Join the writers at The Lion each week as they break down the top news stories that affect families, students, and education. The Lion is a daily news publication published by The Herzog Foundation.
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Herzog Foundation Podcasts
In a time when courage feels increasingly rare, Finding Your Spine challenges the status quo. Hosted by Dr. Chase Spears, this weekly podcast explores how Christians—and even secular conservatives—can stand firm in their values amid the pressures of cancel culture. With insightful commentary and bold conversations, Dr. Spears examines the tradeoff many make between conscience and comfort, reminding listeners that true freedom requires the spine to defend it. Tune in each week for thought-pro ...
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Welcome to Life Beyond Abortion, the weekly podcast hosted by Melissa Ohden, abortion survivor, author, speaker, and founder of The Abortion Survivors Network. Join Melissa as she shares her powerful journey of survival and healing and amplifies the voices of those impacted by abortion, including survivors and their families. Through candid conversations, stories of resilience, and a commitment to truth, this podcast creates a space for inspiration, understanding, and transformation. Whether ...
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Morning Routine is a daily devotional focused on lifting up Christian educators, parents, and students in prayer. This podcast is hosted by Reverend Darrell Jones, President of the Herzog Foundation, and presented by the Herzog Foundation.
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Homeschool mom Emilie Lunt believes with her whole heart and soul that our homes are places where we can seek the truth, celebrate beauty, and learn good things every single day. That's why she's educating her kids at home. She knows you can do it too! Welcome to Heart & Soul Homeschool Podcast presented by the Herzog Foundation. Join Emilie and an array of captivating guests as they inspire and empower you on your homeschooling journey. Whether you're just beginning or a seasoned homeschool ...
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Making The Leap is a weekly podcast hosted by Christine and Chris Stigall. The Stigalls recently made the leap to Christian education, pulling their daughter out of a public school and sending her to a private Christian school. The Stigalls want to empower other families to choose the school that’s best for them and break free from the status quo. They speak with society experts, educators, legislators, psychologists, and other parents to uncover the hidden truths in education and lay the gr ...
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EdChoice Chats is the EdChoice team’s official podcast. EdChoice is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to advancing educational choice as the best pathway to successful lives and a stronger society. We believe families, not bureaucrats, are best equipped to make K-12 schooling decisions for their children. Our team works at the state level to educate diverse audiences, train advocates and engage policymakers on the benefits of high-quality school choice programs. Listen in to st ...
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President Trump's America Prays Initiative
38:42
38:42
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38:42The Lion breaks down President Donald Trump's bold America Prays Initiative, announced at the Museum of the Bible, championing religious liberty in schools and the Bible's enduring role in American heritage. Host Chris Stigall shares exclusive insights from the event, including Trump's personal delivery of his family Bible and new Department of Edu…
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Melissa Ohden hosts Greg Mayo, author of Almost Daddy, to explore how abortion impacts men. The discussion reveals the emotional toll, often ignored, and the need for men to engage in healing and advocacy. It challenges listeners to address abortion’s effects on men and inspire action to transform lives and culture. 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:00:52…
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SHOCKING: Servicemen Celebrate Charlie Kirk's Murder
1:05:37
1:05:37
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1:05:37Dr. Chase Spears confronts the shocking aftermath of Charlie Kirk’s assassination, diving into a disturbing trend of extremism within the U.S. military. Joined by R. Davis Younts and Caleb Byrd of Younts Law, Spears unpacks reports of military officers openly mocking Kirk’s death, revealing a crisis of character in the ranks. The discussion explore…
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The Lion panel dives into the ongoing national response to the tragic assassination of Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA, exploring its ripple effects on free speech, faith, and media accountability. Host Chris Stigall and the team discuss how Kirk’s message of civil discourse and Christian values continues to inspire, from his wife Erika’…
