Starting Right is a 5 minute Day Starter to help keep you motivated, encouraged, and focused throughout your day. DannyMac is a pastor, teacher, motivational speaker, husband, and father. His years of leading and training people have given him vast experience in helping individuals to accomplish change in their lives and meet their goals. He can help you set the course for your day by offering practical advice from God's Word in a positive and fun way. There is no better way to begin your da ...
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DannyMac Podcasts
Mornings feel different when you remember you’re not carrying the day alone. We take five focused minutes to reset with Scripture, a clear view of trust, and the uplifting punch of Katie Nicole’s “My God Can.” This isn’t about pretending life is easy; it’s about anchoring yourself to promises that hold when plans fall apart and emotions run hot. Th…
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Five minutes can reset a day. We open with a simple question—why are there so many critics and so few encouragers?—and follow it to a windswept pier in the Bahamas where a young sailor’s dream meets a chorus of doubt. As warnings pile up, one voice cuts through: Bon voyage, we’re with you. That moment becomes a compass for how we speak to each othe…
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A Model A Ford crossed America and back without shutting off the engine—and did it in reverse. That jaw-dropping 1930 road trip is more than a curiosity; it’s a mirror for how we handle detours, dead ends, and the quiet tug to turn around. We unpack the stunt in vivid detail and draw a straight line to a deeper truth: sometimes the only way forward…
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Two Horses Walk into a Field—Only One Has a Bell
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5:23Start your day with a clear mind and a grounded heart. We explore what it means to be led, not driven—drawing on the Good Shepherd picture from Scripture and a vivid story of two horses, one blind and one wearing a bell. Together, they show how steady guidance outperforms constant striving, and how small, consistent cues can bring us back to safety…
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Ever felt completely drained - spiritually, emotionally, and physically? That moment when you're simply tired of the stress of being you? You're in good company. Today we dive into the fascinating story of the prophet Elijah, who, fresh off a spectacular victory against the prophets of Baal, found himself running for his life and collapsing in exha…
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Have you ever wondered what extraordinary faith really looks like? Today's episode explores the difference between intellectual assent and true powerful faith. To illustrate this difference, I share the fascinating story of Charles Blondin, the legendary tightrope walker who crossed Niagara Falls multiple times in 1859. After pushing a wheelbarrow …
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Have you ever noticed how quickly your outlook can change based on who you're listening to? Today's powerful parable about a roadside hot dog vendor reveals this truth in vivid detail. The story follows an elderly man with poor hearing and eyesight who builds a thriving hot dog business through simple, enthusiastic promotion. Without access to news…
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Pirates, Pieces of Eight, and the Peace That Surpasses Understanding
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5:20What drives our fascination with hidden treasure? From childhood pirate stories to television shows about underwater discoveries, there's something compelling about the search for valuable things lost to time. Today's reflection bridges my personal connection to maritime history—a piece of silver from the legendary Atocha shipwreck—with the far gre…
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Are Distractions Stealing Your Relationship With Christ?
