God, Country & the American Story With Billy Hallowell

"God, Country & the American Story" is a groundbreaking new podcast from The Washington Times that explores the powerful role the Christian faith has had in the lives of America’s leaders, from the founders to the movers and shakers of today. Veteran journalist and author Billy Hallowell sits down with lawmakers, high-ranking officials, business titans, historians, faith leaders, and cultural influencers to examine how belief in God has guided the nation’s most powerful leaders and pivotal moments - and continues to fuel the American experiment. This series honors America’s spiritual heritage while tackling today’s most pressing questions: How has faith shaped the nation? What role does it play in the lives of public officials? And what does the future hold for faith and freedom in America? As the country prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary, join us for thought-provoking conversations that uncover the soul of a nation—rooted in God and destined for greatness.

Christian Revival in the Wake of Charlie Kirk's Assassination: God, Country and the American Story

A popular New York City pastor believes that the tragic assassination of conservative and Christian commentator Charlie Kirk has sparked something truly surprising: revival.“Anytime society goes into a desperate state — and I think we’ve been there for years — this desperation is increasing financially, economically. We’re feeling it, but also within our families: people … start looking for answers,” Mike Signorelli, pastor of V1 Church, told “God Country and the American Story.” Mr. Signorelli, author of the new book, “Fire Starters: Igniting Revivals and Sustaining Spiritual Awakening,” said this search for answers amid the chaos is leading many to discover Christianity. On the first Sunday after Mr. Kirk’s killing, the pastor’s church saw 533 people embrace the Christian faith. Watch him join Billy Hallowell for a powerful conversation about Mr. Kirk, revival and more.

10-11
15:25

Ex-Secret Service Agent’s Powerful 9/11 Story of Survival, Faith, and Valor

On this special episode of God, Country, and the American Story, Billy Hallowell sits down with former Secret Service agent Darin Kinder, a survivor of the Sept. 11 attacks.Mr. Kinder is the author of the new memoir, Bury Me in a Dirty Suit. He joins Mr. Hallowell in recounting his harrowing firsthand experience inside the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001. He describes, in vivid detail, the moments when chaos, death, and destruction collided with faith, courage, and selflessness.From his story of miraculous survival and hearing God’s voice to returning to “the battlefield” to save lives, Mr. Kinder shares how the tragedy impacted his life, faith and life's mission.

09-12
22:37

God, Freedom, and the Declaration: Historian Explores America’s Miraculous Founding

In this episode of The Washington Times' God, Country and the American Story, Billy Hallowell sits down with historian Bill Federer for a deep dive into the faith and history behind America’s birth. From the unique nature of the Declaration of Independence and the radical idea of making “the people the king” to Thomas Jefferson’s original anti-slavery language in the Declaration, Mr. Federer unpacks powerful historical nuggets as well as the biblical roots that shaped the founders’ vision for a new union.Discover how divine providence, unexpected allies, and even miraculous fog played pivotal roles in the colonists' fight for independence. As we look ahead to America 250, this conversation sheds light on the spiritual and historical forces that helped create and sustain a nation unlike any other.FOLLOW BILLY ON SOCIAL MEDIA:- Follow Billy on Twitter- Follow Billy on Instagram- Follow Billy on Facebook- Follow Billy on YouTube

08-25
29:33

SERIES PREMIERE: Sen. Tim Scott Defends America's Faith Roots, Explores Battle for Nation's Soul

On the premiere episode of “God, Country, and the American Story,” Sen. Tim Scott joins Billy Hallowell for a powerful conversation about faith, freedom, and the spiritual foundations of America. The episode explores a multitude of questions, including: What is America without faith? Why does the Judeo-Christian tradition matter to the nation’s foundations? And what’s happening spiritually in America today? From the roots of American exceptionalism to the rising tide of relativism and cultural confusion, Mr. Scott passionately defends the principles of faith that have built, shaped and refined our nation. He also explores his new book, “One Nation Always Under God: Profiles in Christian Courage,” and tells some of the stories of heroes who shaped America.FOLLOW BILLY ON SOCIAL MEDIA:- Follow Billy on Twitter- Follow Billy on Instagram- Follow Billy on Facebook- Follow Billy on YouTube

