the University of Akron School of Law, first stepped into the world of legal advocacy through Cedarville’s new mock trial team. Inspired by her internship in children’s services, she witnessed firsthand the heartache — and hope — found in family law. Her drive to stand in the gap for hurting children and families only deepened through the team.

Mock trial at Cedarville is more than competition. It’s a training ground for future advocates built on biblical truth and a commitment to excellence. Students wrestle through 250-page case files, face unpredictable courtroom twists, and stand with poise, shaped by Col. Thompson’s guidance and reminders that every courtroom mirrors the deeper truth that Christ stands as our advocate.

Though the team didn’t claim a championship trophy this year, they competed with heart against top-tier programs — and earned respect for both their skill and the faith that underpins it.

In just two seasons, Cedarville’s mock trial team has built an extraordinary legacy where faith meets advocacy and students like Katie step boldly into the future.

Hear Katie and Col. Thompson share the team’s formative and funny stories on this week's episode of the Cedarville Stories podcast.

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David Molina walks the campus of Cedarville University with a sense of wonder and gratitude. As a freshman majoring in nursing, his path here wasn’t just unlikely — it was miraculous. Born and raised in Cuba, one of the world’s last remaining Communist nations, David never imagined he’d one day study in a place where professors speak freely about Jesus Christ.

But that’s exactly where God led him.

David and his brother, Pablo, now hold the unique distinction of being the first Cuban-born students at Cedarville. Their arrival in Ohio is a testimony to God's providence and the remarkable journey of a family who followed Him at every turn — no matter the cost.

Hear more about this family’s amazing journey on the Cedarville Stories podcast.

David’s parents first encountered the Gospel through a missionary who was never supposed to be in Cuba. That encounter sparked a spiritual revolution in their hearts — one that would lead both to years of threats and government pressure but also to bold church planting and missionary work in Cuba, then Ecuador, and ultimately in the United States.

After years of faith-filled perseverance, a surprise visa opportunity opened a door they never expected. The same missionary who first shared the Gospel with David’s parents — now planting Hispanic churches in Ohio — sponsored their move to the U.S.

It’s a story only God could have written.

At Cedarville, David is thriving in a Christ-centered environment that has ignited his love for learning like never before. More than academics, he treasures the freedom to speak openly about his faith and to worship without fear. He knows the cost of that freedom all too well.

With a heart stirred by gratitude and a passion for service, David is preparing for a life in medical missions, possibly returning to Cuba one day to care for the physical and spiritual needs of his people. In the meantime, he’s active in Columbus, helping his family reach the local Hispanic community for Christ. He’s also rallying other Spanish-speaking Cedarville students to join in that mission.

David Molina’s story is not just one of escape — it's one of calling. From Communist Cuba to the classrooms of Cedarville, he is walking proof that when God leads, even the most unlikely journey becomes a road to purpose and freedom.

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If you wander down the halls of Cedarville University’s communication building, you might hear echoes of passionate conversations, bursts of laughter, or a well-timed, dramatic pause. It’s not a theatre troupe or a sermon prep class — it’s the beating heart of Cedarville’s forensics team. No, not fingerprints and crime scenes. This kind of forensics is competitive speech and debate: a battlefield of ideas, storytelling, and the art of persuasion.

At the helm is Eric Mishne — part coach, part professor, and all in when it comes to investing in students. With years of experience and a deep passion for communication, Mishne believes forensics is more than a competition. It’s about great communicators telling truth — it’s about critical thinkers, creative spirits, and storytellers who can weave narratives as enrapturing as a front-porch tale on a summer night.

Follow the story of Cedarville’s winning team on this week’s episode of the Cedarville Stories podcast.

This year, Cedarville’s team didn’t just show up — they soared, bringing home both state and national titles. Their victories weren’t only measured in trophies but in something far deeper.

Among the standouts were two freshman twins from Colorado Springs — Cara and Zane Enos. They've been sharpening their minds and practicing their skills together for nearly a decade. Yes, they’ve had their sibling squabbles, but they’ve also learned something essential: to love one another and to love God above all else. That, says Coach Mishne, is the real secret to their success.

Cara and Zane were drawn to the University by the warmth of Cedarville’s spiritual life and its daily chapel. They found a home where faith and intellect walk hand in hand and a family of believers who live out their calling on every stage, every tournament, and through every word spoken.

The team brought more than eloquence to the platform. Their speeches, while sharp and smart, carried something unique — hope. They honored God, not glamor. They offered truth, not trends. And people noticed. One young man, intrigued by the grace in their words and the difference in their demeanor, found the greatest victory of all through the team’s winsome witness: salvation.

So yes, Cedarville's forensics team tells stories — but this year, they became one. A story of excellence. Of unity. Of twin talents and team triumphs. And most of all, a story where every round pointed not to themselves, but to the Author of all things.

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Dr. Bob Lutz’s journey starts in the quiet stretch between Noblesville and Anderson, Indiana. He grew up in a pastor’s home, where faith was woven into everyday life — where church softball games and pickup basketball shared space with Scripture and community. It was there, in the ordinary rhythms of life, that Bob first encountered the extraordinary grace of God.

When it came time to choose a college, Cedarville University rose to the top. Not just for its academics but for something deeper: a place where biblical truth and real community came together in a meaningful way. That draw — of faith, purpose, and belonging — was strong. And it set Bob on a path that’s now come full circle.

Today, Bob has stepped into a new role as Vice President for Strategic Initiatives at Cedarville. For him, it’s more than a title — it’s an opportunity to help guide a university he deeply believes in. One of his key focuses is expanding online programs, and although some might wonder if going digital risks losing the heart of what makes Cedarville special, Bob doesn’t see it that way.

He’s talked to students, listened closely, and what he’s heard has only strengthened his resolve. They know the value of being on campus, but they also see how an online experience — when done well — can still carry the same Cedarville DNA: academic excellence, biblical grounding, and intentional community.

What gives him the greatest hope? It’s the same thing that drew him to Cedarville in the first place — the belief that God works powerfully through simple, faithful things: the teaching of His Word and the relationships formed around it.

With that in mind, Dr. Bob Lutz has stepped into his new role full of vision, grounded in tradition, and confident that God will continue doing extraordinary things through Cedarville’s ordinary, faithful work.

Hear directly from Bob’s heart on this week’s episode of the Cedarville Stories podcast.

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As nearly two million students prepare to turn their tassels and step into the unknown, there are a few whose paths seem guided not just by their own hard work, but by something deeper — faith, community, and calling. Two such students are David Reid and Emily Wollschlager, proud members of the Cedarville University class of 2025.

David Reid from Columbus, Ohio, always had a knack for problem-solving and a passion for service. It was no surprise to anyone who knew him when he declared his major in cyber operations. Nor was it a surprise when, before the ink had even dried on his diploma, he had already accepted a prestigious offer from the United States Department of Defense.

Not far behind him, Emily Wollschlager from Fredericksburg, Virginia, charted her own trailblazing path. A computer science major with a keen eye for detail and a warm spirit, she’s headed to Microsoft as a technology consultant, blending her love for coding with a heart for connecting people and purpose.

But if you ask either of them what really prepared them for these roles, you won’t hear buzzwords or corporate speak. You'll hear about Cedarville University.

Their 1000 Days at Cedarville were filled with more than just lectures and late-night study sessions. They found mentors in their professors, lifelong friends in the residence halls, and an unshakable foundation in their faith. Small class sizes allowed them to be known, and the Christ-centered curriculum reminded them daily that their future was in God’s hands.

Though both are headed to the bustling metro areas around Washington, D.C., they carry with them the simple truths they learned in the quiet corners of campus: hard work honors God, integrity matters, and no dream is too big when it’s built on the right foundation.

So, while many graduates are still asking “what’s next?”, David and Emily are already answering that question — with courage, character, and a whole lot of Cedarville heart.

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Bryn, Reyna, and Erin Golson have always known that “home” isn’t just a spot on a map — it’s where your family is and where your roots grow deep even when planted in foreign soil. The three sisters grew up hand-in-hand in the small town of Knysna on the southern coast of South Africa. As missionary kids, they learned early that family is more than just important — it’s everything.

Hear their story of finding home through family and faith on this week’s episode of the Cedarville Stories podcast.

The sisters’ parents moved to South Africa from Florida to launch a Christian radio station, only to have the door close before it could even open. But in true Golson fashion, they didn’t quit — they found new ways to serve. Through church planting, teaching, and simple, Christlike friendship, the Golsons poured out love in a land far from their American beginnings. The girls soaked up the warmth of the South African culture, learning to slow down, listen, and love their neighbors well.

Years later, returning to the United States was jarring. Grocery stores felt like massive shopping malls, and everything moved too fast. But when everything else felt unfamiliar, the sisters had each other, and they had Cedarville University. With family friends on the faculty and a strong community of fellow missionary and third culture kids, Cedarville felt like a soft landing place. Its unwavering commitment to God and His Word made it a natural choice for the Golsons.

Though they miss the ocean air of Knysna, their parents, and the life they once knew, the sisters have found peace. In the laughter of shared stories, leaning on each other through the hard days, and growing deeper in their faith, they’ve found something beautiful: a new kind of home.

And for the sisters, Cedarville isn’t just a stop along the way — it’s part of their story. It’s home.

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Susan Troth never imagined that the trials of life would lead her to a podium at the United Nations. Yet, in March 2025, she found herself standing before the 69th session of the Commission on the Status of Women, sharing her journey of faith, healing, and hope with women from all over the world.

Susan shares her story of struggle, resilience, and surrender on this week’s episode of the Cedarville Stories podcast.

From facing infertility and childlessness to becoming a widow at 54, Susan has known deep sorrow. Financial hardships, ministry stress, and even a near-death experience have tested her in ways that seemed unbearable. Yet through every trial, she has found herself drawn closer to God. "So blessed by God, I feel spoiled," she often says, not out of pride, but with a heart full of gratitude for the blessings that came amid her struggles.

As an associate professor of worship at Cedarville University, Susan had spent years teaching others to worship God. But it wasn’t until she walked through her own dark moments that she truly understood what it meant to surrender to God's will. Her bestselling book, “Stressed to Splessed,” shares her faith-based journey to find healing and new horizons.

Susan's commitment to service — spanning over 4,000 volunteer hours in grief counseling, music teaching, missions, and disaster relief — earned her a Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award. But her greatest passion is mentoring women, showing them that even in their toughest times, God can be trusted.

Her message is simple but powerful: Through surrender to God’s will, healing and hope are possible. Tune in and be inspired by Susan’s journey of faith and resilience.

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Payton Arbuthnot’s story began in Springfield, Colorado, where she found herself captivated by the news often as a curious young girl. It wasn’t just the stories — it was the fact that through the news, she could know what was happening all over the world. She’d sit by the radio, her small fingers tracing the words in her schoolbooks as the voices from the news anchors painted a bigger picture of life beyond her small town.

What really grabbed her attention, though, was the presence of strong women in politics. Former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, the Iron Lady herself, became a particular hero. Payton admired how Thatcher stood her ground in a man’s world. “If Margaret can do it,” she thought, “I can do it too.”

That’s when Payton knew she was going to lead with integrity in a world where prominent female voices were still few and far between.

In high school, Payton’s interest grew into a passion, and by the time she was looking at colleges, Cedarville University in Ohio called her name. The school’s commitment to faith and its strong political science program, with an opportunity for a semester in Washington D.C., seemed like the perfect fit. She packed her bags, said goodbye to her family, and made the long trek eastward, her heart set on the path ahead.

At Cedarville, Payton thrived. She connected with people and grew closer to God. By the fall of 2023, Payton found herself in D.C., interning at the U.S. Department of State. The work wasn’t glamorous, but she took every opportunity to learn, serving with a heart of excellence.

Now, with graduation approaching quickly, Payton’s eyes are set on the Rangel Fellowship Program, which could open doors to a life of service in embassies and consulates around the world. But she knows this is just one step in the journey. Payton is confident that God is guiding her, and she’s ready for whatever comes next.

Hear more of Payton’s journey of growth and faith on this week’s episode of the Cedarville Stories podcast.

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Imagine being the youngest face in the room as you try to find your footing among seasoned legislators. That is the struggle Ty Mathews, one of the youngest legislators at the Ohio Statehouse, has had to face as he follows his faith in Jesus and forges a clear path for his constituents in the 83rd District.

In this episode of the Cedarville Stories podcast, freshman representative Ty Mathews shares his journey to the Ohio Statehouse, where he’s still getting his feet wet in his third month on the job.

Ty’s story begins at Cedarville University, where he balanced ROTC training with political and biblical studies, learning to lead with both discipline and faith. At Cedarville, Ty was introduced to a worldview that combined leadership with purpose, an experience that still shapes how he approaches his work today. He credits his time there for grounding him in Christian values that continue to guide his decisions in the Statehouse.

Now, as one of the youngest members of the Ohio legislature, Ty is already working hard to make a difference. In the podcast, he shares his main priority — the Ohio Defense Initiative — which aims to bring high-tech defense companies to Ohio, tapping into the state’s strategic military assets like Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. His plan is to create high-paying jobs and foster innovation in areas like cybersecurity and drone technology.

Through it all, Ty remains grounded in his faith, finding strength in the values he developed at Cedarville. His story is a testament to the power of youthful ambition, faith, and determination. Even though he’s early in his political career, Ty is already showing that age doesn’t determine impact — purpose does.

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Patrol Agent in Charge Jodi (Quint) Williams and Deputy Patrol Agent in Charge Jerami C.'s roles with the United States Border Patrol are more than a job; they’re a calling. Each day presents a fresh set of challenges, unexpected situations, and moments that test their resolve, but through it all, one unwavering constant remains: their commitment to protecting the border while holding fast to their faith and integrity.

Jerami reflects on his early days as a new agent thrust into the high-pressure world of border security. “I was just chasing groups, processing people, and letting them go,” he recalls. But as time passed, he began to see the bigger picture. He noticed patterns. He saw loopholes being exploited, shifting policies, and an increasingly complex environment where law enforcement and human lives collided. This job wasn’t just about upholding the law; it was about navigating an ever-changing landscape with national security at stake and real people caught in the middle.

But as the job evolved, so too did the perception of those who serve on the front lines. Not long ago, border agents often faced indifference or even hostility from the public. Today, though, Jerami is seeing something different. “People step up now. They tell us, ‘We’re praying for you.’ That didn’t happen as much before.” In a profession where the isolation can sometimes feel overwhelming, those words mean everything. They remind agents that they are seen, their sacrifices are acknowledged, and that faith still plays a crucial role in their mission.

Navigating the politics surrounding border security is a delicate balancing act. While the issue is politically charged, both Jerami and Jodi keep their eyes firmly on their mission, setting aside the debate to focus on the work that truly matters. “When I’m in uniform, I have to stay professional,” Jerami says. “It’s not about politics — it’s about doing our job.”

But their story isn’t just about policy or procedure; it’s about resilience, faith, and an unshakable sense of duty. Whether processing individuals, engaging with local communities, or simply enjoying a quiet dinner with family, the weight of their responsibility is never far from their minds. Yet, amidst the challenges, they carry hope. They believe what they do truly matters and that they are exactly where they are meant to be.

For a deeper look into the lives of these two Cedarville graduates and those who serve on the front lines of border security, tune in to this powerful episode of the Cedarville Stories podcast.

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Jodi (Quint) Williams and Jerami C. walked the same halls at Cedarville University in the 1990s, but their paths never crossed — not until years later, in one of the most unexpected places. These two Cedarville alums met not in Ohio, but in Washington, D.C., as two U.S. Border Patrol agents serving on opposite ends of the country.

They first met in 2017 during a briefing for a major Border Patrol operation during Police Week. When Jodi introduced herself as a Cedarville alum, Jerami was stunned — what were the chances? He had never met another Cedarville graduate in the Border Patrol, let alone one who had risen through the ranks as quickly as Jodi. After the meeting, he made his way over to introduce himself, and their shared Cedarville roots instantly connected them.

Though their careers led them in different directions, their mission remains the same. Jodi serves as the Patrol Agent in Charge in Houlton, Maine, overseeing security operations along the northern border’s vast, rugged terrain. Meanwhile, Jerami works on the frontlines in Southern California, tackling the challenges of illegal crossings, human trafficking, and cartel activity. From the snow-covered landscapes of the north to the sweltering deserts of the south, both Jodi and Jerami serve with dedication and perseverance to protect communities and uphold the law.

Their story is a reminder of how Cedarville alumni are making an impact in extraordinary ways. Though separated by miles, Jodi and Jerami share a common bond — a passion for service, a commitment to integrity, and the foundation of faith instilled in them at Cedarville.