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5:08Have you noticed how increasingly difficult it's become to carve out meaningful time with God? You're not alone. The modern landscape of constant notifications, endless responsibilities, and perpetual entertainment options creates the perfect breeding ground for spiritual disconnection. Today's episode uncovers a thought-provoking fictional account…
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Have you ever wondered what it really means to "live by faith, not by sight"? This morning, I dive into this challenging concept from 2 Corinthians 5:7 through two powerful stories that illuminate this spiritual principle in vivid, practical ways. First, I share the tragic story of John Kennedy Jr.'s fatal flight to Martha's Vineyard in 1999. Kenne…
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Have you ever considered that sometimes our most profound spiritual insights come from the most unexpected sources? In this episode of Starting Right, we explore a touching story of a young father and his four-year-old son at bedtime prayers. When the little boy accidentally reversed the traditional bedtime prayer to say "If I should wake before I …
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What happens when ordinary people choose extraordinary compassion? Today's episode tells the deeply moving story of Billy, a six-year-old boy with terminal leukemia whose simple wish to become a fireman triggered an unexpected chain of events. When a heartbroken mother in Phoenix approached her local fire department asking if her dying son could si…
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Kay Arthur's powerful story from the streets of Jerusalem introduces us to a beggar who deliberately maintained his infected leg wound to receive charity from tourists. Despite having access to medical care, he chose to remain unwell because he had built his entire livelihood around his injury. This modern parallel to the biblical account in John 5…
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Unmovable: Finding Strength in God's Protection
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4:35Have you ever wondered what happens when a powerful Mexican fighting bull meets a stubborn South Dakota buffalo? The answer holds a surprising spiritual lesson that might just transform how you face today's challenges. Danny Mac brings us a fascinating historical account from 1907, when cattle rancher Scotty Phillip bet that his buffalo could defea…
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Have you ever made a mistake so embarrassing you wanted to hide forever? The story of Roy Regals might just give you the courage to face your second half. During the 1929 Rose Bowl, Roy Regals became infamous for scooping up a fumble and running the wrong way down the field. Stopped just shy of scoring for the opposing team, he was devastated. At h…
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What happens when a simple thank-you note travels far beyond its intended recipient? Today's episode explores the remarkable ripple effect of gratitude through the story of Emerson Weber, a young letter writer who changed hundreds of lives with a single note of appreciation to her mail carrier. I share how Emerson's thank-you letter to her postal w…
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Do you ever feel like your life lacks significance? Like you're just a small note in a grand symphony that no one would notice if it went missing? Today's episode challenges that notion with a powerful story about a piccolo player in Michael Costa's London Philharmonic Orchestra who thought his contribution didn't matter—until the moment he stopped…
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Have you ever wondered if the Bible's historical accounts are actually true? Today's episode examines compelling archaeological evidence that validates Scripture's accuracy through an unexpected source. The discovery of a tiny clay seal in 1986 near Jerusalem's ancient temple site revealed something remarkable. This seal, belonging to a man named E…
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Have you ever found yourself on your knees, completely out of options, crying out to heaven? Today's episode explores the raw power of desperate prayer through Jamie McDonald's moving song "Desperate." The lyrics of "Desperate" emerged from another valley in Jamie's life—returning to Nashville after caring for her sick father, carrying immense grie…
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What happens when we faithfully plant seeds of God's truth in the hearts of our children? The answer might surprise and delight you. The wisdom of Proverbs 22:6 reminds us to "train up a child in the way he should go," promising that these early teachings create lasting foundations. Many of us can still recall Bible verses and church songs from our…
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Have you ever experienced a moment where divine timing seemed too perfect to be coincidence? This episode tells the trie story of two Florida teens who experienced exactly that kind of extraordinary intervention. Tyler Smith and Heather Brown, high school students from Christ Church Academy, found themselves in a life-threatening situation when str…
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What if a blueprint for dismantling democracy had been hiding in plain sight since 1954? Judge Keith Elber's discovery of exactly that in his college political science textbook forms the centerpiece of today's compelling episode. When Judge Elber first read about the nine steps to overthrow democracy as a law student at Napa College, he dismissed i…
