Three Truths To Help You Weather The Storms Of Life: Jonathan Youssef Episode 276 Candid Conversations With Jonathan Youssef podcast

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What happens when our desire to be liked becomes a barrier to real community? In part two, Jonathan Youssef continues his conversation with Jeremy and Jinger Vuolo, delving deeper into the profound struggles behind people-pleasing and how God’s Truth sets us free. Jinger shares powerful stories of real-life moments that challenged her desire to appear “put together,” and how letting others into her mess brought healing, deeper friendships, and lasting joy. Jeremy offers honest reflections on walking with Jinger through this transformation, encouraging others to think critically about their motives and the long-term consequences of seeking approval. Together, they explore the danger of trading meaningful relationships for short-term reputation and how choosing vulnerability can lead to the community we truly crave. This conversation is honest, relatable, and freeing for anyone wrestling with fear, performance, or the pressure to please. About the Guests Jeremy Vuolo is a former professional goalkeeper for the New York Red Bulls who is now pursuing his doctorate at Master's Seminary. Jinger Vuolo grew up on TLC's "19 Kids and Counting" and "Counting On" as part of the Duggar family. She is now an author of multiple books, including the New York Times bestseller "Becoming Free Indeed" and her newest release "People Pleaser: Breaking Free From the Bondage of Imaginary Expectations." Together, Jeremy and Jinger are raising their two daughters and new son in the Los Angeles area while sharing their faith through various platforms, including their podcast and social media. Resources Mentioned " People Pleaser: Breaking Free From the Bondage of Imaginary Expectations" by Jinger Vuolo "Becoming Free Indeed" by Jinger Vuolo (New York Times bestseller) Follow the Vuolos on social media: Instagram: @ jingervuolo @ jeremy_vuolo Follow Candid Conversations on social media: Facebook: @candidpod Instagram: @candidpod Twitter: @thecandidpod Subscribe & Share: If this episode inspired you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with others.…

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The Weight of People Pleasing with Jinger & Jeremy Vuolo | Episode 282 - part 1 23:38

8 days ago23:38

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What happens when you realize much of your life has been shaped by the need to meet others' expectations? In this enlightening episode of Candid Conversations, Jonathan Youssef welcomes Jeremy and Jinger Vuolo back to the program as they dive into the suffocating world of people-pleasing. Jinger, known from TLC's "Nineteen Kids and Counting," reveals how she discovered a prison of other's expectations beneath her desire to maintain peace. With remarkable vulnerability, she shares how the fear-based theology she was raised in magnified these tendencies and how her marriage to Jeremy was the catalyst for transformation. This conversation isn't just for people-pleasers—it's for anyone who's ever wondered if their relationships, decisions, and actions are motivated by genuine love or a need for approval. About the Guests Jeremy Vuolo is a former professional goalkeeper for the New York Red Bulls who is now pursuing his doctorate at Master's Seminary. Jinger Vuolo grew up on TLC's "Nineteen Kids and Counting" and "Counting On" as part of the Duggar family. She is now an author of multiple books including the New York Times bestseller "Becoming Free Indeed" and her newest release "People Pleaser: Breaking Free From the Bondage of Imaginary Expectations." Together, Jeremy and Jinger are raising their two daughters and soon-to-be son in the Los Angeles area while sharing their faith through various platforms, including their podcast and social media. Resources Mentioned " People Pleaser: Breaking Free From the Bondage of Imaginary Expectations" by Jinger Vuolo "Becoming Free Indeed" by Jinger Vuolo (New York Times bestseller) Follow the Vuolos on social media: Instagram: @ jingervuolo @ jeremy_vuolo Follow Candid Conversations on social media: Facebook: @candidpod Instagram: @candidpod Twitter: @thecandidpod Subscribe & Share: If this episode inspired you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with others.…

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Truth in a Post-Truth World: Why It Still Matters: Jonathan Youssef | Episode 281 8:15

