The Do Gooders Podcast
If you care about making an impact for good then the Do Gooders Podcast from The Salvation Army’s Caring Magazine is the show for you. Hosted by Editor-in-Chief Christin Thieme, listen in for real-life inspiration, expert insight, evidence of transformation happening in communities across the U.S. through The Salvation Army, and ideas from change-makers so you can join in right where you are and be the reason somebody believes in goodness.
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252: A new year, a new chapter with Commissioners James and Sue Betts
01/05/2026
252: A new year, a new chapter with Commissioners James and Sue Betts
As we begin a new year, we’re sharing the joy of a new chapter in the Western Territory. Commissioners James and Sue Betts have stepped into leadership as the new Territorial Commander and Territorial President of Women’s Ministries for The Salvation Army’s USA Western Territory. After nearly three decades of ministry together—in corps, divisions, the Adult Rehabilitation Centers, and most recently in national leadership—they bring a wealth of experience, a deep love for people, and a contagious joy for serving the Lord. Married for 33 years and officers for 29, they’re the proud parents of three adult children—all active in ministry themselves—and grandparents to three energetic grandkids who keep them smiling. Sue holds degrees in psychology and intercultural studies, and Jim in communication, ministry, and business, plus three years of service in the U.S. Army Band. They’re loyal Cleveland sports fans, passionate about raising up Christ-centered leaders, and committed to helping people experience the transforming love of Jesus. Today, we’ll get to know the Bettses as leaders and as people—hear about the lessons that shaped them, their hopes for the West, and the vision they carry for 2026 and beyond. EPISODE SHOWNOTES: BE AFFIRMED. JOIN THE HOPEFULS. WHAT’S YOUR CAUSE? BE INSPIRED. DO GOOD.
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251: The extraordinary gift of Christmas with Commissioner Douglas Riley
12/22/2025
251: The extraordinary gift of Christmas with Commissioner Douglas Riley
Today, we’re closing out our Give With Joy series with a special Christmas message from our Territorial Commander, Commissioner Douglas Riley. As we celebrate the season together, Commissioner Riley invites us to pause amid the noise and remember the heart of Christmas—the miracle of God’s love made known in Jesus. It’s a message of hope for the weary, joy for the heart that gives, and peace for all who make room for him this season. So wherever this message finds you today—whether surrounded by family, serving your community, making those final preparations, or simply listening in for a quiet moment—may this reflection remind you that God is with us, and his gift still transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary. EPISODE SHOWNOTES: BE AFFIRMED. JOIN THE HOPEFULS. WHAT’S YOUR CAUSE? BE INSPIRED. DO GOOD.
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250: Olympia’s Roaring Motorcycle Toy Run with Captain Amelia Mott
12/15/2025
250: Olympia’s Roaring Motorcycle Toy Run with Captain Amelia Mott
Every December in Olympia, Washington, the sound of Christmas isn’t just bells ringing—it’s engines revving. For one incredible day, thousands of bikers fill the streets, each with toys strapped to their motorcycles—dolls, skateboards, games, stuffed animals—all destined for children who might otherwise go without. It’s the annual Olympia Toy Run, and for 48 years, this event has brought together riders from all over the region for one shared purpose: bringing joy to kids at Christmas. Those toys, thousands of them, end up at The Salvation Army, where they become part of the Toy and Joy program—helping families across Thurston County celebrate Christmas with dignity and love. Today, we’ll talk with Captain Amelia Mott from The Salvation Army in Olympia about how the Toy Run helps meet real needs in the community—and later, we’ll catch up with Santa Joe, the biker who started and has led this joyful ride year after year. Because generosity doesn’t always come wrapped with ribbons and bows. Sometimes, it comes roaring down the street on two wheels. EPISODE SHOWNOTES: BE AFFIRMED. JOIN THE HOPEFULS. WHAT’S YOUR CAUSE? BE INSPIRED. DO GOOD.