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What does true character look like when victory is within reach? Spanish athlete Ivan Anaya answers this question through an extraordinary act of sportsmanship that challenges our understanding of winning and integrity. When Kenyan Olympic bronze medalist Abel Mutai mistakenly stopped running 10 meters before the finish line during a 2012 cross-cou…
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Join me, Danny Mac, for this Monday edition of Starting Right as we dive into three powerful names of God from the Old Testament that continue to bring comfort, strength, and direction to believers worldwide. Inspired by Vicki Yohe's beautiful worship song "Because of Who You Are," we unpack how these divine names first appeared in pivotal biblical…
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Ever had that moment when you walk into a room and conversations suddenly stop? That feeling of being unwanted or disrespected cuts deep into our souls. From high school cliques to professional settings, most of us carry scars from times we've been made to feel worthless or unwanted by others. These painful experiences shape how we view ourselves, …
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What Scrap Wood Teaches Us About Divine Purpose
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5:37What happens to the pieces that no one wants? The scraps that others discard as worthless? My son Jon has taught me a powerful lesson through his woodworking that speaks directly to the heart of anyone who's ever felt broken beyond repair. Despite soaring lumber prices, Jon creates beautiful furniture and art pieces using what others consider garba…
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Have you ever prayed for something but secretly doubted it would happen? Today's episode explores the profound difference between casual hoping and genuine biblical expectation through the compelling story of a drought-stricken town and an 11-year-old girl's extraordinary demonstration of faith. This simple yet powerful story illuminates the biblic…
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No Fear of Bad News: Finding Strength in Life's Challenges
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5:27What do you do when disaster strikes? In today's episode, we explore Thomas Edison's remarkable response to catastrophe when a spectacular fire destroyed over half his laboratory complex in 1914. Rather than mourning his losses, he gathered his employees the next morning and declared, "We're rebuilding." His perspective? "Thank goodness, our mistak…
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Ever notice how certain worship songs seem to find you exactly when you need them most? That's what happened this weekend with "Take You at Your Word" by Ben Hastings and Cody Carnes. Despite hearing it countless times before, something about this particular moment made its message of unwavering trust in God's promises resonate more deeply than eve…
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When God Whispers "Sing" in Your Darkest Moments
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4:15Have you ever wondered where to find strength when your world collapses? In today's powerful episode, we explore an extraordinary testimony from Darlene Czech, former worship leader at Hillsong Church, that reveals the supernatural healing power of worship during life's most devastating moments. Darlene's story takes us to that heart-wrenching day …
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Ever noticed how what we expect tends to be exactly what we find? Take the father diving in Bora Bora who, despite swimming among reef sharks, experienced beauty rather than fear because of his perspective. This powerful principle lies at the heart of today's reflection. Joy isn't the absence of problems—it's maintaining the right mindset regardles…
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When God Speaks Through Unlikely Messengers.
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6:18Ever wondered what would happen if your pet suddenly started talking back to you? In the Bible, one man found out—and surprisingly, wasn't even shocked by it. Welcome to a fascinating journey through one of Scripture's most unusual encounters: Balaam and his talking donkey. This curious tale from Numbers 22 reveals powerful truths about listening t…
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Have you ever felt overlooked or underestimated because of your position? Today's episode uncovers a powerful leadership lesson from one of the Bible's most overlooked characters. Meet the unnamed Israeli servant girl from 2 Kings 5 - captured, enslaved, and yet remarkably influential. Despite her circumstances, this young slave demonstrated that l…
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Have you ever considered how your response to life's little imperfections affects those around you? Today's episode of Starting Right unpacks a heartwarming story about burnt toast that carries profound wisdom about compassion, marriage, and thoughtful communication. We feature a story from Kevin Arthur, who witnessed his father's remarkable respon…
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What will your family remember about you when you're gone? Will they recall someone obsessed with turning off lights and maintaining the lawn, or will they reminisce about a person who made life wonderfully fun? This thought-provoking question emerges from today's reflection on the power of creating meaningful family memories. I share the story of …
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What happens when a young boy faces a challenge without his father's help? In this heartwarming episode, we explore the remarkable wisdom of eight-year-old Gilbert, who teaches us all a profound lesson about prayer, resilience, and finding strength in vulnerability. This powerful story reminds us that true victory isn't always about winning. Someti…