15 days ago8:15

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In a culture that is increasingly more comfortable with phrases like "my truth" and "your truth," Jonathan Youssef explores the concept of objective truth and why it matters in our everyday lives. This episode examines the logical problems with a "post-truth" mentality and presents compelling evidence for why Christianity's truth claims deserve thoughtful consideration, even from skeptics. Key Topics Discussed The contradiction between subjective perspectives and objective reality Why the "coexist" mentality creates logical problems in practice The fear of discovering truth and how truth might lead to freedom Evidence to support Christianity's Truth claims Follow us on social media: Facebook: @candidpod Instagram: @candidpod Twitter: @thecandidpod Subscribe & Share: If this episode inspired you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with others.…

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Waking the Sleeping Church: Dr. Michael Youssef on God's Final Call| Episode 280 25:05

29 days ago25:05

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Is the church asleep while the world crumbles? What if Jesus' ancient warnings to the church are more relevant now than ever? Jonathan Youssef sits down with his father, renowned Bible teacher Dr. Michael Youssef, for an unfiltered conversation about spiritual complacency in critical times. As they explore the insights from Dr. Youssef's new book, God's Final Call , they reveal how Christ's messages to the seven churches of Revelation contain the exact blueprint modern believers need to navigate our increasingly hostile cultural landscape. Drawing from over five decades of Biblical scholarship, Dr. Youssef decodes these prophetic warnings with an urgency that will challenge everything you thought you knew about faith in chaotic times. Join father and son to explore how these ancient letters serve as spiritual road maps for navigating our increasingly challenging cultural landscape. Dr. Youssef shares compelling insights on recognizing modern church warnings, avoiding complacency, standing firm amid cultural chaos, and reclaiming the joy of anticipating Christ's return. Whether struggling with doubt in a hostile culture or seeking to deepen your faith journey, this conversation offers comfort and conviction for believers committed to unwavering faith. Learn more about Dr. Michael Youssef Pre-order your copy of God's Final Call Follow us on social media: Facebook: @candidpod Instagram: @candidpod Twitter: @thecandidpod Subscribe & Share: If this episode inspired you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with others.…

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Dru Hammer: Scandal, Forgiveness, and a Calling Greater Than Wealth - Episode 279 | Part 2 23:36

5 weeks ago23:36

23:36

In this powerful conclusion of our conversation with Dru Hammer, she openly shares about walking through public trials, finding healing after a public divorce, and how God turned her pain into purpose through the Hammered Heart Foundation. Episode Highlights: Dru's candid discussion about navigating the controversy surrounding her son, Armie Hammer The journey through divorce and the power of true forgiveness How journaling for ten years became the foundation for her book "Hammered" A transformative moment in Israel that birthed the Hammered Heart Foundation The importance of addressing childhood trauma and healing within marriages How ministering to others at the L.A. Dream Center helped her own healing The story behind the hammered heart symbol and its impact on hurting women About the Guest: Dru Hammer is the founder and CEO of Hammered Heart Foundation and the author of the book Hammered. Her story bridges the worlds of faith, business, and humanitarian work, demonstrating how God can use anyone, anywhere, to share His message. Listen here if you missed part 1 of this compelling conversation . Follow us on social media: Facebook: @candidpod Instagram: @candidpod Twitter: @thecandidpod Subscribe & Share: If this episode inspired you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with others.…

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Ministering to the Famous and Forgotten: The Bold Faith of Dru Hammer - Episode 279 | PT 1 30:59

