The Narrative

This week’s episode of The Narrative is something special—we're coming to you LIVE from the Ohio Statehouse lawn before the Ohio March for Life! Thousands gathered in Columbus to boldly stand for life, and we were there, capturing the energy, voices, and stories that matter most. From inspiring testimonies to behind-the-scenes conversations, you’ll get an inside peek into the state’s largest protest. Ohio March for Life keynote Melissa Ohden joins CCV's Aaron Baer, David Mahan, and Mike Andrews to talk about her abortion survival story, and state representatives Adam Mathews (R-Lebanon) and Melanie Miller (R-Ashland) take the Narrative stage to talk about what the future of Ohio looks like for pro-lifers.   TALK TO US We want to hear from you! As a valued listener, your feedback is critical for us to keep The Narrative insightful, relevant, and helpful. If you have a particular guest, topic, or question you'd like us to cover, let us know! We’ll answer your questions on an “Ask Us Anything” episode later, so send in your questions now. 👉  Leave us a voicemail or text at 614-769-7077. 👉  Email us at thenarrative@ccv.org. To learn more about Center for Christian Virtue and to get involved, visit CCV.org. ⭐️ How are we doing? If you've found any episode of The Narrative insightful, let us know by leaving a review or rating! It helps us to know what you're enjoying and brings the podcast to other listeners, meaning you're helping equip your neighbors to understand today's hottest cultural and political topics. So, thank you! 🔎 About The Narrative The Narrative breaks away from the script to cut through the typical media narratives and helps you understand the root causes of today’s culture and political controversies. Join Center for Christian Virtue (CCV) President Aaron Baer, Policy Director David Mahan, Communications Director Mike Andrews, and world-renowned experts as they dissect current issues and events from multiple angles and viewpoints, equipping you to be a critical thinker on some of the hottest topics today.Support the show: https://www.ccv.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The fight to protect children is gaining ground—Nationwide Children's Hospital just ended "gender-affirming" care for minors. Will Hild, Executive Director of Consumers' Research, joins CCV Executive Policy Director David Mahan and Executive Communications Director Mike Andrews on this week's episode of The Narrative to break down how this victory came about, what it reveals about the broader battle over children's health, and why parents must keep speaking up and fighting for the protection of Ohio's children. Before they share in the victory with Will, Aaron joins Mike to run through this week's most pressing news: 👉 Over one hundred thousand attendees flocked to Arizona this past Sunday to honor the life and legacy of Charlie Kirk. Among them were some of our nation's most prominent leaders proclaiming the name of Jesus Christ. You can watch the memorial service, in its entirety, here. 👉 This Wednesday, September 24, US Secretary of Education Linda McMahon, along with Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, US Senator Bernie Moreno, and Erika Donalds, gathered at our office in Downtown Columbus for a press conference about expanding school choice in Ohio. Photos from the event can be viewed on our social channels: @CCVPolicy. 👉 There are only two days left to secure your tickets for the upcoming Essential Summit on Thursday, October 2! Ticket sales close Sunday, September 28, at 11:59 pm.   MORE ABOUT WILL HILD Will Hild is the Executive Director of Consumers’ Research, the nation’s oldest consumer protection organization. After taking the helm in 2020, Hild shifted focus to fight against Environmental, Social, Governance (ESG) and woke capitalism. Hild led Consumers’ Research as it launched the innovative Consumers First campaign, a multi-million-dollar ongoing campaign calling out woke corporations for betraying their customers and educating consumers on the dangers of ESG. Under Hild’s leadership, The Washington Post described Consumers’ Research as “a key player in the conservative crusade to prevent Wall Street from factoring climate change into its investment decisions.” Companies targeted by the Consumers First campaign include BlackRock, Bank of America, Coca-Cola, Nike, State Farm, Ticketmaster, and more. Hild works to educate leaders across the United States on the dangers of ESG and woke capitalism and the threat they pose to consumers. His efforts were highlighted in a profile in Bloomberg, noting that he was at the “forefront of the movement” to roll back woke corporate excess. He is a frequent radio, podcast, and television guest and has been interviewed by publications across the nation, including Fox News, CNBC, Wall Street Journal, Financial Times, Daily Mail, Washington Examiner, and The Daily Wire. Will received his J.D. from Georgetown University Law Center and resides in Maryland with his wife, Cheryl, and their family.   