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249: Inside The Salvation Army’s Angel Tree with Marlene Klotz-Collins
12/08/2025
249: Inside The Salvation Army’s Angel Tree with Marlene Klotz-Collins
There’s nothing quite like the joy on a child’s face when they open a Christmas gift chosen just for them. It’s the kind of joy that lingers long after the wrapping paper is gone—the joy of being remembered, seen and loved. For more than 40 years, has made that moment possible for children across the country. It has grown into a movement that now brings Christmas joy to more than a million children each year. The idea was simple: invite the community to adopt a child by name, shop for their Christmas wishes, and then return those gifts so they could be placed into the hands of families who might otherwise go without. Behind that simple plan are countless stories of connection and hope—families who breathe a sigh of relief, children who go back to school with new clothes, volunteers who find purpose in serving. Today, you’ll hear from people whose lives have been touched by these gifts. Captain Yohani Ortiz shares her own story of receiving gifts as a child and how it shaped her life. And then, you’ll hear from Marlene Klotz-Collins, who helped launch the Christmas Angel program in Phoenix and has volunteered faithfully for four decades. Because at Christmastime, joy shows up in many faces—and often, it starts with a simple paper angel. EPISODE SHOWNOTES: BE AFFIRMED. JOIN THE HOPEFULS. WHAT’S YOUR CAUSE? BE INSPIRED. DO GOOD.
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248: Christmas began with a promise with Amanda Bible Williams
12/01/2025
248: Christmas began with a promise with Amanda Bible Williams
Christmas isn’t only about the manger in Bethlehem. It’s about the bigger story—one that stretches from Genesis to Revelation. The story of creation, fall, redemption and restoration. And at its center, the good news, as we read in John 1:14, is the Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. At Christmas, we celebrate that truth—the Word became flesh. In the middle of all the gift-giving and celebrations, Scripture reminds us that the greatest gift has already been given. And that gift—the Bible tells us—is for you. That’s also the conviction behind She Reads Truth, a worldwide movement of women committed to opening their Bibles every day. Today, I’m joined by its co-founder, Amanda Bible Williams, who alongside Raechel Myers just released their newest devotional book, The Bible Is for You. In it, they take readers on a journey through every book of the Bible, connecting the dots in God’s story of redemption. So whether you’re new to Scripture, or you’ve spent years in its pages, this conversation will encourage you to see Christmas—and the whole Bible—with fresh eyes. Because the story of Jesus isn’t just ancient history. It’s alive, it’s unfolding—and it’s for you. EPISODE SHOWNOTES: BE AFFIRMED. JOIN THE HOPEFULS. WHAT’S YOUR CAUSE? BE INSPIRED. DO GOOD.
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247: Behind the Red Kettle
11/24/2025
247: Behind the Red Kettle
Today, we’re pulling back the curtain on one of the most familiar sights and sounds of Christmas: the Red Kettle. You’ve probably walked past one outside your grocery store or shopping center—the bell ringing, the volunteers bundled up in scarves and mittens, and that iconic kettle inviting you to pause for just a moment and give. This year, for the 135th year, The Salvation Army’s iconic Red Kettles will stand as a symbol of hope, generosity and community. Last year, in just 28 days, Americans gave nearly $100 million at thousands of kettles nationwide. Every dollar stayed in the community where it was given. Together, those gifts helped The Salvation Army serve more than 27 million people all year long. The Apostle Paul reminds us in 2 Corinthians 9:7 that “God loves a cheerful giver.” And that’s what the kettle is all about—not just collecting change, but sparking joy. Joy in giving. Joy in serving. Joy in knowing that together we can make Christmas brighter for families in need. Today, you’ll hear from a longtime officer and volunteer about what kettles mean, why they still matter, and how every gift—no matter the size—changes lives. So the next time you hear that familiar ring, I hope you’ll think of what’s happening behind the scenes—and the lives that are being changed because of it. EPISODE SHOWNOTES: BE AFFIRMED. JOIN THE HOPEFULS. WHAT’S YOUR CAUSE? BE INSPIRED. DO GOOD.