6 weeks ago30:59

30:59

In this powerful first installment, Jonathan Youssef sits down with Dru Hammer to discuss her remarkable faith journey, from her roots in Tulsa, Oklahoma, to becoming part of one of America's most prominent families. Episode Highlights: Dru shares the story of her parents' conversion to Christianity when she was five years old and how it transformed their family Her father's unexpected call to healing ministry after witnessing a miraculous healing A pivotal moment in Dru's senior year of high school when she witnessed her first supernatural healing The story of meeting her future husband, Michael Hammer, on a flight and their whirlwind romance Her transition into the world of the Hammer family dynasty and learning to navigate high society while maintaining her faith Stories of ministry work ranging from Beverly Hills socialites to the L.A. Dream Center The gradual process of sharing faith with her father-in-law, Dr. Armand Hammer, and his eventual acceptance of Christ Key Quotes: "God, I want to do what you want me to do. I want to be who you want me to be. And I want to go where you want me to go. Send me. I'm here. I'm ready." - Dru Hammer About the Guest: Dru Hammer is the founder and CEO of Hammered Heart Foundation and the author of the book Hammered. Her story bridges the worlds of faith, business, and humanitarian work, demonstrating how God can use anyone, anywhere, to share His message. Stay tuned for Part 2 of this compelling conversation, where Dru discusses overcoming personal trials and founding the Hammered Heart Foundation. Follow us on social media: Facebook: @candidpod Instagram: @candidpod Twitter: @thecandidpod Subscribe & Share: If this episode inspired you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with others.…

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What the Western Church Can Learn from the Eastern Church: Tara Shinja (Episode 278) 48:39

7 weeks ago48:39

48:39

What happens when deep cultural roots meet the life-changing power of the Gospel? Tara Shinja knows firsthand. Raised between two distinct cultures, Tara’s journey is a powerful testimony of God’s transforming grace and the strength it takes to stand firm in the Christian faith. In this episode, Tara shares her family’s story of radical transformation—from a mother raised in foster care yet captivated by Christ's love to her father’s unexpected journey from Hinduism to Christianity, as a child who grew up between two cultures, Tara shares unique insight into the Eastern and Western churches. What You’ll Hear: The challenge of living out your faith in a complex cultural landscape How God’s truth brought clarity and freedom in the midst of confusion The power of prayer and discipleship to impact lives and change hearts Practical tips for sharing your faith with those who are searching, including the power of persistent prayer for the lost If you’re navigating faith in a multicultural world or seeking encouragement to share the Gospel with boldness, this episode is for you. Listen now and be inspired by God’s unstoppable grace! Follow us on social media: Facebook: @candidpod Instagram: @candidpod Twitter: @thecandidpod Subscribe & Share: If this episode inspired you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with others.…

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Why the Next 25 years Will Change the Global Church Forever: Dr. Richard Pratt (Episode 277) 58:28

8 weeks ago58:28

58:28

Jonathan Youssef welcomes Dr. Richard L. Pratt Jr., president and co-founder of Third Millennium Ministries, to Candid Conversations . Dr. Pratt, an esteemed Old Testament scholar and global evangelist, shares his transformative journey from a dramatic conversion during the Jesus Movement to founding a ministry that provides seminary-level Biblical education to Christian leaders worldwide—for free. Discover Dr. Pratt's powerful epiphany that "where the Church is growing the fastest, there is the least opportunity for Christian leaders to learn the Scriptures," and how this conviction became his life's mission. They discuss the global Church's challenges, including the scarcity of sound theological training in rapidly growing Christian regions like Africa, Asia, and Latin America. Dr. Pratt reveals Thirdmill's innovative strategies to reverse this trend, leveraging digital technology, multilingual resources, and strategic partnerships to equip millions of pastors worldwide. Learn about the staggering need for 12 million new church leaders by 2050 and how Thirdmill is meeting this need through accessible, high-quality Biblical education. Key Topics Covered: Dr. Pratt's journey to faith and ministry The global Church's rapid growth and the corresponding leadership training gap The genesis and mission of Third Millennium Ministries The innovative, technology-driven approach to Biblical education Stories of transformation from around the world Links & Resources: Third Millennium Ministries Thirdmill Institute Thirdmill Seminary For questions or to connect with the Candid community, visit LTW.org/Candid . Follow us on social media: Facebook: @candidpod Instagram: @candidpod Twitter: @thecandidpod Subscribe & Share: If this episode inspired you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with others passionate about the Great Commission and the global Church.…

