Are you trying to figure out how to live out your faith when the rules aren't black and white? Join Ali, along with Pastors Michael Ewart and Steve Waldschmidt of 922 Ministries, as they tackle the real-world, rapid-fire questions that modern Christians face. The goal is not to create a rigid list of dos and don’ts, but to show how God’s word guides us in those complex gray areas where the world is super loud. This episode covers specific dilemmas that don't usually get a whole sermon, such as: "Can a Christian get a tattoo or do yoga?" or "Is it okay to watch R-rated movies or play violent video games?". In this episode you will be armed with a powerful, portable decision-making framework so you can discern what is Godly and good in every situation.
Here’s what we’ll cover!
Our church also had 5 additional messages on these questions:
Check out these messages from our “Can a Christian…?” series on our Youtube page or on streaming on your favorite podcast platform by searching 922 Ministries!
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Loss is something most of us struggle to talk about, especially when it comes to miscarriage or infant loss. In this deeply vulnerable episode, Ali sits down with Theresa Kramer and Kim Fenske, two women who courageously open up about their journeys through grief, faith, and healing after the loss of their unborn children. Their honesty reveals not just the heartbreak of loss, but also the unexpected places where hope and God’s presence show up. If you’re new to faith or searching for answers in the middle of pain, this conversation reminds you: you are not alone, your grief is seen, and God is near to the brokenhearted.
Heads-up: This episode contains honest conversations about pregnancy loss, infant loss, grief, and infertility. These topics may be emotionally difficult or triggering for some listeners. Please listen with care, and give yourself permission to pause if needed.
What you’ll hear about in this episode:
Resources:
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Two brothers. Two wild stories. One Savior. Alex and Eddie Valdivia grew up between Mexico and the U.S., chasing identity in all the wrong places - fights, anger, atheism, astrology, even cholo culture. Both found themselves restless, searching, and far from God. In this episode Pastor Mike sits down with Alex and Eddie to share the unfiltered journey of how Jesus broke through their confusion, doubts, and destructive choices to give them new life. Their stories aren’t polished - they’re messy, and yet extremely full of grace. If you’ve ever wrestled with doubt, felt like you didn’t belong, or wondered if God could actually change someone like you, this conversation will hit home.
In this episode, we dive into:
• The structural elements of a spiritual story: The back then, the but then, and the and now.
• Alex's identity shift from displaced youth to adopting the "cholo" blueprint and embracing atheism.
• Eddie's pursuit of wisdom through trendy mystical beliefs like the Law of Attraction and astrology.
• The chaotic conversion process, which began with alcohol, weed, and seeking God's wisdom.
• How modern philosophies borrowed knowledge from the Bible without giving God credit.
• The profound freedom found in Romans 5:8 (While we were still sinners, Christ died for us), even while still struggling with past sins.
• Advice on sharing faith with skeptical friends, just like these two were!
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Let’s be real: porn is everywhere. Most people see it before they hit high school, half of Christians admit they’re hooked, and almost nobody is talking about it. The result? A generation quietly drowning in shame, secrecy, and isolation. In this unfiltered episode of Light Talks, Ali sits down with Pastor Mike Novotny and 24-year-old Payton Dahlke, who get brutally honest about their battles with pornography. From sneaking looks as kids to feeling like God could never forgive them, they share how confession, community, and God’s grace turned the story around. Join us for an unfiltered conversation that cuts through the silence, offering a path to healing and reminding us that no matter how deep the struggle with God, your story doesn't end there.
Note: This episode is honest but not graphic, though listeners with young ears around may want to use headphones.
In this episode, we tackle vital questions and topics including:
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Let’s dive into the unfiltered reality of marriage with Pastor Michael and Jenny Ewart - three decades, six kids, and a love story that started with a bold move to the heart of Russia. Michael, a seasoned marriage counselor, and Jenny, with her quick wit and authentic insight, share the lessons they’ve learned from both their victories and their “banana hook” moments. From the first-date butterflies to the seasons of silence, they speak into the miscommunication, unmet expectations, and emotional disconnect that can creep into any relationship - and how faith, intentionality, and choosing each other daily can turn things around. So grab your coffee (or your walking shoes) and join us for a vulnerable, hope-filled conversation that will leave you challenged, encouraged, and reminded that while marriage can be messy, it’s also one of the most beautiful adventures worth every bit of effort.