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246: Your brain on altruism with Nicole Karlis
11/17/2025
246: Your brain on altruism with Nicole Karlis
The Apostle Paul tells us in 2 Corinthians 9:7 that “God loves a cheerful giver.” And we’ve seen that throughout this series—giving changes lives, both for those who receive and for those who give. But here’s something interesting: science agrees. Research shows that helping others doesn’t just strengthen communities—it also transforms our health. Acts of kindness can boost our resilience, lower stress, and even help us live longer. Today, I’m joined by health and science journalist Nicole Karlis, author of “Your Brain on Altruism.” In her book, she explores how generosity lights up our brains, improves our well-being, and nurtures a culture of caring. We’ll talk about why crises often bring out extraordinary generosity, what the latest science says about altruism, and how we can sustain caring for one another even after the crisis passes. EPISODE SHOWNOTES: BE AFFIRMED. JOIN THE HOPEFULS. WHAT’S YOUR CAUSE? BE INSPIRED. DO GOOD.
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245: Profiles in joyful giving
11/10/2025
245: Profiles in joyful giving
Alright, let’s cut right to it today: the people behind the gifts—the donors, kids, families and partners who show us what it means to give with joy. Paul reminds us in 2 Corinthians 9:7: “Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” And when we hear “cheerful giver,” it’s easy to picture the act itself—dropping money in a kettle, buying a toy for a child, or writing a check. But what’s so powerful is how giving transforms both the receiver and the giver. In this episode, you’ll hear stories of people who’ve made generosity part of their tradition. Joy multiplies. Families are knit closer together. Communities are strengthened. And those who receive don’t just get a meal, a gift or a place to stay—they experience hope, dignity and love. So as you listen, I invite you to consider: what’s one joyful giving tradition you could start in your own life, or with your family? Because as you’ll hear in these stories, cheerful giving doesn’t just change Christmas—it changes us. EPISODE SHOWNOTES: BE AFFIRMED. JOIN THE HOPEFULS. WHAT’S YOUR CAUSE? BE INSPIRED. DO GOOD.
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244: 6 ways to Give With Joy this Christmas
11/03/2025
244: 6 ways to Give With Joy this Christmas
Both science and Scripture agree on something powerful: generosity is good for you. The Greater Good Science Center at UC Berkeley found that generosity leads to better health, longer life, stronger relationships and yes, greater happiness. And long before researchers confirmed it, Paul wrote in 2 Corinthians 9:7: “Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” That’s the heart of this series—and of this season. At Christmastime, the spirit of generosity shines brightest. One study found that people are 14 percent more likely to make a donation in December than in any other month of the year. But here’s the thing: giving isn’t just about what we give. It’s about how we give. And that’s why we’re calling it: Give With Joy. EPISODE SHOWNOTES: BE AFFIRMED. JOIN THE HOPEFULS. WHAT’S YOUR CAUSE? BE INSPIRED. DO GOOD.
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243 Slowing Down: Come away and rest with Alyson Pryor
10/06/2025
243 Slowing Down: Come away and rest with Alyson Pryor
In a world that glorifies busyness, what if rest is actually the most faithful thing you can do? In this final episode of our Slowing Down series on The Do Gooders Podcast, Christin Thieme talks with Alyson Pryor—marriage and family therapist, spiritual director and author of the forthcoming book “Come Away and Rest: A Guide to Personal Spiritual Retreats.” With wisdom drawn from her own story of burnout as a mom of five and her work guiding ministry leaders, Alyson offers practical steps for creating space for silence, solitude and rest right where you are. EPISODE SHOWNOTES: BE AFFIRMED. JOIN THE HOPEFULS. WHAT’S YOUR CAUSE? BE INSPIRED. DO GOOD.
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242 Slowing Down: A gentle invitation to exhale with Jodi Grubbs
09/29/2025
242 Slowing Down: A gentle invitation to exhale with Jodi Grubbs
What if slowing down isn’t lazy, but holy? Hear Jodi Grubbs—author of “Live Slowly: A Gentle Invitation to Exhale”—share why our bodies and souls weren’t designed for hustle culture, and how embracing slower rhythms can help us live with presence, peace and purpose. EPISODE SHOWNOTES: BE AFFIRMED. JOIN THE HOPEFULS. WHAT’S YOUR CAUSE? BE INSPIRED. DO GOOD.