Tune in to this week’s Cedarville Stories podcast to hear their incredible journey of courage, leadership, and the unbreakable connection they discovered along the way.

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Connie Jenkins wears many hats — devoted follower of Christ, champion of women’s ministry, wife, mother, philanthropist, deer hunter, and trustee at Cedarville University. But above all, she is a woman on a mission to make a lasting impact for God’s Kingdom.

Connie’s unwavering dedication to Christian education and her well-earned title as Cedarville’s 2024 Honorary Alumna of the Year is celebrated on this episode of the Cedarville Stories podcast.

Though Connie officially joined the University’s Board of Trustees in 2021, her love for Cedarville started long before.

Her connection to the University began 20 years ago when she first met Joy White, Cedarville’s first lady, at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. That meeting left an impression, and years later, Joy and her husband, Cedarville President Dr. Thomas White, knew Connie would be the perfect addition to the board — someone whose passion for discipleship aligned with the heart of the University.

But Connie’s impact extends far beyond Cedarville. She and her husband, Bill, found success in the financial markets of Louisville, Kentucky — a blessing they never took for granted. Instead of holding onto their wealth, they embraced a calling to give it away for God’s glory. Their generosity has helped build churches, equip Christian leaders, and expand ministries that spread the Gospel.

Their giving journey began after 9/11, when Connie felt a deep conviction to do more for Christ. That calling led them to support their local church’s expansion, and from there, they sought out even greater Kingdom-building opportunities.

The Jenkins’ legacy now includes the Jenkins Center for the Christian Understanding of Islam at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, the Spurgeon Center and Library at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, and the Scharnberg Business and Communication Center at Cedarville.

Through their generosity, they have helped equip students, train pastors, and strengthen Christian education, all with the goal of shining the light of Christ to the nations.

Join us on this inspiring episode as Connie shares her heart for giving, her love for Cedarville, and the deep joy that comes from faithful obedience to God’s call.

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Words have power — power to inform, inspire, and glorify God. For three Cedarville University students and alumni, the journey into journalism and public relations has been about more than just telling stories. It’s about writing with excellence, integrity, and purpose for God’s glory.

Sarah Mummert and Ben Konuch, two seniors preparing to graduate, and Kathryn Sill, a 2016 graduate who now serves as the communication manager for neurosurgery at Stanford University School of Medicine, began their journey as writers in the Cedarville’s public relations office. Their experiences highlight how storytelling is not just a skill but a calling.

Ben grew up in the Philippines before settling in Cleveland, Ohio. While he always loved creative writing, he didn’t expect to find his true passion in journalism — communicating real stories that impact lives.

Sarah’s curiosity once led her to dream of space exploration, but stepping into Cedarville’s public relations office brought a different kind of challenge. Could she learn to communicate complex stories with clarity and emotion?

Kathryn remembers similar uncertainties. But through internships and her time in the public relations department, she saw God shaping her into the professional communicator she was meant to be.

Each of these students came to understand that great writing isn’t just about stringing words together — it’s about capturing truth, crafting compelling narratives, and honoring God through excellence. Whether reporting news, sharing research, or telling personal stories, the goal remains the same: to reflect Christ through the written word.

For Kathryn, that means using her platform at Stanford to share groundbreaking medical stories with accuracy and compassion. For Ben and Sarah, it means being diligent, persistent, and always seeking the deeper story behind the headlines.

On this episode of the Cedarville Stories podcast, hear how Kathryn, Ben, and Sarah have been prepared spiritually, emotionally, and intellectually through their professional training at Cedarville. Each of them is grateful for the on-campus jobs and internships that equip students with real-world experience, allowing them to enter the field with confidence and a sense of purpose.

From hesitant beginnings to skilled communicators, Sarah, Ben, and Kathryn’s stories remind us that writing isn’t just a career — it’s a calling. And when done with excellence, it can be a powerful tool for God’s glory.

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Chloe Hunt, a 2023 graduate of Cedarville University, has transformed her passion for storytelling into a thriving career in Christian broadcasting. With a degree in broadcasting, digital media, and journalism, she now serves as an assistant producer for Focus on the Family in Colorado Springs, Colorado, where she identifies and interviews guests for their flagship program, Focus on the Family With Jim Daly.

Her love for radio took root at Resound Radio, Cedarville’s student-run station, where she gained valuable experience in leadership, communication, and conflict resolution. A key influence in Chloe’s journey — like so many other broadcasting students at Cedarville —was Professor Jim Leightenheimer, who provided mentorship that helped shape both her professional path and spiritual growth.

Before landing her current role, Chloe sharpened her skills at The River in Columbus, one of the top Christian radio stations in the country. There, she worked on content creation, promotions, social media engagement, and artist relations. Each experience prepared her for the opportunities she has today, collaborating with influential Christian leaders in media.

Though Chloe’s career has taken unexpected turns, she has learned to trust God’s direction. Every step — from college radio to a national media organization — has reinforced her belief that God’s plan always leads to the right place.

Tune in to this episode of the Cedarville Stories podcast to hear more about Chloe’s journey of faith, mentorship, and getting started in the world of Christian broadcasting.

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Imagine being in your 40s, healthy, full of energy, and leading the most significant fundraising campaign of your career. Then, out of nowhere, you receive devastating news: You have cancer. And not just any cancer, but an aggressive form with a prognosis that gives you only six months to live.

This was the reality for Dr. Will Smallwood, Vice President for Advancement at Cedarville University. In November 2023, amid his leadership of Cedarville’s historic $175 million 1000 Days Transformed Campaign, Will’s life took an unexpected and life-altering turn. What began as persistent back pain quickly revealed something far more serious — multiple myeloma, a rare and often fatal blood cancer. Doctors told him that nearly 70% of the blood cells in his body were cancerous, and without immediate treatment, time was not on his side.

But in the face of overwhelming uncertainty, Will chose faith over fear.

With the unwavering support of his wife, Caroline, his parents, close friends, and the Cedarville University community, Will embarked on a grueling journey of treatment. Under the care of doctors at Soin Medical Center in Beavercreek, Ohio, he underwent intensive chemotherapy, battling both the disease and the unknowns ahead. His goal was clear: reduce the cancer enough to qualify for a bone marrow transplant at The James Cancer Hospital in Columbus — his best chance for remission.

And then, the moment came.

After months of treatment, prayers, and trust in God’s plan, Will and Caroline sat anxiously in the doctor’s office, waiting for the news that would define their future. When they heard the words “you’re in remission,” the weight of fear and uncertainty lifted. Tears of joy and gratitude filled their eyes — it was an answer to countless prayers.

Today, Will is back to doing what he loves: leading his team at Cedarville, investing in the University’s future, and continuing to inspire those around him. While his battle with cancer isn’t over, remission has given him a renewed perspective on life, faith, and purpose. He no longer takes a single day for granted and views every opportunity as a gift from God.

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In this episode of the Cedarville Stories podcast, Dr. Thomas White, President of Cedarville University, sits down with Dan Jacobsen, grandson of the late Warren Wiersbe — one of the most influential Bible teachers of the 20th century. Known as “the pastor’s pastor,” Wiersbe’s ministry at Chicago’s Moody Church and with the “Back to the Bible” radio program impacted countless lives.

Dr. White shares how he first encountered Wiersbe’s BE Series as a seminary student and later had the privilege of meeting him personally. Their first meeting took place in Wiersbe’s basement, where a discussion about donating his library to Cedarville quickly turned into a heartfelt conversation about ministry, preaching, and Jesus. Wiersbe’s love for college students was evident in his desire to see his books equip the next generation of biblical leaders.

Cedarville University is now home to Wiersbe’s legendary library — a collection that could have gone to any number of institutions. However, Wiersbe was drawn to Cedarville’s and White’s unwavering commitment to conservative evangelical truth. He saw Cedarville as a place where students wouldn’t just learn theology but would leave loving God’s Word more than when they arrived.

Dr. White reflects on Cedarville’s role as a “greenhouse” for spiritual growth, where students are mentored, challenged in their faith, and shaped by daily chapel and an in-depth Bible minor. He also shares his personal passion for preaching and teaching students to interact deeply with the Word of God.

Tune in to hear more about the kindred spirits of Warren Wiersbe, Cedarville University, and Dr. White and be inspired to pray for a new generation of students who love Jesus and are ready to change the world for His glory!

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Diana Ivanikhina is an international student, a tennis superstar, and a young woman whose journey from adversity to hope is a testament to God’s faithfulness.

After her father abandoned the family and her mother faced financial difficulties before suddenly passing away, Diana and her brother were placed in a Christian children’s home in Tajikistan. There, Diana encountered the love of Jesus and began placing her trust in Him. While adjusting to her new reality, she poured herself into academics, Bible studies, and a newfound passion for tennis.

Without access to a professional coach, Diana turned to YouTube for guidance. What started as a self-taught summer hobby soon became an intense, six-hour daily training regimen. Her dedication led her to compete for the Tajikistan Tennis Federation, play internationally, and even coach other children.

Diana’s story took another extraordinary turn when she met American businessman and fellow believer David McKee. Touched by her perseverance and passion for both tennis and spreading the Gospel, McKee helped Diana pursue her dream of studying in the United States. Despite numerous hurdles, his sacrificial support enabled her to receive a tennis scholarship from Bowling Green State University in Ohio. However, God’s plan for Diana’s journey was not complete.

Through connections made at First Baptist Church in Bowling Green after a snowy four-mile walk on her first Sunday in the U.S., Diana found her way to Cedarville University, where her love for tennis, her love for worship, and her desire to become a career missionary have perfectly aligned.

This is a powerful story of faith, perseverance, and the ways God blesses those who trust in Him, even in the face of overwhelming challenges.

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Nick Boucher’s six years as resident director of Lawlor Hall at Cedarville University left a legacy that echoes through campus even today. Known for his intentional leadership, Nick fostered a culture of discipleship, fun, and spiritual growth, inspiring the rallying cry, “Lawlor for Life.”

A North Carolina native, Nick holds two master’s degrees from Cedarville — a Master of Ministry and a Master of Divinity. Today, he serves as the youth pastor at Patterson Park Church in Beavercreek, Ohio, where he works alongside his father on the same pastoral team. His love for worship, Scripture, and discipleship is evident in his passion for seeing students grow in their faith and rejoice in the Lord.

In this episode of the Cedarville Stories podcast, Nick reflects on his role as a husband to his wife, Emily, and father to their two young sons, Xavier and Theodore. He also shares the fun and creative story of how he proposed to Emily with the help of friends — and a little assistance from Southwest Airlines!

Nick’s journey of pivoting from the pursuit of a career in public relations and journalism to embracing a calling in ministry is a testament to God’s direction and grace. While studying at Cedarville, Nick was deeply influenced by mentors like Dr. Trent Rogers and Dr. Chris Miller, who equipped him for a life of leading and discipling others.

Tune in to hear Nick discuss his journey, his love for people, and his unwavering faith in God’s mercies, which are new every morning.

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Emily Shanahan was born with cerebral palsy, a group of disorders that affects a person’s ability to move, maintain balance, and control posture. This diagnosis was difficult for Emily and her family, but after recognizing God’s goodness, even in this challenge, they began to fill their days with joy and purpose.

In this episode of the Cedarville Stories podcast, dive into the inspiring story of Emily and her mother Barb, who went from a life of anger and isolation to one filled with joy, purpose, and advocacy. Their journey showcases dependence on God, the power of resilience, the beauty of community, and the ability to overcome life’s toughest challenges.

Emily, with the support of her Dream Team and a group of college friends called REID (Rescuing EmShan in Distress), graduated from Cedarville University as a President’s Award recipient and went on to complete her master’s degree. Today, the mother-daughter duo runs a non-profit, Empowering the Differently Enabled, to help others navigate similar challenges.

Emily also channels her creativity into writing a children’s book, blogging daily, and recording a daily vlog to inspire others.

If you’re looking for hope, encouragement, and practical advice for overcoming challenges, this episode will leave you inspired and ready to face the world with renewed purpose.

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In this inspiring episode of the Cedarville Stories podcast, we sit down with Paul Hembekides, known as "Hembo" to ESPN viewers. He is the premier researcher and analyst for ESPN, and his roots are deeply entrenched at Cedarville University. Known for his wit and expertise on sports television, Hembo reflects on his collegiate baseball career, spiritual journey, and professional success.

Hembo shares about his time as a college athlete playing for the best baseball teams in Cedarville's history. Starting 170 games, he set a university record with 128 career walks. His time on the field taught him lessons in perseverance, discipline, and teamwork.

At ESPN, Hembo is a key figure on and off the screen, providing in-depth research and analytics for popular shows like Get Up. Known for his sharp insights and encyclopedic sports knowledge, he helps shape discussions on the biggest stories in sports. His role requires meticulous preparation and a deep understanding of game trends, making him a trusted resource for hosts and analysts alike.

Hembo opens up about his journey from being career-obsessed in his early 20s to reprioritizing his life through faith and family. As a father of three daughters, he highlights the transformative power of fatherhood and how it has deepened his perspective on life and faith.

Tune in to this episode for insights on living intentionally, maintaining perspective, and embracing the Lord’s blessings. Hembo’s story will inspire listeners to prioritize what truly matters and trust God’s plan for their lives.

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Grace Norman stands as one of Cedarville University's most decorated athletes, celebrated not only for her achievements but also for her unwavering faith and resilience. A 2020 nursing graduate, Norman is a four-time Paralympic medalist and five-time World Triathlon Para Champion. She earned her second Paralympic gold medal at the 2024 Paris Games.

Her journey in 2024 was marked by injuries and rehabilitation. For her, this was a season of growth, gratitude, and deeper trust in God’s sovereignty. This challenging period reminded her that God’s timing is perfect, helping her transform the demands of her sport into an opportunity to glorify Him.

Hear more about the challenging year that led her to personal growth and professional victory on this week’s episode of the Cedarville Stories podcast.

Norman is a passionate advocate for parasports, emphasizing the value of perseverance. Balancing intense physical demands, she recognizes the importance of nutrition, rest, and mental fortitude strengthened by faith, stating, “Your mind can easily tear you down. I have to trust God.”

She views competition as a joyful chance to test her limits and glorify God with a heart centered on His goodness and faithfulness. More than an athlete, she sees life as a gift from God, surpassing disability or achievements. Her goal? Living authentically for Christ while growing as a competitor, being a friend, and sharing His love.

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Dannah Gresh has learned over the years, both from her personal life and her work with Pure Freedom Ministries, which she co-founded with husband, Bob, that the ways of God will amaze you, heal you, and make you new.

Tune in to this special New Year’s Day episode of the Cedarville Stories podcast and be encouraged by Dannah’s story of redemption.

God has blessed Dannah in many, many ways throughout her life.

Her mom came to faith while Dannah’s baby brother was critically ill in the hospital, transforming her family overnight. Her baby brother survived and now serves with Pure Freedom.

God’s goodness continued to shine as He led both Dannah and Bob to Cedarville University, where they met and began their journey together. God gave them a beautiful family and then enlarged it through the adoption of a wonderful teenage daughter from China when their biological children were also teens.

And the Lord helped Pure Freedom make a timely pivot from an all in-person, event-based ministry to digital and virtual programming just before the COVID-19 pandemic hit
.

The goodness of the Lord has been abundantly clear.

But more than that, Jesus met Dannah in a very personal way to heal her from sexual pain in her teenage years and prepare her to be a voice for truth in an age when truth, as she says in the podcast, is being crucified.

“I haven’t lived a perfect life; I haven’t lived a sinless life. There’s an unworthiness that we carry with us, I think, until the day that we are with Jesus, when we look into His eyes face to face,” she shares during the podcast.

Hear more about how Christ made Dannah new and prepared her to share His truth of forgiveness, joy, and hope with young people on the Cedarville Stories podcast.

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Christmas and Cedarville alumna Donna VanLiere are virtually synonymous.
 

As a New York Times and USA Today bestseller, many of Donna's novels are set during the Christmas season. Six of her books have made the transition to television, including The Christmas Shoes and The Christmas Blessing. 

The ideas for Donna’s books are often deeply personal. She finds inspiration in life’s small moments, even in something as simple as an overheard comment from a passing stranger. Regardless of the source, Donna strives to tell stories that are filled with hope and healing. 
 

This time of year, is special for Donna and her husband, Troy, and their three children: Grace, Kate, and David. Christmas will always hold a special place in Donna’s life. 

As much as Donna loves Christmas and enjoys sharing the joy of Jesus’ first advent, she also seeks to remind her readers that there is more to the story. In her three latest books, The Time of Jacob’s Struggle, The Day of Ezekiel’s Hope, and Daniel’s Final Week, she examines the Bible’s teaching on Christ’s second coming. 