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The boulder in your path might be hiding a treasure underneath. In this thought-provoking episode, Danny Mac shares a timeless parable about a curious king who placed a massive rock in the main road to his kingdom. While wealthy merchants and wise men simply walked around the obstacle, complaining loudly about the inconvenience, one humble peasant …
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Beyond Suffering: The Power of Giving Thanks
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6:04Have you ever considered that your biggest annoyances might actually be blessings in disguise? Today's episode uncovers the remarkable true story of Corrie Ten Boom and her sister Betsy, whose experience in a Nazi concentration camp reveals an extraordinary lesson about gratitude. When the Ten Boom family was arrested in 1944 for hiding Jews in Ams…
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What does it truly mean to be part of building God's kingdom? The answer might surprise you. This episode challenges the common misconception that God sits on His throne magically answering prayers at our demand. Instead, we explore how God works through people—His people—to accomplish His purposes. The heart of today's message centers on the extra…
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Dreams can die in the desert. That's the powerful lesson from Kermit the Frog's journey in the original 1979 Muppet Movie—and it might just be the message you need to hear today. Remember when Kermit's Studebaker broke down in the middle of nowhere? His friends were counting on him, his dream seemed impossible, and quitting felt like the only sensi…
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Sleep Better Tonight: Taking Your Thoughts Captive
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4:52Ever noticed how your exhausted body betrays you the moment your head hits the pillow? Danny Mac tackles this universal frustration in today's episode, offering both spiritual wisdom and practical advice for those nights when your mind races at 100 miles per hour despite your physical fatigue. Drawing from 2 Corinthians 10:5, Danny unpacks what it …
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Discover the unexpected power of seven simple words that sparked a revival at summer camp. This episode shares an unforgettable story from youth ministry legend Tony Campolo about Billy, a boy with cerebral palsy who became the target of merciless bullying at junior high camp. When Billy was mockingly chosen to lead devotions, something extraordina…
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Have you ever witnessed a classroom lesson so powerful it left students in tears? Today's episode of Starting Right shares a remarkable story that will transform how you understand sacrifice and grace. Danny Mac tells "The Parable of the Donuts," where a religion professor orchestrates an unforgettable demonstration. Steve, a freshman football play…
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Ever find yourself drowning in worry, doubt, or fear? You're not alone. Today's episode dives into the powerful antidote God has already provided us through His promises. We explore the profound message behind "Take You at Your Word," a worship song by Ben Hastings and Cody Carnes that serves as a beautiful reminder of God's faithfulness. As Cody h…
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Sacred melodies possess a remarkable ability to transcend time, speaking to our hearts across centuries. In today's five-minute devotional, we uncover the fascinating story behind the beloved hymn "Nearer My God to Thee," written by Sarah Adams in 1841—a journey that takes us from London's theatrical stage to the depths of the Atlantic Ocean. The h…
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10 Fascinating Facts About the Bible You Never Knew
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5:57Ever wonder what makes the Bible such a remarkable book beyond its spiritual significance? Today's episode uncovers ten fascinating facts about Scripture that highlight its extraordinary nature as a historical and literary achievement. From its impressive scale (600,000-800,000 words depending on translation) to its diverse authorship (over 40 writ…
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Have you ever wondered how God works through your difficult times? The ancient process of silver refinement offers a profound spiritual metaphor that illuminates God's purpose in our trials. As Ephesians 2:10 reminds us, "We are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works." The refining process, though often painful, prepares us for t…
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What happens when every external support is stripped away, and all you have left are the resources stored in your mind and heart? Danny Mac explores this profound question through the remarkable story of Major Daniel Whittle, a Vietnam War pilot whose life was literally saved by the Bible verses and hymns he had memorized as a child. The turning po…
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Faith Doesn't Mean Never Getting Discouraged; It Means Never Staying There
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5:48Have you ever felt so discouraged that even getting out of bed seemed impossible? We all face seasons when disappointment and setbacks crush our spirits. Today's devotional explores how to move forward when everything inside you wants to give up. The remarkable story of Nehemiah offers a powerful blueprint for battling discouragement. As a Jewish e…
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