08-11
23:22

Actor's Radical Encounter With Jesus Changes Everything

"The Chosen" star Nick Shakoour had a radical faith encounter that changed everything. He's here to share the details and discuss his new book,  "TRANSFORMER: Awakening From A Spiritual Coma - A Nick Shakoour Autobiography." FOLLOW BILLY ON SOCIAL MEDIA:- Follow Billy on Twitter- Follow Billy on Instagram- Follow Billy on Facebook- Follow Billy on YouTube

07-16
14:52

'This Is Us' Meets 'Stranger Things': The Real Story Behind Hollywood Duo's Supernatural Thriller

Jason and Rhonda Halbert are here to share the fascinating details of their Hollywood career, their faith — and more. Plus, they dive into their new supernatural thriller "Caretaker."  FOLLOW BILLY ON SOCIAL MEDIA:- Follow Billy on Twitter- Follow Billy on Instagram- Follow Billy on Facebook- Follow Billy on YouTube

07-11
16:52

The Shocking Truths at the Center of the Viral Simone Biles-Riley Gaines Clash

In recent days, legendary gymnast Simone Biles drew the ire of critics for going after athlete and activist Riley Gaines. The reaction was swift after Ms. Biles compared Ms. Gaines to a "man" and later backtracked and apologized. The Washington Times' Valerie Richardson joins Billy Hallowell to fact-check what was said, dig deeper, and provide a comprehensive overview of the issues at the core of the debate.FOLLOW BILLY ON SOCIAL MEDIA:- Follow Billy on Twitter- Follow Billy on Instagram- Follow Billy on Facebook- Follow Billy on YouTube

06-14
16:52

Christians Targeted? Antifa Chaos, Trump Takes on Cali Sports Battle — and More

The FBI is diving into chaos in Seattle after a Christian group was reportedly the target of Antifa chaos. Plus: President Donald Trump takes on the transgender sports battle in California. That and more on today's show. The Washington Times' Valerie Richardson joins Billy Hallowell to break it all down.- FBI wades after Seattle mayor blames Christian group Mayday USA for Antifa-fueled melee- California to award medals to girls bumped by transgender athlete at girls' track championships- Study refutes claim that abortion pill is 'safer than Tylenol'FOLLOW BILLY ON SOCIAL MEDIA:- Follow Billy on Twitter- Follow Billy on Instagram- Follow Billy on Facebook- Follow Billy on YouTube

05-31
19:20

The Bizarre Fertility Clinic Bombing, a Christian Camp Suing to Protect Free Speech — and More

On this episode of the show, Billy Hallowell and Valerie Richardson begin with the strange case of a Palm Springs fertility clinic bombing, where a purportedly anti-pro-life man tried to inflict harm. Then, they explore a Christian summer camp in Colorado suing the state over a gender identity law they believe threatens their religious liberty. Finally, the story centers on an educator fighting back after purportedly being banned from keeping conservative kids' books in his workspace.You'll hear that and more on today's Higher Ground from The Washington Times. STORIES:https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2025/may/22/roderick-theis-oregon-educator-sues-told-stop-displaying-johnny/https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2025/may/21/palm-springs-bombing-suspect-believed-driven-anti-birth-ideology/https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2025/may/18/colorado-christian-summer-camp-sues-states-transgender-mandate/FOLLOW BILLY ON SOCIAL MEDIA:- Follow Billy on Twitter- Follow Billy on Instagram- Follow Billy on Facebook- Follow Billy on YouTube

05-26
15:42

Planned Parenthood Under Fire After Shattering Disturbing Record (Plus: Is a Dangerous Truth Being Hidden for Political Reasons?)