TALK TO US We want to hear from you! As a valued listener, your feedback is critical for us to keep The Narrative insightful, relevant, and helpful. If you have a particular guest, topic, or question you'd like us to cover, let us know! We’ll answer your questions on an “Ask Us Anything” episode later, so send in your questions now. 👉  Leave us a voicemail or text at 614-769-7077. 👉  Email us at thenarrative@ccv.org. To learn more about Center for Christian Virtue and to get involved, visit CCV.org. ⭐️ How are we doing? If you've found any episode of The Narrative insightful, let us know by leaving a review or rating! It helps us to know what you're enjoying and brings the podcast to other listeners, meaning you're helping equip your neighbors to understand today's hottest cultural and political topics. So, thank you! 🔎 About The Narrative The Narrative breaks away from the script to cut through the typical media narratives and helps you understand the root causes of today’s culture and political controversies. Join Center for Christian Virtue (CCV) President Aaron Baer, Policy Director David Mahan, Communications Director Mike Andrews, and world-renowned experts as they dissect current issues and events from multiple angles and viewpoints, equipping you to be a critical thinker on some of the hottest topics today.Support the show: https://www.ccv.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this thought-provoking conversation, Dr. Andrew Walker, an expert in Christian ethics, discusses how Christians can remain faithful in a culture increasingly hostile to their values. He highlights the importance of courage and conviction, emphasizing the need for believers to engage meaningfully in public discourse. Walker shares insights on the implications of Christian nationalism and political engagement, while also addressing the Johnson Amendment's impact on churches. His practical framework offers hope amid challenging moral landscapes.

Center for Christian Virtue President Aaron Baer shares a special tribute honoring Charlie Kirk’s life and how we answer the Lord’s call to move forward. We look forward to our Cleveland Gala on Friday, September 26, where we will stand alongside you, pray together, and unite under Christ as we remember Charlie’s life and the impactful Kingdom work he dedicated his life to. Join us as we continue to pray for the Kirk family.Support the show: https://www.ccv.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this week's special episode of The Narrative, CCV President Aaron Baer, Policy Executive Director David Mahan, and Communications Executive Director Mike Andrews give a run-down on this week's hottest news topics: The latest report on the Minnesota school shooter reveals he previously worked at a marijuana dispensary, leading to the use and abuse of the drug, which he claimed led to his planning of the massacre. The Trump administration is floating around the idea of reclassifying transgenderism as a mental health issue, which could lead the administration to restrict gun purchases for individuals who claim they identify as transgender. Malcolm Gladwell, Canadian journalist and author, shared this week that he now regrets advocating for men to compete in women's sports, saying he felt pressured to do so at the time. Left-wing journalist Taylor Lorenz wrote an article sharing that a "dark money" group is secretly funding Democratic influencers. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. (RFK Jr.) has been in Senate committee hearings this week, answering questions about his public health agenda. The hearings grew heated, as questions flared regarding COVID-19 vaccinations, vaccine data, and more. RFK Jr. fired back, calling out senators for their involvement.   If public policy topics like this interest you, and you're curious to learn more or how you can get involved, join us for our upcoming events: ✨ Cleveland Celebration Gala, featuring Charlie Kirk, on Friday, September 26 🔥 The Essential Summit on Thursday, October 2 👣 Ohio March for Life on Friday, October 3     TALK TO US We want to hear from you! As a valued listener, your feedback is critical for us to keep The Narrative insightful, relevant, and helpful. If you have a particular guest, topic, or question you'd like us to cover, let us know! We’ll answer your questions on an “Ask Us Anything” episode later, so send in your questions now. 👉  Leave us a voicemail or text at 614-769-7077. 👉  Email us at thenarrative@ccv.org. To learn more about Center for Christian Virtue and to get involved, visit CCV.org. ⭐️ How are we doing? If you've found any episode of The Narrative insightful, let us know by leaving a review or rating! It helps us to know what you're enjoying and brings the podcast to other listeners, meaning you're helping equip your neighbors to understand today's hottest cultural and political topics. So, thank you! 