Best Ric Shields Podcasts (2025)

1
Through the Eyes of a Teenager 17:36

Play Pause

5h ago17:36

17:36

In this episode, Ric sits down with 16-year-old Greyson Wootton, not a researcher, not a psychologist, but a real high school student living the real pressures of teenage life. From risky behaviors and body image to academics, identity, and belonging, Greyson offers honest insight into what life is really like for teenagers in 2025.…

1
A Miracle in an Envelope - A Thanksgiving Special 13:20

7h ago13:20

13:20

In this special Thanksgiving episode of the DoorWays Ministry Podcast, Ric Shields shares a powerful true story of God’s unexpected provision: an unopened envelope, an honest prayer, and a miracle that made generosity possible. He also invites listeners to explore the newly restored DoorWays website. Filled with encouragement, biblical insight, and…

1
They're... Dating??? What Christian Families Need to Know About Teen Relationships. 27:32

15d ago27:32

27:32

Your kid sits you down. They look nervous. And then you hear the words you weren’t expecting today: “We’re dating.” …Now what? In this episode, the team dives into the moment every Christian family eventually faces — when a child starts stepping into dating relationships. We talk about the tension between wanting to protect our kids and wanting to …

1
Hidden Scars: What self-harm means, why it happens, and how to help. 24:27

22d ago24:27

24:27

In this podcast, Ric Shields speaks with Dr. Nicholas Westers, a leading expert on self-injury and adolescent psychology. They discuss why people may harm themselves, how to recognize the hidden pain behind it, and how to respond with compassion rather than fear. This episode offers clarity, hope, and encouragement for anyone who wants to understan…

1
Why Am I Still Alive? A survivor’s story of despair, deliverance, and divine purpose. 21:38

21d ago21:38

21:38

In this powerful episode of the DoorWays® Ministry Podcast, host Ric Shields talks with Lydia Maier, a woman who battled years of self-harm, depression, and suicide attempts before finding true freedom through faith. Once a psychiatric patient, now a missionary in Switzerland, Lydia shares how God transformed her pain into purpose and how prayer an…

1
When Poverty Steals Teen Hope: Inside the unseen struggle of teens growing up with less 23:19

1M ago23:19

23:19

Poverty isn’t always visible—but for many teens in rural communities, it shapes every part of life. In this episode, Ric Shields talks with counselor Jessica Dixon-Neal about the unseen challenges young people face when access to care, resources, and opportunity is out of reach. Together, they share stories of resilience and remind us that consiste…

1
It Won't Last Forever: Faith and hope in the face of teen depression. 19:04

1M ago19:04

19:04

Teen depression is real, and it's closer than we think. In this powerful conversation, Ric Shields speaks with Laura Smith from Grand Mental Health to talk about the hidden battles teenagers face and how faith, presence, and love can change everything. They discuss the impact of social pressure, family stress, and the hope that comes through compas…

1
They’ve All Seen It: The fight for purity in a digital world. 26:08

2M ago26:08

26:08

Over 80% of teens have seen pornography… but 75% of parents think their kids haven’t. In this powerful and painfully honest episode, Ric Shields and youth pastor Titus Schmitt expose how porn is quietly shaping a generation. They share real, hopeful steps families can take to fight back and find freedom.…

1
Behind the Screen: What social media is really doing to kids 21:52

2M ago21:52

21:52

By Ric Shields

1
Redeeming Families, Restoring Dignity: Rethinking foster care and family support 18:14

2M ago18:14

18:14

What if we shifted our mindset from “rescuing kids” to “redeeming families”? In this episode of the DoorWays® Ministry Podcast, Ric Shields sits down with Gary and Tammie Webb of OCJ Kids. Together, they share powerful stories of foster teens, the importance of strengthening families, and how small acts of compassion can transform lives forever.…

1
When Home Isn’t Safe: Restoring hope for foster youth. 23:06

2M ago23:06

23:06

Every foster teen carries a story most of us never hear. Gary and Tammy Webb, directors of OCJ Kids, shed light on the hidden struggles of broken homes, trauma, and the uncertainty of life in the system. They share how their ministry comes alongside foster youth with practical support, mentorship, and hope, and challenge the church to step in and m…

1
Pastoring Teens Through FOMO and Faith: A Youth Pastor’s Guide to Reaching Teens Today 23:46

3M ago23:46

23:46

What does it take to truly reach the hearts of today’s teenagers? Youth pastors Matt Brunner and T.J. Sorgenfrei share how discipleship and evangelism go hand in hand, why authentic faith matters more than polished programs, and how prayer and presence remain the most powerful tools in shaping the next generation.…

