Connections with Mike Thom and Colleen Houde

Jessica Morris, the Australian journalist behind the investigation into former Newsboys and DC Talk frontman Michael Tait, says her intent was never to dismantle the Christian music industry, but to help protect those within it. Morris’s reporting, published by The Roys Report, contains sexual misconduct allegations from multiple men against Tait — allegations that, at the time of the interview, had not been tested in court. But they were the result of years of careful investigation and corroboration. Today on Connections, Morris shares the details of her two and a half year investigation.

After a three-year wait, fans of When Hope Calls will be able to watch the show on Pure Flix and will be introduced to some new characters.  Canadians Cindy Busby and Christopher Russell join the cast for Season 2 and are excited for the opportunity. Today on Connections, the duo shares what it's like to be a part of this show. 

David Leonard recently traded his studio for a secluded cabin to record his latest album. Leonard and a few of his close musical friends packed up what they needed and headed out to an old cabin in a secluded area in Franklin, Tennessee. Today on Connections, David talks about that experience and his new album, Just Jesus.

A new initiative is underway to bring the world together in prayer and worship. Gather25, led by a collection of ministries, partners, and leaders, hopes to see every Christian from every denomination from every continent come together for a full day of worship, repentance and commissioning in 2025.  Jennie Allen, Bible teacher, bestselling author and visionary behind Gather25 shares what Gather25 is and how she hopes it will bring the global church together.

A new film, which follows the clash of two families in the fall of civilization and the plans God has in store is being well received nationwide. Based on the best-selling book series, Black Autumn, by Jeff Kirkham and Jason Ross, this new post-apocalyptic family survival drama directed by Ben Smallbone, follows the families, an ultra-prepared, wealthy family and the military veteran family they’ve hired for property security, to a homestead. Jesse Hutch, a Canadian-born actor plays the role of an ex-Green Beret in Homestead.    Today on Connections, Jesse talks about how he got into acting and his latest role in Homestead.

January is Alzheimer's awareness month. For Manitoba resident, Linda Wiebe, it's a time to share her family's story in hopes of helping others facing a similar diagnosis.

Open Doors Canada has released their 2025 World Watch List. The World Watch list ranks the 50 countries in the world where it's most dangerous to live as a Christian.  Garry Stagg, executive director of Open Doors Canada shares what they discovered and why it's so important to share this list with Canadians

A new podcast is giving listeners a different perspective on the Old Testament.  Created by Yael Eckstein president and CEO of the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews, The Chosen People offers a cinematic audio experience, bringing to life the timeless stories of the Old Testament and highlighting their relevance to Christian and Jewish audiences. In this episode of Connections, Yael Eckstein shares more about the podcast and its inspiration.

AI can be a touchy subject, especially regarding its place in the church. Jason Moore author of AI and the Church: A Clear Guide for the Curious and Courageous says AI is neither inherently good nor inherently evil. He says it is a neutral tool capable of achieving remarkable feats when used wisely. Today on Connections, Jason shares positive ways we can use AI in the church

With a loud culture that promotes individualism and materialism, one Christian author is sharing wisdom on parenting a grateful generation.  Today on Connections, Kristen Welch shares how we can say the ultimate yes as a family by bringing up faith-filled kids who love God and others. 

 With more than 850 pieces of original artwork, Ruth Chou Simons’ newest book, Beholding and Becoming, is destined to become an heirloom classic. This beautifully illustrated book is an intimate exploration of the many ways we can experience God more fully in our ordinary lives. Simons challenges readers to turn their eyes from quick fixes, self-help, and the filtered highlight reels of social media. Instead, she calls them to look to Christ to be transformed by setting their hearts, minds, and affections on Him, whatever their present circumstances may be. *Originally aired Aug. 6, 2019*

With Christian and Gospel music awards taking a recent hit in Canada, the Gospel Music Industry Hub has stepped up to recognize artists nationwide. Cheryle Dueck, founder of GMIHub shares they will do this today on Connections.

