Cedarville Stories

From Walks to Wisdom: Hembo’s Journey From Cedarville to ESPNIn 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/0db04051https://youtu.be/UHGkR65spdE

Bench Press and Biblical Truth: The Strength of Dr. Trent RogersDr. 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/4ce82391https://youtu.be/26dd7nqxTj8 

A Game Plan for Sports HealthSports 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/00891df0https://youtu.be/m_tqgjpmFxA

Press Box Perspectives: Jeff GilbertSports 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/ce76c52ehttps://youtu.be/xw_QWqeM-QY

Hope in Hard Places: Greg and Erica SmithErica 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/5966486ahttps://youtu.be/Tn0-R1I0OMI

Coach Rob Jones: Leading Cedarville Hoops With Purpose and PassionBasketball 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.https://share.transistor.fm/s/50c8cd71https://youtu.be/v4eptp26CMk

Aaron Welty: The Heroics of WeaknessAaron 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.https://share.transistor.fm/s/03c5d342https://youtu.be/Vv_OYW-paE4

From a Curious Teen to a Confident Voice in Creation ScienceBorn 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 EverythingYears 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 ScriptureToday, 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 SameHer 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.https://share.transistor.fm/s/013d7b33https://youtu.be/aUTjITArw6M

Beyond the Stars: Lauryn Leslie’s Journey From Cedarville to NASAFor 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.https://share.transistor.fm/s/14d333d7https://youtu.be/io6ImBTbH7E

Saying Yes to Water and the Gospel: Dr. Pete Savard’s JourneyDr. 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.https://share.transistor.fm/s/758c6c2dhttps://youtu.be/qCZCzf6-O5k

From Tragedy to Triumph: Ellie Wyse’s Journey of Hope and Healing 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 Gazettehttps://share.transistor.fm/s/35e75e92https://youtu.be/utWGQQlK1Nw 

The Unseen Sibling: Rebecca Robinson’s Journey Through Love, Loss, and HopeRebecca 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.https://share.transistor.fm/s/4fb72e3ehttps://youtu.be/StvgyN4CC2U

Serving the Score and the Savior: Sean Kisch’s Hollywood CallingWhen 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.https://share.transistor.fm/s/79806ac9https://youtu.be/mhv6gEc2ohs

Little Leaders: Big Faith From a Small-Town DreamerBrad 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.https://share.transistor.fm/s/1ea4eb78https://youtu.be/zWvpFa0MFfM

A Life Scripted in Cursive and GraceCatie 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.https://share.transistor.fm/s/fd68d1b6https://youtu.be/pX1a9sSU8Eg 

Religious Liberty Hits Home: Randall WengerReligious 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.https://share.transistor.fm/s/71c69919https://youtu.be/sL_WJ4nrl3Q

Walking by Faith, Training With PurposeFrom 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.https://share.transistor.fm/s/77a3fc4ehttps://youtu.be/WLku-bt4iSA

Trusting God Through Tragedy: Melissa HarrisAs 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.https://share.transistor.fm/s/4f0baf7chttps://youtu.be/Xh6UhtUBA2M 

Rooted in Truth: A Story of Two Shepherds and Their BookIt 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.https://share.transistor.fm/s/c7cc4570https://youtu.be/tpQK3f7rPds

Side by Side: Ari and Julie Tompkins 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.https://share.transistor.fm/s/13d7ae3dhttps://youtu.be/NTYeW_B6mFY