🔎 About The Narrative The Narrative breaks away from the script to cut through the typical media narratives and helps you understand the root causes of today’s culture and political controversies. Join Center for Christian Virtue (CCV) President Aaron Baer, Policy Director David Mahan, Communications Director Mike Andrews, and world-renowned experts as they dissect current issues and events from multiple angles and viewpoints, equipping you to be a critical thinker on some of the hottest topics today.Support the show: https://www.ccv.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For many believers, patriotism has either been idolized or abandoned. But is there a better way forward—one that honors God and seeks the good of our nation?  On this week's episode of The Narrative, Communications Executive Director Mike Andrews and Church Ambassador Network Executive Director Chris Lightfoot are joined by author and pastor Daniel Darling to discuss his new book, In Defense of Christian Patriotism. At a time when faith and politics often collide, Daniel makes the case for patriotism that is rooted in gratitude, humility, and love for neighbor. One that honors God above all while still cherishing the blessings of living in America.  Before Daniel joins the show, CCV President Aaron Baer joins Mike to run through this week's latest news: The Ohio Christian Education Network opened its fifth school, with two more opening next week after Labor Day. Dr. James Dobson, founder of Focus on the Family, passed away last week, Thursday, August 21. Breaking news from Minnesota: two children are dead and seventeen are injured after a gunman opens fire at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis.    MORE ABOUT DANIEL DARLING Daniel Darling is an author, pastor, and thought leader. He currently serves as the Director of The Land Center for Cultural Engagement at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and Assistant Professor of Faith and Culture at Texas Baptist College.  Daniel is an author, co-author, or editor of 20 books, including The Original Jesus, The Dignity Revolution, The Characters of Christmas, The Characters of Easter,  A Way With Words, Agents of Grace: How to Bridge Divides and Love as Jesus Loves, and the forthcoming: In Defense of Christian Patriotism.   Dan holds a bachelor's degree in pastoral ministry from Dayspring Bible College, has studied at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, and holds a Master's degree from Southern Baptist Theological Seminary.  Dan has served churches in Illinois and Tennessee. He and his wife, Angela, have four children and are members of Travis Avenue Baptist Church in Fort Worth, Texas.     TALK TO US We want to hear from you! As a valued listener, your feedback is critical for us to keep The Narrative insightful, relevant, and helpful. If you have a particular guest, topic, or question you'd like us to cover, let us know! We’ll answer your questions on an “Ask Us Anything” episode later, so send in your questions now. 👉  Leave us a voicemail or text at 614-769-7077. 👉  Email us at thenarrative@ccv.org. To learn more about Center for Christian Virtue and to get involved, visit CCV.org. ⭐️ How are we doing? If you've found any episode of The Narrative insightful, let us know by leaving a review or rating! It helps us to know what you're enjoying and brings the podcast to other listeners, meaning you're helping equip your neighbors to understand today's hottest cultural and political topics. So, thank you! 🔎 About The Narrative The Narrative breaks away from the script to cut through the typical media narratives and helps you understand the root causes of today’s culture and political controversies. Join Center for Christian Virtue (CCV) President Aaron Baer, Policy Director David Mahan, Communications Director Mike Andrews, and world-renowned experts as they dissect current issues and events from multiple angles and viewpoints, equipping you to be a critical thinker on some of the hottest topics today.Support the show: https://www.ccv.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What kind of future do we want for our children? Dr. Laurie Todd-Smith, with the federal Office of Early Childhood Development, has spent her career answering that question. In this week's episode of The Narrative, CCV Communications Executive Director Mike Andrews and Ohio Christian Education Network (OCEN) Executive Director Troy McIntosh speak with Laurie as she shares real-time trends and statistics in American classrooms, what downsizing the Department of Education entails, and why school choice is essential to protecting parental rights and student success. Before the guys sit down with Laurie, Troy shares exciting OCEN updates, including: Seven new Christian schools opened this year through the partnership of OCEN, CCV, and churches that felt called to serve the children in their communities.  