When it comes to the Bible, picking it up and reading it from front to back can be a task for many. RevelationMedia has found a way around this. "We took about 300 scriptures from Genesis to Revelation, and we compiled a nine-minute animated video of the salvation message," said CEO of RevelationMedia, Steve Cleary. Filled with eye-catching artwork and vivid colour, The Real Story of Jesus has been watched over 2.7 million times and over 180,000 people have decided to follow Christ. Today on Connections, Steve Cleary shares why they did this and talks about their partnership with Voice of the Martyrs Canada.

On a hunt to find new wholesome reading material for his children, a Saskatchewan resident decided to take things into his own hands.  Jason Weening, podcaster, speaker and father of 10 kids between four months and 18 years old, decided to add author to his list of titles.  He recently released a book called Riders of the Lost Reptiles: Danger in the Jungle. Today on Connections he tells us about the book and the inspiration behind it. 

Fulfilling God's calling can be challenging for many. In most cases, this means taking some huge leaps in life. Bible teacher, podcaster and author, Rachel G. Scott wants to help you take that next step.  Today on Connections, she shares how you can start taking those leaps and experience God's faithfulness as you respond to his call.

It's been almost three months since the release of Unsung Hero, and the film has now surpassed over $20 million at the theatrical box office. In its opening weekend, the film, which shares the story behind the family of five-time Grammy Award-winning artists for King & Country and Rebecca St. James, hit No. 2 at the box office.  The film has now been released on DVD, Blu-ray and some streaming services, and it continues to see success. Richard Ramsey, co-director of Unsung Hero, shares how the film continues to reach families across the globe. 

Benjamin Hylden was a typical teenager who loved sports and dreamed of becoming a professional basketball player one day. This all changed when his world was flipped upside down on Good Friday in 2007. He shares his powerful story and how it lead him to Jesus in this episode of Connections. 

Three talented Christian artists have teamed up to release a new song they hope will help draw listeners back to the simplicity of salvation in Jesus Christ. The new single, 'Back to Jesus,' is a collaboration between, Juno- Award winner K-Anthony, Lloyd Nicks and Alisha Eich.  They hope the song will cut through the negativity and draw listeners back to the simplicity of salvation. Today on Connections, Lloyd and Alisha talk about the song, the lyrics and how the three of them came to know each other. 

Angie Orth was living her best life. She had a successful career and was exactly where she wanted to be... or at least she thought she was.  At 30 years old, making a successful living as a publicist in New York City, Orth realized it wasn't the life she wanted. That's when she decided to leave her career and go on a solo trip around the world. She learned plenty along the way and is now writing about it in her new book, Flirting with Disaster.  Today on Connections, Angie shares how this journey started and how it helped her strengthen her faith.

A new Canadian Christian artist hopes her latest single will help listeners rid themselves of the fear and anxiety that may be overwhelming them. Elenee, who is based out of Saskatchewan, released her newest song 'No Place Here' about two weeks ago. She says the response since releasing the song has been overwhelming. Today on Connections she shares more about the song and what led her to music. She'll also talk a bit about her testimony.

K-Anthony is a proud Jamaican-Canadian singer and songwriter currently residing in Regina, Saskatchewan. His album, Arrow, recently won him a Juno award for Contemporary Christian/Gospel Album of the Year. He shares what that experience was like and what's next for him.

A film focusing on the story of the family behind five-time Grammy Award-winning artists for King & Country and Rebecca St. James will hit the big screen this spring.  Luke Smallbone, one of the brothers that make up for King & Country, says he's been sharing his family's story of losing everything to becoming one of the most well-known families in Christian music at every show for the past decade.  On April 26, 2024, the family's story will officially hit the big screen. Today on Connections, Luke Smallbone talks about this new film, Unsung Hero, and how he hopes it will impact families across the globe.

Spring cleaning is exciting to those seeking a fresh start to a new season. However, many dread it because of the enormity of the projects, time, and effort it takes to complete. Whatever their outlook on spring cleaning, most people agree it’s a wonderful feeling when we can enjoy our finished work and sense of accomplishment. Perhaps just like your home and lawn, it’s been a long winter season for you spiritually. Maybe it’s time for spiritual spring cleaning so that you can be more prepared and used by God for His kingdom work. So pull up your sleeves and get to work with the following checklist!

