Cedarville Stories

Catch the Spirit of Giving 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. https://share.transistor.fm/s/4db5f1efhttps://youtu.be/MyKmuCif1wQ

Lives TransformedEmily 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.https://share.transistor.fm/s/181e1cd1https://youtu.be/9XaFTx2zcUE

Ministry From Behind the Lens 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. https://share.transistor.fm/s/5f16c011https://youtu.be/QTbxhbIONA8

Helping Students SucceedThe 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.https://share.transistor.fm/s/bf10958ahttps://youtu.be/ZAifOxMx5oc

Renaissance  ManJosh 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.https://share.transistor.fm/s/c80d3fc5https://youtu.be/aMoPjHpYviY

Serving on the Sidelines 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. https://share.transistor.fm/s/e0ede64ehttps://youtu.be/M3cdzLwrHt0

Fiercely  Competitive With a Faithful WitnessCollege 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.https://share.transistor.fm/s/b4f0fccchttps://youtu.be/k8c4G3JtFl8 

Spend 100 Days With Warren Wiersbe, One of America’s Most Trusted ExpositorsDan 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.https://share.transistor.fm/s/fb2bb733https://youtu.be/AXuSIGus0sE  

Completing a Work, Continuing a LegacyDr. 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. https://share.transistor.fm/s/06234e30https://youtu.be/rN0JTJnxzoI  

The Glorious End to a Vicious Cycle: A Foster Care JourneyJustin 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.https://share.transistor.fm/s/51b42052https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fGe3EG1cJeE

Love, Leadership, and LoyaltyHe’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.https://share.transistor.fm/s/df2b411dhttps://youtu.be/v3MJSEtf66U 

Seeking a Cure With Selfless Motivation 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. https://share.transistor.fm/s/a83a64bdhttps://youtu.be/sCr1f3kapsU

A Full Circle LifeBorn 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.https://share.transistor.fm/s/7bcd47a3https://youtu.be/uEDnLu4O52g

Resting in God’s Grace “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. https://share.transistor.fm/s/eea3e2e8https://youtu.be/6EnPI0Kuuao

A Biblical Worldview Behind the Badge 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! https://share.transistor.fm/s/28eb0b72https://youtu.be/z8sxN4akW5o

From Mascot to Global WorkerEnergetic, 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.https://share.transistor.fm/s/ec9a4479https://youtu.be/lkWStI3N_a0

Telling God How Much Our Heart Hurts 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. https://share.transistor.fm/s/af732973https://youtu.be/jwfvVbfr5VQ

Learning to Lament: Trusting God in a Broken WorldWhen 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.https://share.transistor.fm/s/c91bb1dehttps://youtu.be/rlbQA_EV3zQ

A Passion for the Church 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. https://share.transistor.fm/s/739653a6https://youtu.be/vIuK2_LHEU4

The Generosity Monk, a Baseball-Loving Farm Boy 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. https://share.transistor.fm/s/56b39a52https://youtu.be/2_8UpSHEx38