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Melissa Ohden hosts pro-life OB/GYN Dr. William Lile who shares his journey from taking over and shutting down an abortion clinic, to advocating for the pre-born. He discusses fetal surgeries, like heart and spina bifida procedures, to highlight the personhood of unborn patients. The conversation explores abortion’s impact, the role of faith, and t…
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Chase Spears welcomes back Dr. Owen Anderson, ASU Professor of Philosophy and Religious Studies, for a second episode exploring how Christians can live boldly in a pagan culture. Building on Samson’s story, they discuss serving as salt and light in challenging settings, grounded in theology and ethics. The conversation offers practical insights for…
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The Lion panel confronts the heartbreaking assassination of Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA, on a Utah college campus. Host Chris Stigall and the team reflect on Kirk’s legacy as a champion of free speech, faith, and liberty, exploring the national outpouring of grief and the impact on young conservatives. The discussion also delves into…
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Melissa Ohden hosts Serena Dyksen, founder of She Found His Grace, to share her journey through abortion’s aftermath. They explore the devastating effects of abortion, especially in cases of rape or incest, and the path to healing through faith. Serena’s story and ministry highlight hope and restoration for those impacted. The discussion challenges…
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Having the Moral Strength to Conquer Doubt
1:09:52
1:09:52
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1:09:52Chase Spears hosts Dr. Owen Anderson, ASU Professor of Philosophy and Religious Studies, to explore Samson’s biblical story as a model of moral strength. They discuss how Samson’s fight against unbelief offers lessons for living boldly in faith and confronting challenges. The episode examines the intersection of theology, ethics, and public life. 0…
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Chris Stigall and the panel discuss the MAHA movement’s Capitol Hill hearings, where Robert F. Kennedy Jr. defends vaccine schedule scrutiny. They cover Kansas City’s crime crisis, with a repeat arsonist and officer deaths, and Trump’s Chicago troop surge plan, met with Democratic resistance. Trump’s survival is noted. The Faith and Freedom segment…
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Melissa Ohden hosts Rachel Guy, a pro-life advocate whose family faced a prenatal diagnosis deemed incompatible with life. Rachel shares her journey of choosing hope, supporting others through 40 Days for Life, and challenging abortion narratives. Her story offers encouragement for those navigating crisis pregnancies. 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:04:…
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State Senator Stands His Ground Against Worldly Policies
1:09:57
1:09:57
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1:09:57Chase Spears hosts Dusty Deevers, a pastor and Oklahoma State Senator who blends faith with governance. A biology graduate from Oklahoma City University and Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary alum, he represents Senate District 32, pushing bold legislation rooted in Christian principles. He discusses resisting worldly powers and calling gove…
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Live From The White House: Trump Administration Discusses Healthcare Reform and More
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37:18
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37:18Live from the White House, Chris Stigall interviews Dr. Mehmet Oz on healthcare reform, Lee Zeldin on energy dominance, and Sebastian Gorka on counterterrorism, discussing third-quarter progress. Oz, leading Medicare/Medicaid, aims to cut waste and promote prevention. Breaking news: a Minneapolis Catholic school was targeted by a transgender indivi…
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EdChoice Chats: Rethinking ESA Policy Design with Katherine Bathgate
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45:06
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45:06On this edition of EdChoice Chats, host Mike McShane talks with Katherine Bathgate, the CEO and founder of SchoolForward, about her new paper Rethinking ESA Policy Design: A new approach to financial accountability. They talk about the ideas in the paper, ESA policy, the risk of misuse and fraud in ESA programs, and so much more.…
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Melissa Ohden hosts Suzanne Guy, a mother who rejected abortion despite a dire fetal diagnosis. Suzanne shares her journey of choosing life, navigating medical pressure, and finding hope through faith. Her story challenges myths about medical necessity. 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:04:49 - Fetal Diagnosis 00:09:32 - Medical Pressure 00:14:06 - Choosi…
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Canadian Soldier Advocates for Change
1:36:50
1:36:50
