The Unfolding

We often come into marriage with both baggage and expectations. When your spouse's baggage is harder than you expected, how do you navigate that? Joe and Tara Buchanan came into their marriage with vastly different backgrounds. Joe shares the story of his childhood on Page 1 of The Unfolding. It's one of the most powerful stories of transformation you will ever hear, and it will give you some background on the challenges he faced in trying to have a healthy marriage. Tara's background was the opposite--a healthy, intact family that had faith at its foundation. Two people with such different histories were bound to face some hard stuff. God knew they needed to face it and they would need His help to do it. Joe and Tara are the hosts of Behind Our Smiles, a podcast on the Wow God Podcast Network.

One of Humberto Salgado's favorite Bible verses is Jeremiah 29:11, "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." There are few places as hopeless as the Diamond cell block in a maximum security prison near Mexico City. When Humberto was invited to visit, he felt God wanted him to go, but he was afraid. The men of the Diamond cell block were the worst offenders- dangerous men serving multiple life sentences. And among the worst, was a man they called "the Devil." In the view of most people, there was no hope any of these men could be transformed, especially the Devil.

Kevin Santiago was driven to succeed. He set out to acquire the things he thought would bring happiness – a good job, house, car, and family. But when his plans began to crumble, he fell into depression. One night he got in his car after having a few drinks. It was a choice that had devastating consequences and left Kevin overwhelmed with guilt and shame. Facing years in prison, he began to believe his life wasn't worth living. Kevin's story is a reminder that there is no one who is too far gone, no sin or story that is beyond God's power to redeem. This episode includes references to depression and suicidal ideation. If you're struggling, call 988, the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.

Nigerian-born singer and songwriter Blessing Offor shares his incredible journey of faith and perseverance. Leaving his family at a young age for medical treatment in the US, Blessing recounts unfortunate events that impacted his vision and faith. He explores different beliefs but ultimately strengthens his faith in Christianity. The hosts discuss the impact of Blessing's song 'Brighter Days' and express gratitude to listeners. They also celebrate milestones and express gratitude for their podcast's 100th episode.

Dave Munson, founder of Saddleback Leather Company, shares his journey from missionary to CEO. Topics include finding a calling in vocational ministry, creating the first leather bag, unique company headquarters, owning a marketing category, the impact of Blue the dog, and spreading the word of Jesus through the company's products and social media engagement.

Not long after Jamie Winship joined the police force, he realized he was not equipped to face the challenges on the streets of Washington DC. He needed supernatural help to live out his God-given identity as a peacemaker. Jamie learned how to listen to God. God gave him creative, often radical, solutions that transformed hardened criminals into followers of Jesus. His track record was so successful, he was recruited by the CIA. Jamie spent 30 years working in some of the most dangerous conflict zones on earth, including with terrorists in the Middle East. Jamie is the author of Living Fearless, and he and his wife Donna are the founders of IdentityExchange.com

After experiencing dysfunction and hurt, Tasha Layton left church and set out on a search for truth. It was a long journey that led her back to Jesus. As a gifted worship leader, God opened doors in music but not what Tasha had imagined. She found herself on American Idol and touring the world as a backup singer for Katy Perry, before finding her home writing worship songs and books to help others experience the freedom she's found in Jesus.

Hear the brand-new podcast called "Wow God Stories", with hosts, Lisa WIlliams and Ann Sorenson. This podcast reminds us of a God who is able, alive, and active in our lives. https://www.wowgod.com/podcasts/wow-god-stories/ Click the link, or subscribe on Apple, Google, or Spotify today.

Iveth Luna is known as one of the rising new artists of today, writing songs that inspire people to worship Jesus. Although she had always secretly dreamed that she could be a worship leader, it wasn't until she had a supernatural experience at 19 that she knew God was calling her to music. But then she experienced one crushing disappointment after another. In auditions for both The Voice and America's God Talent, she came so close, only to experience heartbreak. It seemed God was closing every door. The disappointment she felt soon turned to depression and then questioning both God and herself.

Hear the brand-new podcast called "Wow God Stories", with hosts, Lisa WIlliams and Ann Sorenson. This podcast reminds us of a God who is able, alive, and active in our lives. https://www.wowgod.com/podcasts/wow-god-stories/ Click the link, or subscribe on Apple, Google, or Spotify today.