Countless people sing his songs in churches every week around the globe, but few realize recording artist Mack Brock is the songwriter behind them. Mack Brock has experienced many changes in his career in ministry and music and his family life.  Today on Connections, Mack talks in depth about his life changes, foster parenting and music. 

Carrie Sheffield's upbringing was anything but normal. She was the fifth of eight children with a violent, mentally ill, street musician father who thought he was a modern-day Mormon prophet destined to become U.S. president someday. Growing up, Sheffield moved around a lot. They often lived like drifters, camping in sheds, tents and motorhomes. In her lifetime, Carrie attended a total of 17 public schools. She eventually escaped and found her way back to God. Today on Connections, Carrie shares her experience. She also talks about her new book, Motorhome Prophecies: A Journey of Healing and Forgiveness.

Stephanie Morales-Beaulieu will never forget the day her dad called to tell her he had been diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). The doctor had given him three to five years to live. This propelled Stephanie into a season she did not think she would survive. After experiencing what a little bit of trust in God’s faithfulness can accomplish, Morales-Beaulieu was compelled to share this message, and her father’s life, legacy and love for Jesus in her first book, Anything But Ordinary. Today on Connections, Stephanie shares her family's story and how it has helped grow her faith.

Marriage on its own can be challenging. Throw in kids, life and everything else, and things can get very complicated.  Speaker and author Lucille Williams hopes her new documentary, Faith, Love and Pancakes, will help turn things around, allowing couples to win in their relationships.  In this episode of Connections, Williams talks about her new documentary and where you can watch it. 

January is Alzheimer's awareness month.  In 2019 Linda Wiebe's husband, Herb, was diagnosed with Alzheimer's, a journey that has taken their family down a winding path.  Today on Connections, Linda shares her family's experience with Alzheimer's and how their faith has impacted this journey. 

On March 6, 2016, Pastor Tim Remington was shot six times at close range. After being shot, Tim survived blood loss, multiple surgeries, a saddle clot, an infection, and a stroke. He made an incredible recovery, which only spurred his belief that God still works miracles. Amy Joy Hess shares his story today on Connections.

A new documentary sharing the story behind the Grammy-winning, multi-platinum-selling Christian band Casting Crowns will hit theatres this week.  The film Home by Sunday gives fans a front-row seat to the last two decades, showing the band's journey from a youth band to becoming one of Christian music's best-known bands. Home by Sunday will hit theatres across the country on Nov. 30.

After Death is a gripping feature film that explores what happens after we die, based on real near-death experiences, conveyed by scientists, authors, and survivors. From the New York Times bestselling authors who brought you titles like 90 Minutes in Heaven, Imagine Heaven, and To Heaven and Back, emerges a cinematic peek beyond the veil that examines the spiritual and scientific dimensions of mortality, inviting us to wonder: Is there life after death? Today on Connections, Stephen Gray, producer and director of After Death shareswhere the idea came from and how you can check out this new film.

Texas Life Coach Michael Taylor has thrown a lifeline to individuals looking to kickstart their spiritual journeys and self-discovery in his new book, What if Jesus Were a Coach? What if Jesus Were a Coach? aims to inspire readers to find their own truth about God. The author shares his personal experiences and delves into the teachings of Jesus to help readers realize that there is more to spirituality than rules and restrictions. A former Atheist, Michael Taylor once had an aversion to organized religion until he undertook extensive research about world religions to determine if God existed or not. Today on Connections, Michael shares his testimony and why it's so important for him to reach others. 

There are great rewards that come along with being a foster parent, yet there are also great challenges that make them feel depleted, alone, and discouraged. The many burdens of a foster parent's day--struggling children, difficult biological parents, and a broken system--are only compounded by the many burdens of a foster parent's heart--confusion, anxiety, heartache, anger, and fear. In her new book, Foster the Family: Encouragement, Hope, and Practical Help for the Christian Foster Parent, Jamie C. Finn, executive director of Foster the Family and a foster parent helps you see your struggles through the lens of the gospel, bringing biblical truths to bear on your unique everyday realities.  Today on Connections, Jamie shares a bit about her journey with foster parenting. She'll also talk about some of the things that have helped her along the way.