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241 Slowing Down: Discovering the goodness of limits with Ashley Hales
09/22/2025
241 Slowing Down: Discovering the goodness of limits with Ashley Hales
What if the good life isn’t about having it all, but about embracing our limits? Dr. Ashley Hales, author of “A Spacious Life: Trading Hustle and Hurry for the Goodness of Limits,” invites us to rethink freedom, not as endless choice, but as life within God’s loving boundaries. EPISODE SHOWNOTES: BE AFFIRMED. JOIN THE HOPEFULS. WHAT’S YOUR CAUSE? BE INSPIRED. DO GOOD.
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240 Slowing Down: Releasing the stress you were never meant to carry with Tracie Braylock
09/15/2025
240 Slowing Down: Releasing the stress you were never meant to carry with Tracie Braylock
What if slowing down wasn’t selfish—but essential? In this episode, holistic nurse educator and author Tracie Braylock talks about her new book “Radical Relaxation: Releasing the Stress You Were Never Meant to Carry.” Drawing from her background as a surgical nurse and over 15 years in holistic wellness, Tracie shares how stress isn’t just unpleasant—it makes us sick. She offers both scientific insight and spiritual wisdom to help us recognize the signs of unhealthy stress and embrace relaxation as God intended. EPISODE SHOWNOTES: BE AFFIRMED. JOIN THE HOPEFULS. WHAT’S YOUR CAUSE? BE INSPIRED. DO GOOD.
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239 Slowing Down: Living at the pace of love with Alan Fadling
09/08/2025
239 Slowing Down: Living at the pace of love with Alan Fadling
Do you ever feel like busyness is running your life? What if slowing down could actually make you more effective in doing good? Author and spiritual director Alan Fadling talks about living unhurried—not as laziness, but as faithful discipleship. Learn why presence matters more than productivity, how Jesus’ rhythms of rest and work offer a better way and what it looks like to serve from overflow instead of exhaustion. EPISODE SHOWNOTES: BE AFFIRMED. JOIN THE HOPEFULS. WHAT’S YOUR CAUSE? BE INSPIRED. DO GOOD.
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238: The state of the corps—and the future of ministry—with Jim Sparks
09/01/2025
238: The state of the corps—and the future of ministry—with Jim Sparks
What’s the real state of the Church today—and how is The Salvation Army positioned within it? Jim Sparks, Western Territorial Mission Strategist, joins Christin Thieme to unpack surprising new data about spiritual commitment in America, why Gen Z and Millennials are leading a revival, and how corps can connect with people who are open to Jesus but hesitant about organized religion. EPISODE SHOWNOTES: BE AFFIRMED. JOIN THE HOPEFULS. WHAT’S YOUR CAUSE? BE INSPIRED. DO GOOD.
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237: Building a legacy of care with Maria Rodriguez
08/25/2025
237: Building a legacy of care with Maria Rodriguez
For more than 30 years, Maria Rodriguez has been the heart of The Salvation Army Los Angeles Day Care Center—supporting children and families in LA’s fashion, produce and flower districts. In this episode, Christin Thieme talks with Maria about how she went from high school volunteer to director, why safe, affordable childcare matters more than ever, and how a parent committee has transformed the center into a true community hub. EPISODE SHOWNOTES: BE AFFIRMED. JOIN THE HOPEFULS. WHAT’S YOUR CAUSE? BE INSPIRED. DO GOOD.
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236 The Big Five: How Understanding Personality Transforms Relationships with Dr. Jack Anderson
08/18/2025
236 The Big Five: How Understanding Personality Transforms Relationships with Dr. Jack Anderson
Discover how the Big Five personality traits shape the way you see the world—and your relationships. Dr. Jack Anderson joins Christin Thieme to share practical ways to bridge differences, build trust and bring out the best in others. EPISODE SHOWNOTES: BE AFFIRMED. JOIN THE HOPEFULS. WHAT’S YOUR CAUSE? BE INSPIRED. DO GOOD.