1
Guiding Teens with Grace: Real help for real parents. 23:57

3M ago23:57

23:57

Raising teens isn’t easy, but it’s not hopeless either. In this episode, Adam and Christa Hoch share real-life stories, faith-filled wisdom, and practical tips for navigating the ups and downs of parenting teenagers. From communication and controlled freedom to showing grace (for your kids and yourself), this conversation brings encouragement, laug…

1
Making Blended Families Work 20:21

3M ago20:21

20:21

Blended families come with challenges but also incredible rewards. Aaron and Sydney Johnson open up about their story, offering practical tools and faith-filled encouragement to help others on the same journey.By Ric Shields

1
Divorce Through Kids' Eyes 22:42

3M ago22:42

22:42

Whitney Barth, Executive Pastor at More Church in Arlington, TX, opens up about experiencing her parents’ divorce and the deep impact it had on her life. She shares heartfelt insights on the fears, identity struggles, and loyalty conflicts children face, along with practical guidance for parents to help their kids find stability and hope.…

1
An Unexpected Divorce 20:01

4M ago20:01

20:01

Vicki LaFave shares her journey through a 36-year marriage that ended in divorce, the fears and losses she faced, and the faith that carried her through. Now remarried and leading a ministry for single moms, Vicki offers hope, wisdom, and encouragement to women navigating the pain of divorce and the path to renewal.…

1
Empty Nest, Full Hearts 23:37

4M ago23:37

23:37

Joe and Danielle Cook, lead pastors at Hope Church in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, share how years of regular date nights and open communication built the strong foundation that now carries them through the empty nest years. They reflect on the freedom and change that comes when the kids are gone, the evolving role of parenting adult children, and the o…

1
Married in the Spotlight 25:05

4M ago25:05

25:05

Chris and Cara Rathbone share how they navigate marriage, parenting, and leadership as pastors. They explore the pressures of ministry life and the four key attitudes that keep them grounded in faith and each other.By Ric Shields

1
Married on Mission 23:43

4M ago23:43

23:43

Chresten and Bridgette Tomlin, married and in itinerant ministry for 27 years, share the joys and challenges of life on the road. They discuss how parenting, finances, and intentional connection have shaped their marriage, and offer practical insight for couples learning to balance ministry, family, and faith.…

1
After the Affair 24:48

4M ago24:48

24:48

Infidelity shatters trust, but it doesn't have to end the story. In this powerful episode, Dr. Bill Buker unpacks the root causes of marital affairs and offers a redemptive path forward. With wisdom and compassion, he explores how couples can rebuild connection, restore trust, and experience deeper intimacy through forgiveness and faith.…

1
Money Matters 26:04

5M ago26:04

26:04

Why Most Couples Struggle With Money, and How to Fix It Chris and Betty Jo Anderson share how couples can manage money with wisdom, unity, and purpose. Using their "FINANCES" framework, eight practical & biblical principles, they offer tools for budgeting, saving, giving, and growing together to build a stronger financial foundation and marriage.…

1
Oneness 20:23

5M ago20:23

20:23

Pete and Mary Kay Blum share insights from their 40-year marriage, focusing on spiritual, soul, and body oneness. They explore how deep intimacy grows through spiritual connection, secure attachment, and mutual enjoyment. Addressing common challenges like communication and unforgiveness, they offer practical wisdom on aligning marriage with God’s d…

1
Her Pain, His Addiction 24:07

5M ago24:07

24:07

Patti Schatzmann shares her journey as the wife of a man who battled a 40-year porn addiction before finding healing and becoming a missionary. She opens up about the impact on her trust and self-worth, and the challenges of confronting addiction in marriage. Patti offers hope, practical advice, and encouragement for anyone facing similar struggles…

1
Freedom Found: Overcoming A 40-year Pornography Addiction 24:09

5M ago24:09

24:09

David Schatzmann opens up about his 40-year battle with pornography addiction, how it began in childhood, how it nearly destroyed his marriage, and how healing finally came through honesty, accountability, and faith. A powerful story of hope, restoration, and real freedom.By Ric Shields

1
It's Not Just Sex 22:28

6M ago22:28

22:28

Dr. Jason and Robyn Fullerton, pastors of Spirit Church in Bartlesville, explore intimacy in marriage beyond the physical. They emphasize vulnerability, authenticity, and Christ-centered connection, offering practical insight for building deeper relationships.By Ric Shields

1
Parenting With Purpose 25:13

6M ago25:13

25:13

Dan and Mandy Wootton, lead pastors at Carbondale Assembly of God in Tulsa, Oklahoma, share their experiences as the parents of four children. The Woottons discuss their journey from friendship to marriage, their decision to have a large family, and the impact of children on their relationship. Dan and Mandy provide advice for single and married in…