Here’s what you’ll find in this episode:
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Welcome back to Light Talks! This isn’t your typical church Q&A! In this raw and real episode, Host Ali and Pastor Mike Novotny sit down to confront the questions people are actually asking, the kind that keep you up at night, that you’re too afraid to ask out loud in church, or that have made you wonder if faith is even worth it. You’ll hear Pastor Mike’s honest answers, grounded in scripture, shaped by personal experiences, and full of grace. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, healing from church trauma, or just trying to figure out where you stand with God, this conversation is for you. No judgment. No sugarcoating. Just real talk about faith, pain, and hope.
Warning: This episode includes discussion of suicide, mental health, and spiritual abuse. If you're struggling, you're not alone. Call or text 988 for free, 24/7 confidential support in the U.S.
In this revealing discussion, we explore:
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Welcome back to Light Talks, where we're diving headfirst into topics rarely discussed but certainly needed. In this explosive episode, we pull back the veil on the unseen world, exploring angels, demons, and the spiritual realm with special guest, Pastor Timothy Soukup. Pastor Timothy, drawing on his incredible seven-and-a-half years as a campus pastor in Malawi, Africa, reveals the stark difference in the devil's strategy, from getting us to forget him in America to outright, blatant fear in Africa. Prepare to hear about his direct encounters with demon-possessed individuals and the chilling reality of spiritual warfare.
This isn't just theory; it's a battle for your soul. We uncover:
This episode challenges your perceptions and equips you with spiritual wisdom. Remember, the devil is the Lord's devil, and he cannot step a foot further than God allows.
For visual examples, including a representation of the "Takarash" demon, jump over to our YouTube channel, @922Ministries! We want to hear from you – what questions do you have about angels, demons, or the spiritual realm? Let us know in the comments!
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We’re back and calling all moms for this episode of Light Talks! Host Ali is joined by two mothers, Bethany Lehman and Theresa Kramer, to get real about the messy, exhausting, and beautiful chaos of motherhood. They talk about those moments when you’re totally worn out and have no clue what to do next and how sometimes prayer is the last thing you think of, but maybe it should be the first. Whether you’re just starting out or have kids who keep surprising you, this conversation is full of honest stories, tough truths, and plenty of grace to encourage you to keep going.
Here’s what you’re in for in this episode:
We see you, mamas! If you're a mom feeling isolated, overwhelmed, or just needing a little encouragement, you belong here.
🎧 Listen now and share with a mom-friend who needs to hear this!
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Talking to your kids about sex, gender, and identity can feel overwhelming, especially when the world isn’t shy about it, and the church often is. In this honest and grace-filled episode, Jonathan and Ali sit down with Family Pastor and dad of four, Bill Monday, to unpack what it looks like to have open, age-appropriate conversations with your children from toddlerhood through the teen years.
🔔 Heads-up: This episode includes candid conversations about anatomy and sexuality. Consider listening without little ears around.
Pastor Bill shares real-life stories (some hilarious, some sobering), practical tips, and biblical wisdom on:
Whether you feel behind, unsure, or just want to do better, this episode offers clarity, encouragement, and hope. You don’t need to have “the talk” - you need to have a hundred little ones.
Resources:
myfamilytable.org
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Feeling Out of Whack? You’re Not Alone.
In a world that worships hustle and glorifies the grind, how do we keep from spinning out of control? This week, Nate Paul joins the show—a man with many hats: ministry leader, husband, father of four, board member, coach..and someone who knows firsthand how quickly life can get overwhelming. Speaking especially to the guys, Nate gets real about the pressure to keep all the plates spinning and how even good things—family, work, ministry—can start to crowd out what’s most important: time with God, your spouse, and your own soul.
Jonathan and Nate dive into an honest, relatable conversation that applies to anyone who’s ever felt stretched too thin. Topics include:
Whether you’re a man navigating leadership and family, or anyone trying to stay sane in a packed schedule, this episode offers insight, encouragement, and practical ways to find balance—and freedom—rooted in faith.
Take a deep breath, hit play, and find out why your value has nothing to do with your to-do list.
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Hey Light Talks Listeners! In this special release episode, Amna Tasior is back, but this time, with her husband, Tony! Following up on Amna's powerful testimony, this conversation focuses on Tony's side of the story and the incredible journey of their relationship and faith life.
