Story with a Message

We love stories. Many stories have a message. Some inspire us, teach us, challenge us and motivate us. Some make us think. Some make us laugh. Some lead to personal reflection. Others simply have a seed of wisdom. It's my hope you'll be able to identify with the stories told in this podcast and the connection will open windows of spiritual inspiration.

The Christmas Keepsake Crisis 12/21/2025

The Christmas Keepsake Crisis Christmas can sometimes be a time of crisis, especially when a family is grieving and trying to hold on to what matters most. Even the smallest thing can stir up unexpected big feelings. What begins as a simple moment of sorting through memories turns into a full-blown Christmas keepsake crisis. Listen to find out what happened. Note: The original story can be found in Chicken Soup for the Soul: It's Christmas! Want to contact me? Send an email to . The intro and outro tune was adapted from royalty-free music provided by on . /episode/index/show/storywithamessage/id/39485140

Facebook Santa 12/14/2025

Facebook Santa A missing gift. A desperate late-night post. A stranger who did the unthinkable. This true holiday story proves that sometimes the real magic isn’t under the tree—it shows up when people choose kindness. Read the original story by Caroline Fanning in the latest edition of Reader's Digest (December 2025/January 2026). Want to contact me? Send an email to . The intro and outro tune was adapted from royalty-free music provided by on . /episode/index/show/storywithamessage/id/39398210

When Santa Fainted on Maplewood Lane 12/07/2025

When Santa Fainted on Maplewood Lane You know the type—every December, someone goes over the top and turns their yard into a glowing holiday carnival. Maplewood Lane had Earl, whose dazzling display lit up the block. But one neighbor proved that Christmas spirit doesn’t need a thousand bulbs to shine. Sometimes the truest light is found on a porch, not a roof. Today's pod features an original Christmas story. I hope you enjoy it! Want to contact me? Send an email to . The intro and outro tune was adapted from royalty-free music provided by on . /episode/index/show/storywithamessage/id/39310345

Global Game Night 11/30/2025

Global Game Night From my brother’s game nights to the idea of a global table, this episode uncovers how play builds connection, sparks laughter, and reminds us of our shared humanity. Join me as we imagine what the world could learn from the shuffle of cards and the roll of the dice. Want to contact me? Send an email to . The intro and outro tune was adapted from royalty-free music provided by on . /episode/index/show/storywithamessage/id/39209520

Wrong Number, Right Heart 11/23/2025

Wrong Number, Right Heart It started with a simple text message sent to the wrong person. This small mistake led to years of shared stories, laughter and a bond no one saw coming. Today's podcast is a Thankgiving story that reminds us a family isn't always inherited—sometimes it's discovered. Want to contact me? Send an email to . The intro and outro tune was adapted from royalty-free music provided by on . /episode/index/show/storywithamessage/id/39138155

A Recipe for Harmony Pie 11/16/2025

A Recipe for Harmony Pie This week's episode is about a recipe—though not the kind you'll find in Grandma's cookbook. It's a recipe that will promote something we all need: a seat at the same table once again. Pull up a chair. Want to contact me? Send an email to . The intro and outro tune was adapted from royalty-free music provided by on . /episode/index/show/storywithamessage/id/39049080

From Books to Beans 11/09/2025

From Books to Beans What if a simple wooden box on a front lawn could change someone’s day—or even their week? In this episode, we explore a quiet movement taking root in neighborhoods across the country. It’s small, it’s personal, and it’s feeding more than just hunger. Tune in for a story about unexpected generosity in unexpected places. Want to contact me? Send an email to . The intro and outro tune was adapted from royalty-free music provided by on . /episode/index/show/storywithamessage/id/38966700

The Photograph 11/02/2025

The Photograph Join us for a trip to an antique shop in 1949 where the dust holds secrets and the relics whisper "what if." A man is suddenly faced with a strange photograph that shows the life he almost missed. This is a story about living in the present, the power of a single moment, and the reminder that the greatest treasures are the chances we choose to grab. Want to contact me? Send an email to . The intro and outro tune was adapted from royalty-free music provided by on . /episode/index/show/storywithamessage/id/38877995

Dinner For One 10/26/2025

Dinner For One What happens when a single mom hits her breaking point, and finds healing in an unexpected way? This episode explores the quiet courage of reclaiming identity, one dinner at a time. A heartfelt reminder that self-care isn’t selfish—it’s essential. Want to contact me? Send an email to . The intro and outro tune was adapted from royalty-free music provided by on . /episode/index/show/storywithamessage/id/38781085

The Game That Wasn't Over 10/19/2025

The Game That Wasn't Over A championship game ends in triumph—but what happens when a coach rewatches the tape and realizes something is wrong? This is the true story of a high school team that made a courageous decision that would affect them for the rest of their lives. Curious? Then join us in today's podcast. Want to contact me? Send an email to . The intro and outro tune was adapted from royalty-free music provided by on . /episode/index/show/storywithamessage/id/38633230