1
Fighting Fair in Marriage 19:40

6M ago19:40

19:40

Conflict, Communication, and Connection Darren McKinnis, a Gottman Certified therapist, joins Ric Shields to discuss common disagreements in marriage and strategies for managing them. Darren explains that many conflicts are unresolvable, requiring couples to find workarounds and communicate from the heart. The episode concludes with encouragement t…

1
Convenience vs. Covenant Why: Marriage Still Matters 20:05

6M ago20:05

20:05

On this episode, Pastor Phil Taylor brings decades of experience in church doctrine and family relations to the topic of marriage. The discussion delves into the evolving societal views on marriage and emphasizes the importance of marriage as a covenant for Christ followers. Ric Shields and Pastor Taylor advocate for the spiritual and communal aspe…

1
Why Get Married? 18:04

7M ago18:04

18:04

In this kickoff episode of the DoorWays® Ministry Network’s marriage series, host Ric Shields talks with Pastor Phil Taylor about the question: “Why get married?” Drawing from decades of pastoral experience and 50 years of marriage, Pastor Phil shares biblical insight on marriage as a God-ordained covenant, not just a social contract.…

1
Unseen Struggles: Understanding Eating Disorders 23:41

7M ago23:41

23:41

In this episode, Summer Wyers, MS, LPC-S, discusses eating disorders. Summer emphasizes the complexity of eating disorders, their deep psychological roots, and the importance of addressing both emotional and physical aspects in treatment. The discussion also touches on the church's role in supporting individuals with eating disorders. Summer advoca…

1
Convenience vs. Covenant: Why Marriage Still Matters 20:05

7M ago20:05

20:05

On this episode, Pastor Phil Taylor brings decades of experience in church doctrine and family relations to the topic of marriage. The discussion delves into the evolving societal views on marriage and emphasizes the importance of marriage as a covenant for Christ followers. Ric Shields and Pastor Taylor advocate for the spiritual and communal aspe…

1
The Trauma Therapy Changing Lives 25:04

7M ago25:04

25:04

Rachel Edwards, a licensed marriage and family therapist, joins Ric Shields on the DoorWays® Ministry Network podcast to discuss EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), a specialized therapy effective in treating anxiety, PTSD, and various traumas. Rachel emphasizes the role of the Holy Spirit in the healing process, highlighting the …

1
Wounds We Can’t See 21:27

7M ago21:27

21:27

In this episode, Ric Shields speaks with Dr. Larisa Grams, a leading mental health expert who works with veterans, about post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). She explains that PTSD is a natural response to trauma, which can include exposure to death, serious injury, or sexual violence. Dr. Grams identifies PTSD symptoms and emphasizes the importa…

1
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder 23:00

7M ago23:00

23:00

In this episode, Ric Shields speaks with Justin Hughes, a licensed professional counselor and Jesus follower from Dallas, Texas. Justin clarifies common misconceptions about OCD, emphasizing that it involves intrusive, unwanted thoughts and compulsive behaviors aimed at alleviating distress. The conversation also touches on the strengths and weakne…

1
Dissociative Identity Disorder 22:47

8M ago22:47

22:47

In this episode, Dr. Michelle Satterlee, a licensed psychologist at Ascension St. John in Tulsa, Oklahoma, focuses on dissociative identity disorder (DID), formerly known as multiple personality disorder. The conversation touches on the misconceptions and stigmas surrounding DID, the potential for recovery, and the role of faith in the healing proc…

1
Anxiety's Extended Family 26:37

8M ago26:37

26:37

On this episode, Ric Shields interviews Linda Doak, a licensed professional counselor with 28 years of experience. Linda explains the nature of anxiety and differentiates it from stress and worry. She outlines various anxiety disorders, their symptoms, and potential causes, and describes effective treatments. Linda shares her personal experiences w…

1
"I Will Dream Again" with Megan Daubert 28:02

8M ago28:02

28:02

Megan Daubert shares her profound journey on the DoorWays® Ministry Network podcast, detailing the dramatic shift in her family's life after her husband Michael suffered a sudden cardiac arrest in February 2024. Once living a seemingly idyllic life in Virginia Beach, Megan now navigates the complexities of caregiving for Michael, who sustained an a…

1
Self-Care is Not Selfish 23:03

8M ago23:03

23:03

Join host Ric Shields on the DoorWays® Ministry Network podcast as he delves into the importance of self-care with Dr. Becky Brett, a retired family practice physician and missionary. Dr. Brett shares her experiences working in Russia, Kazakhstan, and Mexico. The conversation highlights the significance of self-care across five key areas: mental, e…