Tune in to this special Christmas Day edition of the Cedarville Stories podcast and celebrate Jesus with Donna VanLiere. 

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The Christmas season is a time for giving and Dr. Gary Hoag inspires generosity even more than the big guy in a red suit! 

Gary is known as “The Generosity Monk,” and while he may not wear a monk’s robe or embrace a vow of silence, he finds deep fulfillment in spending solitary time with the Lord and is dedicated to empowering ministries worldwide through Christian generosity.   

Catch Gary’s infectious generosity on this special rebroadcast of his Cedarville Story. 

Gary is a baseball-loving Ohio farm boy and graduate of Cedarville University. His goal as a young man was to be successful in business and have season tickets for the Cleveland Indians (now known as the Cleveland Guardians), just like his grandfather. God had different plans.  

Gary was called into ministry, first in Christian higher education at Biola University, Colorado Christian University, and Denver Seminary, where he learned the value of holding his plans and possessions loosely. Trusting in the Lord’s blessings became his intent, purpose and focus. Though he never secured those coveted Indians season tickets, Gary’s obedience to God resulted in an unexpected blessing — annual tickets to the World Series!  

He has generously shared that gift with more than 1000 baseball fans and has seen God work through the relationships built in the stands. As the CEO and president of Global Trust Partners, Gary acts as “a conduit of the Lord’s blessings and a delivery boy with a message from God.” Through teaching on stewardship, he strengthens churches and ministries worldwide.   

Gary is also a prolific author, a consummate family man, and a steadfast follower of Christ. Get into the Christmas spirit of giving by listening to this episode of the Cedarville Stories Podcast. 

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Emily Shanahan was born with cerebral palsy, a condition that impacts her motor skills. Through her life, God has used her keen intellect and determination to make a Kingdom difference.

Emily is a graduate of Cedarville University and holds a master’s degree in Christian ministry and non-profit management. Together with her mother, Barb, she co-founded Empowering the Differently Enabled, where they both serve as directors. In addition to her vibrant online ministry, Emily is in the process of publishing her first children's book. Emily is undeniably leading a full and productive life.

Barb once struggled to imagine such a future for her daughter. When Emily was diagnosed at just 15 months old, Barb felt a deep sense of despair. As a mother, she mourned the experiences and opportunities that Emily might never have and went through stages of denial and prolonged anger.

During her early years, Emily radiated joy that often stood in stark contrast to her mother’s turmoil. It wasn't until her fifth birthday that Emily became aware of her differences and recognized her physical limitations, plunging her into a state of emotional distress that mirrored Barb’s own heartache.

A sadness enveloped the Shanahan home until, in a moment of divine intervention, God lifted the darkness. The healing power of a song brought hope and clarity, easing their tears, anger, and feelings of hopelessness. In a moment, their hearts, household, and outlook on the future were transformed.

To learn more about Emily, Barb, and the blessings they've encountered throughout the challenges of Emily’s being differently enabled, tune in to this week’s episode of the Cedarville Stories podcast.

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Matt Black is a young entrepreneur with a creative eye and a heart for Christ. As the founder of Matt Black Media, Matt balances the growing demands of his burgeoning career as a performance photographer with his studies at Cedarville University, where he is a junior majoring in broadcasting, digital media, and journalism. 

After high school, Matt served as an intern with Word of Life Fellowship, where he discovered his passion for the artistic and ministry possibilities that lay within the lens of his camera. Matt soon thereafter recognized his ability to assist musical artists in conveying the message of Christ.
 

On this week’s episode of the Cedarville Stories podcast, Matt offers valuable insight to fellow young photographers, encouraging them to “embrace opportunities and say yes.” In 2023, he heeded this advice by responding to a last-minute text invitation to photograph Winter Jam in Tampa, Florida. 

This decision opened his eyes to the potential impact of his work and future opportunities. Since that initial concert, Matt’s willingness to seize opportunities and his enthusiasm for supporting the ministries of Christian musicians have enabled him to collaborate with Crowder, For King and Country, Lecrae, and Danny Gokey. His work has gained exposure on prominent social media platforms and various marketing campaigns. 

Tune in to the podcast to learn more about Matt and how he contributes to the ministries of others from behind the scenes. 

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The Cove, Cedarville University's Center for Academic Enrichment, is marking two decades of support for undergraduate, graduate, and dual-enrollment students. However, the idea for this amazing resource is even older, dating back to 1997 and the legacy of Dr. Pam Johnson, who had a heart for helping students succeed.

This week on the Cedarville Stories Podcast, Cove staff members Kim Ahlgrim, Deidre Sizer, and Dr. Becky Kuhn share their inspiring history with the Cove while also looking forward with excitement to what lies ahead.

Discover how The Cove helps students navigate challenges such as homesickness, mental health issues, disabilities, and the need for a little extra support through tutoring or academic coaching. The Cove is committed to overcoming the stigma of needing help through building relationships and having fun.

Each staff member shares heartfelt stories of students who have thrived both during their college experience and in their lives post-graduation thanks to The Cove's assistance. Join these ladies in a celebration of thanks for the privilege of impacting students’ lives for the glory of God.

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Josh Strychalski wears many hats: sports enthusiast, actor, author, golf professional, entrepreneur, devoted husband, father, and child of God. He is a true Renaissance man.

Josh has always had a passion for sports, and he spent several years in the world of professional golf, but his true love lies in storytelling. During his time as a Cedarville student in the 1990s, he was an active member of the Lifeline Players, a traveling theatre troupe. It was also at Cedarville that Professor Jim Kragle inspired Josh’s writing aspirations with the words, “If you can write, you can pave your own way.”

Since then, Josh has authored two novels, and in the summer of 2024, he celebrated the debut of his first screenplay, "Disciples in the Moonlight." This faith-driven action film, in which Josh also plays a starring role, unfolds in a dystopian future where the Bible is banned in the United States.

Central to the film's message is a phrase frequently echoed by its characters: “for the Word of God and the testimony of Jesus Christ.” This powerful verse from the book of Revelation serves as the motto for Cedarville University and has significantly influenced Josh's screenplay and his life.

The film has been showcased in theaters nationwide, paving the way for a potential sequel and creating opportunities for Josh to continue crafting stories that honor Christ.

This week on the Cedarville Stories podcast, delve into Josh’s remarkable journey as he recounts the unique path that added “screenwriter” to his resume.

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Whether on the gridiron or on the pitch, it was a summer of football for the Master of Athletic Training (MAT) students at Cedarville University. Six aspiring athletic trainers were in the facilities of NCAA Division I schools or on the sidelines with major league teams. 

Two of these future trainers, Lauren Barnes and Jacob Bonville, share their summer stories on the latest Cedarville Stories Podcast. Lauren had the thrill of working with the nationally ranked Penn State football team, while Jacob gained experience with Major League Soccer’s Columbus Crew. 

From the moment the spotlight turned to their learning experiences this summer, Lauren and Jacob lit up, recounting some of their favorite experiences and how they kept Jesus at the forefront of their work.  

While the summer was intense, the experiences helped both students refine their skills while demonstrating their faith in Jesus through words and deeds. Whether it was taping an ankle, loading an 18-wheel truck for a road game, providing a cup of cold water to a coach, or just listening to the players share their stories and struggles, both Lauren and Jacob were focused on serving everyone well. 

Tune in to discover more about their demanding schedules, their relentless pursuit of excellence, and their deep commitment to serving others in the spirit of Jesus. 

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College basketball is an exhilarating sport marked by a dynamic whirlwind of activity. This can also be said about the journey of Rob Jones, the newly appointed head coach of the Cedarville Yellow Jackets men's basketball team, as he describes the path to his courtside seat in the Callan Athletic Center.

From neighborhood pickup games to college hoops and an already impressive coaching career with NCAA Division I teams, Rob has been giving his all to honor Christ on and off the court for decades. On this episode of the Cedarville Stories podcast, Rob opens up about his history with the game and his aspirations for the Yellow Jackets’ basketball program.

Upon receiving the news that Cedarville University was searching for a new men's basketball coach, a whirlwind of interviews and travel ensued. Within a week, Rob and his wife, Kristina, were on Cedarville’s campus, seeking to discern God's guidance in this pivotal moment. They approached their decision with prayer and soon realized that Cedarville offered a unique opportunity to forge genuine, God-honoring relationships as Rob mentored young men not only in basketball but in living lives that glorify God.

Rob's deep desire is to see young men thrive both on and off the court. He encourages them to commit fully to their game, excel in academics, and pursue their faith with vigor. His vision for the team is to cultivate a fierce competitiveness in both basketball and life, all while shining as a faithful witness for Christ.

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Dan Jacobsen, the grandson of Dr. Wiersbe, has devoted the past two years to completing "Becoming New: A 100 Day Journey of Transformation through God’s Word," a devotional book that includes the heart of his grandfather’s work.

In this week’s episode of the Cedarville Stories podcast, Dan shares his personal experience of exploring Scripture while editing the final work of this devoted man of faith. Both new believers and seasoned Christians alike will find themselves challenged by Dr. Wiersbe’s profound yet accessible engagement with the Bible.

Dan was especially moved to hear his grandfather’s voice resonate on each page, imparting lessons on spiritual maturity, duty, and dependence on God — insights that became particularly relevant when a family crisis emerged at the conclusion of the project.

In March, Dan’s nine-year-old son Miles was diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumor. This devastating news prompted Dan and his family to lean deeply on God during a time when human solutions felt hopeless.

Despite the challenges, Miles has shown remarkable strength and has been enriched by unforgettable experiences shared through their church and the Kansas City community. Meanwhile, Dan has discovered unexpected opportunities to connect with the philanthropic community, sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Through their trials, Dan and his family continue to serve God, embodying a daily transformation through His Word. For further information about Miles and the Jacobsen family, please visit milesformiles.org.

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Dr. Warren Wiersbe’s legacy continues to inspire, even five years after his passing, with the upcoming release of his latest work, Becoming New: A 100 Day Journey of Transformation through God’s Word, set to be published on November 5, 2024. This special project, completed by Dr. Wiersbe’s grandson, Dan Jacobsen, offers a chance for readers to embark on a meaningful journey of spiritual renewal.

In a recent episode of the Cedarville Stories Podcast, Dan shares not only the story behind this remarkable book but also intimate memories of his beloved grandfather. While Dr. Wiersbe is widely known for his influential ministry at Chicago’s Moody Church and his years with Back to the Bible, Dan also shares the warmth, humility, and humorous side of the man known as a “pastor’s pastor.”

As a young paster, Dan had long hoped to collaborate with his grandfather, but that opportunity never came — until the discovery of the nearly finished manuscript after Dr. Wiersbe’s passing. Entrusted with completing the project, Dan has fulfilled a long-held dream in a way that allows the readers to hear the heart and voice of his grandfather while continuing the legacy of faith and wisdom of Warren Wiersbe.

Throughout this podcast, Dan offers a personal glimpse into Dr. Wiersbe’s life, portraying him as a man filled with warmth, humility, and humor, and one whose influence continues to resonate within Dan’s own pastoral ministry near Kansas City.

Tune in to the podcast to hear more about Dan's journey and this touching tribute to Dr. Wiersbe's lasting impact. It’s a story of faith, family, and the enduring power of God’s Word.
 

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Justin and Cheryl Martens' journey as foster parents is a beautiful testament to the power of love, healing, and faith. They answered a call from God to break the cycle of generational sin, offering a haven of safety and hope for children in need.

Over six years, they welcomed 23 children into their home, providing not just shelter but a nurturing environment where broken hearts could begin to heal. Each child, whether staying for a single night or a year, found a place of peace under their care.

In September 2017, the Martens were presented with a life-changing opportunity. A 19-day-old baby girl from a family struggling with drug addiction, Arriyanna, needed a forever home. With prayerful hearts full of love, they chose to adopt her, but their compassion didn’t stop there. They also opened their hearts to Arriyanna’s biological father, an 18-year-old who had battled the same cycle of foster care and substance abuse that threatened to claim his future.

By becoming his support system and guiding him toward Christ, they helped him break free from the chains of addiction. The Martens didn’t just give Arriyanna a family; they became like parents to her biological father, offering him the love and stability he had never known. Their story is one of redemption and the extraordinary power of fostering not only children but relationships.

Through their faith and open hearts, the Martens have become a living example of how God’s grace can heal even the deepest wounds and bring new life to generations caught in cycles of despair. Their story inspires hope, showing that with love and compassion, anyone can be an instrument of God’s healing.

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He’s battle tested. He’s a proven leader. And his loyalty to his country, family, and alma mater is a clarion call in his life. Brigadier General Todd Fogle of the United States Air Force, for his service to our country, was recently awarded the distinguished 2024 “Alumnus of the Year” honor by Cedarville University.

His rise to Brigadier General, in Fogle’s words, is the result of God’s blessings in his life, the investment of key leaders at Cedarville University during his college years, and the support from his wife of 32 years, Johanna.

In this podcast, Fogle recalls with gratitude how Dick Walker invested in his life and always encouraged him to “stay the course.” Then there’s Jim Cato, who took an inquisitive ROTC student to the Dove Awards in Nashville, Tennessee, and together developed action plans and processes that have guided the Swordbearers and Heartsong Ministries teams for decades.

These investments in his life were pivotal to his military success. They also were helpful during tension-filled moments in combat, including when his plane was engaged in a lengthy gun battle with enemy fire that blanketed his plane with bullet holes.

Throughout his life, General Fogle has been blessed by God and has exemplified virtue through his love, leadership, and loyalty. Join us on this week's episode of the Cedarville Stories podcast as Brig. Gen. Fogle recounts his extraordinary journey and invites you to soar alongside him.

The appearance of U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) visual information does not imply or constitute DoD endorsement.

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Dr. Samson Amos has always been driven by something deeper than personal success; his heart beats with a genuine desire to bring healing and hope to others. Growing up in Nigeria, he witnessed firsthand the ravages of diseases like sickle cell anemia and malaria. The suffering around him fueled his resolve to dedicate his life to pharmaceutical research, but for Dr. Amos, it was more than a professional calling; it was a mission to alleviate human pain and suffering. 

After earning his doctorate in pharmacology, Dr. Amos returned home to visit his family. It was during this trip that a moment would forever shape his path. He heard a cry from a neighbor’s house, and when he went to check on her, he discovered the woman was battling breast cancer. She pleaded with him to help other women like her. That poignant encounter added cancer to the growing list of battles Dr. Amos was determined to fight. 

Today, as a leading researcher in natural product pharmacology at Cedarville University, Dr. Amos works tirelessly to search for potential cures alongside his students. His passion doesn’t just stop at science — he mentors his students, teaching them to blend academic rigor with a spirit of compassion, inspired by his faith. 

In a quiet lab tucked away in the Ohio countryside, Dr. Amos and his students work steadily. Though the ultimate cure for cancer may not come from their lab, the seeds of hope and determination they plant together could very well inspire that future breakthrough. It’s the kind of selfless passion that defines Dr. Amos and the legacy he is building — one life, one discovery, and one student at a time. 

Listen to this week’s Cedarville Stories Podcast to hear the remarkable story of Dr. Samson Amos and the compassion that fuels his work. 

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Born prematurely at just 24 weeks and weighing under two pounds, Hayley Good began her life struggling for each minute of her life. With a heart defect and underdeveloped lungs, her prognosis in 2002 was grim.

The first two months of Hayley’s life were marked by tragedy for her family. First, they lost Hayley’s twin sister. Shortly thereafter, Hayley underwent a precarious surgery on her tiny heart that was successful and led to an extended stay in the Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICU) at both Nationwide Children’s Hospital and Ohio State Medical Center.

Fast-forward to 2024, and Hayley’s life has come full circle — a blessing she shares in this week’s episode of the Cedarville Stories Podcast.

In May 2024, Hayley proudly graduated with a degree in nursing from Cedarville University and accepted a position in the same NICU where she received critical care as a premature infant: Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Columbus, Ohio. This story garnered national attention when it was showcased on CBS Evening News.

Throughout her life, Hayley has always been aware of the circumstances surrounding her birth, and from an early age, she held on to the belief that God had a purpose for her struggles. Part of that purpose became clear when she was unexpectedly given the chance to share her inspiring story and the message of the Gospel on a national platform.

Hayley continues to embrace God’s plan as she brings her personal experiences, encouragement, and compassion to families facing challenges similar to her own.

Tune in to the Cedarville Stories Podcast to discover Hayley’s incredible journey of survival and unwavering faith.

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“The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord.”  

These poignant words are among the most renowned utterances of Job, the emblematic figure of faith in the Bible. This was his reaction upon learning of the tragic loss of all his children in a single natural catastrophe.  