Planned Parenthood just recorded a record number of abortions. In the post-Roe era, what does that mean — and why does it matter? Plus, as debate rages over the abortion pill, are essential health facts being hidden from women?The Washington Times' Valerie Richardson joins Billy Hallowell to break it all down.For more context, here are today's stories:https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2025/may/14/planned-parenthood-blasted-gender-affirming-care-defunding-push-grows/https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2025/may/13/failure-rate-abortion-pill-twice-high-shown-drugs-fda-approved-label/https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2025/may/12/planned-parenthood-annual-report-shows-record-taxpayer-funding/FOLLOW BILLY ON SOCIAL MEDIA:- Follow Billy on Twitter- Follow Billy on Instagram- Follow Billy on Facebook- Follow Billy on YouTube

05-17
15:43

Female Fencer Takes Bold Trans Stand, Locker Room Chaos and the New Battle For Life: 3 Stories You Won't Want to Miss

A female fencer takes a stand over the trans issue, Loudoun County is under fire after reportedly investigating young boys who were caught speaking about a biological girl in their locker room — and the battle over the abortion pill heats up. The Washington Times' Valerie Richardson joins Billy Hallowell to break it all down.FOLLOW BILLY ON SOCIAL MEDIA:- Follow Billy on Twitter- Follow Billy on Instagram- Follow Billy on Facebook- Follow Billy on YouTube

05-10
18:24

Horror in Nigeria: Why Trump, America Can't Ignore Slaughter of Christians

Nigeria has become a hellscape for Christians as persecution continues to rise in the African nation. President Donald Trump and America must take a stand...before it's too late. Billy Hallowell explains the dire situation. FOLLOW BILLY ON SOCIAL MEDIA:- Follow Billy on Twitter- Follow Billy on Instagram- Follow Billy on Facebook- Follow Billy on YouTube

05-08
08:45

Faith in the White House: Paula White-Cain Responds to Critics, Details Her History With Trump and More

Prayer, praise and worship music, and sermons have made their way into the White House, with hundreds of faith leaders heading to Washington D.C., in recent months to offer perspective and take part in events organized by the newly minted White House Faith Office.That office, headed by Paula White-Cain and Jenny Korn, is historic and unlike previous faith operations under the executive branch. Ms. White-Cain and Ms. Korn sat down with Billy Hallowell at the White House to discuss the mission of the Faith Office, why Ms. White-Cain has taken this position, how she responds to critics — and more.FOLLOW BILLY ON SOCIAL MEDIA:- Follow Billy on Twitter- Follow Billy on Instagram- Follow Billy on Facebook- Follow Billy on YouTube

04-29
32:44

Is There Proof of Jesus, the Resurrection and the Supernatural? Lee Strobel Tells All

Is there evidence for Jesus' life, death and resurrection? Renowned author Lee Strobel joins Billy Hallowell to discuss evidence for the Easter story, explaining why he believes the Gospel narrative can be definitively proven. Plus, he explores evidence for the supernatural more broadly. Mr. Strobel's latest book is "Seeing the Supernatural: Investigating Angels, Demons, Mystical Dreams, Near-Death Encounters, and Other Mysteries of the Unseen World," an instant New York Times bestseller. Listen to this fascinating discussion on today's "Higher Ground."FOLLOW BILLY ON SOCIAL MEDIA:- Follow Billy on Twitter- Follow Billy on Instagram- Follow Billy on Facebook- Follow Billy on YouTube

04-19
18:01

'Heaven Help Us': John Kasich on Faith, Hope, Forgiving the Drunk Driver Who Killed His Parents

Former presidential candidate and Ohio governor John Kasich joins the show to share a powerful journey of faith, hope, and forgiveness. He also breaks down the story behind his new book, "Heaven Help Us: How Faith Communities Inspire Hope, Strengthen Neighborhoods, and Build the Future." FOLLOW BILLY ON SOCIAL MEDIA:- Follow Billy on Twitter- Follow Billy on Instagram- Follow Billy on Facebook- Follow Billy on YouTube