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235: Beyond the statistics on homelessness
08/11/2025
235: Beyond the statistics on homelessness
Today, we're covering one of America's most pressing challenges: homelessness. But this isn't an episode drowning you in statistics. Instead, we're going to explore real solutions happening right now across the western United States—ways The Salvation Army is helping to truly change lives, one person at a time. Of course, the numbers are sobering. According to the Department of Housing and Urban Development, homelessness increased by 18 percent between 2023 and 2024. That’s approximately 770,000 people experiencing homelessness in our country. But behind every statistic is a person’s story, and that's what we're focusing on today. Christopher Hogan, The Salvation Army's Territorial Social Services Director for the Western Territory, puts it perfectly: addressing homelessness requires "programs of excellence" that combine spiritual care, best practices, clear purpose, strong operations and meaningful outcomes. He wrote a piece on how The Salvation Army is ensuring excellence in our recent issue of Caring Magazine, themed “Hope in Action,” which you can find at . So what does it look like in practice? Let me take you on a journey from Alaska to Arizona, showcasing nine different approaches that are working. EPISODE SHOWNOTES: BE AFFIRMED. JOIN THE HOPEFULS. WHAT’S YOUR CAUSE? BE INSPIRED. DO GOOD.
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234: How Hope Markets transform food assistance with Stacy Bleuel
08/04/2025
234: How Hope Markets transform food assistance with Stacy Bleuel
Lately, here on this show, we're exploring what happens when hope moves from feeling to doing, from possibility to practice. And today, we're continuing our journey inside one of The Salvation Army's recent transformations: Hope Markets. As we covered in our , these aren't your typical food pantries. In Hope Markets across the Northwest, people don't receive pre-packed boxes—they shop for their own groceries, selecting fresh produce under gentle misters, browsing grocery-style shelves and building relationships along the way. It's meeting need in a more personal way when the need is great. Right now, more than 47 million people in the U.S. face hunger, including 1 in 5 children, according to the USDA. And in one recent year alone, more than 50 million people turned to charitable food assistance for extra help. Across the Northwest Division, Hope Markets served more than 457,000 people in 2024. But to understand the real impact of this model, we need to talk with someone who's lived both sides of the experience. Stacy Bleuel is the Social Services Coordinator at The Salvation Army in Puyallup, Washington. Years ago, she arrived at their doors—not as an employee, but as someone seeking help. Homeless, grieving and struggling to care for her three children, Stacy came through a state assistance program. Today, she runs the Hope Market in the very place that once helped her rebuild her life. And her journey from Salvation Army food recipient to janitor to program coordinator isn't just inspiring—it's a living example of what's possible when we create spaces where hope is both given and received. EPISODE SHOWNOTES: BE AFFIRMED. JOIN THE HOPEFULS. WHAT’S YOUR CAUSE? BE INSPIRED. DO GOOD.
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233: Summer at the Long Beach Red Shield with Captain Jared Arnold
07/28/2025
233: Summer at the Long Beach Red Shield with Captain Jared Arnold
Today, we're heading to Long Beach, California, to talk to someone with a unique perspective on youth programming. Captain Jared Arnold runs The Salvation Army Red Shield Community Center, and he recently caught my attention when he said, "Summer is our Christmas." Now, when most of us think about summer, we might think about vacations, beach days or maybe just trying to keep the kids entertained. But for Captain Arnold and his team, summer represents something much more profound. While school is out and many families are scrambling to figure out childcare, the Long Beach Red Shield becomes a hub of activity serving kids from kindergarten through eighth grade. Their summer day camp runs from June through August, providing not just a safe place for children, but a launching pad for growth, learning and character development. But this isn't just about keeping kids busy. The Red Shield operates year-round programming that includes everything from homework assistance and technology labs to 3D printing classes and partnerships with the LA Rams for flag football. They're serving multiple generations—from young children to seniors—creating what Captain Arnold calls a truly intergenerational community space. Serving communities that include Long Beach, Lakewood, Signal Hill, Hawaiian Gardens and Avalon, they've made their programs intentionally accessible to diverse neighborhoods with varying needs. So I wanted to understand: How do you create programming that truly serves everyone? What does it mean when summer becomes your Christmas? And what happens in the daily life of a community center that's touching multiple generations? Today, we're getting an inside look at the energy, the programs and the victories—from puzzles to pickleball, from senior programming to youth development, and how one community center is working to ensure that every person who walks through the doors knows they matter. EPISODE SHOWNOTES: BE AFFIRMED. JOIN THE HOPEFULS. WHAT’S YOUR CAUSE? BE INSPIRED. DO GOOD.