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Three Truths to Help You Weather the Storms of Life: Jonathan Youssef Episode 276 9:32

9 weeks ago9:32

9:32

Life’s storms are inevitable—whether you’re in one now, just coming out, or about to face one. The real question is: how do you navigate them with unshakable faith? In this episode, Jonathan Youssef shares three powerful biblical truths that will strengthen and encourage you when trials come. Drawing from the dramatic shipwreck of the Apostle Paul in Acts 27, Jonathan unpacks: How to stand firm when the waves crash Why storms don’t define you How God’s purpose remains unshaken—no matter the chaos around you. If you're feeling weary, discouraged, or need a reminder of God's sovereignty, this episode is for you. Listen now and be encouraged to know that you can anchor your faith in the only One who can calm the storm. For questions or to connect with the Candid community, visit LTW.org/Candid . Follow us on social media: Facebook: @candidpod Instagram: @candidpod Twitter: @thecandidpod…

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A New Year to Know God and Grow Spiritually: Jonathan Youssef:Episode 275 7:56

10 weeks ago7:56

7:56

As you move through this new year, are you merely setting Christian-sounding goals or truly seeking God daily with a heart of worship? In this special episode of Candid Conversations, Jonathan reflects on the importance of pursuing godliness above all else. Drawing from 1 Timothy 4:8, listeners will be reminded that physical and worldly disciplines have some value, but true transformation comes only through knowing Christ. Join Jonathan as he explores how cultural obsessions with self-improvement infiltrate the church, diluting the power of the Gospel. We’ll challenge the tendency to seek quick-fix sermons and practical tips over the deeper call to sit at Jesus' feet. Be inspired to continue 2025 with a renewed focus on what matters most: knowing, loving, and glorifying God. For questions or to connect with the Candid community, visit LTW.org/Candid . Follow us on social media: Facebook: @candidpod Instagram: @candidpod Twitter: @thecandidpod…

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Leading a Christian Revival in Secular Boston with Pastor Jaime Owens: Episode 274 26:31

11 weeks ago26:31

26:31

In this compelling episode of Candid Conversations , Jonathan Youssef sits down with Pastor Jaime Owens of Tremont Temple in Boston, a church rich in history yet facing the challenges of revitalizing faith in one of America’s most secular cities. Jaime shares his dramatic journey—from a hungover skeptic stepping into a church for the first time to a state trooper turned pastor on a mission to lead a spiritual revival. Discover how God transformed Jamie’s life, calling him from law enforcement into full-time ministry. Learn about Tremont Temple’s fascinating legacy, where abolitionists once stood, Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln spoke, and Charles Dickens famously read from A Christmas Carol . Hear how God works through Jaime to breathe new life into this historic church, drawing young professionals and students into a vibrant faith community amidst Boston’s intellectual and cultural hub. Key topics include: Jaime’s powerful conversion story: “I walked into church hungover and skeptical, but something changed forever.” From chasing criminals to chasing souls: Jamie’s unexpected career shift from state trooper to pastor. The untold history of Tremont Temple and its role in abolition and revival. Reaching Boston’s diverse culture and engaging the next generation with the gospel. The importance of sound theology and church governance in guarding the gospel. This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about church revitalization, sharing the Gospel in challenging environments, and seeing God work unexpectedly. Don’t miss the upcoming special event at Tremont Temple on October 24-25, 2025, featuring Dr. Michael Youssef and Mac Powell! 🎧 Listen now to hear this incredible story of redemption, revival, and hope in the heart of Boston. Discover historic Tremont Temple: Tremont Temple Learn more about Awake Boston: Awake Boston | Leading The Way Celebration For questions or to connect with the Candid community, visit LTW.org/Candid . Follow us on social media: Facebook: @candidpod Instagram: @candidpod Twitter: @thecandidpod…

