In this powerful episode of the Rooted in Christ Podcast, host Eric Stephens sits down with worship leader, missionary, and speaker Rodrick Wilson to discuss his incredible journey of faith, healing, and purpose.
From growing up in the church to discovering his calling as a worship leader and missionary, Rod shares how God used seasons of brokenness to reveal his true purpose. He opens up about his song “Yahweh,” his mission work in Peru, the importance of prayer and fasting, and how staying rooted in God’s presence transformed his life.
This episode is filled with encouragement for anyone who feels lost, abandoned, or unsure of their purpose. Rod’s story reminds us that when you trust God fully, He’ll never fail you.
Key Topics:
Stay connected with Rooted in Christ Podcast and Redwood Christian Ministries for more faith-filled stories and testimonies that glorify Jesus.
In this powerful episode of the Rooted in Christ Podcast, host Eric Stephens sits down with Dr. Laurette Willis, founder of Weight Loss Without Willpower and PraiseMoves Fitness Ministry.
Dr. Laurette shares her remarkable journey — from emotional eating at age six and two decades in the New Age movement, to a life transformed by Jesus Christ. Now a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist and Christian Weight Loss Coach, she helps women renew their minds on God’s Word and retrain their brains with biblical principles rooted in neuroscience.
Discover how Dr. Laurette overcame addiction, emotional struggles, and deception to live a life of spiritual and physical freedom. She also shares practical tools for:
Renewing the mind and retraining the brain through Scripture
Inviting God into your health journey
Developing daily habits to become “Healthy, Fit, and Free”
Finding peace and identity in Christ
✨ Free Resources Mentioned:
PraiseMoves.com – The Christian alternative to yoga
ChristianWeightLossKit.com – Free guide + video
ChristianMeditationKit.com – Learn biblical meditation
📖 “God has chosen the foolish things of the world (like me) to confound the wise… Without Him, we can do nothing. But with Him, all things are possible.” — Dr. Laurette Willis
🎧 Listen, subscribe, and share to encourage others to live renewed in Christ.
In this powerful episode, Eric Stephens welcomes back returning guest Taylor Johnson for an honest conversation about moving from a lukewarm faith to a bold, all-in relationship with Jesus.
Taylor shares her personal journey of breaking free from self-preservation, fear of rejection, and spiritual complacency to walk confidently in her God-given purpose. Together, she and Eric discuss what it means to truly trust God, live out the Word, and keep your fire burning through daily surrender and obedience.
From reflections on Revelation 3 to stories of faith, humility, and revival, this episode will challenge and encourage every believer to go deeper, let go of idols, and live a life fully aligned with Christ.
🎙️ Topics Include:
The danger of being a “lukewarm” Christian
Overcoming pride and fear in your walk with God
Building consistency in prayer and the Word
The importance of accountability and community
Revival, repentance, and reigniting your faith
🔥 “He’s chosen you for such a time as this.”
In this powerful conversation, host Eric Stephens sits down with DFG Sul, an artist and servant of God whose music and testimony reflect a deep walk of faith, purpose, and perseverance. From growing up in the church to navigating the tension between worldly success and spiritual obedience, Sul opens up about his journey of returning to his calling—creating music that glorifies God and reaches hearts across generations.
He shares lessons on staying grounded in faith, guarding what we let into our spirit, and keeping God at the center of creativity, family, and daily life. Sul also speaks on his new album Walking with Purpose, a three-year project born out of surrender and spiritual growth.
If you’ve ever wrestled with your purpose, struggled to balance faith and ambition, or needed a reminder that love and obedience are the real measures of success, this episode is for you.
In this episode of the Road in Christ Podcast, Eric sits down with Lil G Fresh, Cleveland artist whose journey from freestyling in her basement at 11 to creating Christ-centered music is nothing short of inspiring.
Lil G shares how the Holy Spirit transformed her life at 18, shifting her focus from secular hip hop to spreading the gospel through her lyrics. Now balancing her role as a communications specialist at NASA with her passion for music, she opens up about staying grounded in faith, creating independently, and using her platform to reflect God’s love.
Topics Covered:
Lil G Fresh’s testimony and spiritual awakening
The influence of music on faith and mindset
Transitioning from secular to Christian hip hop
Balancing a professional career and creative calling
Advice for young artists walking with Christ
“Keep God at the center of everything you do — with Him, nothing can stop you.” — Lil G Fresh
Connect with Lil G Fresh:
https://www.instagram.com/little.g.fresh/
In this powerful episode, host Eric Stephens sits down with Brian “OB” —artist, pastor, and founder of Holy Hip Hop Nation and The Light Club—for an unforgettable conversation on redemption, purpose, and divine connection.