As a young teenager, Wande lacked confidence and often chased the approval of others by following the latest trends or behaviours of her peers. Upon discovering an interest in Christian rap music, the development of her faith and the direction of her future changed for good. Wande shares her powerful testimony today on Connections.

Singer/songwriter, Katy Nichole, has not only gone viral, now reaching well over 150 million people with the chorus to her debut single "In Jesus Name (God of Possible)," but she has also reached the second-highest position on iTunes’ overall Top Songs chart while remaining No. 1 on the iTunes Christian & Gospel chart since the song’s release. Today on Connections, Katy shares what it's been like to go viral. She'll also share the inspiration behind the song and her own miracle story.

It was 2017 when Heather and Ernie Ginter's lives were turned upside down. Just before a planned trip to Costa Rica to celebrate their 20th wedding anniversary, Ernie was experiencing some pain and was quickly diagnosed with gallstones.  He went in for emergency surgery and was able to go on his trip. When they arrived back, they were devastated to find out the doctor had also found a rare form of cancer.  Amid her husband's 13-month battle with cancer, Heather says she was able to find her way back to God. And at the age of 46, she was baptized. Today on Connections, Heather shares her powerful testimony. She also talks about her memoir, When Forever is Interrupted.

Parents want their children to grow up with the ability to face life, especially disappointments and risks, with confidence and bravery. Children who learn resiliency are less likely to give up, avoid risks and become overwhelmed with anxiety and depression. Kathy Koch, PhD., is a child development specialist and author of six books, including RESILIENT KIDS: RAISING THEM TO EMBRACE LIFE WITH CONFIDENCE. She defines resiliency as “recovering readily from disappointment, failure, defeat, adversity, and trauma.”  Today on Connections, Dr. Koch shares practical, relevant and faith-based insights and resources, reminding us there is “no shame or blame for yesterday and great hope for tomorrow.”

The Bacuyani family has always loved to travel and explore together. They have been travelling the world with their three boys since 2012. But it wasn't until tragedy struck in 2021 that they decided to start travelling full time.

Aaron House is the founder and executive director of Piercing Word Ministry.  Piercing Word Ministry is a full-time non-profit based in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. They tour throughout the United States and beyond, bringing God's word to centre stage and igniting a passion for the Word of God and the art of the church. Part of that was encouraging the audience to memorize God's word.In 2013, House set out to memorize the entire New Testament. In the end, he memorized and recited 25 of the 27 stories. He says memorizing scripture is a great way to win spiritual victories. Today on Connections, Aaron shares about his ministry and why it is so important to memorize scripture.

In a culture where value is placed on grand displays of power and influence, it is easy to get caught in the comparison trap that creates an enormous pressure to do more, try harder, or “go big or go home.” The constant striving for greatness and abundance can disrupt our peace, happiness, and confidence. Like many women, Rachael Adams questioned her worth, which she based on her contributions as a wife, a mother, and a child of God. She believed that her modest, routine work was insignificant and meaningless. Rachael needed a reminder that God finds importance and significance even in the simplest, most ordinary tasks and that He multiplies the smallest efforts for his kingdom and will. In her book, A Little Goes a Long Way: 52 Days to a Significant Life, Rachael offers biblical truths about God’s ability to unlock eternal influence when we consistently pursue and obey Him Today on Connections, Rachael shares what success means to her and how we can look past our insecurities when it comes to success.

Joyce Wolfe was a confident, laid back and spiritually strong woman, that was, until 2018 when her family experienced a health crisis.  This event sparked anxiety and panic attacks for Joyce, something she had never experienced. Today on Connections, Joyce shares how she found peace. She will also share how she uses her experience to help others find hope and joy.