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232: The volunteer rebound with Hillary Jackson and Adriana Thiele
07/21/2025
232: The volunteer rebound with Hillary Jackson and Adriana Thiele
Want to hear some encouraging news that's emerging from communities across America? After years of declining volunteer participation—a trend that accelerated during the pandemic—researchers are documenting what they're calling a "volunteer rebound." The numbers are striking. Nearly 30 percent of Americans formally volunteered from 2022 to 2023, contributing almost 5 billion hours of service. That's a return to pre-pandemic levels, and in some places, volunteer participation is reaching heights we haven't seen in years. But this isn't just about getting back to where we were. Something deeper is happening. We're seeing new forms of volunteering emerge—virtual opportunities that make service accessible to people who couldn't participate before. We're witnessing dramatic growth in some locations, like one Salvation Army center that saw a 162 percent increase in volunteers across three years. And perhaps most meaningfully, we're seeing more people who once received help returning to serve others. To help us understand what's driving this volunteer rebound and what it means for communities across the West, I'm joined by two guests today: Hillary Jackson is the Managing Editor for Caring Magazine, and recently reported on this trend, and Adriana Thiele is the Director of Volunteers and Community Engagement for The Salvation Army in San Diego. We'll explore not just the numbers behind this rebound, but the stories—how volunteering is becoming a pathway to healing, how people are finding new ways to serve and how communities are becoming more resilient as a result. We'll also look at some innovative approaches, from disaster response training to virtual volunteering opportunities that are expanding who can participate in meaningful service. Whether you're already volunteering, thinking about getting involved, or simply curious about this trend that's quietly on the rise, this episode will give you insight into how people just like you are choosing to be part of extraordinary change. EPISODE SHOWNOTES: BE AFFIRMED. JOIN THE HOPEFULS. WHAT’S YOUR CAUSE? BE INSPIRED. DO GOOD.
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231: Uniquely caring for veterans with Chaplain Nate Lyons
07/14/2025
231: Uniquely caring for veterans with Chaplain Nate Lyons
It won’t come as a surprise to you that hundreds of thousands of veterans across America are affected by trauma—some from their time in military service, though not all—and yet, their needs remain deeply misunderstood by many of us who haven't served. Not all veterans experience post-traumatic stress disorder, and yet many do—in fact, some 29 percent of veterans who served in Iraq experience it at some point in their lives. Others face issues similar to those of the general population, from mental illness to substance abuse and even childhood experiences. The need is not one-size-fits-all or even most, and the path to healing looks different for everyone too. That’s what Chaplain Nate Lyons from The Salvation Army Veterans and Family Center in Beaverton, Oregon, helps us understand on this episode. As an Iraq war veteran himself, Nate now serves as chaplain and activities coordinator for some 72 veterans and their families who are on their own journeys toward healing. And today, Nate is taking us inside this special place of veteran care. Whether you're a veteran yourself, love someone who has served, or simply want to understand how some approaches to trauma recovery are changing lives, this conversation is going to challenge how you think about healing, hope and the power of community. EPISODE SHOWNOTES: BE AFFIRMED. JOIN THE HOPEFULS. WHAT’S YOUR CAUSE? BE INSPIRED. DO GOOD.