Tony shares openly about his challenging upbringing in Chicago, surrounded by gangs and drugs, getting involved in selling drugs at a young age, and dealing with an abusive stepfather. Moving to a small town didn't stop the trouble, as he found drugs there too, eventually making thousands selling them as a teenager. Tony reflects that this lifestyle was "just life" for him, numbing the pain from his home life and the lack of feeling loved by his parents.
The episode recounts how Tony and Amna met as teenagers, became pregnant unexpectedly and Tony explains his decision to stay. After sharing his perspective on their journey, the conversation then shifts to their faith life. Amna's passion for church, even after initially tricking Tony to go, made him want to return, and he shares a story about confessing an OWI to his church community and how they responded with unconditional love and grace. Their story is peppered with God’s goodness, and they share how that influences their marriage, parenting and community of people around them.
The Tasior’s story is a testament to God's ability to love, save and redeem even the messiest of people. Tune in to hear more about their journey, the power of community, and the beauty of a life centered on Christ.
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In part 1 of this episode of Light Talks, Amna Tasior joins to share her powerful and raw life story, starting with a childhood marked by constant moving, absolutely no religious background, and parents struggling with alcoholism. Feeling a deep lack of worth and presence, Amna searched for love and identity at a young age in unhealthy ways, leading to a huge pile of regret. At just 15 years old, she met Tony, and within two weeks, they found out they were pregnant.
Navigating teen pregnancy, early parenting of a son born tiny and needing multiple surgeries, dropping out of high school, and moving often, Amna and Tony felt like it was just them against the world. They were instantly launched into adulthood with no idea how to be parents or even run a household and just focused on survival.
Everything changed when Amna's cousin, Stephanie, introduced them to The CORE, a 922 Ministries church, or rather, tricked her into attending! This is only where the story began, and you’re going to want to tune in to hear how God works in amazing ways!
Whether you feel broken, lost, unsure about Jesus, or have been a lifelong Christian, Amna's story is a powerful reminder that we all have a Father who loves even the messiest of people.
Tune in next week for a special release episode finishing the Tasior’s story, where Amna will be back along with her husband Tony to share more about his personal journey and the life they have today!
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We’re back with part two of a real and raw conversation about marriage—and it’s time to go even deeper. In this continued conversation on Light Talks, Dr. Brandon Steenbock helps us unpack what it really takes to stay connected when life gets busy, messy, and, let’s be honest—just plain hard. From awkward conversations to intimacy in marriage, this episode is full of practical wisdom, honest laughs, and biblical truth that will challenge and encourage you to pursue real connection with your spouse.
Here’s what Part 2 of this conversation has in store:
Tune in to another episode of Light Talks that doesn’t shy away from hard topics in hopes that couples will be encouraged, challenged, and equipped to keep choosing each other—every single day.
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Get ready for a raw and honest look at what it really takes to build a marriage that thrives! Forget the fairy tales and join us on Light Talks for part one of this two part series as we pull back the curtain on the most common illusions about "I do" with the insightful Dr. Brandon Steenbock. Whether you're dreaming of your wedding day or navigating the beautiful chaos of married life, this episode will equip you with essential truths and practical steps for a stronger, more fulfilling partnership that’s grounded in God’s word.
Here's what we're diving into:
•Beyond the Pinterest Boards: Discover why focusing solely on the wedding day can set you up for a bumpy ride and what to prioritize after the "I dos”
•Timing Isn't Everything (or Is It?): We challenge the societal norms around marriage timelines and explore the "capstone" versus "cornerstone" models.
•Busting the Biggest Marriage Myths: Prepare for some eye-opening revelations as we dismantle common misconceptions, including the idea that love alone is enough and the expectation of a naturally easy marriage.
•The Radical Promise: Grasp the profound difference between a transactional view of marriage and the commitment to love unconditionally, no matter what.
•Navigating the Inevitable "Ouch": Learn a four-step process for both asking for and extending forgiveness, moving beyond a simple "I'm sorry”.
•"Just Know What I Want!": We tackle the classic challenge of mind-reading in marriage and explore potential differences in communication styles between men and women.
•Clear is Kind: Discover how to express your desires and needs effectively, fostering deeper understanding and connection.