While few can truly comprehend the extent of Job’s sorrow, Daniel Foster and his wife Breeze have faced similar heartache. In this week's episode of the Cedarville Stories Podcast, Daniel recounts his journey of finding solace in God's grace through life's peaks and valleys
  

God has bestowed numerous blessings upon Daniel. He earned his degree in electrical engineering from Cedarville University in 2001, which led to a fulfilling career as a civilian defense contractor for the United States Army. Through this divine provision, he also met and married Breeze, with whom he has been blessed with six healthy children.  

The Lord has also taken away.  

Over a span of two years, Daniel and Breeze have navigated a tumultuous path of loss and emotion. In 2017, they mourned the passing of their daughter Willow, who left this world 36 weeks into Breeze’s pregnancy, and they faced the heart-wrenching news that Breeze might not be able to conceive again. 

Just over a year later, their joy returned with the arrival of Ember, whose sweet spirit brought light to their lives, only for tragedy to strike again. A few months after her birth, she was diagnosed with a rare genetic illness that ultimately claimed her life.  

Through these trials, Daniel and his family have maintained a steadfast faith in God and His grace which has supported them during their darkest hours. This unwavering belief has even inspired Daniel to pen a book, “Waiting for Peace,” aimed at encouraging others to hold on to the goodness of God's grace.  

Tune in to learn more about the Foster family's extraordinary journey of faith, which includes yet another unexpected blessing — the birth of their newest daughter, Zinnia Grace, alongside the joy of their first grandchild — as Daniel shares his compelling Cedarville Story. 

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Ready for an inspiring listen? Meet Joel Misirian, a police officer whose journey began with a high school project in suburban Milwaukee, where he first discovered his passion for protecting and serving others. That one experience set Joel on a path that would shape his entire life and career. 

Joel continued his journey at Cedarville University, where he pursued a degree in criminal justice, built lifelong friendships, and met his future wife, Sharon (Magin) Misirian ’97. Graduating in 1998, Joel left Cedarville with more than just a diploma; he gained a strong biblical worldview that would guide him in his future endeavors. Joel shares how this foundation has influenced his life and work on the Cedarville Stories Podcast. 

Now patrolling the streets of Troy, Ohio, Joel serves as a police officer with a unique mission: to share his faith in Jesus with everyone he encounters — even those who might not be thrilled to be in his patrol car. Whether it’s answering spiritual questions or playing Christian radio for his passengers, Joel sees every interaction as an opportunity to spread hope and truth. 

Joel’s passion for Christian education was inspired by his father-in-law, the founder of Troy Christian Schools, who taught him that "the heart of education is the education of the heart." Joel carries this belief into his role as an adjunct professor and speaker at Cedarville’s summer criminal justice camp, where he educates future law enforcement professionals. 

On the podcast, Joel talks about how he blends humility, authority, and hard work with the teachings of Jesus, showing that faith can shine brightly behind the badge. Tune in to hear more about Joel’s inspiring story and how he’s making a difference in his community one patrol at a time! 

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Energetic, enthusiastic, and excitable are top job qualifications for university athletic mascots. Jonathan Wu fit those descriptions as a college student in the mid 1990s.

Jonathan brought Cedarville University’s “Bee” to life from 1994–98, long before Stinger was officially named in 2017. He danced, cheered, and electrified the crowd at basketball games, and his outgoing personality helps him today as he builds relationships wherever he goes.

Jonathan’s vibrant persona and gift for connecting with people has taken him around the world as an educator. Get to know Jonathan and be encouraged by how he is using his energy for Kingdom work on the Cedarville Stories Podcast.

While studying mechanical engineering at Cedarville, Jonathan joined other students on a short-term trip to China to teach English. Those few weeks planted seeds in Jonathan's heart that changed his life. Not only did the experience influence his current vocation, but he also met his wife, Rachel, on that trip. From there, the sparks of a lifetime calling to international work began to glow.

Since then, his spark for reaching people through teaching and building relationships has become a blaze. Jonathan moved his family to Asia more than a decade ago. There, he continues to teach while recruiting and mentoring recent college graduates through the Global Ambassador Program. 

Learn more about the joys of building cross-cultural relationships, the challenges of international living, and the excitement of seeing people find hope as Jonathan tells his Cedarville Story.

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Reach out to God with a confident and worshipful heart, even amidst your pain. Gain insight into the art of lamenting from Alyson Punzi, who tragically lost her husband at the young age of 24 and is now guiding her preschool-aged daughter in placing trust in God within a broken world.  

Following the sudden and devastating passing of her husband, Frank, to cancer in 2022, Alyson found herself having to explain to her two-year-old daughter that her daddy was gone — and he wasn’t coming home again. Alyson chose to be honest, instilling in her a sense of hope in God's grace. 

Instead of being consumed by grief or turning away from God in anger, Alyson focused on the unwavering strength of Christ and His love as sources of light in the darkness of her loss. Recognizing that grief would remain part of her life, she made the conscious decision to hold onto God as her constant and steadfast companion. 

Drawing from her personal journey and that of her daughter, Alyson has written a book, “He Always Hears,” with the hope of teaching young children the value and importance of lament. The book is scheduled for release by Crossway in April and is focused on teaching children how to talk to God in times of hurt and loss — similar to the hurt and pain felt by Alyson and her young daughter. 

For more insights into Alyson's journey and the scriptural practice of lament, tune in to her candid discussion on the Cedarville Stories Podcast. 

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When college sweethearts Frank and Alyson Punzi married in 2018, they envisioned a life filled with joy as they raised a family and served Jesus with their gifts and abilities.

Two years later, after the birth of their daughter, this plan was in motion and life was good. Frank was serving the Lord as an associate pastor, and their daughter brought smiles to their faces.

In an instant, however, life took a dramatic turn. Vacationing in New Jersey, Alyson walked into their room to discover Frank, her 25-year-old husband, suffering from a severe stroke. In just a matter of weeks, Frank — who appeared to be healthy and vibrant — was diagnosed with cancer.

Alyson’s life turned upside down without any notice.

Despite the pain, uncertainty, and grief that engulfed them, Frank and Alyson clung to their faith in God. Throughout the testing and treatment, they found the strength to face a broken world through their unwavering trust in Jesus — all the way to Frank’s final breath.

In the midst of unspeakable pain and sorrow, they sought solace in praising the Lord and standing firm in their faith. They took comfort in knowing they were never alone and in crying out to the ever-present God.

In this episode of the Cedarville Stories Podcast, Alyson shares how she learned to lament through her pain, even as she was leading her very young daughter who just lost her daddy.

Alyson's story is a testament to her unwavering faith as a young widow and single mother, leaning on Jesus just as she did during the turbulent days of Frank’s cancer and ultimate passing. Her story of learning to lament will inspire others to trust in God's guidance and companionship through life's toughest trials.

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Get ready to be inspired by a life lived with purpose and passion. In this episode of the Cedarville Stories Podcast, we dive into the world of Dr. Jeremy Kimble, a man whose enthusiasm for life and dedication to his faith are nothing short of contagious. 

As a Professor of Theology and the Director of the Synergy Initiative at Cedarville University, Jeremy doesn’t just teach — he lives his beliefs out in every aspect of his life. Whether he’s conquering the rapids of the Grand Canyon or tackling a 100-mile bike ride, Jeremy’s zest for adventure mirrors his approach to ministry and discipleship. 

But it’s not just about thrill-seeking. Jeremy’s true passion lies in his work for the church and his commitment to raising up the next generation of leaders. As an author, devoted church member, and professor, he inspires those around him to deepen their faith, serve their communities, and spread the Gospel with courage and conviction. 

Tune in to hear how Jeremy balances his personal spiritual growth with his mission to mentor others and how his efforts are making a profound impact on the Church. This episode is more than just a story — it’s a call to action for anyone looking to live a life of purpose and faith. Don’t miss the chance to experience Jeremy’s incredible journey and be motivated to pursue your own passions with the same vigor. 

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Dr. Gary Hoag, known as "The Generosity Monk," may not wear a monk's robe or embrace a vow of silence, but he finds deep fulfillment in spending solitary time with the Lord and is dedicated to empowering ministries worldwide through Christian generosity.  

Discover how he became known as “The Generosity Monk” on the Cedarville Stories Podcast. 

Gary is a baseball-loving Ohio farm boy and graduate of Cedarville University. His goal as a young man was to be successful in business and have season tickets for the Cleveland Indians (now known as the Cleveland Guardians), just like his grandfather. God had different plans.  

Gary was called into ministry, first in Christian higher education at Biola University, Colorado Christian University, and Denver Seminary, where he learned the value of holding his plans and possessions loosely. Trusting in the Lord's blessings became his intent, purpose and focus. Though he never secured those coveted Indians season tickets, Gary's obedience to God resulted in an unexpected blessing — annual tickets to the World Series! 

He has generously shared that gift with more than 1000 baseball fans and has seen God work through the relationships built in the stands. 

As the CEO and president of Global Trust Partners, Gary acts as “a conduit of the Lord’s blessings and a delivery boy with a message from God.” Through teaching on stewardship, he strengthens churches and ministries worldwide.  

Gary is also a prolific author, a consummate family man, and a steadfast follower of Christ. Catch his infectious joy by listening to his Cedarville Story. 

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While sitting in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), observing her newborn son and other premature babies fighting bravely for their lives, Melissa Gallagher was struck by the powerful truth that “these little ones were wonderfully made,” her words an echo of Psalm 139. 

Melissa, who earned a degree in industrial and innovative design from Cedarville University, opens up about her own miracle child — Hudson — on the Cedarville Stories Podcast. Although there were challenging moments, Melissa and her family became cheerleaders for families dealing with the challenges of premature birth. 

She learned how to embrace every small victory. In watching the tiniest babies achieve milestones in their struggle to survive, Melissa discovered how to inspire and uplift others who faced similar challenges to those she and Hudson encountered. Just seeing Hudson get swaddled for the first time sparked a brilliant idea.  

Drawing from her education in design and entrepreneurship, her talent in watercolor art, and firsthand experience as a mother of a premature baby, she brought forth a new business, Wonderfully Made. This company is dedicated to creating swaddles and clothing with tailored watercolor art for the most delicate and precious infants. 

Through this venture, her goal is to bring hope and encouragement through her personal story, shed light on the NICU journey, and spread optimism for life beyond the NICU.  

Walk with Melissa through her experience and catch her infectious desire to encourage others as she tells her Cedarville Story. 

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Sports are Jeff Gilbert’s passion. What started as a hobby of cutting out sports stories from newspapers and magazines and crafting his own narrative for each story has blossomed into a thrilling career as the beat reporter for the Ohio State Buckeyes football team and assistant professor of journalism at Cedarville University.

In this week’s Cedarville Stories Podcast, Jeff steps up to the plate to share his journey of painting word pictures to tell stories from the gridiron, basketball court, baseball fields — and much more.

His secret to writing compelling stories has been his curiosity — always being fascinated with asking unique questions that leads the reader past the obvious and into some behind-the-scenes information. In fact, Jeff believes the greatest attribute of a gifted journalist is their curiosity, something that he developed through his 20-year journalism career.

Jeff's approach isn't just about the game; it's about capturing the pulse of the crowd, the heartbeat of the athletes, and the spirit of the moment. His Christian worldview infuses his work, adding a dimension that elevates his storytelling to new heights.

Whether diving into his passion with the Buckeyes, covering local athletes, or looking for stories that bring a person’s faith in Jesus to light, Jeff's reporting is a slam dunk.

Join us as we step into the press box with Jeff Gilbert on this week’s Cedarville Stories Podcast.

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Growing up in the rural countryside near Lafayette, Indiana, Dr. Trent Rogers, the Dean of the School of Biblical and Theological Studies and Associate Professor of New Testament and Greek at Cedarville University, has always embraced the mindset of giving his best or not bothering at all.

Hear his story or join him in the studio on this week’s Cedarville Stories Podcast.

Hailing from a background where hard work was valued, Trent stood out as a high school athlete who always played to win, whether he was on the football field or running hurdles on the track.

Not surprisingly, Trent’s dedication to giving his all spilled over into his preparation for a career in Christian ministry. During his time in college, he delved deep into the study of ancient and classical Greek language and literature, believing that if he was to teach the Bible, he should be able to read it in its original language. This unwavering commitment to his calling drove him to pursue graduate and post-graduate degrees.

Even as he immersed himself in his studies, Trent maintained an active lifestyle and pushed himself to excel in different arenas. He took up powerlifting and went on to break three bench press world records, including an impressive lift of 670 pounds in 2008.

Before finding his way to Cedarville, Ohio, where he has been serving for the past decade, Trent’s unique combination of academic pursuit and strength training led him to work as a personal trainer for professional athletes like Luol Deng of the Chicago Bulls and Devin Hester of the Chicago Bears.

To discover more about how Trent’s unwavering commitment to excellence has been a guiding force in his life and work, tune in to his inspiring Cedarville Story.

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How long would it take to row 3,000 miles across the Atlantic Ocean from the Canary Islands near Africa to Antigua in the Caribbean Sea? “Team Foar Brothers,” consisting of Thomas, Trent, and Tim Hamilton along with their nephew, Ben Clark, did it in 37 days, 10 hours, and 55 minutes.  

Discover more about their incredible journey of completing The World’s Toughest Row as Thomas returns for his second appearance on the Cedarville Stories Podcast. Then watch their exhilarating finish line video to get a glimpse of what it was like to row a little boat across the big ocean.
 

During their expedition on the open sea, the team faced numerous challenges, including towering waves, relentless rains, the endless expanse of salt water, continuous physical exertion, and being constantly tossed around. It truly tested their endurance, yet they persevered through their unity, the unwavering prayers of their loved ones, and their faith in the Lord. Despite the daunting obstacles, they managed to cross the finish line successfully.
 

The journey for the Cedarville University alumni was not only a personal accomplishment but also a fundraising initiative, raising nearly $57,000 for Send Relief, a Baptist mission supporting Afghan refugees.

While they found fulfillment in making a positive impact on others, they also reaped personal rewards. They were able to witness the beauty of God’s creation, the vastness of His universe, and the constant presence of His embrace. Even in the isolation of the ocean, without seeing any signs of human life for weeks, they found solace in the knowledge that they were never truly alone. 

Tune into Cedarville Stories Podcast and join them on their journey across the sea! 

People move, life stages change, interests shift, and friendships fade or slip away. However, every now and then, two individuals develop an unbreakable bond and grow closer despite the ups and downs of life. A prime example of such a friendship is that of Cedarville University alumni Erika Weise and Carrie Holt, who are featured guests on the Cedarville Stories Podcast.  

They first met as singles at their local church and quickly formed a friendship that was infectious. As they both got married, their husbands became good friends, and the couples began having children who also caught the friendship bug.  

This portrayal of lives intertwined in the beauty of friendship is heartwarming, but the story of Erika and Carrie goes even deeper, revealing how friendships are truly a blessing from God during challenging times.  

Both women have gracefully navigated the challenges of raising a medically fragile child with special needs, leaning on each other for support every step of the way through hospitalizations, surgeries, joys, sorrows, and the unpredictable nature of each day.  

Through it all, they and their families have persevered, and now their eldest children (one of whom has defied all odds) are on the verge of graduating from Cedarville University, just like these proud moms. 
 

Join these exceptional families on their unwavering journey in the Season 11 inaugural episode of the Cedarville Stories Podcast. 

Check out this clip in anticipation of next weeks follow-up episode with Thomas Hamilton as he shares about his rowing journey across the Atlantic Ocean.

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Embark on a daring odyssey with Thomas Hamilton on this weeks Cedarville Stories Podcast. Hamilton, along with two brothers and nephew Ben Clark, opt for a glorified rowboat as they seek to conquer the relentless forces of the Atlantic Ocean.

Picture this: 3,000 miles from the tip of Africa to the Caribbean Island of Antiqua, facing 20-foot waves, relentless sprays of salt, hunger, and scorching heat. This isn't your typical ocean cruise — it's a test of endurance, perseverance, and faith.

In the heart of the tempest, Thomas and his crew will navigate the unpredictable waters, forging bonds of brotherhood and confronting the raw elements. This audacious journey, set to kick off in mid-December, may stretch up to seven weeks, dictated by the whims of the weather.

For the Hamilton brothers and Ben, this isn't just an adventure; it's a crucible of personal development, sibling camaraderie, and spiritual renewal. Brace yourself for the most impactful voyage of their lives.

Don your virtual life preserver and join us on this podcast as we navigate the treacherous waters of the Atlantic Ocean with Thomas Hamilton. And fear not, the results of their adventure will be featured in season 11 of the Cedarville Stories Podcast!
 

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Jim and Teresa Clark left Cedarville University in the same way they entered it--together.