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230: Hope through the generations with Commissioners Doug and Colleen Riley
07/07/2025
230: Hope through the generations with Commissioners Doug and Colleen Riley
We're exploring not just what hope is, but how it's built, sustained and passed from person to person, community to community. Today, I'm welcoming two leaders whose lives embody this multi-generational understanding of hope: Commissioners Doug and Colleen Riley, territorial leaders of The Salvation Army in the western U.S. The pair met while working at a summer camp, married and in 1995 were commissioned as officers—or pastors—in The Salvation Army. Their connection to ministry in The Salvation goes back four and five generations, respectively, meaning they've witnessed hope in action across decades—from childhood to their early days of service at Portland Moore Street Corps to their leadership today. But their understanding of hope extends beyond their organizational roles. As parents of four sons and leaders during some of our most challenging times—from the pandemic to the recent LA wildfires—they've had to practice hope when circumstances seemed overwhelming. On this episode, we explore how hope is inherited and cultivated, how crisis can become opportunity for hope to flourish, and what it means to lead with hope when entire communities are looking for direction. EPISODE SHOWNOTES: BE AFFIRMED. JOIN THE HOPEFULS. WHAT’S YOUR CAUSE? BE INSPIRED. DO GOOD.
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229: The science of hope with Dr. Chan Hellman
06/30/2025
229: The science of hope with Dr. Chan Hellman
We're exploring what it means to put Hope in Action. And today, I'm excited to welcome a guest who has dedicated his career to understanding hope not just as a feeling, but as a measurable, teachable strength that transforms lives and communities. Dr. Chan Hellman is recognized as one of the world's leading hope scholars, with more than 25 years of research, training and teaching experience. His groundbreaking work has shown that hope isn't just a nice concept—it's a powerful predictor of well-being that can be built intentionally. As the Founding Director of the Hope Research Center at the University of Oklahoma-Tulsa and a professor at the school’s Anne & Henry Zarrow School of Social Work, Dr. Hellman has authored over 150 scientific publications and co-authored the bestselling book "Hope Rising: How The Science of Hope Can Change Your Life." In this episode, we explore what hope actually is, how it's different from wishful thinking, and most importantly—how we can build it in ourselves and our communities through intentional action. EPISODE SHOWNOTES: BE AFFIRMED. JOIN THE HOPEFULS. WHAT’S YOUR CAUSE? BE INSPIRED. DO GOOD.
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228: This is ‘Hope in Action’
06/23/2025
228: This is ‘Hope in Action’
Hope isn't something that happens to you. It's something you create. It’s what happens when possibility meets action. Today we're beginning a journey—one that will explore not just what hope is, but how we build it, nurture it and put it into action. Here’s the key: Hope isn't just something lucky people have. It's something all of us can build. And the best part is “hope in action” isn't about doing something big. It's about doing something. Because our world is transformed not by great deeds, but by countless individual decisions to step forward. You're not just a spectator in this story. You're a potential catalyst. Different is possible. And it starts with you. EPISODE SHOWNOTES: BE AFFIRMED. JOIN THE HOPEFULS. WHAT’S YOUR CAUSE? BE INSPIRED. DO GOOD.
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227 Walking With Jesus: The Resurrection with Dr. Major Terry Masango
04/14/2025
227 Walking With Jesus: The Resurrection with Dr. Major Terry Masango
In part four of our series, Walking With Jesus: A Journey to the Cross with Major Dr. Terry Masango, we stand before the empty tomb—the defining moment that separates Christianity from every other faith tradition in the world. The resurrection isn't just an epilogue to the crucifixion—it's the validation of everything Jesus taught and claimed. It's the proof that death has been defeated, that sin has been conquered, and that the devil himself has been overthrown. As we prepare to celebrate Easter Sunday, Major Masango reminds us not to stay fixated on the cross and the darkness of Friday, but to press forward to the empty tomb and the light of Sunday morning. We're invited to move past the suffering and see the triumph. EPISODE SHOWNOTES: BE AFFIRMED. JOIN THE HOPEFULS. WHAT’S YOUR CAUSE? BE INSPIRED. DO GOOD.