04-11
20:45

She's Seeing Thousands of College Students Flock to Jesus: Jennie Allen's First-Hand Revival Account

Jennie Allen is seeing thousands of college students flock to hear more about Jesus. She shares her powerful journey and reveals what's really unfolding on campuses across America.FOLLOW BILLY ON SOCIAL MEDIA:- Follow Billy on Twitter- Follow Billy on Instagram- Follow Billy on Facebook- Follow Billy on YouTube

03-28
16:30

Peter, Judas and the Complexity of Betrayal and Mercy: Chris Tomlin's Fascinating Take on the 'The Last Supper'

With "The Last Supper" in theaters, audiences are getting a fascinating look at Peter, Judas and other biblical figures. Executive producer — and famed singer — Chris Tomlin joins the podcast to break it all down with Billy Hallowell.FOLLOW BILLY ON SOCIAL MEDIA:- Follow Billy on Twitter- Follow Billy on Instagram- Follow Billy on Facebook- Follow Billy on YouTube

03-16
11:31

Country Music Star Leaves It All Behind For Jesus

Granger Smith was a rising country music star when his son, River, drowned in 2019 and the trajectory of his life changed forever. It started with an uneasiness when Mr. Smith realized God was calling him to do something more.In the end, Mr. Smith ended up leaving music for ministry. Listen to him tell his story and share details about his new children’s book “Up Toward the Light” with Billy Hallowell on this week’s episode of "Higher Ground."FOLLOW BILLY ON SOCIAL MEDIA:- Follow Billy on Twitter- Follow Billy on Instagram- Follow Billy on Facebook- Follow Billy on YouTube

03-16
18:50

America's Trust Crisis Rages: Why Trust in Government, Media and Education Has Tanked (and How We Can Fix It)

America is facing a trust crisis. From the economy to the government and media, the metrics aren't good. That's why author David Horsager is taking on the issue in his latest book, "Trust Matters More than Ever: 40 Proven Tools to Lead Better, Grow Faster & Build Trust Now!""Until the 70s, almost 80% of Americans trusted our government to do basically what was right. Well, then trust tanked, our institutional trust tanked, and so we didn't trust government," he tells Billy Hallowell, noting the same is true of politics, media and education. "When I grew up, homeschooling was weird — not anymore. The institution of education isn't as trusted, so we have these charters and homeschooling."Mr. Horsager breaks down the stunning extent of the trust problem, the impact — and how he believes America can remedy these issues.FOLLOW BILLY ON SOCIAL MEDIA:- Follow Billy on Twitter- Follow Billy on Instagram- Follow Billy on Facebook- Follow Billy on YouTube- Follow Billy on Threads

03-04
20:23

With Prime's 'House of David': Hollywood Just Opened the Door to a Culture-Shifting Phenomenon

One of the biggest mysteries plaguing Hollywood has been the overarching reticence to sufficiently court the faith and family audience, a values-based cohort that has proven itself ravenous for high-caliber content that delivers safe and uplifting entertainment. But Tinseltown has traditionally instead offered up a drought in this arena, with mainstream networks, production companies, and platforms either ignoring or taking this audience for granted. This has effectively forced Christian and family-friendly outfits in recent years to independently create outside of the traditional system. Meanwhile, Hollywood has, at moments, been taken by surprise when faith-based films on shoe-string budgets deliver stunning profit margins.This dynamic seems to be gearing up for a pretty notable change, though, with Prime, a streaming platform owned by Amazon, set to release “House of David,” a TV series premiering Feb. 27 that pledges to tell the “story of the ascent of the biblical figure, David, who eventually becomes the most renowned and celebrated king of Israel.” Filmmakers Jon Erwin and Jon Gunn join Billy Hallowell to break it all down.

02-25
10:45

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