The Possum Baptism 10/12/2025

The Possum Baptism In a holler so remote even GPS throws up its hands, one country church finds a creative way to boost baptism numbers—with help from a trash-loving marsupial named Travis. What follows is a chaotic blend of waders, creek water, and spiritual confusion that leaves the congregation changed forever. Join us for a laugh and a lesson. Want to contact me? Send an email to . The intro and outro tune was adapted from royalty-free music provided by on . /episode/index/show/storywithamessage/id/38552730

The Halloween That Gave Back 10/05/2025

The Halloween That Gave Back This week’s story takes us to a small Michigan town where Halloween took an unexpected turn—one that left a porch full of candy and a community full of heart. It’s a tale of kids, kindness, and a doorbell camera that captured something extraordinary. If you think you’ve seen it all on Halloween, think again. Want to contact me? Send an email to . The intro and outro tune was adapted from royalty-free music provided by on . /episode/index/show/storywithamessage/id/38467940

Sprig and the Storm 09/28/2025

Sprig and the Storm A young sparrow clings to safety while the winds of change stir around her. When the storm comes, she must decide whether to fall—or finally trust what she’s carried all along. This episode explores the quiet courage it takes to let go and rise. Want to contact me? Send an email to . The intro and outro tune was adapted from royalty-free music provided by on . /episode/index/show/storywithamessage/id/38380405

The Tale of a Backpack 09/21/2025

The Tale of a Backpack The most profound parts of childhood often aren’t found in milestones or photo albums—they live in the quiet, everyday moments and things we barely notice. This week’s story centers on one such tagalong and the boy who carried it through the years. It’s a gentle reflection on growing up, holding close what matters, and knowing when to let go. Want to contact me? Send an email to . The intro and outro tune was adapted from royalty-free music provided by on . /episode/index/show/storywithamessage/id/38294515

When Life Changes the Question 09/14/2025

When Life Changes the Question This week’s episode begins with a forgotten sermon and ends with a moment of unexpected resolve. It’s a story about exams, expectations, and what happens when life rewrites the question. Sometimes the best answers aren’t the ones we studied for—they’re the ones we write anyway. Want to contact me? Send an email to . The intro and outro tune was adapted from royalty-free music provided by on . /episode/index/show/storywithamessage/id/38211095

The Great Cake-Off 09/07/2025

The Great Cake-Off When two lifelong friends face off in Willow Bend’s fiercest cake bake-off, the town splits into frosting-fueled factions. But beneath the smack talk and sprinkles lies a shared recipe—and a bond too sweet to crumble. The Great Cake-Off is a tale of rivalry, reconciliation, and the kind of friendship that always rises to the occasion. Want to contact me? Send an email to . The intro and outro tune was adapted from royalty-free music provided by on . /episode/index/show/storywithamessage/id/38116110

What Drives You Crazy? 08/31/2025

What Drives You Crazy? Ever feel like the world’s full of tiny irritants just waiting to test your patience? In this episode, we explore the everyday quirks and pet peeves that unite us in eye-rolls and quiet rebellion. It’s funny, it’s relatable—and it just might help you laugh your way back to sanity. Want to contact me? Send an email to . The intro and outro tune was adapted from royalty-free music provided by on . /episode/index/show/storywithamessage/id/38033130

The Final Will of Elmer Griggs 08/24/2025

The Final Will of Elmer Griggs In every town there’s that one neighbor people whisper about but never really know. This is the story of a man who kept to himself his whole life—until one final request revealed something no one expected. What he left behind changed the meaning of kindness in his community forever. Want to contact me? Send an email to . The intro and outro tune was adapted from royalty-free music provided by on . /episode/index/show/storywithamessage/id/37933595

A Mound Visit That Went Viral 08/17/2025

A Mound Visit That Went Viral A coach walks to the mound with the bases loaded. With pressure mounting, the team is tense, and needs a strong word from their leader. What follows is a masterclass in surprise, fun, and the art of letting kids be kids. This Little League story is unforgettable for all the right reasons. Want to contact me? Send an email to . The intro and outro tune was adapted from royalty-free music provided by on . /episode/index/show/storywithamessage/id/37849260

The Pencil Parable 08/10/2025

The Pencil Parable In a quiet drawer, an old pencil shares five timeless truths with a newcomer just beginning its journey. What follows is a tale of purpose, resilience, and the marks we leave behind. The Pencil Parable invites us to reflect on our own story—one stroke at a time. Today's podcast was adapted from an original YouTube story entitled "The Pencil's Tale - a story that everyone should hear," on the Dare to do. Motivation channel. Click if you would like to view the original version. Many thanks to the Dare to Do folks for inspiration! Want to contact me? Send an email to . The intro and outro tune was adapted from royalty-free music provided by on . /episode/index/show/storywithamessage/id/37746410

