Livin' The Bream Podcast

Do you ever feel like something is getting in the way of your happiness? New York Times best-selling author and Parker Gilbert Montgomery Professor at Harvard University, Arthur Brooks, introduces his new book, "The Happiness Files: Insights on Work and Life." The book helps readers navigate their lives, redefine success to find inner happiness. Arthur discusses many factors that impact people's mentality on life, thus depleting their happiness; however, he explains that finding a connection to faith or looking beyond oneself helps people find meaning in their work and life. Arthur's new podcast, Office Hours with Arthur Brooks is available HERE! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In uncertain times, is the Book of Revelation meant to help us? Pastor Gary Hamrick shares his new book, Standing On The Edge of Eternity: The End Times According to Revelation, which guides readers through the Book of Revelation, enabling them to look past their fears and prepare for the return of Jesus Christ. As Senior Pastor at Cornerstone Chapel in Leesburg, Virginia, Pastor Gary explains many ways he has seen people struggle with the Book of Revelation, finding it frightening rather than preparation for an eternity with Christ. He explains how to use his book as a study guide for the concept, empowering readers to prepare for Jesus' return. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Co-founders of She Reads Truth, Raechel Myers and Amanda Bible Williams, introduce their new devotional, The Bible Is for You: A Devotional Journey Through Every Book of the Bible, which covers all 66 Old and New Testament books of the Bible. They share their hope of expanding their readers' connection and understanding of the Bible. Raechel and Amanda also discuss their global online community , She Reads Truth, a platform for women to engage in daily Bible readings and study. They explain that they're finding more young people have a growing interest in diving deep into their faith and She Reads Truth provides that environment. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Founder of UniteUs and author of the new book "Roses To Revival," Tonya Prewett shares what sparked her vision for the collegiate ministry, UniteUs. Her new book explains her journey through the last five years and how God has connected the dots for her success in helping others unite with Jesus. Tonya explains her experience launching UniteUs and the impact it's had across college campuses and her hopes for the next generation of believers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The lead singer of the American Christian rock and pop band MercyMe, Bart Millard, provides an inside look at his new project, "Wonder and Awe," which is the 20th album created by the group. He reveals the inspiration behind some of the incredible songs on the album, including "Oh Death." Later, Bart shares details on the new movie "I Can Only Imagine 2" based on his hit song "Even If," an inspiring sequel to the film "I Can Only Imagine," which will be in theaters in February 2026. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Throughout history, ordinary Americans have done extraordinary things under the Lord's loving and watchful eyes. Senator Tim Scott's (R-SC) new book, "One Nation Always Under God," shares some of these incredible stories about a country comprised of people rooted in their faith. Senator Scott shares some of these amazing stories with Shannon, including his own. He also describes the role faith plays in helping him make significant decisions in Congress. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Pastor Max Lucado's new book, "Tame Your Thoughts: Three Tools To Renew Your Mind And Tame Your Thoughts," will provide enlightening perspectives on personal guilt and share how readers can combat negative thought patterns with scripture. Pastor Lucado describes how his bible-based book urges readers to lean into the unconditional love of God when intrusive thoughts take over their headspace. Later, Pastor Lucado shares with Shannon why UFOs are an essential part of his book. Pre-order Tame Your Thoughts here! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What if your life had taken a different path? Actress Kristy Swanson sits down with Shannon to celebrate the 15th anniversary of the faith-based film What If…. Kristy describes the filming process and working with great individuals, such as Director Dallas Jenkins and shares her experience reuniting with the cast. Later, Kristy highlights how growing up in faith helped her to choose fantastic faith-based projects, such as 'What If.' What If will be in select theatres August 5th and 7th. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Faith, fatherhood and family are core values in Senator Markwayne Mullin's (R-OK) life. He joins Shannon to emphasize that while he's regarded as a high-profile member of Congress his greatest role is being a family man. Senator Mullin explains how he came to accept Christ as a young man and the importance of prioritizing God and family. He also shares his journey to fatherhood and his unconditional love for his blended family with his biological and adopted children. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It is easy to resort to anger after losing something precious but rarely does such a response aid the healing process. For the residents of Kerr County, Texas, this dilemma is all too clear. First Baptist Church Senior pastor, Dr. Robert Jeffress joins Shannon to offer guidance on handling tragedy, both for those suffering from it directly, and those that wish to help them. Pastor Jeffress also shares a few stories from scripture and his personal life that he hopes will provide a sliver of hope for those impacted by the flood. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Best-selling author and beloved bible teacher Lisa Whittle knows all too well the worries women mull over about their bodies. She shares her new Bible study, "Body and Soul: A Biblical Look at the Whole Person God Created You to Be," which can help women overcome their insecurities. She explores "whole body theology," offering a holistic approach to body image, and encourages women to come together to support the bodies God has given them. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After a decades-long career as a full-time pastor and member of the music trio "Phillips, Craig & Dean," Dan Dean brings "More." He joins the podcast to discuss his new solo project, "More," and shares his experience balancing parenthood, music, and full-time ministry. His remarkable Christian music journey began over thirty years ago, and he has served in full-time ministry for nearly 50 years, now holding the role of legacy pastor. Dan also describes how the musical group "Phillips, Craig & Dean" formed and their commitment to staying involved in their local churches. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As the end of the 2024-2025 Supreme Court term draws near, so do the decisions of several precedent setting cases. From challenges to birthright citizenship to pornography bans, some hot button topics will have rulings expected to arrive in the coming weeks. Fox News contributor and the Shapiro Professor of Public Interest Law at George Washington University Jonathan Turley, and constitutional lawyer Tom Dupree share their predictions on the outcome of these cases and discuss SCOTUS’s recent verdict on gender-transition surgery for minors. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Yale Law School graduate and bestselling author Mary Marantz shares her new book, Underestimated: The Surprisingly Simple Shift to Quit Playing Small, Name the Fear, and Move Forward Anyway. The book describes practical steps to achieving greatness and pushing past the lies fear creates. Mary discusses her upbringing and her father's emphasis on the importance of education. She explains how she stopped overthinking and overcame her self-doubt, which led her to find success and her true calling. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Do you ever wonder what God has in store for you? Pastor and author of Joy Bomb: Unleash Jesus’s Explosive Joy for an Extraordinary Life, Tauren Wells, shares the meaning behind his new book, instructing readers on finding authentic happiness through Jesus’s joy. He explains that Jesus’s joy is not a promise of a life without difficulty but that you won’t walk the path of hardship alone. The book also describes what attitudes and behaviors will keep someone from experiencing His greatness. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Authors of "The Anxiety Algorithm," Dr. James Kent and Dr. Ronnie Kent are experts on dealing with anxiety and want to help others understand its causes. Their book aims to help readers control their symptoms and differentiate them from fear. The father and son duo take on anxiety by developing patterns of peace and joy. They provide practical advice and strategies to help manage anxiety symptoms and strengthen a relationship with God. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As a new generation of young professional women seeks guidance from the trailblazers who paved the way, author and President of Concerned Women for America Penny Nance's new book, Seven Rules for Success in Business & Life: A Woman's Guide, could not have come at a better time. Penny shares an array of practical advice — covering topics such as navigating formal dinners, making a strong first impression, and developing key interpersonal skills. Her insights are particularly relevant for a younger generation whose social development may have been impacted by the pandemic. Penny offers a smart, straightforward guide designed to help women thrive in both their personal and professional lives. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Co-authors of the Godwinks books, Squire Rushnell and Louise DuArt Rushnell, share their new book, Godwinks for Moms. The book is filled with beautiful stories celebrating moms and depicts how God uses moms to create "Godwinks." The incredible couple coined the term "Godwink" after wanting to replace the word coincidence with a phrase that defines the Lord's plan. They share how faith guides the direction of their books and reveals Godwinks in their lives. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It is Mother's Day, and every mother knows the role is difficult, yet fulfilling. Mother of three, host of The Warfare Parenting Podcast and author of The Parent's Battle Plan: Warfare Strategies to Win Back Your Prodigal, Laine Lawson Craft, shares her astounding advice on parenthood and surviving the toughest challenges. Her book covers practical steps to help a loved one out of a challenging situation and how to rebuild trust after a strained period of time. Laine also advocates for the power of hope and continuous prayer. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Theology is not just for academics. Bible teacher, podcaster, and author of A Jesus-Shaped Life: How Diving Deeper into Theology Can Transform Us and Our World with the Radical Kindness of God, Lisa Harper, delves into theology, which she says can strengthen a relationship with Jesus. Her new book connects the world of theology and the miracle of Jesus to help us understand His radical kindness and accessibility. She shares personal stories about her connection with faith and the importance of bringing your whole self to God. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