1
When Shepherds Walk With a Limp 24:34

9M ago24:34

24:34

In this episode of the DoorWays® Ministry Network podcast, host Ric Shields and guest Pastor Phil Taylor discuss the challenges and management of depression, particularly among pastors. They emphasize the importance of mental health awareness, noting that a significant portion of the population is affected by mental illness. Pastor Phil shares pers…

1
What's the Worse Thing? 24:08

9M ago24:08

24:08

Phil Taylor is an expert on the topic of depression, though not because he has earned advanced degrees on the topic or studied it extensively. He's an expert because he has lived with depression for much of his adult life. Pastor Taylor shares his personal journey with depression, highlighting the difference between occasional sadness and debilitat…

1
"What Did I Do?" with Joshua & Nicole John 26:46

9M ago26:46

26:46

In this episode of the Doorways Ministry Network podcast, Ric Shields speaks with Joshua and Nicole John, parents of a child who attempted suicide multiple times. The couple shares their emotional journey, discussing the unexpected challenges they faced, including the need to secure their home and the emotional toll on their family. They emphasize …

1
"Don't Give Up Hope!" with Dr. Stevan Lahr 26:32

9M ago26:32

26:32

Dr. Steven Lahr, Medical Director of Family and Children's Services in Tulsa, discusses the importance of openly discussing suicide to reduce stigma, and common root causes of suicide. Dr. Lahr shares insights on the protective role of faith and community engagement in preventing suicide. The episode also addresses the unique challenges faced by th…

1
Substance Abuse: "I Don't Have a Problem" 24:21

10M ago24:21

24:21

Greg Sutmiller is a licensed professional counselor and founder of Evolution Mental Health with offices in south Tulsa and Broken Arrow, OK. This episode focuses on substance abuse, including the dangers of alcohol and fentanyl, and the differences between substance abuse and addiction. Greg emphasizes the importance of addressing the underlying is…

1
Changing Spaces with Dr. Allie Broaddus 21:43

10M ago21:43

21:43

Dr. Allie Broaddus is an occupational therapist who specializes in developmental trauma in children. She discusses the impact of early trauma on children's development, including behavioral responses like fight, flight, and freeze, and sensory issues similar to those seen in autism. She highlights the importance of co-regulation and play in therapy…

1
"The Parent First Approach" with Kyle Wester 29:01

10M ago29:01

29:01

In this podcast episode, Ric Shields, the host and director of the DoorWays® Ministry Network, speaks with Kyle Wester, a counselor who specializes in helping both adults and children navigate life's challenges. Kyle emphasizes a parent-first approach to therapy, advocating that parents are the best equipped to help their children by first addressi…

1
Parenting is Hard with Rebekah Taylor 24:12

10M ago24:12

24:12

Rebekah Taylor is a licensed professional counselor with significant experience working with children and adolescents, particularly those navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, and life changes such as divorce or grief. Rebekah emphasizes the need for parents to listen, validate their children's feelings, and seek professional hel…

1
DIVINE INTERVENTIONS: Heather's Healing Song 22:42

11M ago22:42

22:42

Mike and Heather Rogers faced a severe health crisis. Despite numerous hospital visits and a barrage of medications, her condition worsened. Heather recounts her struggle with debilitating nerve pain, seizures, and paralysis that left her unable to speak or move. During this dark period, Mike felt inspired by the Holy Spirit to use music and worshi…

1
Divine Interventions - Not a Coincidence 21:49

11M ago21:49

21:49

Lee Miller shares his harrowing experience of surviving a heart attack at the age of 35 during the COVID-19 pandemic. Initially mistaking his symptoms for panic attacks, Lee recounts how divine interventions and a series of "coincidences" led him to receive timely medical care. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing God's presence in everyday …

1
"Can Laughter Help?" with Nicole Miller 27:54

11M ago27:54

27:54

Nicole Miller, a comedian and cancer survivor, shares her journey of battling Hodgkin's Lymphoma. Diagnosed at 21, Nicole faced a challenging path with persistent symptoms and a difficult diagnosis process. Despite the severity of her condition, she found strength in humor and faith. Nicole's story highlights the importance of perseverance, proper …

1
"What Evangelism is Not" with Kristi Northup 22:44

11M ago22:44

22:44

In this podcast episode, Ric Shields discusses the concept of evangelism with guest Kristi Northup, a lead pastor and worship leader at Saints Community Church in New Orleans. They explore the misconceptions and challenges of evangelism, emphasizing that it is not about achieving conversions but about genuine relationships and living out one's fait…