Brian shares his raw testimony growing up in East Cleveland, surviving violence and addiction, and finding new life through Christ. Together, he and Eric dive deep into:
The difference between seasonal and destiny partners
How obedience, not perfection, unlocks your calling
The birth of Holy Hip Hop Nation and The Light Club
The power of collaboration and kingdom partnerships
Why your purpose is voice-activated through faith and confession
This episode is a reminder that God’s design is always greater than our plans—and that your past can’t cancel your purpose.
Rooted in Christ Podcast – Ep. 162: Laurie Herbers
In this episode, we welcome back Laurie Herbers, author, coach, and passionate follower of Christ. Laurie opens up about her journey through darkness, how God used those valley moments to prepare her for ministry, and the powerful revelation behind helping others get “out of the pit.”
From overcoming lies of the enemy to embracing our divine identity in Christ, this conversation is full of encouragement, practical wisdom, and Spirit-led truth.
Topics we cover:
Finding hope in the pit
Recognizing God’s voice vs. lies of the enemy
Breaking free from spiritual bondage
The importance of sowing and reaping
Choosing forgiveness before the offense
In this episode, host Eric Stephens sits down with Ondrea Lynn, who shares her powerful testimony of leaving 30 years of New Age and occult practices to fully surrender her life to Jesus Christ.
Ondrea opens up about her childhood trauma, her journey through the performing arts and fitness industries, and how seeking healing in all the wrong places led her deeper into deception—until a radical encounter with Jesus changed everything.
Today, Ondrea helps Christian women reclaim their health and identity through Christ-centered weight loss, healing, and deliverance.
Connect with Ondrea Lynn:
Website: https://ondrealynn.com
Free Gift for Women: ondrealynn.com/win
Podcast: Christian Women’s Weight Loss Podcast – available on Apple, Spotify, and all platforms
In this powerful episode of the Rooted in Christ Podcast, host Eric Stephens sits down with newly married artist and DJ Bank Shaq to talk about faith, music, and the transformative power of Christ. From his journey as one of Cleveland’s top DJs to finding true purpose in Christ, Bank Shaq shares his testimony of leaving behind success in the secular world for a life devoted to ministry and Christian hip hop.
The conversation dives deep into:
How music shapes our spirit and culture
The importance of Christian hip hop for both new believers and seasoned Christians
Why discipleship and community matter more than division
Shaq’s testimony of going from IHOP shifts to international stages through God’s provision
The call to keep love at the center of Christian ministry
This episode is raw, inspiring, and filled with encouragement for anyone navigating faith, creativity, and calling.
Connect with DJ Bank Shaq here: https://www.instagram.com/officialbankshaq/
In this episode, Richard Williams returns to dive deep into vision, faith, and stepping out of the comfort zone. From launching his new devotional book 31 Days of Hope to leading the Harvest Conference, Richard shares how God continues to call ordinary people into extraordinary assignments.
We talk about:
The story behind 31 Days of Hope and how it came together
The Harvest Conference and its impact on unity, revival, and discipleship in Cleveland
Why authenticity and presence matter more than “big names”
The importance of vision, planning years ahead, and walking boldly in God’s calling
A challenge for anyone who feels like they’re “waiting” on the right time—what are you waiting for?
This episode is packed with encouragement, testimony, and vision for the future of the church and community.
Connect with Hope City: https://hopecitynow.online/?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAae9-RO3YaTKh4eVGhpzqFG0gqroKLRTbuCw-u8Ihalj48FuAN01-wVSl9i9Ug_aem_gBASqPma0_smorgu7HjuLA
In this powerful conversation, Eric sits down with Cory BiNks—a former seven-time World Series of Poker champion turned Christian rapper, missionary, and servant of God.
Cory shares his incredible testimony: from a basketball dream that never panned out, to a life steeped in partying and poker success, to bottoming out—and ultimately surrendering his life to Christ in the midst of the pandemic. He opens up about how Matthew 16:24 changed everything, why chasing worldly success can’t satisfy, and how obedience led him into music, ministry, and mentorship.
This episode dives deep into:
If you're chasing dreams, feeling stuck, or simply in need of encouragement, Cory’s story reminds us that God redeems time—and that any testimony can become a message of hope.