They retired at the end of the 2023-24 academic year but before leaving they remembered their journey on the Cedarville Stories Podcast.

The Clarks were settled in Fort Wayne, Indiana. They had lived there for 21 years, had just bought their dream home, and were confident this was where the Lord wanted them.

But, although man may have plans, the Lord orders his steps. During a weekend visit to Cedarville University with their daughter during a Little Sibs Weekend, the Clarks got reacquainted with their alma mater. Teresa had often visited Cedarville with her high school volleyball teams that she coached in Fort Wayne.

But this visit took a different turn than the rest.

She was approached by Elvin King, the women’s cross-country coach, following a match, who asked her to follow him to Athletic Director Don Callan’s office. There, Teresa was asked to apply for the head volleyball coach position — which was currently vacant.

Even though she and Jim, were not convinced Cedarville University was where the Lord was leading them, she applied. Teresa even came for an on-campus interview, which she felt went poorly.

But the Lord opened a door for the Clarks. Jim secured a position in the admissions department while Teresa was leading the Yellow Jackets volleyball team. And, now, 27 years later, the Clarks have left quite the legacy. Teresa's final position of service was as the faculty-athletics representative, and Jim ended his career as the assistant sports information director.

https://share.transistor.fm/s/795b92c5

After leading students at Cedarville University to worship the Lord for 40+ years, Jim Cato has retired. Celebrate his story on this episode of the Cedarville Stories Podcast.

Jim Cato quickly learned as a young man that his skills were better used off the field than playing football. So he tried Bible college, which didn’t work out either, and he eventually dropped out.

But after getting married, he and his new wife learned about this small school called Cedarville College in Ohio. They packed up their belongings and moved to Ohio, before even applying or knowing where they were going to live.

Jim went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in music, still without any clue of what he wanted to do with his life — or how he would use a degree in music. But the Lord began opening doors, including the opportunity to lead a music team on a missions trip to Australia.

Shortly after, a position became available in Cedarville’s Christian Ministries department. The position was focused on training music teams to travel and minister overseas. Even with Jim’s limited experience, he got the job — and he’s never left!

Jim has faithfully served with Christian Ministries for over 40 years, including taking various trips with Global Outreach, including one providing hurricane relief after Hurricane Harvey.

And, instead of solely ministering to the residents in Houston who were affected by the hurricane, in the end, Jim was the one who needed care.

After a few days of working in homes with Cedarville students, Jim began to experience headaches. But these were not his typical headaches, as the pain increased each  day.

Eventually, the pain led Jim to wake up his roommate in the middle of the night and ask to be taken to an emergency room. And the trip to the hospital proved challenging, as neither the driver nor Jim knew Houston well enough to navigate the trip.

After being rushed to the hospital, and doctors performing a battery of tests, Jim learned that he had a brain tumor that needed to be removed immediately.

As Jim outlines, not only did he find a hospital to care for him, he went to the hospital best known in Houston for brain surgeries. Only God could direct Jim’s path this perfectly.

After several days in the hospital, Jim returned to Ohio, and the Lord used that time to strengthen his faith and reinforce his purpose — to worship God and teach others to worship Him.

https://share.transistor.fm/s/1646140c

Dick Walker, the father of Getting Started Weekend, passed away on February 9, 2024. Remember his legacy with this episode of the Cedarville Stories Podcast.

Dick Walker served at Cedarville for 42 years, arriving at the University in 1970. His first job at Cedarville? Assistant food service manager. But he is best known for his 40 years in student life and campus activities, serving as a resident director, Dean of Men, Director of Campus Activities, and finally in the Office of Alumni Relations.

He had a huge impact on the lives of hundreds of students. One of his most enduring contributions was the creation of Getting Started Weekend, which is a signature weekend of events on campus each year.

Driven by his desire to see new students welcomed and feeling at home at Cedarville, Dick began Getting Started Weekend, now one of the most highly anticipated events on the campus calendar.

On Commencement weekend, 2018, Dick was surprised with a very special honor: a new university residence hall would be named in his honor. Walker Hall is located across from the Doden Field House and Fitness Recreation Center.

https://share.transistor.fm/s/e3c0e12c

It was a whirlwind morning for Allison and Brandon Williams when they awoke on Wednesday, February 28. They knew this was the day they would meet their third child, but what transpired leading up to Allison’s delivery was totally unexpected.  

In fact, to this day, they realize it was a blur, a story they recount on the Cedarville Stories Podcast. 

The couple was anticipating an early-morning cesarean section. However, chaos ensued when a tornado blew down their street, delaying their trip and turning a 15-to-20-minute drive into an hour-and-a-half journey to the Springfield hospital.  

In the predawn hours, the couple sought refuge in their basement, praying for the safety of their neighbors and nearby family as the tornado wreaked havoc on their countryside neighborhood.  

Once the storm passed, Allison and Brandon ventured out amidst the chaos to find a route to the hospital, experiencing a roller coaster of emotions at seeing the damaged houses that filled their neighborhood.  

These emotions turned to joy later in the day when they welcomed their third daughter, Darcy — or, as her grandfather would call her, “Dot,” short for Dorothy in the Wizard of Oz. 

https://share.transistor.fm/s/b539cafd

Life is filled with unexpected blessings, a reality not lost on Cedarville University rising junior Viv Wheeler. 

Originally from Guatemala, Viv was born to a mother who was unable to care for her, leading to her being put up for adoption. She was quickly selected by a couple who began the process of making her their own, only to encounter difficulties that once again left Viv alone. However, each of these hardships were part of God’s great plan to shower her with blessings and opportunities. 

Viv was ultimately adopted by the Wheelers, a loving family in Portsmouth, Ohio, who had been praying for the child destined for them by God. She grew up being loved by her parents, fishing with her dad, and preparing for a bright future, one that was again directed by the unexpected. As a junior in high school, she received a college mailer from Cedarville University that would guide the next steps of her journey.
 

Intrigued by the campus community and the school's mission to glorify Jesus Christ, Viv felt drawn to pursue a degree in primary education and speech pathology. 

Driven by her desire to impact children's lives positively, Viv volunteered for an international mission trip to Guatemala to teach English. Little did she know that this trip would result in a profound reunion with her birth family thanks to God's intricate plan. 

Meeting her birth family for the first time was both thrilling and nerve-wracking for Viv. However, she discovered a family that cared deeply for her, especially her birth mother, who had fervently prayed for her every day. With the joy of being embraced by two loving families and the assurance that God had been guiding every step of her journey, Viv feels grateful for the unexpected twists and turns that have led her to where she is today. 

Join Viv as she shares more about her extraordinary journey and her aspirations for the future on the Cedarville Stories Podcast. 

https://share.transistor.fm/s/487780cd

From the land of Legos to the world of cutting-edge technology, Josh Thomas, a recent graduate of Cedarville University, has always possessed a keen interest in the art of building. This inherent trait led him to begin a career as a software engineer with Google.

Josh's journey into the realm of technology began at a young age, when he started constructing robots out of Legos and implementing computer-operated electronics to bring them to life. Even in the sixth grade, Josh recognized that his passion for engineering was a gift from God.

During his time at Cedarville University, Josh received guidance and mentorship from professors who instilled in him the importance of maintaining high standards and adopting a humble, lifelong learning mindset. These invaluable qualities equipped him for prestigious summer internships with both Amazon and Google.

Through his experiences during these internships, he discovered not only his ability to create advanced technological tools for data extraction and innovative applications for smartphones but also his unique position to foster meaningful relationships for the advancement of Christ's Kingdom.

As he joins the staff at Google's headquarters in Cambridge, Massachusetts, where he will collaborate with leading scientists and technicians, Josh is steadfast in his belief that faith and reason are not mutually exclusive. He aims to build bridges with individuals who may harbor doubts about faith and Christianity, using his own life as a testament to their compatibility.

To delve deeper into Josh's inspiring journey, his groundbreaking technological endeavors, and his aspirations for establishing impactful relationships, tune in to the Cedarville Stories Podcast.

https://share.transistor.fm/s/b4730948

In the coming years, the names of Phil and Pam Black may fade from memory, but their profound influence on young Christian men and women will leave a lasting mark on the kingdom of Christ.

Throughout their 51 years of marriage, the Blacks have worked side by side to raise a family, serve their local church, run a business, and support various charitable causes. Whether leading medical teams on numerous missions to Ghana or contributing to the establishment of One Bistro, a ministry dedicated to eradicating hunger and sharing the hope of Jesus in Xenia, Ohio, their focus has always been on helping those in need.

Following the example set by Jesus, Phil and Pam prioritize showing love and compassion to others, a lesson instilled in them by their own parents many years ago. They have dedicated themselves to mentoring and supporting those around them, opening their home to visiting missionaries and offering a haven to students from Cedarville University.

Phil, who worked as a pharmacist for over 30 years, viewed his profession as a form of ministry, using it to meet the needs of those in pain and suffering. His partnership with former Cedarville University president Paul Dixon led to the establishment of the University's esteemed School of Pharmacy, ensuring that Cedarville's Christian impact would spread globally.

The legacy of Phil and Pam Black's selfless devotion to serving others in the name of Jesus continues to inspire those around them. To learn more about this remarkable couple and their unwavering commitment to the Lord, tune in to the latest episode of the Cedarville Stories Podcast.

https://share.transistor.fm/s/2ac86022

In this episode of the Cedarville Stories Podcast, we delve into the remarkable journey and unwavering dedication of Dr. Daniel Estes, Distinguished Professor of Old Testament at Cedarville University. 

From teaching multiple generations of the same family to completing a doctoral degree at prestigious Cambridge University, Dr. Estes has left an indelible mark on the academic world and beyond. 

Growing up in rural New York, Estes was shaped by the influence of faithful Christian mentors who instilled in him the values of perseverance and devotion. His father, a pastor and avid runner, taught him the importance of endurance, while a senior saint shared her passion for prayer, leaving a lasting impact on his life. Additionally, the late Dr. James T. Jeremiah, former president at Cedarville, served as a patient mentor and role model to him. 

These formative experiences have shaped Estes into the person he is today, dedicated to being a blessing to others and making a difference for the Gospel.
 

As a professor, Estes not only imparts bold truths of Scripture to his students but also spends hours praying for them and encouraging them to reach their goals. His humility and enduring commitment serve as a source of inspiration for Cedarville students as they navigate their academic and spiritual journeys. 

Tune in to this episode to discover more about Dr. Daniel Estes' extraordinary life and the profound impact he continues to make at Cedarville University and beyond. 

https://share.transistor.fm/s/4183e129

Amid the sea of graduates preparing to receive degrees at Cedarville University stand four young men committed to defending freedom. Thaddeus Krueger, Matthew Crum, Brent Whitley, and John Thomson are on their way to becoming pilots in the United States Air Force. 

While completing their coursework at Cedarville these brave young men tackled the additional responsibilities of the Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corp (ROTC), necessitating early morning activity while the rest of the campus was sleeping. 

As a result of their hard work these men have been accepted into the highly competitive Air Force flight training program, putting them on a supersonic pathway to serving their country. 

They are excited by the promise of adventure, speed, travel, and being at the controls of multimillion-dollar equipment, but they are moved to the sky by their desire to protect the freedoms afforded to those fortunate enough to call the United States home. 

Motivated by their gratitude to God for the gifts of a free-market society, the right to worship Christ openly, the fair rule of law, and the still-possible American dream, these young men are prepared to give their all to ensure such blessings are available for generations to come. 

Discover the inspiring journey ahead for these young patriots on the Cedarville Stories Podcast. 

https://share.transistor.fm/s/b222ab15

In the often-murky world of Hollywood filmmaking, where violence, strong language, and other dark elements reign supreme, Parker Adams, a 2014 graduate of Cedarville University, is on a mission to illuminate the silver screen with hope and light. 

Witnessing the emerging efforts of Christian filmmakers during his student years, Parker knew he wanted to be a part of this transformative movement. 

After graduating with a degree in communication and making an unlikely break into the film industry, Parker created his own company, 1520 Creative, which specializes in the grueling monthslong process of editing film and sifting through hours and hours of footage to create a cohesive story that will resonate with moviegoers. 

Driven by a passion to spread hope through cinema, Parker understands the power of successful films to carry messages of faith to even the most resistant corners of the world. By contributing to box office hits, he opens doors for these messages to reach audiences in countries where other forms of evangelism are restricted. 

Parker’s journey has allowed him to contribute to the success of several major films including, Woodlawn, I Still Believe, A Week Away, Ordinary Angels, and, most recently, Unsung Hero. 

To delve deeper into Parker's mission of rewriting the narrative of hope, light, and redemption for the big screen, tune in to the Cedarville Stories Podcast. 

In the halls of Capitol Hill, among the throng of suits and ties, one Ohioan stands out - Benjamin Mays, a legislative correspondent for Iowa Senator Chuck Grassley. Hailing from Middletown, Ohio, Benjamin found his calling in the heart of Washington, D.C., but his journey to the nation's capital began with a pivotal visit to Cedarville University. 

As a high school senior, Benjamin stepped onto Cedarville's campus, where he first learned about the D.C. Semester program. This unique opportunity, offering a blend of classroom learning and real-world experience in politics, sealed his decision to pursue political science at Cedarville. 

During his semester in D.C., Benjamin interned in the office of Ohio Representative Warren Davidson, gaining firsthand insight into the intersection of national policy and local communities. Serving constituents who were also his neighbors, he witnessed the tangible impact of government on everyday lives. 

Inspired by Rep. Davidson's Christian values guiding his legislative work, Benjamin recognized the vital role of faith in shaping political decisions. Armed with this perspective, he graduated with a degree in political science and joined Sen. Grassley's office, determined to make a difference. 

For Benjamin, government service is more than just a career - it's a calling to embody Christian principles in the political arena. With a firm belief that God's presence is needed now more than ever in policy-making, he intends to stay in public service as long as he can, advocating for integrity and compassion in governance. 

Tune in to the Cedarville Stories podcast to hear Benjamin's inspiring journey, from Cedarville to Capitol Hill, and his unwavering commitment to bringing faith into the heart of politics. 

https://share.transistor.fm/s/30de62b6

God’s plan for the journey is often unexpected and this is certainly true for Cedarville University junior, Aaron Perry. Having played soccer for more than a decade, Aaron learned to equate running with discipline. Poor performance on the field or in practice meant running laps, sprints, or stairs. Yet after participating in a marathon during his senior year in high school, running changed for Aaron--from punishment to passion.

Since that first marathon, Aaron has allowed his runners high to guide his path along the trails he pounds and to stoke his entrepreneurial fire.

Having completed numerous long-distance runs, including a Rim to Rim run of the Grand Canyon, an ultra-marathon, and a half-ironman triathlon in the wilds of Maine, Aaron knows what runners need. He has taken that hard-earned knowledge and combined it with his drive as a young entrepreneur to create his company, Ultra Lyte Running.

Aaron’s desire is to grow his company with excellence and integrity to earn an audience for sharing the gospel.

His time as a finance major at Cedarville under the expert instruction of Dr. Kary Oberbrunner, Assistant Professor of Entrepreneurship, combined with his drive to cross the finish line will undoubtedly lead Aaron on a trail to success.

Join us on the Cedarville Stories Podcast to hear Aaron share more about his passion and purpose.

https://share.transistor.fm/s/55aa6e01

Two Cedarville University freshman students share a remarkable journey that has only deepened their faith and friendship.  

Hannah Woller and Sophia Delp share an extraordinary bond that began as infants—even though they were unaware at that time. Both students were left on the doorstep of an orphanage in China just days after their births. A few years later, in 2005, 18 families from the United States, unbeknownst to one another, adopted daughters from the Hunan province in China. Among them were Hannah and Sophia, who were born within six months of each other and placed into their new parents' arms on the same day, in the same room. 

In this heartwarming narrative, we explore the profound connection between Hannah and Sophia, who consider themselves sisters by heart rather than by blood. Despite growing up in different states, their bond remained unbroken, strengthened by annual reunions organized by their adoptive families, fondly referred to as the "Yueyang family." These gatherings, marked by shared traditions and heartfelt camaraderie, serve as a testament to the enduring power of love and familial ties.  

As Hannah pursues a degree in biology with a premed emphasis, she draws inspiration from her family's journey of adopting two more girls from China, instilling in her a deep passion for helping others through the medical field. Meanwhile, Sophia chose business management for its adaptability and her innate ability to work collaboratively with others.  

Despite the challenges of adoption, Hannah and Sophia find solace and strength in their shared faith and the unwavering support of each other. As they navigate their college years at Cedarville University, their bond continues to thrive, offering comfort and companionship in their daily lives.  