•The Secret Ingredient: Learn simple yet powerful ways to prioritize your partner's well-being and cultivate a culture of mutual care.
•Three Questions That Could Change Your Marriage Tonight: Implement a practical daily exercise to foster positive communication, address challenges, and actively support each other - you’ll want to try this immediately!
Don't miss this engaging and insightful conversation that will equip you to build not just a wedding, but a strong and lasting marriage! Tune in now!
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In this episode of Light Talks, we tackle a topic that's often avoided in church (or that the church gets wrong) but is undeniably crucial to our lives: money and our faith. Have you ever wondered what God really thinks about your finances? We sit down with Pastor Michael Ewart to explore how the Bible speaks to the practicalities of managing our money and living a life that honors God with what we have.
We're tackling questions like:
If you're ready to gain a biblical perspective on your finances and practical steps to manage them well, tune in to this insightful episode of Light Talks! BONUS: Pastor Michael will be back to answer YOUR questions about finances and money - submit them HERE and stay tuned for more!
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Ever wondered what actually happens after we die? Like, do we get judged in front of everyone? Is heaven just a never-ending church service? And what’s this whole new heaven and new earth thing about? In this episode of Light Talks, Pastor Tim Glende, Lead Pastor at 922 Ministries, is breaking down everything we know (and don’t know) about eternity. No fluff—just straight-up biblical truth with answers that can help answer some of life’s most sought after questions.
We’re tackling questions like:
If you've ever had questions about what happens after this life, you’re gonna want to hear this episode. Listen now and get ready to be filled with knowledge about eternity.
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Tired of superficial connections and ghosting? Let's get real about building legit relationships that matter. In this episode, we're diving deep into what it means to create quality friendships that last. Pastor Mike Novotny, author of "Lonely Less," shares his take on why so many people struggle to form meaningful relationships. We're exposing how our hyper-connected world can actually leave us feeling more isolated than ever.
Tune in to discover:
•Hard truths about leveling up your friendships: Learn to prioritize real-life interactions over fleeting digital connections.
•The "How to Talk" equation that will change your conversations: Master the "You, Me, Good, Bad" formula to build trust and create genuine bonds.
•Why vulnerability is your superpower: Discover how dropping the facade and getting real with others can unlock deeper connections.
•Hacking your schedule for quality time: Learn how to combat the chaos of modern life and make space for the friendships that matter.
•The ultimate connection: Find peace and strength in the unwavering presence of a God who's always there, no matter what.
Don't miss this episode packed with actionable advice and heartfelt encouragement for building quality relationships and finding freedom from loneliness.
More Resources:
Check out Pastor Mike’s Book, Lonely Less
Pastor Mike preaches a four week sermon series on this topic and dives even deeper. Check it out here!
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In this thought-provoking episode of Light Talks, we welcome Dr. Brandon Steenbock, Family Minister at St. Mark Ministries in Green Bay, for an honest conversation about the intersection of marriage and parenting. Is it better to have an amazing marriage and be okay at parenting, or vice versa? We're tackling that question and more!
Here’s a snapshot of what we dive into:
Whether you’re a new parent, a seasoned spouse, or navigating both roles, this episode is packed with actionable advice and faith-driven wisdom to strengthen your marriage and family’s foundation.
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Ever feel like your teenager is wrestling with faith? Do you wonder about these same questions? Are they leaving you stumped and feeling a little confused? Pastor Bill Monday joins this episode of Light Talks for an honest conversation about navigating the rocky terrain of faith in the teenage years. More importantly, he gives such great insight and helps equip all listeners to be able to answer valid questions about the Christian faith.
This episode dives headfirst into the questions that keep parents and teens up at night:
Pastor Bill shares his experience and wisdom, offering practical advice for listeners on how to:
Get ready to be challenged, inspired, and equipped to help your kid’s and your own faith journey!
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Let's get real! This week on Light Talks, we're diving deep into all things dating, relationships and faith—the stuff that’s awkward to ask your pastor about, but you’re definitely thinking about. We've got Pastor Mike Novotny speaking truth about the questions you've been wrestling with in the dark. Get ready, because we’re not holding back.
We’re diving headfirst into:
The questions speak for themselves. If you're ready for some real and honest conversations, press play.
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Check out Pastor Mike Novotny’s book Taboo.