Connect with Cory BiNks
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/corybinks
Apple Music: Cory BiNks on Apple Music
Music on Spotify: Cory BiNks on Spotify
YouTube: Cory BiNks Music Channel
Episode 157 | Nobles Darby IV – Rooted in Christ in the World of Pro Sports
In this powerful conversation, we sit down with Nobles Darby IV, chaplain for the Cleveland Browns, Cavs, and Cleveland Charge, and a leader with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. From his childhood vision of God’s presence to his journey through personal struggles and redemption, Nobles shares how faith has guided him into a unique calling — serving athletes, coaches, and their families in the high-pressure world of professional sports.
We dive into:
What it means to be rooted in Christ while serving in pro sports
The role of a chaplain in the NFL and NBA
How athletes quietly battle loneliness, identity, and trust
The balance between ministry, family, and personal rest
Nobles’ powerful testimony of grace, calling, and obedience
This episode is a reminder that faith is not just about words, but about presence, consistency, and living authentically in whatever space God places you.
🔔 Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more faith-driven conversations.
In this episode, Eric Stephens welcomes back author, coach, and teacher Laurie Herbers for a powerful conversation on faith, obedience, and identity in Christ.
Laurie shares insights from her upcoming book No Tantrums in the Waiting Room and her new course Image Bearer: Awaken Your God-Given Identity and Authority. She opens up about what it means to trust God in the waiting, live in daily obedience, and step fully into the image of Christ.
From real-life testimonies of transformation, to the struggles believers face with trust and timing, this episode is filled with encouragement, practical wisdom, and Spirit-led revelations.
If you’ve ever wrestled with waiting on God, questioned your purpose, or needed a reminder that you are His reflection, this conversation will bless you.
✨ Topics Covered:
Why worship is essential in seasons of waiting
Understanding tantrums and obedience in our faith walk
What it means to be an image bearer of God
Stories of transformation through discipleship and journaling
How to walk in supernatural authority and trust God’s plan
📖 Scripture Highlight: Jeremiah 33:3 – “Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.”
🔗 Connect with Laurie:
Website – laurieherbers.com
Instagram – @solovelegacy
TikTok – @abundancewithlaurie
Facebook – Laurie Herbers
Be sure to like, share, and subscribe to stay updated on new episodes of the Rooted in Christ Podcast.
In this powerful episode of the Rooted in Christ Podcast, host Eric Stephens sits down with Mark Hebebrand to hear his remarkable journey from a troubled youth in Cleveland’s streets to becoming a devoted follower of Jesus and long-time ministry leader.
Mark shares raw, unfiltered stories from his past—growing up in the 80s hip hop scene, breakdancing battles, graffiti, DJing in clubs, and living a criminal lifestyle that led to run-ins with the law. He opens up about the night that changed everything, when a Good Friday church service and a simple prayer in a car led to a radical transformation in Christ.
Through spoken word, personal testimony, and heartfelt conversation, Mark reflects on the challenges of breaking old habits, the importance of finding healthy outlets, and how God redeems lost time. From mentoring youth in music to fostering brotherhood through sports, martial arts, and motorcycles, Mark’s life is a testament to the freedom and purpose found in Jesus.
If you or someone you know feels trapped by addiction, anger, or hopelessness, this conversation will inspire you to believe in the God who sets prisoners free.
In this powerful and deeply encouraging episode of the Ruin in Christ podcast, Eric sits down with author, coach, and speaker Nicole Roth, founder of She Abides in Joy. Nicole shares her remarkable journey from religious tradition and self-reliance to a transformative relationship with Jesus that reshaped her identity, healed deep wounds, and unlocked true joy.
Nicole unpacks her unique “Joy Quotient” tool—a practical framework for identifying the lies we believe, replacing them with God’s truth, and renewing our minds to live in freedom. With
wisdom and vulnerability, she discusses:
Whether you're navigating burnout, rejection, or simply want to grow in your understanding of grace and purpose, this episode will equip you with encouragement and tools to step fully into the life God designed for you.
🔗 Connect with Nicole: https://nicoleroth.com/
🎁 Free resource: nicoleroth.com/unleash
In this powerful and heartfelt episode, host Eric Stephens welcomes Coley Stephens — a content creator, Christian apologist, and ministry leader — to share his personal testimony and creative journey in faith.
From his college transformation to his rise as a faith-based voice on TikTok and Instagram, Coley opens up about battling sin, discovering God’s grace, and staying spiritually grounded in the social media spotlight.
They dive into the daily discipline of walking with Christ, the role of apologetics in evangelism, and the temptations and victories that come with creating content in a digital world. Coley shares behind-the-scenes insight into handling online criticism, spiritual warfare, and the importance of abiding in Christ above all else.