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1:36:50Chase Spears hosts Brian Isted, a Canadian military veteran who stood against toxic military culture and faced mental health struggles. Brian shares his 11 years as an officer, resisting harmful norms, and advocating for change. His story inspires action and resilience. 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:04:49 - Military Service 00:14:06 - Toxic Culture 00…
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Chris Stigall hosts one-on-one interviews with Michael Ryan, discussing his book "You Rule" and journalism’s decline; Missouri Rep. Josh Hurlbert on school choice and state policy; and Kansas City Councilmember Nathan Willett on local governance challenges. The Faith and Freedom segment explores the Northwest Ordinance’s role in education. 00:00:00…
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Melissa Ohden hosts Priscilla Hurley, who shares her journey of surviving abortion’s impact, finding healing through faith, and embracing purpose. Priscilla discusses overcoming trauma, family dynamics, and the ongoing process of restoration. Her story offers hope for those facing similar struggles. 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:04:49 - Abortion’s Imp…
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Faith Drives a Businessman to Take a Stand
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53:09
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53:09Chase Spears hosts Michael Young, a Christian businessman who shares his journey of standing firm in faith through decades in construction and aviation. From St. Louis to Angola’s petroleum industry, Michael discusses leading with principle, mentoring others, and trusting God amid challenges. His story inspires purposeful action. 00:00:00 - Introdu…
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Chris Stigall and panelists dive into Trump’s D.C. crime crackdown, Disney’s legal surrender over politics, and new Obama executive branch declassifications. They also explore Missouri’s education lawsuit and surging Christian school enrollment. The Faith and Freedom segment traces the Bible’s role in colonial education. 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:…
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Former Planned Parenthood Educator Exposes How They Target Children
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46:01Melissa Ohden hosts Monica Cline, who shares her journey from Planned Parenthood educator to pro-life advocate. Monica reveals the organization’s targeting of youth and families, her transformative exit, and her work with It Takes a Family to protect children. Her story exposes systemic agendas and offers hope. 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:04:14 - Pl…
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Chase Spears hosts Daniel Knick, an Air Force veteran who faced career-ending pressure over the COVID-19 shot mandate. Daniel shares his journey of faith, resisting coercion, and rebuilding after an honorable discharge. His story underscores the importance of standing firm in conviction. 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:06:47 - Military Service 00:13:16 …
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Lawmakers Play "Texas Hold 'Em" in Redistricting Battle
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33:32
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33:32Chris Stigall and panelists tackle Texas’ redistricting battle, new Russia hoax revelations, and a St. Louis soccer fan’s ejection for a MAGA hat. They also discuss Missouri’s school scholarship program and John Brennan’s testimony on intelligence failures. The Faith and Freedom segment explores Christian education’s roots. 00:00:00 - Introduction …
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Melissa Ohden hosts Elizabeth "Liz" Edmonds, an abortion survivor and birth mother who chose adoption at 15. Liz shares her journey of overcoming homelessness, embracing faith, and advocating for Betsy’s Law to support pregnant women with housing. Her story reveals the transformative power of love and purpose. 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:04:14 - Fac…
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Chase Spears hosts Will Pope, a January 6 defendant who faced 30 years of federal charges. Will shares his journey of being pushed into the Capitol, self-representing against DOJ tactics, and overcoming false accusations. His story of resilience highlights the human toll and need for accountability. 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:06:32 - January 6 Chao…
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Chris Stigall and panelists unpack new Russiagate evidence tying Obama to a Soros-funded plot, a disturbing Arkansas murder raising school safety concerns, Democrats’ sinking favorability, Trump’s cryptocurrency mortgage plan, and a religious freedom memo for federal workers. The Faith and Freedom segment explores the First Amendment’s roots. 00:00…
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Melissa Ohden hosts Brittany Paladino, who shares her journey as a young widow facing an unplanned pregnancy. Brittany discusses considering abortion, choosing adoption, and navigating family and church dynamics. Her story highlights the power of faith, community support, and ethical adoption resources. 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:02:32 - Widow’s Cr…
