Samantha Richardson shares her powerful testimony of faith through life's struggles. Samantha recounts her story of enduring loss, navigating the challenges of her pregnancies, and witnessing God's hand in her family's life. Despite facing significant hardships, including the loss of a child and her daughter Amelia's rare lung disease, Samantha's unwavering faith in God's promises helped her emerge stronger. She discusses how turning to scripture and maintaining gratitude kept her anchored, and how her relationship with God blossomed through these trials. Samantha also shares her and her husband's recent calling to foster care, adding another layer to their journey of faith and service. This episode emphasizes the power of faith, God's promises, and the impact of leaning on divine strength during trials.

00:00 Introduction to Samantha's Testimony

00:41 Samantha's Early Struggles and Faith Journey

04:19 The Birth of Amelia and Medical Challenges

05:05 Faith and Gratitude Amidst Struggles

10:44 The Birth of Judah and Overcoming Fear

21:11 Fostering and Future Plans

25:16 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

In this episode of 'Small Town, Big God,' host Mikel Collins introduces the story of Stephen Johnson Thorne. Stephen's journey is a rollercoaster of excitement, heartbreak, addiction, and redemption. The episode delves into Stephen's wild early years, and his struggles with an abusive father, ultimately highlighting his path to restoration both with his earthly father and his faith. Stephen shares candid anecdotes from his tumultuous youth, including incidents of substance abuse, family conflicts, and dangerous encounters influenced by his reckless lifestyle. The episode underscores the impact of a father's role, the importance of forgiveness, and the transformative power of faith. Stay tuned for more episodes featuring Stephen's continued story and further insights into his life and recovery.

00:00 Introduction to Steven's Story

01:12 Steven's Early Life and Struggles

05:11 Family Dynamics and Challenges

12:07 Teenage Rebellion and Substance Abuse

23:52 Living with Dad: The Highs and Lows

30:09 A Turning Point: The Car Accident

35:10 Escalation and Consequences

38:05 Meeting Strangers from MySpace

39:10 Meeting Camille's Family

39:54 Exploring Darien, Connecticut

42:00 A New Romance and School Adventures

43:43 The Road Trip Mishap

56:51 A Night in Hartford

01:02:54 Reflecting on Life Choices

01:07:26 Finding Forgiveness and Healing

01:10:47 Conclusion and Future Episodes

01:10:47 Conclusion and Future Episodes

In this episode of 'Small Town, Big God,' host Mikel Collins introduces Randy Southwick, a pastor dedicated to supporting other pastors through Solitude Place Ministries. Randy shares his and his wife Laurie's journey through personal and professional struggles, highlighting God's guidance in their lives. The conversation touches on the importance of community, mentorship, the unique challenges faced by pastors, and the critical need for pastoral support. Randy's story is a testament to faith, resilience, and the impact of dedicated mentorship and biblical counseling.

Solitude Place Website

Solitude Place Facebook

00:00 Introduction to Small Town, Big God

01:43 Meet Randy Southwick: Pastor for Pastors

03:17 Randy and Lori's Early Struggles

04:37 The Call to Ministry

08:53 Mentorship and Growth in College Park

12:59 Return to Phoenix and Further Challenges

17:39 The Birth of Solitude Place Ministries

18:42 Journey to North Carolina

27:10 A Leap of Faith: Moving and Trusting in God's Plan

28:30 Job Search and Divine Intervention

29:34 Founding Solitude Place Ministry

30:20 Understanding Biblical Counseling

34:24 The Role of a Pastor: Emotional Highs and Lows

37:28 The Importance of Active Listening

46:56 Supporting Your Pastor and Their Family

51:11 How You Can Help: Donations and Community Support

52:18 Final Thoughts on Community and Connection

Mosaic Hope, a remarkable ministry making a significant impact on foster care in Rutherford County, North Carolina.

Emily Wood, the executive director of Mosaic Hope, who shares her incredible journey from personal struggles to founding a life-changing organization. Emily's story is a heartfelt testimony of how faith, community support, and innovative approaches are transforming the experience of foster children. Listeners will learn about the critical role of Mosaic Hope's initiatives, such as the care closet and TBRI training, in supporting foster kids, families, and social workers. The episode also highlights the importance of community involvement and the church's role in foster care advocacy.

00:00 Introduction to Small Town Big God

01:20 Emily Wood's Journey to Rutherford County

07:19 Struggles with Infertility and Faith

11:32 The Call to Foster Care

17:24 Adopting John Lucas

28:29 The Birth of Mosaic Hope

40:39 Launching Mosaic Hope

44:09 Trusting God's Plan

46:37 The Care Closet Initiative

52:42 Fundraising Miracles

01:02:29 Challenges and Overcoming Obstacles

01:06:56 Future Vision for Mosaic Hope

01:17:18 Community Involvement and Support

Mosaic Hope Website

Mosaic Hope Facebook

Small Town Big God Facebook

TBRI Video

Interested in becoming a foster parent? CLICK HERE

In this episode of 'Small Town, Big God,' host Mikel Collins explores how big businesses can play a vital role in small-town life through a faith-driven approach. The guest, Sam Siegler, owner of the Chick-fil-A in Forest City, North Carolina, shares his journey from being a team member to an operator, inspired by the values of Chick-fil-A's founder Truett Cathy. Siegler discusses his dedication to community service, his efforts during Hurricane Helene, and his evangelism work in both local and international contexts. The episode delves into practical ways to blend business with ministry, emphasizing leadership, team care, and a focus on community needs. Additionally, Siegler highlights his involvement with Hope Network, a women's recovery ministry, demonstrating his commitment to making a lasting impact beyond the business realm.