Whether you're a believer seeking encouragement, a content creator struggling with purpose, or just someone curious about faith in a digital age — this episode will challenge and inspire you.
Follow Coley here:
In this transparent and spirit-filled conversation, Eric Stephens welcomes back author, life coach, and Christian counselor Maurice F. Martin to dive deep into what it truly means to cast your cares on God. Recorded at Breakthrough Studios, the two brothers in Christ reflect on 1 Peter 5:5–7, unpacking the personal, emotional, and spiritual weight of anxiety, fear, and pride—and how God’s love gives us the freedom to let go.
Maurice speaks candidly about his own struggles with anxiety and feeling overwhelmed, reminding us that casting your cares isn’t just obedience—it’s an act of trust and love. This episode is full of powerful imagery, honest testimony, and practical encouragement for believers facing real-life pressures.
If you've ever struggled with trying to carry it all yourself—this one is for you.
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Connect with Maurice here: https://www.instagram.com/mauricefmartin/
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🎟 Cleveland! Don’t miss “Beyond the Walls 2” at House of Blues – Nov 1st
Get your tickets here: https://www.ticketmaster.com/event/050062B69FE72C38?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaeGB5rCbQN3aAspmAgeDX1Uah_qUtN4OpCPgxHsAJI6gUuvtIONAXA8lXpR5Q_aem_NR0U3Ra-Hv44kE7vlXyYog
In this raw and redemptive episode, Eric Stephens of Redwood Christian Ministries sits down with Christian hip hop artist and evangelist Bobby Bendito to share his extraordinary testimony. From a life consumed by addiction, drug dealing, and violence to complete surrender to Christ, Bobby recounts how God's grace rescued him from the darkest valleys.
He opens up about his early years in the streets, starting to sell drugs at 17 and struggling with addiction while trying to support a growing family. But when his wife was diagnosed with end-stage kidney disease, Bobby hit rock bottom—and cried out to God. What followed was a life-altering transformation that led to healing, restoration, and a mission to minister through music and truth.
Topics Covered:
This episode isn’t just about music—it’s about miracles, mercy, and the message of hope for anyone who feels stuck, broken, or forgotten. Bobby’s story is proof that God can redeem any life, no matter how far gone.
Watch now and be inspired to trust God’s timing, power, and purpose.
Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more stories of transformation.
Find Bobby Bendito here: https://www.instagram.com/benditomuzik/?hl=en
Episode 150 marks a major milestone — and this time, the host becomes the guest. Maurice F. Martin sits down with Rooted in Christ founder Eric Stephens for a deeply honest, purpose-driven conversation about the journey behind the podcast, its spiritual mission, and the road ahead.
From wild college nights to radical transformation through Jesus, Eric shares the real-life moments that shaped his faith — including a powerful encounter with God during his grandmother’s final days, his battle with rejection, and the impact of mental health on the walk of Christian men.
We also go beyond the mic to talk about:
🔥 Real stories. 🔥 Real growth. 🔥 Real faith.
Whether you've been here since Episode 1 or this is your first listen, this one will stir your soul. Like, comment, share — and get your tickets now for Beyond the Walls: Nov 1st, 2025 in Cleveland, Ohio.
Tickets and more information are available here: https://www.ticketmaster.com/event/050062B69FE72C38?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaeRWdxb1BMK5_T53JNcr0mXc1eXCx1UFv4HzQDa1E9GLOJdC1GFD5IBI9DKgQ_aem_ER6Is_71JQWfNQqDjCQBpA
In this powerful and heartfelt episode of the Rooted in Christ Podcast, we sit down with real estate investor, life coach, and foster care advocate Samuel Dorvil. Samuel opens up about his incredible journey—from surviving a near-death burn accident as a toddler in Haiti, to growing up during the crack epidemic in the U.S., and ultimately finding faith, purpose, and calling through Christ.
Samuel shares his testimony of divine healing, family sacrifice, and how a vision from God during college led him and his wife into a life of fostering and adopting children. Now a devoted father, husband, and business owner, Samuel blends faith with action—building homes through his company Pro Design Builder, mentoring others, and advocating for children in need.
This episode dives deep into themes of trauma, resilience, purpose, and the transformative power of faith. It’s a candid and inspiring look into what it means to live with intention, serve others, and walk boldly with God.
Like, share, and subscribe to hear more real testimonies and faith-filled conversations.
Watch Samuel’s podcast here: https://www.youtube.com/@DoitlikeDorvil8