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Chase Spears hosts Chief Warrant Officer 3 Brandon Bulge and Technical Sergeant Chris Babczak, who share their ongoing battles against unjust military policies. Facing career-ending repercussions despite rescinded mandates, they discuss the fight for their rights, the impact of leadership failures, and their resolve to uphold principle. 00:00:00 - …
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Chris Stigall and panelists discuss Tulsi Gabbard’s evidence of Obama’s 2016 election interference, Trump’s six-month policy wins, a resolution condemning global Christian persecution, Missouri’s school choice lawsuit, and Stephen Colbert’s cancellation. From Washington, Maggie Little reports on Trump’s trade deals and Epstein chatter. 00:00:00 - I…
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Melissa Ohden hosts Solé Wright, author and women’s wellness coach, who shares her journey as an abortion survivor. From learning of her mother’s attempts to abort her to finding healing through the Abortion Survivors Network, Wright discusses overcoming trauma, reconciling with her mother, and advocating for women. Her book, After Some Time, conne…
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Chase Spears hosts Dr. Joshua Bowman, Executive Director of The Ciceronian Society, to explore how Christian friendship fosters moral strength. They discuss oases—communities that combat isolation and nurture virtues like resolve, drawing from Hannah Arendt and C.S. Lewis. Bowman shares insights on faith, fatherhood, and the church’s role in cultur…
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SPECIAL: Live From Senator Dave McCormick's Energy Summit
31:31
31:31
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31:31Chris Stigall reports from Pittsburgh’s Energy and Innovation Summit, hosted by Senator Dave McCormick. Joined by Secretary of Energy Chris Wright and President Donald Trump, they discuss Pennsylvania’s role in fueling AI and economic growth through natural gas, nuclear power, and rare earth minerals. A Faith and Freedom 250 segment explores Americ…
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Ep. 6: Sunday School Choice featuring Chris Vas from the Herzog Foundation
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20:03In this episode of Sunday School Choice, host Nathan Sanders interviews Chris Vas from the Herzog Foundation to discuss the foundation’s mission of advancing Christ-centered K–12 education across the country. They explore the foundation’s professional development programs, its SchoolBox platform for launching new schools, and the impact of Missouri…
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Melissa Ohden hosts Leah Outten, who shares her journey as a teen mother choosing open adoption. Facing pressure to abort, Leah found hope in open adoption, fostering a lasting bond with her daughter. Now, she advocates for adoption education through her nonprofit, the Ampersand Initiative. You can find out more about Leah's story at leahoutten.com…
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Chase Spears hosts Brennan 'Skip' Schilperoort, an Air Force major who faced persecution for resisting unlawful military mandates. Despite having his pay halted, Skip stood firm in his faith and constitutional rights, inspiring others to hold fast. 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:05:09 - Pay Halted 00:09:14 - Mandate Resistance 00:13:17 - Moral Convicti…
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Chris Stigall and panelists unpack the Epstein files fallout, Biden’s cognitive decline cover-up, and Elon Musk’s third-party threat. From Supreme Court wins for churches to TSA’s no-shoe policy, they dive into a week of scandals and policy shifts. 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:01:57 - Epstein Files Fallout 00:06:12 - Biden Decline Cover-Up 00:10:09 -…
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Melissa Ohden hosts Heather Weininger, executive director of Wisconsin Right to Life, who shares her path to pro-life leadership. From a college encounter with an unplanned pregnancy to innovative programs like the Veritas Society, Heather’s work empowers women and teens with life-affirming choices. 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:03:13 - Pro-Life Journ…
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Chase Spears hosts Kirsten Workman, a Lansing, KS school board member, who shares her fight against mask mandates and ideological curricula in schools. As a homeschooling mom and pro-life volunteer, she stands for truth despite opposition. Her story inspires action for freedom and faith. 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:06:11 - Covid Awakening 00:11:09 -…
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Trump's Big Beautiful Bill Wins Just in Time for Independence Day
28:07
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28:07Chris Stigall and panelists discuss the “Big Beautiful Bill” reaching Trump’s desk, Supreme Court victories for parents, and a surge in patriotism. From school choice to border security, they explore how these wins shape America’s future. 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:03:02 - Supreme Court Rulings 00:06:18 - Parental Rights 00:09:39 - Democrat Opposit…