Tune in to discover the transformative power of sisterhood, resilience, and the unbreakable ties that bind us together, even across continents and years. 

https://share.transistor.fm/s/f8a2e105

Debbie Matheson 

Unearthing Hope: Debbie Matheson's Unexpected Journey 

Join us for an inspiring episode as we delve into the remarkable story of Debbie Matheson, whose passion for gardening is rivaled only by her dedication to serving the most vulnerable in Greene County, Ohio. 

While tending her half-acre of fruits and vegetables, Debbie's life takes a remarkable turn as the executive director of Violence Free Futures. In this role, she navigates the complexities of domestic violence and other harrowing situations, relying on God's strength and wisdom every step of the way. 

With over three decades of experience, Debbie's journey has been fraught with challenges, from confronting domestic abuse to aiding survivors of sexual assault. Yet, through it all, she remains steadfast in her commitment to caring for others, drawing on the techniques she learned as a social work major at Cedarville University and her unwavering faith in Jesus. 

Tune in to discover how Debbie's unexpected path has become a beacon of hope and resilience in her community, inspiring us all to embrace compassion and make a difference where it's needed most. 

https://share.transistor.fm/s/cfd9740a 

In a remarkable journey shaped by a childhood missions trip to Guatemala, Brianna Pacecca discovered her passion for sharing the gospel and providing clean water to those in need. Little did she anticipate that her academic pursuit in civil engineering would become a powerful tool for making a difference in the lives of people in third-world countries. 

During her college years at Cedarville University, Brianna's trajectory was further defined by an impactful internship with Samaritan’s Purse, focusing on water and sanitation initiatives. This experience not only reinforced her commitment to addressing crucial global challenges but also ignited a deep conviction that her engineering skills could be a vessel for connecting people with the message of hope found in Jesus. 

As Brianna stands on the brink of graduating from Cedarville, her journey takes an exciting turn. A month after receiving her diploma, she will embark on a new chapter, marrying her college sweetheart and relocating to northern Ohio, where both have engineering positions awaiting them. Their shared aspiration is clear: gain valuable experience, alleviate personal debts, and ultimately transition into a life of service as missionaries. 

Join us in this inspiring episode as Brianna reflects on her transformative journey, revealing how a childhood calling has led her to blend engineering expertise with compassion, creating a path that transcends borders and brings hope to those in need. 

https://share.transistor.fm/s/9c9e5ab4

Welcome to a touching episode of the Cedarville Stories Podcast, where we bring you the inspiring journey of Caroline Abdelmassih, a student in Cedarville University's Doctor of Pharmacy program.  

Home for Caroline has always been in Egypt, but her pursuit of education brought her across the world to Cedarville University. This wasn't just any journey — it was a miraculous one. 

In this heartfelt conversation, Caroline reveals the challenges she faced, from the distance from her family to the daunting cost of the doctoral program. With uncertainty looming, prayers were lifted, and just two weeks before the academic year in 2023 began, the Lord intervened with a miraculous full-ride scholarship from an anonymous donor, complete with housing and food. Passport and airline ticket? God provided those, too, just in time for her to come to the United States. 

Now, having completed one of her eight semesters, Caroline reflects on the cultural adjustments and the daily reliance on the Lord's strength, which, true to form, He continues to provide.  

Join us this week as Caroline shares her remarkable journey of faith, resilience, and the divine orchestration that brought her to Cedarville. Learn how she plans to use her education to make a meaningful impact back home in Egypt after graduation.  

Caroline’s story is one of miracles, perseverance, and the unwavering belief that God can make a way even when it seems impossible. Tune in to be inspired by Caroline's incredible Cedarville story. 

https://share.transistor.fm/s/776901f3 

In the heart of the village of Cedarville, Bob and Jenny Czerniak embarked on a heartfelt journey to transform an ancient schoolhouse into a haven of cherished family memories. 

Dating back to the 1800s, the schoolhouse stood as a relic of bygone eras, untouched for decades. Yet, with determination and love, Bob and Jenny envisioned a new chapter, crafting a cozy family abode with a special space for Jenny's mother — which never happened, as she suddenly passed away. 

This one-year project, according to Bob’s timeline, extended into three, but every moment was steeped in nostalgia and joy. Bob fondly recalls working with his father, salvaging aged floorboards from an Indiana home to grace their sunlit sanctuary in Cedarville — now known as “Dad’s Room.” Together, they laid each plank, a testament to their shared love and labor. Tragically, Bob's father passed away a few days later, leaving behind memories etched in the wood and Bob's heart. 

Throughout the journey, Jenny's father, battling Alzheimer's, found solace in witnessing the transformation, his joy fresh with each visit, even if he couldn't remember the last. In moments of sorrow and setbacks, the schoolhouse stood as a beacon of hope and resilience for their family. 

As the project nears its end, amidst both tears and triumphs, the schoolhouse stands as more than just a building — it's a lighthouse of love, legacy, and the enduring bonds of family. 

https://share.transistor.fm/s/51ef8a13 

In a remarkable journey from accounting to advocacy, Matt Martens has defied the traditional narrative. Initially anticipating a career in law, Martens never envisioned becoming an author, let alone one recognized with awards. His accounting degree, initially viewed as a safeguard for legal success, unexpectedly became an asset. This expertise empowered him to adeptly cross-examine accounting experts, turning potential setbacks into triumphs for his clients. 

Completing his Juris Doctorate at the University of North Carolina marked the inception of Martens' legal journey. A pivotal clerkship under former Chief Justice William Rehnquist of the United States Supreme Court set the stage for his impactful career. As he thrived in the legal realm, encouragement from friends and biblical leaders led Martens to explore his insights into the criminal justice system, a subject he intimately understood from his experiences in D.C. courtrooms. 

The result was Reforming Criminal Justice: A Christian Perspective, a book that not only reflected Martens' intellectual depth but also earned accolades. Recognized as the top book in the "first-time" author category by The Gospel Coalition, it underscored the relevance of Martens' Christian perspective on criminal justice. 

Today, Martens travels the country, engaging with students from diverse educational backgrounds. From renowned institutions like Harvard and the University of Michigan to Cedarville University, he shares his experiences, speaking to those intrigued by history, politics, and criminal justice.  

Matt Martens' journey exemplifies the transformative power of unexpected paths and God’s profound impact on one individual who is helping reshape conversations in justice and the law. 

https://share.transistor.fm/s/6e3457c0

Welcome to another episode of Cedarville Stories, where we explore the unique initiatives and stories that make Cedarville University stand out. Today, we dive into the inspiring collaboration between two seasoned professors, Dr. Ruth Sylvester and Dr. Lori Ferguson. 

Dr. Sylvester, originally from sunny southern Florida, and Dr. Ferguson, from nearby Xenia, Ohio, both brought rich teaching backgrounds to Cedarville University. Despite their distinct paths, they've forged a powerful partnership with a shared mission. 

In this episode, we unravel the story behind "Symbiotica," a groundbreaking plan and curriculum crafted by Dr. Sylvester and Dr. Ferguson. Symbiotica is more than an academic venture; it's a dynamic approach to preparing the next generation of educators at Cedarville. 

Focused on the unique realm of homeschool education, Symbiotica aims to equip early childhood education majors with real-world experiences. Simultaneously, it provides homeschooled students with a classroom experience infused with biblical teachings, extending beyond the confines of their homes. 

Join us as we explore the inception, goals, and potential impact of Symbiotica. Less than a year old, this innovative program already holds promise to serve as a national model for colleges and universities seeking to blend academic rigor with practical, biblical, and real-world applications. 

For Dr. Sylvester and Dr. Ferguson, Symbiotica embodies a win-win scenario, creating a symbiotic relationship among themselves that benefits students, educators, and the future of education.  

https://share.transistor.fm/s/46014863

In the realm of social work, Melissa Brown faces the complexities of life head-on, witnessing struggles that occasionally touch her heart. Yet, it's her servant’s heart and unwavering faith in Jesus that serve as guiding lights, leading her to care for others through simple gestures — a conversation, a hug, or a prayer. 

A few years back, a unique opportunity knocked on Melissa and her husband Tom's door — a chance to care for a young Chinese boy bearing severe burns from an unfortunate accident. Seeking treatment in the United States, the boy needed more than medical attention; he needed a home and a family. Without hesitation, Melissa, Tom, and their three children welcomed Joey into their lives. Originally planned as a short visit, circumstances unfolded, extending Joey's stay amidst the global chaos of COVID. 

As Joey eventually returned to his parents in China, the need for ongoing medical care brought him back to the United States. Faced with the challenge of his living arrangements, Joey's biological parents turned to Melissa's family, not just for temporary care during treatments but to ask a profound question— would they officially adopt Joey? 

After heartfelt conversations within the family, not everyone initially favored the idea of adoption. With prayerful consideration, Melissa and Tom sensed a divine calling to embrace Joey into their family permanently, initiating the adoption process. 

Now, Melissa, Tom, and their expanded family of four children navigate the nuances of life together. It's not always a smooth path, but Melissa, with an unwavering trust in Jesus, believes that, over time, the hand of God will be evident through this remarkable journey. 

https://share.transistor.fm/s/08371417

Welcome to a captivating episode of "Faith on Film," where we delve into the heart of Christian storytelling with our dynamic guest, Scott Mills. Get ready to be inspired as we explore the transformative power of the new wave in Christian filmmaking. 

In this energizing conversation, Scott takes us on his journey from Cedarville University graduate in broadcasting to CEO of Engage Media Partners, a prominent player in the Christian film marketing realm. We uncover Scott's pivotal role in marketing blockbuster hits like Fireproof and Courageous, witnessing the surge of interest in Christian films. 

Discover the behind-the-scenes magic as Scott shares the inside story of Journey to Bethlehem, the groundbreaking Christian musical by Affirm Films and Sony Pictures. Tune in to learn how this film exemplifies the evolution of Christian storytelling, incorporating realism and nuanced messages, setting new standards for faith-based cinema. 

As Scott reflects on the impact of Christian filmmaking, he emphasizes the potential for students, especially those at Cedarville, to shape the future of the industry. Unveil the secrets of storytelling that honor God and leave a lasting impression. Don't miss this compelling episode that celebrates the art of filmmaking and the profound influence it has on hearts and minds. 

https://share.transistor.fm/s/63a19ac9

In the heart of Cleveland, Ohio, where the battle cries of sports echo through the city, Fred Greetham learned early on to cherish two words: play ball. Growing up in the shadows of Cleveland's iconic teams— the Browns, the Guardians (formerly Indians), and the Cavaliers —Fred's love for sports became a defining chapter of his life. 

As a college student donning the Yellow Jackets' baseball jersey at Cedarville University, Fred aimed to be more than a player on the field. His playbook included deepening his faith in Jesus and laying the groundwork for a career in the sports arena. The dream? Professional baseball. 

Fred's college stats spoke volumes — finishing with a remarkable .407 batting average and stealing 86 bases in 90 attempts. These numbers, usually a ticket to the pros, earned him a different recognition: a spot in Cedarville's Athletic Hall of Fame. 

Post-graduation, Fred's journey took unexpected turns. From the baseball diamond to the classroom, then pivoting to financial planning, he remained vigilant, seeking opportunities to leverage his communication skills in the realm of sports commentary. Today, he's a regular voice on Cleveland radio stations, covering the NFL Browns. 

Life, however, also threw him some curveballs.  

Facing his own battle with cancer, Fred's resilience mirrored his stolen bases — swift and unyielding. Yet, his daughter's health crisis, in his eyes, eclipsed his own struggles. Through the trials, Fred's unwavering faith in Jesus sustained him, guiding him through each day, and inspiring his commentary on the Browns' relentless pursuit of a Super Bowl victory. 

In the grand arena of life, Fred Greetham embodies the fusion of sportsmanship and faith, where every play is a testament to perseverance, and every challenge met with an unwavering trust in a higher purpose. 

https://share.transistor.fm/s/90f78419

Sierra Bognear, a young woman with a penchant for surprises, astounded her family, excluding her brother Travis, by winning the title of Miss Michigan in 2015. 

Her decision to vie for the Miss Michigan crown, despite having no prior beauty pageant experience, remained a well-guarded secret. What added an extra layer of astonishment was her covert journey to New York for coaching by a pageant expert, unbeknownst to her family. 

The revelation of Sierra's victory over the phone left her family in disbelief. Following the initial shock and her mother's dismay at not being present during the pageant, the entire family rallied to celebrate Sierra's remarkable success. 

For Sierra, the true significance of her achievement went beyond the tiara — she found fulfillment in sharing her faith and offering prayers, even with contestants of different religions. 

Transitioning from pageantry, Sierra carved out a successful career in modeling with NIKE and the entertainment industry. However, a shift occurred when health challenges within her family prompted Sierra to discern her calling in healthcare. 

During these health concerns, Sierra noticed people wearing white coats were helping patients and she wanted to be part of the solution as well.  

Embarking on a journey that led her to the University of Michigan Medical Center in Ann Arbor, Sierra eventually redirected her path to pursue a four-year degree in Cedarville University's pharmacy program. Her pursuit will culminate in a Doctor of Pharmacy degree in May 2027. 

 https://share.transistor.fm/s/0552b72d

"Amazing Grace" is not just a cherished hymn of the faith, but it’s also the nickname of an incredible athlete, possibly the most decorated one to emerge from Cedarville University. Grace Norman has secured gold, silver, and bronze medals in two recent Paralympics, and in 2024, she aims for the gold in the paratriathlon in Paris. 

Despite her international athletic prowess, Grace attributes her stability and success to her unwavering faith in Jesus. Born without a right foot and left big toe, she defied all expectations, excelling at Legacy Christian High School and later at Cedarville University. The support of her family, treating her just like her two sisters, has provided a sense of normalcy in her life. 

Now with the 2024 Paralympics in the coming months, Grace and her family are preparing for another opportunity for Grace to stand on the winner’s podium after the paratriathlon and hear the national anthem of the United States. 

In this episode, Grace and her father, Dr. Tim Norman, a senior professor of engineering at Cedarville University, open up about their journey, sharing poignant stories of personal development amid trials and triumphs. 

https://share.transistor.fm/s/baeef356

In a career spanning two decades in the United States Air Force, Col. Thompson served in the esteemed Judge Advocate General's Corps (JAG) under the leadership of four U.S. presidents — George W. Bush, Barack Obama, Donald Trump, and Joe Biden. While he may not have risked his career in a dramatic trial a la A Few Good Men, Col. Thompson's unwavering confidence and strategic brilliance were a constant presence in the courtroom. 

But his story goes beyond the confines of the courtroom. When international conflicts loomed, Col. Thompson stood on high alert, providing sage legal advice during critical moments. From navigating increased tension with North Korea to playing a pivotal role in preparing for the fallout of relocating the U.S. Embassy to Jerusalem, his commitment to duty shone brightly. 

Throughout it all, Col. Thompson leaned on his faith in Jesus, guiding him to share wise counsel and stand confidently in the face of challenges. He noticed distinct leadership styles among the U.S. presidents he served under but observed a common thread in military actions. 

In this episode, we uncover the intricacies of Col. Thompson's courtroom experiences, from litigating and defending clients facing serious accusations to providing crucial legal advice to senior officers during times of international conflict. Today, he has seamlessly transitioned from the courtroom to the classroom, bringing his wealth of knowledge to Cedarville University's criminal justice program. 

Don't miss this compelling episode of Cedarville Stories. Tune in to hear the captivating narrative of Col. Greg Thompson — a man whose life has been marked by service, faith, and an unyielding commitment to justice. 

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Under his guidance, Cedarville’s Model United Nations team has consistently achieved excellence, earning the title of Outstanding Delegation at the national competition in New York City. Dr. Jenista's commitment to fostering a global mindset extends beyond the classroom, as he actively promoted study abroad and internship opportunities across various schools and departments at Cedarville. 

Our conversation highlights the remarkable success of Cedarville’s Model United Nations team, a testament to Dr. Jenista's enduring impact. We also feature the achievements of one of his former students, Jerica (Ward) Lamar ’09, a former diplomat in Kenya. Jerica was recognized as the 2019 Young Alumna of the Year. 

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In this episode, we delve into the inspiring journey of Dr. Frank Jenista, former professor of international studies at Cedarville University. Dr. Jenista's early life was marked by a nomadic existence, having attended 13 schools in 12 years as the son of missionary parents in the Philippines. Upon arriving at Cedarville, he found not just an academic institution but a supportive community that became a steadfast anchor in his life. 

Despite Cedarville lacking an Asian studies major during Dr. Jenista's tenure, his professors tailored a curriculum that uniquely equipped him for a distinguished career in public service. From his roots in the Philippines to becoming a U.S. diplomat, Dr. Jenista's story is a testament to the transformative power of education and the unwavering support of a nurturing community. 