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A New Christmas Reflection From Jonathan: 7 Extraordinary Prophecies Fulfilled on the First Christmas: (273) 8:10

15 weeks ago8:10

8:10

Have you ever stopped to think about how the first Christmas was meticulously planned centuries before it happened? In this week's episode, Dr. Jonathan Youssef shares the divine blueprint behind the birth of Jesus—one too precise to be left to chance. In a world of uncertainty, discovering the fulfilled prophecies of the first Christmas can bring a sense of wonder and assurance. These ancient promises reveal a God who is faithful and precise, offering hope and a deeper understanding of His love and plan for us. Listen now and share this reflection with a friend who could use reassurance of the certainty of God's plan this Christmas. For questions or to connect with the Candid community, visit LTW.org/Candid . Follow us on social media: Facebook: @candidpod Instagram: @candidpod Twitter: @thecandidpod…

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Where Hope Meets Fear: Finding Peace in Christ This Christmas: Jonathan Youssef (272) 7:10

17 weeks ago7:10

7:10

What does it mean this Christmas season that "the hopes and fears of all the years are met in thee tonight"? Join Jonathan on Candid Conversations to reflect on this Christmas hymn and the birth of Jesus—the light of the world who fulfills our deepest hopes and fears. In this reflection, Jonathan talks about: The promise of peace and security in Jesus The transformative power of His grace Why our response to Christ makes all the difference Don’t miss this heartwarming reflection on the true meaning of Christmas. For questions or to connect with the Candid community, visit LTW.org/Candid . Follow us on social media: Facebook: @candidpod Instagram: @candidpod Twitter: @thecandidpod…

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Becoming Free Indeed: Jeremy and Jinger Vuolo on Faith, Fear, and Freedom (271) 48:36

19 weeks ago48:36

48:36

Are you wrestling with beliefs that feel more like chains than freedom? Do you wonder what it means to experience a faith rooted in grace, not fear? In today’s episode of Candid Conversations , Jinger Duggar Vuolo joins us to share her powerful journey from a life of rigid rules and public expectations to one of true spiritual freedom. Raised in the spotlight of TLC's most popular show, 19 Kids and Counting, and within the strict teachings of Bill Gothard’s IBLP, Jinger’s story is one of courage, transformation, and rediscovering a loving, grace-filled God. In this powerful episode of Candid Conversations , the Vuolos share insights on distinguishing between faith and fear, disentangling from unhealthy beliefs, and the difference between “deconstructing” and “disentangling” faith. Listeners will hear about Jinger’s experiences with the “Free Jinger” movement and how her journey led her not to abandon Christianity but to redefine her relationship with Christ. Jinger’s story is a testament to the courage it takes to question deeply ingrained beliefs and find freedom within faith. This heartfelt conversation is a must-listen for anyone grappling with religious teachings, seeking a genuine relationship with God, or interested in how the Gospel differs from man-made rules. Join us for an honest look at faith, freedom, and finding grace in a world of fear. Key Topics: Jinger’s reflections on growing up in the public eye The journey of disentangling faith from rigid teachings Understanding “disentangling” vs. “deconstructing” faith Insights into Bill Gothard’s teachings and their impact Jeremy’s perspective as a supportive partner through Jinger’s journey Advice for those raised in restrictive religious environments Tune in to explore how Jinger’s faith journey can inspire us to seek truth, freedom, and a closer relationship with God. This episode is for anyone looking to break free from limiting beliefs and experience faith as it was meant to be. To ask Jonathan a question or connect with the Candid community, visit https://LTW.org/Candid Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/candidpod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/candidpod Twitter: https://twitter.com/thecandidpod…

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Caregiving and Honoring Aging Parents: A Biblical Look with Dr. Bill Davis (Episode 270) 51:36

20 weeks ago51:36