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State of Choice: 2025 Legislative Session in Review
28:54
28:54
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28:54In this episode of the State of Choice podcast, host Ed Tarnowski talks with Katherine Schulze, Nathan Sanders, and Aaron Gillham about all the exciting momentum across the states this legislative session.Of the eight states–Idaho, Indiana, Missouri, New Hampshire, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, and Wyoming–that created or expanded choice progra…
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Melissa Ohden hosts Sarah Zagorski-Jones, an abortion survivor who shares her journey from trauma to forgiveness. Born after a botched induction abortion, Sarah faced rejection but found peace through faith and understanding her birth mother’s struggles. As a pro-life advocate, she exposes the abortion industry’s deceit. 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:…
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EdChoice Chats: Tackling School Choice Attacks with Robert Enlow
13:51
13:51
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13:51For decades, critics of school choice have warned that it would destroy public education. From claims that funding would evaporate to predictions of catastrophic harm to students, the rhetoric has been dramatic—and remarkably consistent.But is there any truth to these warnings?Robert Enlow, CEO of EdChoice, and Ed Tarnowski, author of the new repor…
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Resisting Indoctrination in the Public School System
1:08:41
1:08:41
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1:08:41Chase Spears hosts Caedran Sullivan, a veteran teacher exposing DEI and transgender policies in the Shawnee Mission School District. Facing retaliation for opposing critical race theory and compelled speech, Sullivan fights for transparency and academic focus. Her legal battle defends free thought and free expression. 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:06:…
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Chris Stigall and panelists unpack Trump’s precision strikes on Iran’s nuclear sites, NATO’s bold funding deal, and a socialist’s rise in NYC’s mayoral primary. From Texas cracking down on school abuse to California’s Title IX violations, they expose media spin and cultural shifts. 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:00:56 - NATO’s Big Deal 00:04:17 - NYC M…
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Melissa Ohden hosts Jennifer Callender, a twin abortion survivor who shares her journey from shame to empowerment. Facing medical survival, family struggles, and personal loss, Callender found strength in faith and community. Her story in the My Body, My Voice campaign inspires hope and healing. 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:06:00 - Twin Survival 00:1…
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Ep. 5: Sunday School Choice featuring Dr. Shaunette Parker
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23:08
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23:08In this episode of Sunday School Choice: Where Faith Meets Education Freedom, host Nathan Sanders is joined by Dr. Shaunette Parker, Senior Director of Partner Relations at the National School Choice Awareness Foundation and board chair of Second Baptist Christian Preparatory School in South Carolina. They discuss how church-based schools can uniqu…
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Chase Spears hosts Kayla Toney, counsel at First Liberty Institute, who fights for religious liberty. Toney shares her calling and cases like Valerie Klosterman’s, challenging hospital gender ideology mandates, and California parents opposing school transgender curricula. These stands shape case law nationwide. Visit FirstLiberty.org to learn more …
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Chris Stigall and panelists dive into Israel’s strikes on Iran, escalating tensions, and U.S. involvement debates. They unpack the Minnesota legislator killing, revealing murky motives, and expose the Biden dementia cover-up in Senate hearings. From transgender surgery bans to immigration narratives, they challenge mainstream media spin. 00:00:00 -…
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Melissa Ohden hosts Ruth Tisdale, executive director of Two Lines Pregnancy Clinic in Kansas City. Tisdale shares her unexpected journey into pro-life work, finding purpose after 20 years of serving women in crisis. Two Lines offers pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, STI testing, and case management, empowering women with hope and resources, even post-a…
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Chase Spears hosts Jake Herzog, son of Stan Herzog, founder of the Herzog Foundation. Jake shares how his father’s quiet faith and bold giving shaped a legacy supporting Christian education. From humble railroad roots, Stan’s vision birthed a foundation empowering educators and families. Jake discusses purposeful philanthropy, prioritizing gospel-d…
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