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226 Walking With Jesus: The Thief on the Cross with Dr. Major Terry Masango
04/07/2025
226 Walking With Jesus: The Thief on the Cross with Dr. Major Terry Masango
In part three of our series, Walking With Jesus: A Journey to the Cross with Major Dr. Terry Masango, we explore three simple words: "Jesus, remember me." Spoken by a dying criminal, these words contain within them the essence of our faith journey. As we near Holy Week, Major Masango invites us to consider which of the two thieves we identify with—the one who demanded physical salvation or the one who recognized his need for spiritual redemption. It’s a message that speaks directly to those of us who feel unworthy, invisible, or beyond redemption. It reminds us that even at the worst points in our lives—even in our final moments like the thief on the cross—we can turn to Jesus and simply ask, "Remember me." And his answer remains the same: "Today you will be with me in paradise." EPISODE SHOWNOTES: BE AFFIRMED. JOIN THE HOPEFULS. WHAT’S YOUR CAUSE? BE INSPIRED. DO GOOD.
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225 Walking With Jesus: The Good Samaritan with Dr. Major Terry Masango
03/31/2025
225 Walking With Jesus: The Good Samaritan with Dr. Major Terry Masango
In part two of our series, Walking With Jesus: A Journey to the Cross with Major Dr. Terry Masango, we turn to one of Jesus' most profound and challenging parables: The Good Samaritan. This story isn't just about helping others—it completely redefines what it means to be a neighbor and challenges our assumptions about who deserves our love and compassion. In our world, we're often divided by differences—political views, cultural backgrounds, socioeconomic status. We build invisible walls between "us" and "them." But in this message, Major Masango asks us a critical question: Who is our neighbor? And more importantly, to whom are we being a neighbor? As he explains, real love gets close. Real love notices people. Real love is willing to be interrupted and inconvenienced. Listen as Major Dr. Terry Masango unpacks the parable of the Good Samaritan and challenges us to cross boundaries with compassion, just as Jesus did. EPISODE SHOWNOTES: BE AFFIRMED. JOIN THE HOPEFULS. WHAT’S YOUR CAUSE? BE INSPIRED. DO GOOD.
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224 Walking With Jesus: The Lost Sheep with Dr. Major Terry Masango
03/24/2025
224 Walking With Jesus: The Lost Sheep with Dr. Major Terry Masango
Welcome to a new series—Walking With Jesus: A Journey to the Cross. Over the next four weeks, we’ll be guided by Major Dr. Terry Masango through a thoughtful exploration of Scripture and its meaning in our everyday lives. In this series, he invites us to walk alongside those who encountered Jesus on his journey to the cross—from the lost sheep being carried home on the shepherd's shoulders, to the Good Samaritan who showed true compassion across social boundaries, to the thief on the cross who found salvation in his final moments, and finally to the empty tomb that changed everything. You’ll be challenged to see yourself in these stories—sometimes as the lost sheep, sometimes as the Good Samaritan and always as recipients of God's grace. Today, we'll discover the lengths to which the Good Shepherd will go to find those who have strayed. EPISODE SHOWNOTES: BE AFFIRMED. JOIN THE HOPEFULS. WHAT’S YOUR CAUSE? BE INSPIRED. DO GOOD.
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223: Sheltering hope in The Salvation Army
03/17/2025
223: Sheltering hope in The Salvation Army
Today, we're closing our Warm Hearts, Warm Homes series with perhaps the most critical need of all: shelter. Recent government data shows homelessness has soared to the highest level on record, with more than 770,000 people experiencing homelessness in the United States—an 18 percent increase over last year. Behind these sobering statistics are real people seeking safety, warmth and a path forward. And The Salvation Army is responding in communities across the West, providing over 3.8 million nights of lodging last year alone. In our final episode of this series, we're exploring how The Salvation Army's sheltering programs serve as more than just a roof overhead—they're often the first step toward rebuilding lives. From emergency overnight shelters in Portland to Santa Monica's Hope Team meeting people where they are on the streets, to warming centers in Pocatello during brutal winter temperatures, these programs are designed not just to provide immediate safety but to create pathways to permanent housing and healing. EPISODE SHOWNOTES: BE AFFIRMED. JOIN THE HOPEFULS. WHAT’S YOUR CAUSE? BE INSPIRED. DO GOOD.
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