• Episode 16 | Sam and Nicole Fiala on Being on Mission
    Feb 18 2026

    In this conversation, Sam and Nicole Fiala share their journey of faith as the prepare for their mission in Peru, discussing the importance of being on mission every day, the challenges of cultural differences, and the significance of community and relationships in their calling. They reflect on the costs associated with following Christ, and how they were called to mission work. The Fialas emphasize the need for prayer and support from their community as they prepare for their mission ahead.



    Chapters


    00:00 On Mission Every Day

    02:57 The Journey to Missions

    05:55 Cultural Challenges and Community

    08:57 The Cost of Following Christ

    11:48 Experiencing Peru and Bolivia

    14:54 The Importance of Relationships in Missions

    17:50 Understanding Cultural Differences

    21:00 Using Skills for Mission

    23:32 Strengthening Faith Through Community

    26:37 Preparing for the Next Step

    29:32 Staying Connected with Supporters

    32:34 Final Thoughts and Encouragement


    keywords:

    mission, faith, community, cultural challenges, Peru, Bolivia, Christian life, discipleship, support raising, cross-cultural marriage

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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    41 mins
  • Episode 15 | Pt2 Ray Rising on Surviving Jungle Captivity
    Jan 23 2026

    In this part 2 episode we explore the profound experiences of Ray Rising, who endured 810 days of captivity. It delves into the impact of his absence on his family, the faith that sustained them, and the lessons learned during his time in Columbia. Ray shares how he lived out his faith in a hostile environment, the importance of gratitude even in adversity, and how he continues to serve in missions after his release.


    00:00 The Journey of Captivity

    10:53 Faith and Family During Crisis

    22:32 Living Out the Gospel in Captivity



    keywords: captivity, faith, family, gratitude, gospel, missions, testimony, resilience, adversity, evangelism, JAARS

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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    24 mins
  • Episode 14 | Pt1 Ray Rising on Surviving Jungle Captivity
    Jan 16 2026

    In this gripping episode of Uncharted, Ray Rising shares his harrowing experience of being held captive for 810 days in Colombia, as detailed in his book "Gorilla Hostage." The conversation begins with a vivid recounting of the moment he was kidnapped, highlighting the tension and fear of that fateful day. He reflects on his decision to wait for divine guidance rather than escape immediately, emphasizing the importance of faith and patience during his ordeal. Throughout the episode, he discusses the challenges of captivity, including the emotional struggles, the relationships he formed with his captors, and the role of scripture in sustaining him during the darkest times.


    00:00 The Kidnapping Incident

    01:07 The Decision to Wait

    04:34 Life in Captivity

    10:05 Building Relationships with Captors

    15:36 The Role of Scripture

    25:18 Christmas in Captivity

    30:00 Finding Peace in Adversity

    37:44 Conclusion and Reflections



    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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    38 mins
  • Episode 13 | David Kooistra on Training the Next Generation of Aviation Mechanics.
    Dec 19 2025

    In this conversation, Dave Koostra shares his experiences as an aviation mechanic with JAARS, detailing innovative problem-solving techniques in challenging environments. He recounts a real-life incident in the Philippines where he had to recover a downed helicopter, emphasizing the importance of creativity and teamwork in aviation missions. The discussion also highlights the critical role mechanics play in ensuring aircraft safety and functionality, especially in remote locations. Dave reflects on his journey into missionary work and the challenges faced along the way, ultimately showcasing the rewarding nature of serving in aviation missions. Dave and Craig discuss their experiences serving in missionary aviation, emphasizing the importance of curiosity, attention to detail, and teamwork. They share stories from their time in Brazil, including challenges faced and the significance of cross-cultural collaboration. The discussion also covers innovative training methods for JAARS apprentices, including a unique 'Bush Week' experience designed to simulate real-world challenges. They also reflect on the future of mission aviation and the qualities needed in the next generation of mechanics.