00:00 Introduction to Small Town, Big God

00:57 Meet Sam Siegler: Chick-fil-A Owner

01:20 Truett Cathy's Legacy and Community Impact

06:19 The Journey to Becoming a Chick-fil-A Operator

14:10 Hurricane Helene: Leadership in Crisis

25:33 Community First: Serving Beyond Business

32:52 Hope Network and Personal Involvement

38:13 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Host Mikel Collins and guest Devon Raisch, the Rutherford County Airport's Director of Operations, recount the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene in 2024 and the subsequent relief efforts. Devon shares firsthand experiences of managing the airport during the disaster, including the chaos of fuel shortages, emergency rescues, and unexpected visitors. He highlights the community's incredible response, with civilians and officials coming together to provide aid. Pastor J.R. Blanton also addresses the profound question of where God was during the hurricane, concluding that God's presence was felt through the actions of those helping in the aftermath. The episode emphasizes focusing on immediate needs and the importance of community support during crises.

00:00 Introduction to Small Town, Big God

01:16 Devon Raisch: First-Hand Account of Hurricane Helene

02:03 Preparing for the Hurricane

03:27 Fuel Supply Challenges

04:32 Navigating the Chaos

07:12 The Aftermath and Immediate Response

13:15 Dealing with Unexpected Visitors

19:36 Community Support and Assistance

22:45 Community Response to Hurricane Helene

23:26 The Role of Civilians and Government in Rescue Efforts

24:09 Hot Refueling: A Life-Saving Procedure

26:25 Transition to Supply Distribution

31:12 The Plane Fire Incident

33:10 Clearing Up FEMA's Role

37:05 Faith and Adversity: Where Was God?

44:12 Gratitude and Community Support

48:32 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

In this special episode of Small Town Big God, host Mikel Collins presents an unedited interview with Tom Calton, founder of The Forge, a men's ministry in Polk County emphasizing godly masculinity. The conversation covers the history and mission of The Forge, influenced by 'Wild at Heart' by John Eldredge, and its evolution since 2000. The episode delves into the significance of community and discipleship for men, touching on related ministries like New Wilderness Adventures. Key topics include the role of father-son relationships, the impact of modern conveniences on traditional masculinity, and the importance of mentorship. The discussion highlights various initiatives, including a new group for young men and the need for intergenerational mentorship. Viewers are also encouraged to engage with recommended resources and community events aimed at deepening their spiritual and masculine journeys.

00:00 Introduction to the Episode

01:36 Meet Tom Calton

02:40 The Forge: A Ministry for Men

03:33 Origins of The Forge

04:18 The Impact of 'Wild at Heart'

06:17 Personal Journey and Realizations

06:51 The Role of Small Groups and Bonfires

10:44 The Importance of Masculine Community

15:40 Challenges and Cultural Shifts

27:04 Transition to The Forge

46:21 Early Days and Activities

49:34 The Need for Masculine Community

55:17 The Call to Masculinity

58:10 The Forge: Origin and Symbolism

01:01:32 The Importance of Community

01:02:55 Learning from Different Generations

01:04:57 Facing Challenges and Growth

01:05:39 The Role of Mentorship

01:08:38 Counterfeit Masculinity

01:10:33 Spiritual Warfare and Masculinity

01:13:29 Encouragement and Resources

01:28:46 Future Plans and Expansion

In this episode of 'Small Town Big God', Mikel Collins introduces Tom Calton, the founder of The Forge – a ministry aimed at discipling men and promoting biblical masculinity in Rutherford County, North Carolina. The episode covers the origin and growth of The Forge, starting from small group gatherings to significant ministry events. Key discussions include cultural changes, the fatherless epidemic, pornography, and economic challenges. The segment emphasizes the importance of men engaging in masculine environments and the vital role of father figures. Personal anecdotes highlight the deep spiritual impact on men's lives through transformative experiences at Forge events. The narrative includes the story of a women's retreat that inspired The Forge’s creation and underscores the importance of community, maintaining traditional masculine skills, and the intergenerational transfer of wisdom. Listeners are invited to join Forge meetings and to their annual Christmas Tree Bonfire event.

The Forge Website

00:00 Introduction to Small Town Big God

00:56 The Birth of The Forge Ministry

02:00 Impact of Wild at Heart

04:31 Joining Forces with New Wilderness Adventures

07:12 The Power of Masculine Fellowship

10:04 The Need for Masculine Environments

18:58 The First Forge Event

21:31 Finding the Right Pace

25:40 Crafting and Forging: The Art of Damascus Steel

27:06 Intentional Shaping: Becoming Who We're Meant to Be

27:47 The Importance of Intergenerational Community

29:43 The Epidemic of Loneliness Among Men

31:05 The Impact of Pornography on Masculinity

33:15 The Decline of Masculine Skills and Its Consequences

42:27 The Forge: Reviving Biblical Masculinity

44:14 Join The Forge: Community and Events

45:11 Conclusion and Call to Action