Crossroads with Jenny Bushkell

Philippians 4:8 says,  “…whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable— if anything is excellent or praiseworthy— think on these things.”  Jenny interviews Award-winning Author, Novelist and Podcaster, Linda Kozar about her writing and her testimony of how she found Jesus. Her new 90-day devotional, “Gimme Some Sugar”  was just released! Her devotionals have inspiring insights from scripture, stories, and what she calls “a sprinkle of homespun humor!”  In the midst of hard things and sad things going on in the world or problems in our own lives -  or even - in the best of times, we need a time to sit with the Lord and get into His Word! Today, we bring you a blend of fun, encouragement, and hope! 

Jenny interviews IndyCar pray.com Driver, Sting Ray Robb! She had a chance to sit down with Sting Ray at this year’s NRB - The National Religious Broadcaster’s Convention - the largest gathering of Faith-based media from around the world. We had some time to visit in the pray.com suite. Sting Ray is quite an outstanding young man who tells us about his name, his infectious faith and racing partnership with pray.com. He shares with others the peace and joy he’s found through prayer -  and puts prayer in the fast lane! Enjoy the conversation, and consider giving the podcast 5 stars wherever you're listening! 

In this captivating interview, Actress Charlene Tilton, known for her iconic role as “Lucy Ewing” in the TV show Dallas, opens up about her faith and her co-starring role in the upcoming film God’s Not Dead: In God We Trust set to hit theaters this fall in 2024.  She gives us an idea of how this new movie and her character is so relatable to our current events.  Charlene shares she understood her character, Lucy Ewing because of her own real life struggles. Her feeling of abandonment came from never knowing her father and her mother’s institutionalization for mental illness.  She faced those tumultuous years by leaning on her faith in God.  Charlene shares insights about her close friendship with the late Tammy Faye Baker and the lessons we can all learn from her.  

Jesus told us the importance of forgiving and spoke the words about forgiveness from the cross!  One of the hardest things for us to do is to forgive and it’s not only required of us, but it’s one of the best gifts from The Lord!  Jenny interviews Melanie Azarcon where we will hear a powerful testimony on forgiveness and the freedom it brings.  Melanie suffered terrible abuse for years as a child and emotional abuse throughout her life from the one person she should have been able to trust. She helps us understand why Jesus tells us to forgive 70 times 7. Forgiveness doesn’t condone wrongdoing; it liberates us from carrying the burden of resentment. 

Ashley Bratcher the star of the new movie FINDING FAITH  premiers exclusively on Great American Pure Flix Friday, March 29!  I’m giving you a “heads up” about this movie!  Here’s what Ashley has to say! 

The delightful Award-winning Author, Keely Brooke Keith returns to talk about her just-released 13th novel -UNCHARTED PEACE that weaves an exciting faith-filled story and points us in the direction of true peace in Jesus Christ!  Keely writes the popular  UNCHARTED series and talks about how God gave her the desire & passion for writing Christian fiction! As the apostle Paul wrote in Philippians 4:7, “And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

“We can make our plans, but the LORD determines our steps.” Proverbs 16:9. Life is full of moments of interruptions or change. Sometimes things are going good and all of a sudden, life takes an unexpected turn. When Jesus walked the earth, we heard about how he stopped whenever he was “interrupted.”  And what about Mary-the mother of Jesus, the disciples, Moses, Jonah, Gideon or Joseph, just to name a few. Their plans were certainly changed! Sometimes it aggravates us, but interruptions may be divinely placed in our life for a reason. Jenny's guest is Rob Patrick, Executive Director of Knoxville Area Project Access (KAPA). He’s here to talk about how God is always at work in your life, making things happen for you even when you don’t see it or expect it!  It may be that God interrupts our plans to set us in a different direction.

The greatest story ever told is being seen through the series The Chosen!!  It is is the first-ever multi-season TV show about the life of Jesus, and it allows us to see Him through the eyes of those who knew Him on earth.     This interview is with actors Catherine Lidstone and Demetrios Troy whose roles are   - Mary and her brother Lazarus.  Season 4 has been called the most powerful season yet and those of us who have seen it talk about the way we are drawn into this. And enjoy the interview!   

