The Roys Report

Guest Bios Show Transcript The charismatic Christian world has been rocked by revelations that alleged prophet Shawn Bolz faked prophecies and sexually harassed staff—while leaders at Bethel Church knew for years and failed to warn the public. The public reckoning began with Bible teacher Mike Winger’s bombshell exposé with overwhelming evidence that Bethel leaders continued to promote Bolz, despite documented misconduct. For at least six years, pastors like Bill Johnson and Kris Vallotton rebuked Bolz privately, which publicly saying he was a godly and powerful minister.  

Sarah Young, founder of Check My Church and a citizen journalist who investigates church misconduct, is fighting a defamation/anti‑SLAPP legal case brought by Apologia Church. She discusses how lawsuits can intimidate critics. Conversations cover anti‑SLAPP motions, her reporting process, the Apologia timeline, evidence sources, legal strategy, and the role of independent reporting in church accountability.

In this insightful discussion, theologian Steve Tracy, president of Mending the Soul Ministries and author of To Heal or To Harm, shares his expertise on the weaponization of Scripture against abuse survivors. He recounts his transformative journey in recognizing this misuse, highlighting common verses that inflict harm. Steve emphasizes the unique damage of spiritual trauma and offers pathways for restoring trust in Scripture. He advocates for humility and learning from survivors, encouraging caregivers to actively support healing and proper interpretation of the Bible.

Guest Bios Show Transcript From a bombshell exposé about Michael Tait and the Newsboys—to a look inside the excessive lifestyle of Daystar TV’s Joni Lamb, our 2025 podcasts covered it all. We also platformed brave victims of America’s most popular megachurches and movements (such as IHOP-KC), who publicly told their stories for the very first time. And you responded. More than thirty-one thousand of you subscribed to our YouTube channel this year, which had a stunning eight million views in 2025.  

Guest Bios Show Transcript Hanukkah is traditionally one of the most joyful seasons on the Jewish calendar—a time of light, hope, and remembrance. But this year, that joy has been overshadowed by a horrific act of antisemitic violence. Fifteen people—including two rabbis, a Holocaust survivor, and a child—were killed in a mass shooting at Bondi Beach in Australia on Sunday. While its scale and horror are shocking, the attack is not an isolated incident.  

Scott Latta, an award-winning journalist and author, dives deep into the dark side of megachurches in his discussion. He reveals how these massive congregations, while appealing, often strip congregants of power and voice. Lance Ford, director with a strong background in theology, critiques the lack of real accountability, highlighting how many pastors evade consequences after scandals. Together, they explore the political influence of megachurches and advocate for a new initiative aimed at restoring community trust and accountability within church structures.

Lance Ford, Director of Restoration Resources at The Roys Report, delves deep into Willow Creek's complex legacy as it marks its 50th year. He explores how the church’s seeker-sensitive model revolutionized modern church design while also highlighting its darker impacts, including leadership idolization and spiritual stagnation. They discuss the failures of attractional services to foster genuine discipleship and examine how Willow’s corporate-style governance affected church culture. Ford provides insightful reflections on reimagining church practices for future generations.

Lance Ford, an author and pastor, joins the discussion to delve into Tony Evans' controversial return to ministry following a resignation for undisclosed sin. They analyze the hurried nature of his restoration and the potential harm of euphemistic language in discussing sin. The conversation critiques the celebratory tone surrounding his return, questioning accountability and transparency. Lance emphasizes the need for a biblically sound approach to restoration while calling for the congregation to demand honesty and integrity from their leaders.

In this thought-provoking discussion, Mike Cosper, a podcast producer and author, delves into the controversial resurgence of Mark Driscoll, the once-reclusive pastor now aligning with MAGA politics. Cosper highlights Driscoll's reinvention post-Mars Hill, his appeal to the youth in Turning Point USA, and the darker aspects of his leadership style. They explore the impact of celebrity culture in ministry, troubling teachings, and how accountability voices have been silenced. The conversation urges a critical examination of character over platform in church leadership.

Paul Coughlin, founder of The Protectors and an anti-bullying expert, dives into the dangers of demonization and its alarming potential for real-world violence, illustrated by recent events. He highlights how dehumanizing language fuels physical harm, drawing parallels to historical atrocities. The discussion extends to the moral implications of celebrating violence on social media and the rise of antisemitism. Coughlin emphasizes the importance of preserving dignity in opposition and offers practical steps to combat toxic rhetoric, advocating for personal accountability and humility.