The launch of the nationwide Christian Education Network brought in leaders to Ohio from three states to learn how they can build a network of their own. The recent Sidney Daily News article Troy wrote in response to school choice critics.   MORE ABOUT LAURIE TODD-SMITH Dr. Laurie Todd-Smith is the Deputy Assistant Secretary at the Office of Early Childhood Development at the Administration for Children and Families at the US Department of Health and Human Services. She most recently served as the America First Policy Institute as Director of the Center for Education Opportunity and the Center for the American Child where she focused on assisting states to advance evidence-based education policy reforms including the expansion of school choice, early literacy, foster care reform, online safety of children, as well as model policy for fentanyl curriculum in public schools.  Dr. Todd-Smith served as Senior Education and Workforce Policy Advisor to Governor Phil Bryant as well as Executive Director of the State Early Childhood Council. Her work led to remarkable growth in reading and math achievement outcomes for Mississippi's students, earning the state the title of the "Mississippi Miracle." President Trump appointed Dr. Todd-Smith as the Director of the Women’s Bureau at the United States Department of Labor in 2018. During her tenure at the Women’s Bureau, she focused the agency on childcare quality and access, paid family leave, and grants to support women in apprenticeships.   Dr. Todd-Smith holds a doctorate in education from Mississippi State University, a master’s degree from Western New Mexico University, and a bachelor’s degree from the University of Arizona.     TALK TO US We want to hear from you! As a valued listener, your feedback is critical for us to keep The Narrative insightful, relevant, and helpful. If you have a particular guest, topic, or question you'd like us to cover, let us know! We’ll answer your questions on an “Ask Us Anything” episode later, so send in your questions now. 👉  Leave us a voicemail or text at 614-769-7077. 👉  Email us at thenarrative@ccv.org. To learn more about Center for Christian Virtue and to get involved, visit CCV.org. ⭐️ How are we doing? If you've found any episode of The Narrative insightful, let us know by leaving a review or rating! It helps us to know what you're enjoying and brings the podcast to other listeners, meaning you're helping equip your neighbors to understand today's hottest cultural and political topics. So, thank you! 🔎 About The Narrative The Narrative breaks away from the script to cut through the typical media narratives and helps you understand the root causes of today’s culture and political controversies. Join Center for Christian Virtue (CCV) President Aaron Baer, Policy Director David Mahan, Communications Director Mike Andrews, and world-renowned experts as they dissect current issues and events from multiple angles and viewpoints, equipping you to be a critical thinker on some of the hottest topics today.Support the show: https://www.ccv.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on The Narrative, CCV Policy Director Mike Andrews and Communications Director Mike Andrews sit down with Pavel Unguryan and Diyana Gabyak to hear firsthand what's happening inside Ukraine and why Christians there are facing some of the fiercest persecution in recent history. From churches being shut down to believers being targeted for their faith, Ukraine's war is not only a battle for territory, it's a battle for the soul of a nation. Before the conversation, the guys share about the recent launch of the Christian Education Network and the leaders who came to Ohio this week to learn more about launching their own state networks. They also talk about the recent Supreme Court rumblings of overturning the Obergefell decision that legalized same-sex "marriage."    MORE ABOUT PAVEL UNGURYAN Pavel Unguryan is a distinguished politician, public servant, and long-time leader within the Ukrainian Baptist Union. Since 2019, he has served as the Executive Secretary of the Ukrainian Conservative Movement, a nationwide organization headquartered in Kyiv with branches across all 24 regions of Ukraine. The movement unites hundreds of thousands of citizens and fosters partnerships among more than 20 national religious associations, including Protestant organizations, Greek Catholics, Roman Catholics, and the Orthodox Church of Ukraine. MORE ABOUT DIYANA GABYAK Diyana Gabyak is an entrepreneur, faith-driven leader, and unwavering advocate for strong families, conservative values, and transformative leadership. With 25 years of experience as a worship leader, she has dedicated her life to faith, service, and uplifting others. She serves as a board member in multiple worldwide ministries, working tirelessly to support orphaned and foster children, rebuild lives, and create a future filled with hope and opportunity. Diyana and her husband, Vladimir, live in northern Ohio with their five children.   