Refuge for Women was formed in January 2009 in Lexington, KY, and was founded by Ked and Michelle Frank. Before starting Refuge, Ked had a series of pivotal conversations with the leader of a group doing outreach to women in local strip clubs. Although the outreach had been ongoing for three years, the women who wanted help with escaping had no long-term places to go. In response to this need, Refuge for Women opened its first location in Kentucky in 2009. It is a non-profit, faith-based organization that provides long-term care for women who are survivors of human trafficking and sexual exploitation, offering them a new beginning. Since then, Refuge for Women has served more than 100 women and grown to 11 locations.  Today on Connections, Ked shares the inspiration behind this organization and the impact it has had on the community. 

With prices on the rise for basically everything, saving a dollar or two here and there can help. Nichole Schaubroeck, known online as Coupon Cutie,  is an expert in this area. Nichole has spent years figuring out the best ways to save money and is now using social media to help others do the same. Today on Connections, Nichole shares ways that we can save money in the grocery store.

Jodie Ballenger experienced more in her childhood than many of us will experience in our lifetime. Her mother was a prostitute, and her father chose his new wife over her, leading to neglect and abuse. This impacted her life in ways she never imagined. Today on Connections, Jodie shares her powerful story of redemption and faith. 

The first thing you will notice when you meet Kechi Okwuchi is her scars. One of just two survivors of a devastating plane crash that killed more than one hundred people, sixteen-year-old Kechi was left with third-degree burns over 65 percent of her body. More Than My Scars is her incredible story. A story of not just surviving impossible odds but thriving in a world that is too often caught up with how we look on the outside to remember that our true value is within. Today on Connections, Kechi shares her story with us.

"I'm a broken dude who has been saved, is being saved, and will be saved by Jesus. I'm trying hard to figure out how to follow His ways." Jerrad Lopes is a Christian author, speaker, and the founder of Dad Tired, a non-profit ministry focused on equipping men to lead their families well.   Jerrad served as a pastor in the church world for 11 years.  Several years ago, Jerrad and his wife, Leila, went through a really terrible time in their marriage. During this time he says he was a terrible husband and father. He says he was disengaged, selfish, and on his own path. But he says God rescued him and today he is using that experience to help other fathers and husbands to take their family, faith and marriage more seriously Today on Connections, Jerrad shares his journey and how he became the man he is today.

Anxiety is the most common mental illness diagnosis, and those who suffer from it often feel overwhelmed, out of control, ashamed, lonely, and spiritually defeated. Many Christians question whether anxiety is a sin and wonder why it so often persists despite prayer and faith. The truth is that anxiety is an emotion that can serve as a life-saving tool, offering instinctual responses to danger.  Dr. Amanda Porter, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with triple-board certifications in internal medicine, psychiatry/mental health, and addiction openly shares that she, too, struggles with anxiety. Today on Connections, Dr. Porter shares some coping strategies, spiritual guidance, and refreshing encouragement to help those struggling to discover personal freedom

Matthew Kenslow juggles more than balls and clubs at his motivational speaking engagements. He juggles the challenges — and stigma — that accompany his Asperger’s Syndrome. His eye-opening book, Juggling the Issues: Living With Asperger's Syndrome, is a deeply personal perspective from a bright young mind who refuses to let labels define him or limit him. Today on Connections, he shares his powerful story and how faith plays a role in all of it. 

Many women struggle with the voice in their head that tells them they are not enough…not smart enough, not pretty enough, not capable enough, not present enough. In her book, Set Apart: How to Stop Comparing, Own Your Giftedness, and Rest in Jesus, Denisse Copeland uses the biblical story of Mary and Martha to share her own story of recognizing her unique giftedness and unpacks how women can embrace their identity in Christ. Today on Connections, Denisse shares her story and how she managed to stop comparing, own her giftedness and rest in Jesus.

The past couple of years have had a significant impact on our children, especially when it comes to screen time. Many parents relied on tablets and television to keep their children busy while they were busy working from home or while they were in lockdown.  Molly DeFrank is a mother of six and the author of Digital Detox: A Two-Week Tech Reset for Kids.  She says it is time to flip the switch and get our kids back. Today on Connections, Molly shares how we can start doing this and relate it to our faith.