Many Christians believe that we are living in the last days as was foretold in the book of Revelation. I have two interviews today from dynamic Christian films. Jenny is talking with Director Timothy Mahoney (Patterns of Evidence) about his incredible film series - The 7 Churches of Revelation: Times of Fire and The 7 Churches of Revelation: Times of Deception.  Created by Timothy and Thinking Man Films, the Bible Cinema Roadshow is designed to bring Biblical content to theaters that help show God’s Word is true! "The 7 Churches of Revelation" Double Feature! "Times of Fire" will be playing in theaters March 10th and 11th and "Times of Deception" will be playing March 17th and 18th! Get tickets for both at Biblecinemaroadshow.com Part 1 of 2 interview episodes. Tune into part 2 for a segment with actors Catherine Lidstone & Demetrios E Troy. Their screen roles are Lazarus and his sister, Mary

"Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful." Hebrews 10:23.  Jenny interviews Actress Catherine Lidstone (The Chosen) and Producer Kristen Brancaccio / Exit Twelve Productions about the new inspirational movie FORTY-SEVEN DAYS WITH JESUS.  The interview is at NRB Christian Media Convention with these special & talented ladies! They talk about this movie, how they became part of it and what they are seeing through it!  It airs in theaters March 11, 12, and 14 to get us ready for Easter! And it's for the family! The plot has a disconnected family that finds hope and unity through a cinematic retelling of Jesus' final 47 days on Earth. And it features unforgettable original music, outstanding Actors and top Production! FORTY-SEVEN DAYS WITH JESUS brings the Easter story to life and reminds us of The Gospel's enduring impact. Thanks to Campbell Dental Care with an assist from Denise King, Realtor - Noble Realty.  Crossroads With Jenny Bushkell can be heard 5pm - 6pm EST Friday, Saturday & Sunday streaming at wrjz.com or download the Joy620 WRJZ App! Will be on Podcast at Apple, Spotify or wherever you listen to your Podcasts. And on pray.com.

“He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners…”Is 61. Jenny's guests share hope, encouragement and so many profound truths in this interview. Karen Ellison, Founder & President of Deeper Still Ministry & Jacquelyn Michelle Murphy, Exec. Director are back to talk more about “Healing The Abortion Wounded Heart” in Part Two. JESUS is still transforming hearts and lives. You don’t need to carry shame, guilt or regret for anything in your past - just trust HIM.  And exciting news; Dr. Ben Carson is the speaker in their upcoming event on March 21, 2024.  Karen Ellison authored the book "Healing the Hurt That Won't Heal - Freedom for the Abortion Wounded Heart and Help For The Church They Fear." She shares her personal story and how Jesus has transformed her life.  She also addresses how important it is for the church to talk about abortion and for healing from its wounds. You can find her book on Amazon or more info at Deeperstill.com. 

Guests Karen Ellison, Founder & President of Deeper Still Ministry & Jacquelyn Michelle Murphy, Executive Director share their stories and the good news of our redeeming Lord - to bring healing to the abortion-wounded heart. After Karen had an abortion, she shares her struggle and her heart.  Karen authored the book "Healing the Hurt That Won't Heal - Freedom for the Abortion Wounded Heart and Help For The Church They Fear." At Deeper Still they are going to be talking about one of the hardest things that so many people face, healing from a past abortion. Deeper Still affirms and encourages your decision to seek a deeper place of healing and restoration from your past choices and is available for both men and women. Our redeeming Lord starts the healing once we surrender our deepest dark places & hurts to Him! Whether you are post-abortive or struggling with other things in your life, you can find this interview helpful.   "I have swept away your offenses like a cloud, your sins like the morning mist. Return to me, for I have redeemed you.” Isaiah 44:22.  For more about Deeper Still Ministry go to www.deeperstill.com or their Podcast, “Freeing The Abortion Wounded Heart." 

We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure… Hebrews 6:19. Some of us have had struggles where we wonder if there is anything ahead for us. Former University of Tennessee football defensive back Todd Kelly, Jr returns to share what happened when his life met a challenging crossroad. Hear where God has been leading him since the heartache and anguish of his career-ending knee injury. He recently was honored as a “Legend of the Game” by the University of Tennessee. “TK” is a financial advisor with Merrill Lynch, founder and CEO of TKJ Foundation, and is sharing his faith and what he learned through the tough times. He has been able to find hope and purpose in his life despite the setbacks he has faced. His story is a testament to the power of hope and faith in overcoming adversity.  

"Learn to do good; seek justice, correct oppression; bring justice to the fatherless, plead the widow's cause." Is 1:17. Jenny is back with friends Author, Nikki Goeser, Exec Dir of the Crime Research Center & the Honorable Rep Michele Carringer to talk about the tragic murder of Nikki's husband Ben, murdered by a man who stalked her - and still stalks her with “love letters” from prison. In compliance with state law, the night Ben was gunned down, Nikki’s legal gun was locked in the car. She was left defenseless and disarmed while restaurant patrons scrambled to stop him as he continued to shoot. Although her life was shattered at the loss of her husband and best friend, Nikki is now a voice for the voiceless and the many people who are victims of stalking.  Hear how God is using Nikki and TN State Rep. Michele Carringer to fight for victims rights. You will be shocked that this can happen in America, but you will be inspired by this story.  Nikki’s book “Stalked and Defenseless: How Gun Control Helped My Stalker Murder My Husband in Front of Me” is available online.