Dr. Jenista also shares insights from his extensive career, spanning roles in Japan, Indonesia, New Zealand, South America, and the Philippines. His dedication to public service and his contributions to Philippine-American history, exemplified in his book White Apos: American Governors on the Cordillera Central, make for a compelling narrative of a life lived well. 

Join us as we explore the remarkable journey of Dr. Frank Jenista, a testament to the enduring impact of education, mentorship, and a sense of community. 

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Embark on a daring odyssey with Thomas Hamilton, as he, along with two brothers and nephew Ben Clark, opts for a glorified rowboat to conquer the relentless forces of the Atlantic Ocean.  

Picture this: 3,000 miles from the tip of Africa to the Caribbean Island of Antiqua, facing 20-foot waves, relentless sprays of salt, hunger, and scorching heat. This isn't your typical ocean cruise — it's a test of endurance, perseverance, and faith. 

In the heart of the tempest, Thomas and his crew will navigate the unpredictable waters, forging bonds of brotherhood and confronting the raw elements. This audacious journey, set to kick off in mid-December, may stretch up to seven weeks, dictated by the whims of the weather. 

For the Hamilton brothers and Ben, this isn't just an adventure; it's a crucible of personal development, sibling camaraderie, and spiritual renewal. Brace yourself for the most impactful voyage of their lives. 

Don your virtual life preserver and join us on this podcast as we navigate the treacherous waters of the Atlantic Ocean with Thomas Hamilton. And fear not, as he's pledged to return to share the tales of their 3,000-mile conquest once the adventure concludes. 

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Mr. Cedarville 

From a young age, Dave Ormsbee immersed himself in athletic competition, regardless of the season. Although not the star player on his high school football team, his passion for sports endured. 

A turning point arrived when a new coach entered the scene during his junior year. Just over a year away from graduating from a small high school in Northeast Ohio, Dave found himself drawn to events hosted by Athletes in Action. Beyond the athletic appeal, these gatherings ignited a profound connection with the Gospel of Jesus Christ. 

Already active in his church, Dave deepened his commitment and embraced a follower's journey with Jesus. Influenced by his football coach, a Cedarville University alumnus, Dave decided to pursue his education at Cedarville. 

While his athletic pursuits reached their peak in high school, Dave's spiritual journey flourished at Cedarville. A year after graduating, he returned to Cedarville, where he has predominantly worked for the past 45 years. 

Dave shares his life's narrative, filled with both joys and sorrows, on this week's Cedarville Stories Podcast. 

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Philip began serving as senior pastor at The Moody Church in downtown Chicago in July 2020. He follows in the footsteps of 16 legendary men of God, including long-time Cedarville friend and guest chapel speaker Dr. Warren Wiersbe, whose personal library is housed in the Warren and Betty Wiersbe Library and Reading Room at the Center for Biblical and Theological Studies.  

 
Philip’s first inclination was not ministry. His grandfather served as a pastor, and the struggles he faced caused Philip to pause. He resisted the Lord’s urgings toward ministry as a high schooler, but he was moved toward his calling during his undergraduate days at Cedarville. While here, he met his wife, Krista, who is also a 2004 graduate.   

 
Philip graduated from Cedarville and pursued further training at Dallas Theological Seminary. He was ordained at Stonebriar Community Church in Frisco, Texas, in 2010. From 2013 to last year, he served at Westwood Baptist Church in Olympia, Washington.   

 
“Cedarville has a special place in my heart because it’s where I was first grounded in the Bible in terms of my education,” he shared with Cedarville University public relations in 2020. “This is God’s story. He is the author and perfecter of our lives and histories. We’re just looking forward to the adventure!” 

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Join us on this heartfelt episode as we dive into a season of gratitude and miracles! Our special guest, Dr. Michael McKay, Assistant Professor of Biblical Theology, and his wife, Lee-Ann, share their riveting life-threatening journey that brings a heartfelt appreciation and thankfulness to the McKay family. 

Picture a chill on a Saturday morning in June — Michael thought it was just the usual morning creaks and groans. Little did he know he was on the verge of a journey that could claim his life. Suddenly, his left leg went numb, and he needed to slide down the steps from his second-floor to get help from Lee-Ann.  

Off they zoomed to Greene Memorial Hospital in Xenia, Ohio, suspecting Michael had experienced a stroke. However, the CT chest scan revealed a much scarier plotline — a dissected aorta and a quick trip by ambulance to Kettering Medical Center in Kettering, Ohio, for emergency surgery. 

During the 10-hour surgery that was performed by Dr. Peter Pavlina and his dream team of medical professionals, Michael survived the medical odds and survived the surgery. As family and friends prayed for Michael and his family, he was making a triumphant recovery, that two months later would see him return to the classroom at Cedarville University.  

In his own words, "By all the statistics, I should be dead." But here he is, chatting with Cedarville public relations, declaring, "I'm in the bonus round." Get ready for a rollercoaster of emotions as we unpack this incredible journey of faith, resilience, and a touch of divine luck! 

Beyond his academic pursuits, Dr. Clevenger is the driving force behind his successful art business, Clevenger Fine Art, where he showcases his remarkable watercolor creations, including original artwork and lithographic prints. However, at the core of his multifaceted life lies a profound commitment to the Great Commission. Dr. Clevenger is a dedicated disciple maker, channeling his efforts into nurturing students to utilize their gifts for the greater glory of God—an embodiment of eternal intentionality.

In this podcast, Dr. Clevenger delved into the profound concept of the cultural mandate, drawing inspiration from Genesis 1:28. Additionally, he illuminated the Christian perspective on a cultural mandate for the mind, as outlined in Philippians 4:8.

A poignant highlight of Dr. Clevenger's career was his transformative experience teaching Macy McClain, who, despite being blind since birth, learned to play the piano under his guidance—an indelible testament to his passion for inspiring and uplifting others through the power of education and art.

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Join us in this episode as we uncover the artistry and passion behind the landscapes of Cedarville University with Paul Ware, a true maestro of flowers and landscaping. Paul's journey began with a revelation during a graduate program at Western Michigan University, where he discovered his deep love for the outdoors and landscaping. 

For the past 46 years, Paul has meticulously designed and nurtured stunning flower beds across Cedarville's campus, and his work will greet every visitor who drives onto campus through the main entrance. His precision is unparalleled—he's been known to use a tape measure to ensure each flower finds its perfect home in the soil. Paul sees his work as a collaborative symphony with colleagues, including faculty, admissions storytellers, and dedicated staff, all contributing to the beauty that enhances Cedarville's natural surroundings. 

Discover how Paul's creations, adorning University Boulevard year-round with vibrant flowers and hanging baskets, play a crucial role in recruiting students. As Paul reflects, his goal is to inspire students to graduate and positively impact the world for Jesus Christ. Tune in for a blooming conversation with a true artist of the outdoors." 

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On this enlightening episode, lace up your basketball shoes or hiking boots, as we delve into the incredible journey of Cedarville’s men’s basketball team during their 80-mile, 12-day missions trip to Israel.  

This journey, called “Walking the Story,” aimed to blend spiritual, physical, and mental development for the athletes and coaches. Head coach Pat Estepp shares the behind-the-scenes logistics, emphasizing the collaboration with the Global Outreach team and John Farwell, the leader of the trip from Athletes in Action. 

The team's itinerary reads like a biblical adventure, exploring landmarks including the Wilderness of Zin, the Dead Sea Scrolls, En Gedi, Mt. Arbel, the Sea of Galilee, and Jerusalem. In this podcast, coach Estepp expresses his desire for the Bible to come alive for his coaches and players, turning a believer's bucket list into a spiritual revival.  

Listen as Pat Estepp and Jacob Drees, a powerful 6-7 forward on the Yellow Jackets’ team, reflect on pivotal moments, including the profound impact of individual prayers in the Garden of Gethsemane and the heartwarming connection with the family of their Muslim bus driver over a traditional Palestinian dinner.  

As you listen to this inspiring program, you’ll discover how this transformative journey brought the Bible to life, leaving an indelible mark on both players and the communities they encountered. 

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One can scarcely imagine the profound impact a small act of kindness can have on transforming lives. In the expansive canvas of southern California, a solitary gesture from an unexpected stranger has etched an enduring mark, especially in the life of Richard—a young soul forsaken by society, unfairly stigmatized as a drug addict, deemed undeserving of time or resources. 

Contrary to the misguided assumptions, Richard was not enslaved by substances; he was simply a boy navigating the streets of LA, yearning for love, acceptance, sustenance, and a path back to his family. And then came Jodie Lee Patterson, a compassionate person prepared for ministry with a Bible certificate earned decades ago from Cedarville University. 

On a chilly day in a Los Angeles suburb, much like any other day, Jodie Lee crossed paths with Richard. However, in a swift realization of a divine calling, she made a decisive U-turn. With a gentle press of her finger, she rolled down the window, initiating a channel of communication with the young man. 

Intrigued by this unexpected outreach, Richard cautiously engaged in a conversation that unfolded into a pivotal moment—he relished his first proper meal in months, and his worn feet found solace in new shoes. 

Fast forward to today, and Richard has been joyfully reunited with his family, while Jodie Lee persists in her mission to care for the marginalized in southern California. Her life's purpose is crystal clear: to spread the love of Jesus, one person at a time. 

For a more in-depth exploration of this heartening narrative, tune in to this week’s Cedarville Stories Podcast, and be inspired by the remarkable journey of Jodie Lee Patterson. 

You may not recognize him at an area mall, but there may not be a more recognizable voice in Christian radio than Wayne Shepherd, who got his first break in radio while studying broadcasting at Cedarville College. 

From an early age, Wayne knew that he wanted to work in radio. He just didn’t know in what capacity. Would he be a producer? Write ad copy for the talented radio hosts? Or, could he be a radio host? 

It wasn’t until his voice changed around 12 years of age that he realized his calling could be in front of the microphone talking with listeners all over the world. And, the experiences he’s had during a remarkable 45-year career are astounding. 

From interviewing Christian leaders like Billy Graham and Luis Palau and interacting with George Beverly Shea, Wayne revels in the many opportunities the Lord has put in his path. 

He recalls meeting Graham in the Moody Radio network studio in Chicago and hearing the story of how he first met the famous singer for many of his crusades. And, today, part of that memory resides inside of Wayne’s residence as he was allowed to have the glass door to George Beverly Shea’s office door from his years at Moody Radio. 

Clearly, with a curiosity-driven mind, Wayne has lived his dream by influencing others through radio. From his start at Cedarville’s WCDR Radio to a life-long ministry with the Moody Radio Network, Wayne has faithfully kept listeners aware of world events. This was never more apparent when he and Mark Elfstrand kept their emotions in check so they could inform listeners of the 9/11 terrorist attack — and ask his listeners to pray for the country. 

Listen to hear Wayne share his story on the Cedarville Stories Podcast. 

Meredith (Wood) Docena was determined not to go to Cedarville University. She grew up in Springfield, Ohio, just 20 minutes from Cedarville’s campus. Her dad worked in the registrar’s office, and she knew she didn’t want to follow him there.  

But her love of soccer got in the way, and she went to Cedarville to become the varsity athlete she thought she deserved to be. But the Lord humbled her, placing her on the junior varsity bench.  

Even though Meredith was saved at the young age of six, she resisted living her life for the Lord. She sought after her athletic career, partying with friends, and ultimately living for herself.  

It was one New Year’s Eve that the Lord broke Meredith, and she surrendered everything to Him. She prayed the most dangerous prayer a believer can pray – “Use me.”  

The summer of her sophomore year, she went to the Philippines for a second time, volunteering at a Christian school. One afternoon, three starving boys walked into the school and tugged Meredith’s heart. She had only been in the Philippines for two months, but when she returned to Cedarville, she changed her major to social work and was determined to feed more hungry children overseas.  

Little did she know then that she would start her own orphanage, Obed’s House, that provides clothes and food to young children, while also ministering to their spiritual needs since its beginning in 2015.  

Listen to Meredith share her story on the Cedarville Story’s Podcast. 

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Jim and Teresa Clark were settled in Fort Wayne, Indiana. They had lived there for 21 years, had just bought their dream home, and were confident this was where the Lord wanted them.

But, although man may have plans, the Lord orders his steps. During a weekend visit to Cedarville University with their daughter during a Little Sibs Weekend, the Clarks got reacquainted with their alma mater. Teresa had often visited Cedarville with her high school volleyball teams that she coached in Fort Wayne. 

But this visit took a different turn than the rest. 

She was approached by Elvin King, the women’s cross-country coach, following a match, who asked her to follow him to Athletic Director Don Callan’s office. There, Teresa was asked to apply for the head volleyball coach position — which was currently vacant. 

Even though she and Jim, were not convinced Cedarville University was where the Lord was leading them, she applied. Teresa even came for an on-campus interview, which she felt went poorly.

But the Lord opened a door for the Clarks. Jim secured a position in the admissions department while Teresa was leading the Yellow Jackets volleyball team. And, now, 27 years later, the Clarks have left quite the legacy. Teresa currently serves as the faculty-athletics representative, and Jim is the assistant sports information director.

And, when the school year concludes, they’ll depart Cedarville just as they entered it —together. 

Mark, who serves as Cedarville’s sports information director, graduated from Cedarville in 1982 with a bachelor’s degree in mathematics. His student-athlete experience was outstanding, as he played on the men’s basketball team and golf team, both of which played in two National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics national tournaments.

Whether Cedarville went to one of those tournaments pivoted on Mark’s jump shot. He made the last-second 15-foot swisher that sealed the victory over rival Defiance College that sent the Yellow Jackets to the 1981 NAIA tournament.

It’s one of the biggest wins in Cedarville history and was secured by a guy who didn’t really expect to take the shot. More about that in the podcast.

Mark’s famous jumper was the last field goal made in the old Tyler Gymnasium, which is now Tyler Digital Communication Center. Home games happened in Stranahan Gymnasium beginning in 1982, located in the new (at the time) Callan Athletic Center. 

Mark’s playing days were only the beginning of a lifetime connection with Cedarville athletics. He is currently in his 39th year as Cedarville’s one and only sports information director (SID). In 2000, the NAIA-Sports Information Directors Association awarded him the Clarence “Ike” Pearson Award for his outstanding achievements as a SID.  

Could Mark serve somewhere else? Perhaps. But this buzzer-beater has found his beat at Cedarville. He loves where the Lord has placed him — his former teammates are his forever friends who’ve been with him through thick and thin and he sees how God has provided him a way to make a difference through his passion for sports and for Cedarville.   

An unsolicited Facebook message from a total stranger would completely change Devin Robinson’s life. 

Devin grew up in a small town in South Berwick, Maine. He came to Cedarville in 1999, majoring in broadcasting. It was while he was hosting a radio show for WCDR Radio (now Resound Radio) that he heard news of the terrorist attacks on 9/11. By February of 2002, Devin was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the United States Air Force. 

While in the Air Force, Devin served in the office of special investigations in Washington, and he served a year with an Air Force band, Tops and Blue, traveling all over the globe. 

After returning to the states, Devin served as a deputy media relations officer for the presidential Air Force wing, a role that even allowed him to shake hands with President George W. Bush. 

He was then assigned to Seymour Johnson Air Force Base in Goldsboro, North Carolina, before transitioning to the inactive reserves. 

Devin decided to return to Cedarville to earn his MBA degree, joining the inaugural class in 2013.

But it was in 2019 that he received a Facebook message from a total stranger asking him to return to active duty and move to D.C. to become deputy public affairs officer for the Air National Guard. 

Unbeknownst to Devin at the time, he was about to take this job at the busiest time for the Air National Guard – the COVID-19 pandemic and the January 6 Capitol attack in 2021. 

Mark Klimek taught every nursing student at Cedarville University over his 38-year career before his retirement this summer. His NCLEX (National Council Licensure Examination) preparation courses have helped thousands of students at Cedarville, across the country, and around the world to pass the test to become registered nurses.

This tremendous legacy began in Youngstown, Ohio. Mark’s dad counseled his son to find a career where he would have job security, and the Lord has provided. He has served well in a number of nursing roles, but for the majority of his career, as an associate professor at the school where he long aspired to serve.

But for Mark, it isn’t about security, but about the one who provides security – the Lord Jesus. As a practicing nurse, he had the opportunity to be the hands and feet of Jesus, to be the listening ear of Jesus, and to be a proclaimer of the good news of Jesus.

As a professor, he has influenced hundreds of Cedarville nursing graduates to view their career as a way to glorify the Lord.