    00:00 Innovative Problem Solving in Aviation Mechanics

    07:58 Real-Life Aircraft Recovery: A Mission in the Philippines

    14:00 The Role of Mechanics in Aviation Missions

    21:32 Challenges and Triumphs in Remote Aircraft Repairs

    27:14 The Journey to Becoming a Missionary Mechanic

    31:45 Cross-Cultural Collaboration in Aviation Mechanics

    33:04 Attention to Detail: The Importance of Curiosity

    37:01 Fishing Adventures and Team Building

    39:59 Innovative Training: The Apprentice Program

    47:55 Bush Week: Real-World Challenges for Mechanics

    55:59 The Future of Mission Aviation Mechanics


    keywords aviation, mechanics, aircraft recovery, missionary work, JAARS, problem solving, remote repairs, creativity, field support, aviation missions, aviation, mechanics, training, mission aviation, teamwork, curiosity, apprentices, bush week, fishing, cross-cultural collaboration

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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    1 hr and 1 min
  • Episode 12 | Bonus Thanksgiving Episode
    Nov 23 2025
    In this special Thanksgiving episode of Uncharted, Craig Russell and Nate Gordon reflect on the importance of gratitude, especially in the context of mission work. Nate shares personal experiences from his time in Indonesia, discussing how different cultures celebrate Thanksgiving and express gratitude. The discussion highlights the impact of the Yajasi organization, the power of community collaboration, and the significance of gratitude in all things. They also explore the growth of JAARS and the role of young people in missions, emphasizing the importance of working together with other organizations to achieve common goals. They also discuss the vital role of aviation in Bible translation and mission work, emphasizing the importance of collaboration, gratitude, and community connection. They share personal stories of life-saving missions, the impact of first landings in remote areas, and the need to recognize those who serve quietly in the background. The discussion also touches on future aspirations for the work at JAARS.

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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    57 mins
  • Episode 11 | John Marselus on Being Available
    Nov 16 2025

    In this episode, John shares his journey of faith and service as he prepares to move to Papua New Guinea with his wife, Kim, to work with JAARS. He reflects on his past experiences in the Air Force, his calling to serve God, and the importance of being available for God's work. The conversation highlights the challenges and rewards of transitioning to a new mission field, the significance of community in faith, and the encouragement for the next generation to pursue their calling.


    00:00 Intro

    09:59 The Journey of Faith and Service

    19:54 Transitioning to JAARS Aviation

    30:10 The Role of JAARS in Remote Missions

    40:05 Encouragement for the Next Generation

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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    46 mins
  • Episode 10 | Paul Smith on Waiting on God
    Nov 7 2025

    Summary


    In this episode of the Uncharted podcast, Paul Smith shares his remarkable journey of faith, aviation, and service with JAARS. From a near-fatal flight experience to his early calling in ministry, Paul recounts the pivotal moments that shaped his life. He reflects on the inspiration drawn from the martyrdom of missionaries, the testing of his faith during his time in the Marine Corps, and the moments that led him back to his calling in aviation. The conversation emphasizes the importance of waiting on God and trusting His plan, even when the path is fraught with obstacles. Paul's story is a testament to perseverance, faith, and the unwavering belief in God's guidance throughout life's journey. This conversation explores the journey of a missionary pilot, detailing experiences from initial flight training to impactful moments in Peru and Cameroon. Paul also shares stories of challenges, miraculous landings, and the significance of Bible translation, emphasizing God's faithfulness throughout mission work.


    Chapters


    00:00 Intro

    02:56 Journey of Faith: Early Life and Calling

    06:03 Inspiration from Tragedy: The Martyrdom of Missionaries

    09:06 Turning Away: A Detour in Life's Path

    12:11 Finding God Again: A Moment of Clarity

    14:58 Navigating Challenges: The Path to Aviation

    18:05 Waiting on the Lord: Trusting the Process

    21:04 A New Direction: Joining JAARS

    25:14 The First Flight Experience

    27:01 Journey to Wycliffe and Missionary Life

    28:27 Aviation in Peru: A Unique Perspective

    30:40 Miraculous Landings and Safety in Aviation

    32:59 Community and Support in Missionary Work

    36:06 Transitioning to New Missions: Brazil and Cameroon

    39:49 Cultural Experiences and Worship in Cameroon

    42:44 The Impact of Bible Translation and Dedications

    44:40 Reflections on God's Faithfulness and Guidance



    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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    47 mins
  • Episode 9 | Holmes Rodriguez and Mariela Del Pozzi on Delivering God's Word
    Oct 13 2025
    Holmes and Mariela explore the challenges and successes of Bible translation efforts in the most remote places on Earth, focusing on the importance of communication, community engagement, and the dynamic nature of language and culture. The guests share their experiences with sociolinguistic surveys, and the critical role of transportation in reaching remote areas. They emphasize the need for local involvement and the empowerment of indigenous communities in the translation process, highlighting that the mission to deliver God's Word is ongoing and requires collaboration and dedication.

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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    49 mins