Unity Park 08/03/2025

Unity Park In Greenville, South Carolina, a park has become a symbol of something much bigger than playgrounds and green space. Its story stretches back a century and carries the weight of a community’s long struggle for justice and recognition. In this episode, we explore how a forgotten past paved the way for a powerful present. And, of course, it serves as a lesson for us all. Want to contact me? Send an email to . The intro and outro tune was adapted from royalty-free music provided by on . /episode/index/show/storywithamessage/id/37649470

A Sermon for the Sweaty 07/27/2025

A Sermon for the Sweaty This week’s episode turns up the heat—and humor—as we visit a little country church where the sermon’s just as sweaty as those sitting in the pews. Rev. Henry Hot-n-Bothered cranks it up to deliver a message that’s equal parts fan-waving and faith-affirming. So grab an ice-water, settle in, and get ready to laugh your way through the forecast as we celebrate the fine art of finding joy in discomfort. Want to contact me? Send an email to . The intro and outro tune was adapted from royalty-free music provided by on . /episode/index/show/storywithamessage/id/37562805

The Quiet Hero 07/20/2025

The Quiet Hero Not every hero speaks loudly or stands in the spotlight. This episode tells the story of a quiet worker who notices what others ignore—and decides to take a stand. Discover how integrity and data, in the right hands, can become the most powerful voice in the room. Want to contact me? Send an email to . The intro and outro tune was adapted from royalty-free music provided by on . /episode/index/show/storywithamessage/id/37468415

He Don't Wanna Walk You! 07/13/2025

He Don't Wanna Walk You! When a legendary closer challenges a hitter he has dominated on baseball’s biggest stage, the result becomes one of the most unforgettable moments in World Series history. This episode revisits a clash of wills, guts, and grit that defines champions. In the face of pressure, stepping up to the plate and facing the voices within may be the greatest thing we can do. Want to contact me? Send an email to . The intro and outro tune was adapted from royalty-free music provided by on . /episode/index/show/storywithamessage/id/37387600

You Matter 07/06/2025

You Matter When Kate knocks on a neighbor's door selling Girl Scout cookies, she never expected to make a connection that would end up making a profound impact on her life. Sometimes life opens the door to moments that are so special, they change our lives forever. Want to contact me? Send an email to . The intro and outro tune was adapted from royalty-free music provided by on . /episode/index/show/storywithamessage/id/37292235

A Picture with a Message 06/29/2025

A Picture with a Message When a small-town woman stopped by a thrift store, she expected to find vintage treasures—not a forgotten piece of someone’s family history. What she discovered came with a handwritten note that stirred her curiosity and compassion. Her next move turned a simple $2 purchase into something far more meaningful. Want to contact me? Send an email to . The intro and outro tune was adapted from royalty-free music provided by on . /episode/index/show/storywithamessage/id/37205925

Your Answer is in the Restroom! 06/22/2025

Your Answer is in the Restroom! In this episode, we discover how unexpected wisdom can show up in the most unlikely places—even in the restroom of a steakhouse. Join us as we explore the power of facing our fears and the surprising impact of a simple quote. Sometimes the most courageous thing we can do is take the next step. Want to contact me? Send an email to . The intro and outro tune was adapted from royalty-free music provided by on . /episode/index/show/storywithamessage/id/37101705

Puppies for Sale 06/15/2025

Puppies for Sale A young boy walks into a shop looking for a puppy, but what happens next is more than just a simple sale. In a moment of quiet understanding, the shopkeeper realizes the true price of companionship and acceptance. When you listen to this podcast, you'll realize it too! Want to contact me? Send an email to . The intro and outro tune was adapted from royalty-free music provided by on . /episode/index/show/storywithamessage/id/37013470

A Visit from the President 06/08/2025

A Visit from the President In the final days of the Civil War, President Abraham Lincoln made an unannounced visit to the crowded hospital at City Point, VA. He quietly stopped at each bed, offering a touch, a word, a moment of comfort. In this episode, we dig into that powerful visit—how one simple act of kindness left a lasting mark on soldiers and showed us who Lincoln really was. Was he just doing his duty, or was this a rare glimpse into the soul of a president who truly cared? Want to contact me? Send an email to . The intro and outro tune was adapted from royalty-free music provided by on . /episode/index/show/storywithamessage/id/36904190

And It Came to Pass 06/01/2025

And It Came to Pass Everyone has a favorite verse of Scripture. But in one Sunday School class, an unexpected answer from the back of the room brought quiet tears—and a deeper understanding of hope. This episode explores how a simple phrase can carry the weight of a lifetime. Want to contact me? Send an email to . The intro and outro tune was adapted from royalty-free music provided by on . /episode/index/show/storywithamessage/id/36803615

Story with a Message

TOPICS