“What better profession could I show Christ in?” Mark shares during the podcast. “If you go through Christ’s life, what did He do? He fed people. We do that as nurses. He gave them something to drink. He talked to them about their fears and anxieties. He quieted them; He calmed them. He sat with them. He rejoiced with them. He cried with them. He laughed with them. Nurses do that all the time. And we get to work with the greatest machine designed by the greatest Creator ever.”

Listen to Mark share his story on the Cedarville Stories Podcast.

For the first time ever, the Cedarville Stories Podcast is hosting not one, not two, but five guests on this week’s episode. And it’s not common for a high school to send nine of its students to Cedarville University in the same year.  

But Bethesda Christian School in Brownsburg, Indiana did just that. Seth Bradley, Ellen Geimer, Ella Titus, Paige Vawter, Ian Whitehead, Eva Campbell, Jake Henry, Jenny Li, and Emma Spencer officially became Yellow Jackets this fall. 

When you listen to these students share their stories, a common theme rings through their answers—Cedarville is a special place. Whether they had a sibling pave the way or their campus visit had a tremendous impact, each of these Bethesda students knew they wanted to be a part of what was happening at Cedarville. 

For the parents, including Sara Vawter and Scott Bradley, this fall semester is bittersweet. While leaving a child at college is never easy, these parents have full confidence that their students will receive excellent education and intentional discipleship. 

Injuries and sports seem to go hand in hand. But repeated injuries can destroy an athlete’s career. And what Max Miller thought were minor muscles injuries turned out to be a chronic disorder that would change his life. 

It was Max’s dream to make it to the major leagues. He had a promising baseball career, playing all throughout high school in his West Virginia hometown.

But in 2019, during his sophomore year at Cedarville, Max began noticing nagging injuries like pulled muscles. These injuries wouldn’t heal, making baseball nearly impossible. This began a year-and-a-half-long journey of doctor visits and exploring potential diagnoses like ALS and muscular dystrophy. 

In that same year, Max was diagnosed with fibromyalgia, a chronic disorder that causes muscle pain throughout the body. This ended his baseball career, sending him into a dark season, wrestling with his faith and questioning God’s goodness.

But the Lord brought Max through this trying time, opening doors in exercise science and ultimately strengthening his faith. 

And now, three years later, Max serves as an assistant strength coach for a minor league team in the Boston Red Sox organization. While his baseball dreams didn’t amount to what he thought, he is having a significant impact on baseball players who might find themselves one day playing in the major leagues. 

Three months and one kidney later, beloved Cedarville professor Dr. Chuck Elliott is feeling better than he has in years, all thanks to thousands of answered prayers and the selfless sacrifice of his brother-in-law, Jon Enright, pastor of Troy Christian Chapel in suburban Detroit, Michigan. 

This road to good health for Chuck has been a long one with its ups and downs.

After years of misdiagnosed high blood pressure, Chuck was devastatingly diagnosed with kidney failure in May 2022. He quickly began dialysis to sustain his failing kidneys and this grueling process, which took nine hours every night, took a toll on his body.

His doctors told him he had one choice – to find a kidney donor. They advised him to ask for willing donors, but anyone who knows Chuck knows that he is a humble and modest man – not about to ask someone for such a sacrifice. 

But his students felt differently. 

As part of a class assignment, a group of students started the social media campaign, Deep Calls for Life, through which they educated people about organ donation and campaigned for a kidney for Dr. Elliott. 

After almost a year of nightly dialysis, Chuck received word that Jon was a match to donate a kidney. 

For Jon, this was not a difficult decision. He even went to great lengths to meet donor requirements, including losing 30 pounds.

After successful surgeries for both Chuck and Jon, Chuck is well on the road to recovery, feeling better than he has in years. 

Though not without its side-effects and immunity complications, this transplant has been life-changing for Chuck, and he is forever grateful for the support of his students, friends, and family.

He lives a life that is centered on relationships. This is what drives him personally, professionally, and spiritually.

Kevin Howells understands how the saving work of Jesus in his life transformed him into the leader he is today. And, as a member of the leadership team with Good News Jail and Prison Ministry, Kevin spends his days building new, and strengthening existing, relationships as the lead advancement officer.

Kevin is a special leader and a gifted fundraiser. It’s the stories of broken inmates turned prison chaplains that give meaning to the work he does. Kevin invites donors throughout the country to join in God’s work through Good News Jail and Prison ministry. He doesn’t view his role as asking for donations; rather, he considers it giving others the opportunity to participate in a life-changing ministry.

Not only has Kevin experienced rebirth in his own life and witnessed it in the lives of prisoners, he and his wife, Vanessa, have been privileged to see the Gospel in action through the adoption of their daughter, Mia, from Kazakhstan. Both Kevin and Vanessa, to this day, cherish every moment they get to build into the life of their now teenage daughter.

Between the adoption process, which was finalized in 2010, and the years Kevin has used to serve the Lord at Moody Bible Institute, Cedarville University, and now at Good News Jail and Prison Ministry, Kevin’s deepest desire is to serve others through transparent relationships and sharing the Gospel.

He embraces new challenges and the opportunities to make a difference, which he shares this week on the Cedarville Stories Podcast. 

Katie Perry wanted nothing more than to make the Cedarville Yellow Jackets softball team. She spent many evenings practicing with her parents in their yard. Her dreams came true when she made the roster in 2014. 

But after driving back to campus after a short weekend trip back home, she experienced a minor accident that caused her a number of injuries, forcing her to take a break from softball for an entire season.

Pursuing a doctoral degree in pharmacy at Cedarville, Katie ended her softball career early so she could put her full effort into being a successful graduate student. 

The bottom line was Katie didn’t want to fail in the rigorous Doctor of Pharmacy program. She had a vision to work at a large chain pharmacy, like Meijer, CVS, or Walgreens, and doing well in college was essential.

She passed with flying colors. 

After graduating from the pharmacy program and completing her residency at CedarCare  Village Pharmacy, Katie has found herself the owner of not one, but three hometown pharmacies. 

Through the mentorship of Dr. Jeff Bates, dean of the school of pharmacy, and Dr. Aleda Chen, assistant dean, Katie was more than prepared for what the Lord had in store for her. 

Now the mother of two children, Katie’s desire for her pharmacies is to care well for her patients regardless of their needs. 

Although she has been mistaken for the famous singer with the same name, she is thriving in her role as a pharmacy owner. Giving special care to all of her customers is paramount to her, including her newest customers at Cedarville Hometown Pharmacy. 

For many people, politics can be a divisive topic. But for state Senator John Arch of Nebraska, he believes it doesn’t have to be that way.

The father of two Cedarville graduates, Cameron and Nick Arch, John believes firmly in prioritizing his faith — even in the political context of the state legislature of Nebraska. 

But John didn’t always see himself as a politician. Originally, he was content to serve people through his role in healthcare. His leadership and influence in healthcare proved to be a valuable training for John in the political world — and the residents of Nebraska are the benefactors of his service.

In 2016, John was approached by a state senator who was at the end of his term. He encouraged John to enter the state legislature, and two years later, he ran uncontested. Now in his second term, John is the speaker of the legislature, serving as a facilitator of debate amongst members of the state senate. 

Even in this context, John has stood firm in his beliefs. He put his faith in Christ at a young age and has since sought to live out his faith daily, serving as an example for his two sons as well as his fellow senators. As he would say, living out your faith is what makes the difference.

Even though Christianity and politics don’t often mix well, John has sought to live out his faith no matter the cost. 

When an Army ROTC student and an aspiring college basketball player met on Cedarville’s baseball team, they would have never guessed they would one day co-author a children’s book.

But that’s exactly what Luke Freshwater and Nate Davenport have done, and the book is generating favorable reviews across the country. Nate, a 2013 alum, came to Cedarville with a hope of securing a roster spot on the Yellow Jacket men’s basketball team. During tryouts, however, Nate knew that he underperformed and missed any chance he had to play basketball at Cedarville. 

This disappointment was short-lived. Moments after leaving the basketball tryout, baseball coach Mike Manes put Nate through a baseball workout, and he hit it out of the park — literally. Then, as a member of Cedarville’s baseball team, he became one of the most prolific power hitters in university history, a fact that continues today as he still holds numerous offensive statistics, including most home runs and runs batted in.

With a stellar college baseball career in the books, Nate pursued professional baseball. He enjoyed great workouts with several teams, including the Atlanta Braves, but in the end, he was never drafted and ultimately turned down a semi-professional baseball contract to pursue God’s calling for his life.

His teammate, Luke, also had an unlikely start to Cedarville. A transfer ROTC student, he was part of the baseball team’s two greatest years. The two graduated and parted ways, Luke going overseas to serve his country in Afghanistan. It wasn’t until he returned to the U.S. that the two reconnected.   

After reconnecting, Nate had this idea for a children’s book about a bison who learned about bravery by running into a storm. But Nathan knew this idea came from Luke, who often talked about the analogy of braving the storm — just like bison do — instead of running away from it. 

So the two joined forces, and before they knew it. they were published with the leading children’s Christian publisher, Zonderkidz. 

What started as a vague, crazy idea in their sophomore year of college turned into a 1,000-mile bicycle ride they would never forget. Jonathan Viaud-Murat and Eli Wicker peddled from Cedarville, Ohio, to Keane, New Hampshire, just in time for a friend’s wedding. 

Why? Why not?

Jonathan, a 2023 mechanical engineering graduate, and Eli, a 2022 biology graduate, have been friends since their freshman year at Cedarville. Since those early years of their friendship, they’ve been talking about biking across America.

When the cross-country bike ride didn’t materialize, they opted to ride their bikes from Cedarville to a college friend’s wedding in New Hampshire. The trip was filled with memories they’ll always cherish. Eli and Jonathan, along with Jay Kinsinger, associate professor of mechanical and biomedical engineering, and Will Imfeld — the groom of the aforementioned wedding — set out on their journey. 

It wasn’t always smooth sailing for the Cedarville group. Early in the adventure, they experienced heavy rain. In fact, because of the rain, Jay’s e-bike lost power and he was forced to peddle 90 miles without any mechanical assistance from the typically reliable wooden e-bike that he made at Cedarville.  

The riders often slept wherever they could find a safe place to sleep. Sometimes it was in a stranger’s house, thanks to a bikers’ program called “Hot Showers.” If they weren’t sleeping in homes, they camped alongside the road or a nearby park. 

15 days after departing Cedarville, Jonathan and Eli made it to the wedding just in time to serve as groomsmen for Will.  And, when the wedding weekend concluded, the friendship that was formed as college freshmen was even stronger.

Not even rain, hills, or poor food options could dampen a relationship that will continue to grow throughout the years. And, their memories will last for a lifetime.  

Kary Oberbrunner was an angry kid who questioned God at every turn. But at the age of 12, he accepted Christ and wanted to grow in his faith. However, this didn’t end his doubts and debilitating battle with guilt that drove him to self-harm. 

It was a deep dive into the Psalms that started to turn Kary’s life around. The psalmist’s real struggles with faith encouraged him to journal — emptying his pain on the page — something he does to this day. 

When it came time to graduate high school, Kary was uncertain about what he wanted to do with his life or if he even wanted to attend college. Somewhat aimless, he decided to follow his high school girlfriend to Grace College, only to break up on their first day as college freshmen. 

Broken and confused, he stayed at Grace and with guidance from his peers and professors, he decided to pursue becoming a United States Air Force chaplain. Similar to his broken high school relationship, his dream of becoming a chaplain ended because he was turned away by the Air Force due to an asthma condition.

Still somewhat aimless, Kary graduated from college and soon thereafter earned a master’s degree from Grace Seminary. His theology education led him to become a pastor at a small country church in Ohio. 

But Kary felt stagnant. He was bored, so he pursued a doctorate degree and started writing books. His soul was ignited, and he quickly became a Wall Street Journal and USA Today bestselling author and the CEO of Igniting Souls Publishing Agency. 

Today, Kary continues to feed his entrepreneurial spirit by leading Igniting Souls and Blockchain Life businesses, but he’s also become the Berry Chair of Entrepreneurship for Cedarville’s Robert W. Plaster School of Business. 

A young David Carr didn’t know what he wanted to do with his life. He was a standout basketball player for Cedarville High School, and later at the local university.  

After graduating from Cedarville University in 1983 and marrying Stephanie Frank three days later, the couple moved to Tacoma, Washington, as David pursued a degree at Northwest Baptist Seminary.

He knew that he wanted to serve in ministry, but it wasn’t clear to him where the Lord was leading him until he heard a message from a guest speaker at the seminary that opened his eyes to an opportunity in the United States Air Force. After graduating from Northwest, David became a reserve chaplain for the United States Air Force. 

This led David and his family on a unique path that spanned 37 years until his retirement earlier this year. As a military chaplain, Col. David Carr ministered to men and women in some of their darkest moments, offering comfort that can only come from the Word of God. He brought spiritual strength and care to the military bases he served. 

And, as one could imagine, wartime provides a unique opportunity for chaplains to reach servicemen who are searching for life’s answers. That was the situation with David. He spent many hours sharing the truth of the Gospel and encouraging troops during their deployments.  

Starting as a young athlete who wasn’t sure about his future, Col. David Carr followed the leading of the Lord and served our country with distinction. You can hear David Carr’s inspiring journey on this week’s Cedarville Stories Podcast.  

Today's podcast is shared in memory of Coach Ken Erny, who passed away on Sunday, June 4, 2023 after a three-year battle with ALS.

Life can be messy, which coach Ken Erny, a 1978 graduate of Cedarville University, knew firsthand. 

Ken first learned the messiness of life as a member of the men’s tennis team. He withstood snow, rain, and 70-mile-per-hour winds during a tennis match in Michigan. But, he persevered and finished his match. Or the time when he broke his wrist on his way to another match, which ended his opportunity to play at the NAIA national tournament.

Those earliest experiences prepared Ken for embracing fresh unknown challenges, starting two brand-new soccer programs at high schools in Michigan. By 2020, Ken was looking ahead to retirement as he prepared his successor.

But that does not mean that Ken, who was serving as athletic director in Fruitport, Michigan, was slowing down at all. Sixty-to-seventy-hour work weeks were still common. And then came COVID-19, which brought Ken, and the rest of the world, to a hard stop. 

During the quiet of the pandemic, Ken was able to pay attention to a foot and leg problem that had plagued him for a while, but he simply brushed it off as a "small issue" and continued with his busy lifestyle. To Ken, it may have just been a back problem or a minor health ailment. 

After medical tests, the doctors' diagnosis revealed a far more devastating health concern--he had contracted amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. ALS is a progressive neurodegenerative disease, and there is no cure.  

Ken and his wife, Lori, who have trusted the Lord through the ups and downs of life for 44 years, embraced this struggle together. And, surrounded by the love of their supportive family and countless friends throughout the Fruitport, Michigan community, they persevered to the end.

Coach Ken Erny's battle ended on Sunday, June 4, 2023, but his inspiration through recorded messages to his wife, children, grandkids, and friends remains to this day. 

Today on this special Cedarville Stories Podcast, we go back into the archives to play the program with Ken that was recorded two years ago. It was an emotional program that included a cameo appearance by his college tennis coach, Dr. Murray Murdoch. 

And, in this program, you'll hear the courage from the coach and bits of wisdom that he is leaving with us today, including: “Life is messy, and yet we have a God who says He will come right alongside you. God promised to join you in the mess. He won’t leave you in spite of anything, and the future is so much better compared to what we’re going through now.”

So, in memory of coach Ken Erny, the Cedarville Stories Podcast team hopes you will enjoy this program. 

Well done, good and faithful servant!

Sage Showers has faced rejection. When she was seeking an internship in Washington, D.C., she heard a lot of 'Nos'. Undaunted, she kept going until she finally heard a 'Yes.' That one positive response has opened one door and perhaps many more doors yet to come.   

Showers is a junior political science major from Hammon, Oklahoma, who spent the fall participating in Cedarville's D.C. Semester, where students attend classes and participate in field-related internships. In the past, students have earned some high-profile postings, interning for the Department of Homeland Security, the White House, and the Secret Service.

When Showers finally landed that prized 'Yes,' she found herself interning in the office of U.S. Senator James Lankford from her home state. She talked with constituents, answered phones, and performed other helpful support duties.

But that was just the beginning. When the senator’s office staff assistant took a new job, Showers received a promotion! She served on the senator's staff for the remainder of the fall semester and is now in a great position to find a role in D.C. after graduation in 2023.

Throughout this whirlwind experience, Showers has kept her feet on the ground and her eyes on the Lord.

“A lot of the stress related to D.C. is the spiritual and mental battle," she shared with Cedarville public relations. "People both within government buildings and camping on the building lawns need the Gospel.  Living in the city with highly driven people pushed me to know what I'm about.”

Listen to hear Sage share her story on the Cedarville Stories Podcast.