While the world continues to change, younger generations question the meaning of marriage. Distractions of daily life can cause an impasse in relationships that now, more than ever, ends these unions. Hosts of the Rhythms for Life podcast, Rebekah and Gabe Lyons, share their new book, The Fight For Us: Overcome What Divides to Build a Marriage That Thrives. They explain how to fight for a marriage, rather than in a marriage. Overcoming the status quo to thrive in one of life's most meaningful partnerships. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In a world that often leans heavily on facts and science, it can be difficult to discuss miracles. For people of faith the question isn't if miracles still happen, it’s how often we pay attention when they do. CBN News Host and journalist, Billy Hallowell, discusses his new documentary Investigating the Supernatural Miracles, which explores true stories of modern-day miracles that defy scientific explanation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In today's culture, sexual purity can be a difficult topic to approach - especially for men. However, it's an important conversation to have when confronting our spiritual well being. Author and President of Living Waters Emeal "E.Z." Zwayne makes the case for pursuing a path of holiness in his new book, Fight Like A Man. E.Z. explains how sexual immorality poses a threat to relationships, family dynamics, and the soul. He later shares the importance of spreading the word about purity and emphasizes that everyone can be forgiven and redeemed through Christ. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

NBA player for the Orlando Magic and founder of UNITUS, Jonathan Isaac, is using his Christian apparel brand to share his love of God. Throughout his successful career, Jonathan has acknowledged that while he loves the game of basketball his true identity is in Christ. He also shares how God helped bring his idea of the shoe brand, UNITUS to fruition. Emphasizing that the product speaks to something specific in the marketplace at a time when people want to purchase from an organization they morally support. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

CBN Anchor Wendy Griffith opens up about her journey waiting for and, ultimately, finding the love of her life. She details how she learned to trust God's timing, in her newest book, You Didn't Miss It! God's Best Is Worth The Wait! Wendy unpacks the ups and downs she felt in her single years and shares how the timing of her relationship was a product of God's guidance. Later, she emphasizes the need to have fun, hope, and faith when you're searching for the right match, for God has not abandoned you during your darkest moments. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

FOX News Senior Correspondent and Host of the Searching For Heroes podcast, Benjamin Hall shares how he was able to overcome some of life's toughest challenges in his latest book, Resolute: How We Humans Keep Finding Ways to Beat the Toughest Odds. Benjamin opens up about his recovery and discusses the physical and emotional toll it had on him. He explains how during the darkest moments, it was knowing that things would get better that allowed him to keep persevering. Later, he shares how turning to his faith allowed him to keep moving forward. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Author and President of Wild at Heart John Eldredge discusses the importance of finding the wonder in faith as detailed in his new book, Experience Jesus. Really. John explains how worldly desires can distract us from finding fulfillment and being present with God. He shares ways in which we can create sacred spaces in our lives and deepen our relationships with Christ. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Senator Chris Coons (D-DE) takes a break from the Senate floor for a conversation about how his faith shaped his career in public service. Senator Coons reflects on his unlikely path into politics and shares how his family supported him along the way. Later, he shares with Shannon how his faith in Christ guides his approach to legislation and uplifting the margins of our society. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