“For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” Eph 6:12  Jenny’s guest Paul Bagai, Minister of Discipleship and Young Adults at First Baptist Knoxville is here to help us maneuver through the topic of “spiritual warfare.”  We are daily assaulted by the enemy who seeks to “steal, kill and destroy” our lives, and sometimes we don’t even notice. Other times it is very evident and oppressing. First Peter 5:8 warns, “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.” Satan is trying to pull us away from God and is fighting to bring us back into captivity and strongholds. Ephesians 6:10-20 teaches us how to defend against spiritual warfare through the armor of God and how important it is to put it on daily.  While planning this show for weeks, both Jenny and Paul experienced numerous bouts of spiritual warfare and setbacks. We knew this would be a powerful interview. They discuss spiritual warfare - what it is, how can we recognize it and  - how do we face it!

Jenny’s guests, Derrick Furlow, Jr and Madison Townsend are bringing us insight on how “setbacks may be set ups” for what’s your next step this year!  After transitioning from athlete to Author, Speaker, Entrepreneur and former  Pro and Tennessee Vol football player, Derrick D.LOW Furlow, Jr. is back sharing how adversity and faith shifted his perspective on life, putting him “in alignment with his true assignment!”  Founder of SLB The Agency, Derrick is helping athletes navigate the challenges of NIL and create a safe environment. He is also the CEO of Onrise and Onrise Player Network, which provides mental health support to athletes. Madison Townsend, an athletic intern, joins Derrick to discuss how pressures, injuries, and anxiety are just a few of the things that affect athletes. Tune in to this encouraging interview today!  Derrick’s book, “What’s Next; How To Transition Like A Champion,”  in sports, life or business, is making an huge impact.  He has received many honors, including being recognized as one of “40 Under 40” in 2020, for his achievements. His purpose is to impact, inspire and empower people!

From a traumatic childhood filled with abuse, through addiction and anger, my guest was filled with the Holy Spirit in 1974 during the Jesus Movement! Then wait until you hear what God did through him!  We are talking with Dr. John Polis, President & Founder of Revival Fellowship International, Sr. Pastor at Faith Church International, television and radio host, Author and Podcaster of the Battle Prayer Podcast. And in the studio with us is his brother,  Dr. Pat Polis. Hear this emotional miracle story that is a testament to faith, forgiveness and prayer. What happens when you have an abusive earthly father? Hear how God healed these men and set them on a course only God can do!

Imagine leaving everything behind to follow Jesus. Paul Bagai, Minister of Discipleship and Young Adults at First Baptist Knoxville shares his story of coming to faith in Christ and trusting God when he was called to leave his home and move across the country with nothing in sight. Sometimes God asks us to take risks, trust him and walk by faith. But in all circumstances, we can experience God’s goodness!  Jesus replied, “You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand.” John 13:7 

“It is a Land that the Lord your God seeks out; the eyes of the Lord your God, are always upon it, from the beginning of the year to the end of the year.” (DEUT 11:12)   Anyone who has ever made a trip to Israel, has felt the impact on their life and spiritual growth. The Bible comes to life. Jenny’s guest Donna Jollay is in from Israel where she’s the Director of Christian Relations at Israel365.  She gives us insight on just what is going on in Israel, her own redemption story, and unlocks something important about the recent interview with Cathy Campbell - “Facing Fear - When Terrorism Disrupted Pilgrimage In Israel.”    Donna is a hi-tech entrepreneur, the owner of Jerusalem Tours, a philanthropist, and a deeply committed Christian Zionist. Her love for Israel and the children of Israel began when she had a life changing spiritual awakening in 1995 and started reading the Bible. Her recovery story from an abusive childhood and addiction is a story that brings Hope.  She has dedicated her life to building bridges between the Christian and Jewish communities. Donna has lived in Israel since 2014 and was there when the October 7 attack happened and is now in the U.S. to stand and advocate for Israel in these Times like no other - “For Such a Time as This.” Jenny and Donna also discuss the lies & disruption during the Knoxville City Council meeting regarding Israelis and Palestinians.  Israel365 is strengthening Israel by building bridges between Jews, Christians & all who share our faith-based values.   israel365.com, joursalemtours.com  Pray for the peace of Jerusalem; those who love you will be serene. PSALMS (122:6)   

“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” ~ Isaiah 9:6   Sometimes we get lost in all the excitement and forget the real reason we celebrate the season! Finding the real joy in Christmas is when you make Jesus the center of our celebration. Jenny’s guests today are Meredith Worden, President of the Nativity Pageant of Knoxville Board of Directors and Board Member Jamie Butler, Chair of the Welcome & Care Committee to talk about the 55th Nativity Pageant of Knoxville and how Jesus has worked in their lives to lead them there! Take time this Christmas season to celebrate the true meaning of Christmas by glorifying the One who gave it all. Through His life, death and resurrection, Jesus fulfilled God’s plan of redemption that HE planned from the beginning of the world.