TALK TO US We want to hear from you! As a valued listener, your feedback is critical for us to keep The Narrative insightful, relevant, and helpful. If you have a particular guest, topic, or question you'd like us to cover, let us know! We’ll answer your questions on an “Ask Us Anything” episode later, so send in your questions now. 👉  Leave us a voicemail or text at 614-769-7077. 👉  Email us at thenarrative@ccv.org. To learn more about Center for Christian Virtue and to get involved, visit CCV.org. ⭐️ How are we doing? If you've found any episode of The Narrative insightful, let us know by leaving a review or rating! It helps us to know what you're enjoying and brings the podcast to other listeners, meaning you're helping equip your neighbors to understand today's hottest cultural and political topics. So, thank you! 🔎 About The Narrative The Narrative breaks away from the script to cut through the typical media narratives and helps you understand the root causes of today’s culture and political controversies. Join Center for Christian Virtue (CCV) President Aaron Baer, Policy Director David Mahan, Communications Director Mike Andrews, and world-renowned experts as they dissect current issues and events from multiple angles and viewpoints, equipping you to be a critical thinker on some of the hottest topics today.Support the show: https://www.ccv.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join John Stonestreet, president of the Colson Center and a prominent voice on faith and culture, as he tackles today's crisis of truth. He discusses the urgent call for Christians to engage with societal challenges and the implications of political actions, like Trump's defunding of public media. The conversation revolves around how media narratives shape public perception and the role of believers in upholding truth. Stonestreet also reveals insights about the upcoming documentary, Truth Rising, and encourages critical media consumption in a shifting cultural landscape.

The future of the family depends on fathers who lead with conviction and faith.  Kent Evans joins CCV Policy Director David Mahan and Communications Director Mike Andrews on this week's episode of The Narrative to talk about the joys and challenges of fatherhood—and how men can lead their homes with purpose, faith, and strength.  Before they sit down with Kent, David and Mike touch on some news of the week, sharing about the surprising pro-life themes in Marvel's new Fantastic Four movie, and how a recent Cleveland Guardians sports betting incident poses the question: is betting more important than the game itself? Whether you're a dad, mentor, pastor, or just care about the next generation, you won’t want to miss this episode!   MORE ABOUT KENT EVANS Kent Evans is the Co-founder and Executive Director of Manhood Journey. He helps dads become disciple-makers by equipping them with biblical tools, practical wisdom, and a clear mission for leading their families with purpose.  Kent is the author of several impactful books, including Don’t Bench Yourself: How to Stay in the Game Even When You Want to Quit; Wise Guys: Unlocking Hidden Wisdom from the Men Around You; Bring Your Hammer: 28 Tools Dads Can Grab From the Book of Nehemiah; and The Manhood Journey: Setting a Course for Godly Fatherhood. Kent and his wife, April, have five sons and live in Louisville, Kentucky—where family and faith are at the center of it all. TALK TO US We want to hear from you! As a valued listener, your feedback is critical for us to keep The Narrative insightful, relevant, and helpful. If you have a particular guest, topic, or question you'd like us to cover, let us know! We’ll answer your questions on an “Ask Us Anything” episode later, so send in your questions now. 👉  Leave us a voicemail or text at 614-769-7077. 👉  Email us at thenarrative@ccv.org. To learn more about Center for Christian Virtue and to get involved, visit CCV.org. ⭐️ How are we doing? If you've found any episode of The Narrative insightful, let us know by leaving a review or rating! It helps us to know what you're enjoying and brings the podcast to other listeners, meaning you're helping equip your neighbors to understand today's hottest cultural and political topics. So, thank you! 🔎 About The Narrative The Narrative breaks away from the script to cut through the typical media narratives and helps you understand the root causes of today’s culture and political controversies. Join Center for Christian Virtue (CCV) President Aaron Baer, Policy Director David Mahan, Communications Director Mike Andrews, and world-renowned experts as they dissect current issues and events from multiple angles and viewpoints, equipping you to be a critical thinker on some of the hottest topics today.Support the show: https://www.ccv.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.