New York Times Best Selling Author and Editor-in-Chief of All Israel News, Joel Rosenberg captivates readers in his latest fact-based fiction novel, The Beijing Betrayal, available March 11th. Joel's political and journalistic expertise into the criminal minds of the United States’ biggest national threats, allows him to create a fictional world that is often eerily familiar to the one we live in. Through his experience working within notable political campaigns, Joel was able to use firsthand experience to craft compelling political thrillers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Actor Zachary Levi is debuting a brand new film, The Unbreakable Boy, proving to Hollywood that there's a market for powerful, faith-based films. Zachary discusses what made him want to pursue this project, citing the film's meaningful themes of love, family, and faith. He later opens up about Hollywood and the movie industry, highlighting the immeasurable value of making authentic films with good morals. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

How would the world be changed if all the global Churches gathered together? Today's guest dared to ask that question and acted on that vision. NYT bestselling author, podcaster, and founder of Gather25 Jennie Allen shares how she's bringing people together across 6 continents for 25 consecutive hours of prayer and worship with Gather25. Jennie discusses how she hopes the event will bring people together and transcend barriers so that people across the world can know God and understand His love. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Award-winning musical artists Rebecca St. James and Cubbie Fink detail how love, pain, and faith have shaped their marriage and family in their new book, Lasting Ever. Rebecca and Cubbie reflect on their relationship and explain how joy and heartache played pivotal roles in shaping their identity and marriage. They discuss how in their most vulnerable and painful seasons in life, they were able to deepen their relationship with God and grow. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Amid the many confirmation hearings taking place on Capitol Hill this week, Senator Eric Schmitt (R-MO) joins Shannon to discuss the latest news out of the nation's capital. Senator Schmitt weighs in on the confirmation status for several of President Trump's cabinet nominees and discusses how they can shake up the status quo in Washington. Later, the Senator sheds light on his oldest son, Stephen, and shares how his rare genetic disease inspired him to pursue public office and advocate for other individuals and families with disabilities. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

How does Satan work to isolate us from God and damage our faith? Best-selling author Pastor Jonathan "JP" Pokluda explains how we can identify spiritual warfare present in our lives in his latest book, Your Story Has A Villain. He shares his own personal story of breaking free from vices and discusses how it strengthened his relationship with God. Later, JP emphasizes the importance of understanding the tactics of the enemy so that we can maintain a strong faith. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

When we put too much time into trying to please others, it's easy to lose sight of our own true purpose. NYT best-selling author Jinger Duggar Vuolo shares how she let go of seeking approval from other people, and how it allowed her to instead deepen her relationship with God. In her new book, People Pleaser, Jinger discusses the importance of seeing God as a Heavenly Father, and explains that we don't need to be perfect in order to have His unconditional love. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

How have archeological discoveries over the years brought Scripture to life? Chief Curatorial Officer at the Museum of the Bible Dr. Robert "Bobby" Duke explains how by looking at historical artifacts, we're able to better understand the time, world, and culture in which the Bible was written. Later, he and Shannon discuss how some of the important artifacts recovered help paint a picture of the early, diverse Church. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

How can we get to Heaven? And if we do, what will the eternal afterlife be like? Author, Bible teacher, and television host Sheila Walsh provides a glimpse into the afterlife and reflects on God's promises in her new book, The Hope of Heaven: How the Promise of Eternity Changes Everything. Sheila paints a picture of what eternal life looks like as told by Scripture and tackles some of our most pressing questions about Heaven. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As we prepare our resolutions for the new year, Shannon revisits her conversation with author and Pastor of Church of the City Dr. Darren Whitehead to discuss ways we can take a break from technology and focus on the things that truly matter in life. In his book, The Digital Fast: 40 Days to Detox Your Mind and Reclaim What Matters Most, Pastor Whitehead explains how by depending less on our phones, we can strengthen our relationship with God. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

How can Christians make their homes a place that reflects their faith? Author and Founder of Every Woman A Theologian Phylicia Masonheimer discusses the spiritual significance of home and hospitality as detailed in her new book, Every Home a Foundation. Phylicia explains how we can focus not on framing hospitality through entertaining others, but welcoming and blessing them instead. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Students are finding their faith on college campuses all across the country. Founder and visionary of UniteUs Tonya Prewett shares what it was like to witness these revivals and hear the joyous testimonies from students. She discusses her efforts to spread the Gospel and shares how God's miracles are giving people new life. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It's easy to get caught up in the business of life - but it's important to remember that throughout all the craziness, God still loves you. NYT best-selling author Bob Goff shares how you can find joy within your faith as detailed in his new book, Catching Whimsy: 365 Days of Possibility. Bob reminds listeners that we're more than just the plans we make for ourselves, and that we can find hope and inspiration in all God has in store for us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Worship Leader Jasmine Christmas Brady and her mother, Pastor Candy Hemphill Christmas join to discuss how we can get our hearts and spirits ready for the Christmas season. Candy opens up about her battle with depression and shares how her faith and good works changed her. Later, Jasmine provides a glimpse into inspiration behind her latest album, "Lover of My Soul," as well as her Bible study podcast, "Wholly Holy." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

How can you rebuild trust that keeps getting broken? Best-selling author and President of Proverbs 31 Ministries Lysa TerKerust provides a guide for women to learn how to trust themselves and others in her new book, I Want to Trust You, But I Don't. Lysa opens up about the betrayals she experienced throughout her life and shares how being vulnerable and overcoming her struggles allowed her to build a deeper relationship with God. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Senator Katie Britt (R-AL) joins Shannon to share her life story and the importance of overcoming adversity as detailed in her new book, God Calls Us To Do Hard Things. Senator Britt reflects on the moments that challenged her strength, faith & courage, and explains how tackling these challenges shaped her character. Later, she looks ahead to the upcoming year on Capitol Hill and discusses the change she hopes to bring with the new Senate. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

While the 2024 election season has come to a close, the holiday season is fast approaching. As people process the results at hand, how can we have compassion for those with whom we disagree? Author and Pastor of Church of the City Dr. Darren Whitehead reminds people not to gloat, but instead, to have conversations and listen to people in order to unite during an otherwise divided time. Later, he discusses the benefits of taking a break from technology as outlined in his book, The Digital Fast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today's guest reminds us that gratitude can be found in any moment. While election season is upon us and the holiday season quickly approaches, it is easy to get swept up in the chaos of life. In his new book, A Million Little Miracles, Author and Pastor Mark Batterson persuades readers to look for God's tiny miracles hidden in plain sight. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

While empathy is key to having a compassionate society, it's also something that can be easily exploited by politics and personal agendas. Author, speaker, and podcast host Allie Beth Stuckey explains how progressives manipulate stories and political positions to appear loving. In her new book, Toxic Empathy, she explains how Christians can look back to God's definition of love as an example of how to live their lives. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It's never too early to talk about Christmas! Christian singer-songwriter Matthew West joins Shannon for a conversation about how we can find our spiritual homes this Christmas season. In his new book, Come Home for Christmas, Matthew explains that our excitement about the magic of the holidays doesn't need to end with our childhoods, and that we can continue to find love, peace, and joy in our relationships with God. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Shannon is joined by Navy SEAL veteran and best-selling author Jack Carr for a look back at the 1983 Marine barracks bombings in his new nonfiction book, Targeted: Beirut. Jack unpacks the generational impact of the devastating terror attacks on servicemembers and how it not only changed the course of history, but also influenced U.S. foreign policy. Later, he and Shannon look at the recent events unfolding in the Middle East and discuss how the events explain what's happening in the world today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The first Monday of October marks the start of a new term in the Supreme Court. As the Justices prepare to hear cases throughout the term, Shannon revisits conversations with Justice Neil Gorsuch and retired Justice Stephen Breyer to hear how Justices prepare for hearings and the invaluable need to communicate across the aisle for the betterment of the people. Later, Justices Breyer and Gorsuch discuss how crucial the role of Supreme Court justices is to the stability of the nation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices