Drive

With Christmas just around the corner, many of us are thinking about gift-giving. Andrew Barker, Communications Lead at Compassion, joins Chris to discuss giving differently this Christmas - focusing on generosity that is intentional, relational and Christ-centered. Gifts of Compassion - Charity Gifts | Compassion Australia  

Jacky of The Jeremiah Project joined Chris on Hope Drive to talk about The Jeremiah Project. What it does, how it began, and how you can help with the Christmas Appeal 2025.

Today Chris got to speak with Matthew Valentine of Destiny Rescue. Matthew is an internationally recognised expert in the field of Online Sexual Exploitation & Abuse of Children (OSEAC) and human trafficking. With over 15 years of experience as a detective in the New Zealand Police, Matthew has led complex international investigations targeting child exploitation networks and facilitated the rescue of hundreds of victims across Southeast Asia. Matthew currently serves as the Global Counter OSEC Director at Destiny Rescue, where he is the co-founder of the Scientia Program. His work bridges systemic change, direct rescue, and the trauma-informed care of survivors. Listen to our conversation and if you want to find out more or find out how you can help, go to destinyrescue.org.au.

Today Chris got to chat with Australian Christian author Michelle Dennis Evans about her journey and what it means to be a Christian author. We also talk about some tips for new authors. To follow Michelle on her writing journey go to michelledennisevans.com.

Today Chris spoke with Matt Mistery of Krosswerdz, which is a community of Christians in Hip-Hop Culture expressing our faith through its various elements. If you want to get to their block party this weekend you can find out more on Facebook or at krosswerdz.com.

Chris spoke with Generational Pastor Danielle Kruithof of LifeSource Christian Church Chatswood on this new and amazing event designed to let kids have a fun October 31...it's "Heroes and Halos"! It's a free community event for kids (primary aged) and parents this October! Where you can have dress-up fun, family activities, and a free BBQ. Register for your family here, and we can't wait to see you there! Listen to our chat for more.

Listen as Aloysious and Jed chat with Chris about Watoto...the choir and more! Tour dates and locations

Compassion Australia has launched an emergency appeal to provide urgent support to children and families in the Philippines following a series of disasters, including a powerful 6.9 magnitude earthquake near Cebu and the recent Typhoon Opong. Together, these disasters have left thousands of people in desperate need of assistance. Ricky Santos, Compassion Philippines Partnership Director tells us out what's happening on the ground and how we can help. One is to provide emergency support by donating to Compassion’s Disaster Relief fund today. Visit https://www.compassion.com.au/donate/disaster-relief  But also asked for all of us to pray: - For children and families experiencing grief and loss. - For the recovery of communities and neighbourhoods.

Back to The Future: The Musical is coming to Sydney for its Australian Premiere, in fact, this Friday! Chris got to chat with Ashleigh Rubenach who stars as Lorraine Baines, listen here to find out more of the similarities to the movie, but also some really cool extras! Get to backtothefuturemusical.com.au yesterday for tickets!

Today we’re talking with Anna Ponnudurai, who’s been working as a psychologist for about 11 years. With Q3 of the school year finishing up, many of us might think looking ahead might be more about Christmas and school holidays, however, even if the year feels almost over, there's still one more term. Working towards a better Q4 might also lead to a better and smoother start to next year.

Today we’re talking with Anna Ponnudurai, who’s been working as a psychologist for about 11 years. These days many of us watch our favourite shows on YouTube. Recently, the federal government introduced a ban on YouTube accounts for kids under broader social media legislation and Anna joins us to help the many parents worrying about how they are going to deal with this legislation, which begins in December.

Chloe Adams is a journalist and fiction writer and has been published widely by Australian news mastheads and literary journals. She holds a master's degree in creative writing and a love of literature fuelled by countless hours lingering in her family’s second-hand bookstore. Recently Chloe burst onto the literary scene as the winner of the 2024 Penguin Literary Prize for her debut novel The Occupation, set in a post-war Australia and Japan. The story of a young woman who travels to Japan in 1948, as part of the Allied occupation force in Hiroshima. As she settles into her new life, she finds carefree expats touring the countryside, hosting picnics and throwing parties, all while the war-ravaged locals try to rebuild their lives. Book out now!

Igraine Lim of The 139 Collective joined Chris to talk about their first conference. The 139 Collective are a group of Christian parents who all have children with disabilities or additional needs. If you'd like to find out more, listen to the interview. For more information about the group and the day, go to The 139 Collective.

Wednesday 13th August is International Armadillo Day. It hasn’t been a feature on the Australian calendar because there are no armadillos here outside of the zoo! And don’t we have enough official ‘Days’ already? But The Leprosy Mission Australia begs to differ. Today Dr. Greg Clarke, CEO of LMA joins Chris on Hope Drive for more info and how you can help!

One of Australia’s largest citizen science projects in Australia, the Aussie Bird Count invites participants of all ages to spend 20 minutes observing and counting birds in their local area. With plenty of insights from a decade of Bird Counts, the team at BirdLife Australia are now looking to see what the next 10 years will mean to the birds around us. That's right, the 11th annual Aussie Bird Count is on, and we're joined by Dr Holly Parsons, ecologist and community educator with Birdlife Australia.

Triple P Parenting International Country Director Carol Markie-Dadds joins Chris to talk about the new YouTube bans, what it means for parents, and tips for getting ahead of it. You can find more at Triple P.

Newly appointed CEO of Scripture Union NSW Jim Wackett joined Chris on the show to talk about the rise of faith in Gen Z and beyond. You can find more info at Scripture Union.

Sarah Paterson National Director at Mission Without Borders talks with Chris about how a Soup night can help people on the other side of the globe. You too can join Soup for Soup at Mission Without Borders.

Chris Jolly talks with Leah Hammond, general manager of South Pacific Private, about the rising issue of gambling addiction in Australia, particularly due to the accessibility of online betting. Hammond discusses how gambling can mirror other addictive behaviors and shares practical advice on minimising harm, such as deleting betting apps and seeking support from friends and family.

Lucia Corradi, Seeing Eye Dog Handler joins Chris on Hope Drive. Lucia, 57, has been gradually losing her vision since childhood, with less than 10% remaining today due to macular degeneration and retinal dystrophy. But 2025 marks a powerful milestone: ten years with Seeing Eye Dogs, a journey that transformed her from someone who rarely left home into a confident, independent woman. Her first dog, Aura, was by her side for nine years before retiring in early 2024. Now, Luna, full of youthful energy, has picked up the leash, continuing the legacy of life-changing support and companionship.

Chris Jolly chats with Pastor Isaac Gordon and Amber Erasmus, principal at Brewarrina Christian College, about the inspiring journey of establishing a Christian school in Brewarrina. They explore its profound impact on the community, highlighting transformative stories of students and the importance of education grounded in faith. Pastor Ike shares moving testimonies of spiritual growth and unity, emphasising the power of Christian education in shaping lives. Supported by churches across Australia, this episode underscores a vision of shared faith, reconciliation, and God's guiding presence in nurturing a community bonded by love and purpose.

Chris Jolly interviews Anne Macdonald APM Director with Uniforms for Kids, an initiative transforming old police and emergency service uniforms into new clothes for children in need. Anne discusses how the project provides children with dignity and boosts their self-esteem while repurposing materials that would otherwise end up in landfills. The initiative also fosters community connection by engaging volunteers, including those in aged care, offering them purpose and companionship. Anne shares the broader impact on children’s perception of police officers as they receive garments made from donated uniforms. Discover how to support and participate in this impactful cause.

Ashton Wood is a former corporate IT professional turned humanitarian, based in Queensland, Australia. With extensive experience in the corporate sector, Ashton transitioned into a philanthropic role following a pivotal moment during the COVID-19 pandemic. He founded DV Safe Phone, an organization dedicated to collecting, repairing, and distributing mobile phones to victims of domestic violence throughout Australia. His initiative is crucial in providing a lifeline to those in need by enabling safe communication channels for victims.

Meet Norma Jacques, an inspiring individual who completed her Preliminary Theological Certificate (PTC) with Moore College at the age of 86! Embarking on a journey of theological education can be a profound and deeply transformative experience, regardless of your age. This was exemplified by Norma Jacques, who embarked on her Preliminary Theological Certificate (PTC) at the seasoned age of 74, completing it at 86. The story shared between Chris Jolly and Jacques highlights perseverance, the importance of supportive community, and the transformative power of biblical understanding. This article dives deep into this inspiring journey, reflecting a personal narrative with broader implications for faith-based education.

FCA shapes athletes from middle school to professional ranks, helping them grow spiritually and become role models for future generations, and Jim Dayhew, the Executive Director of FCA 360 Sports, part of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) joined Chris Jolly to talk about mentoring young athletes and fostering a strong Christian spirit within the sports community.

Chris Jolly talks with Paul Hansen, international program team leader at Tearfund, about the critical role of water in combating poverty. From long-term health impacts of inadequate water access, through to breaking poverty cycles. Discover how Tearfund empowers communities to improve their livelihood through access to safe water.

Mark McCrindle, founder and principal of McCrindle Research, a social research company known for its cultural and generational research in Australia, joins Chris Jolly to talk about new research that points to an increase in faith in a way you might not have expected. With young Australians increasingly exploring and adopting Christianity based on personal conviction rather than cultural inheritance.

Your phone can share the good news of Jesus! Frankie du Toit of Christian Vision joins Chris Jolly on Hope 1032 Drive, revealing the alarming stats behind Christianity's decline and how the revamped "yesHEis" app plans to tackle it head-on. Listen for more insights, like how the interactive features and practical tools are helping us to engage in our community and make a difference.

When you hear Red Cross you might think one thing, but they do a whole lot more. Today we spoke with Michael Ryan - Senior Officer Business Development Manager NSW. They offer social support for seniors - Tele Cross, Tele Chat, and right now they need Volunteers to be trained. If you're interested, visit redcross.org.au/visitor or call 1300 559 992. For Tele Cross and Chat Services, call 1800 441 014. Or email agedcarevolunteers@redcross.org.au.

This year, 40 First Nation kids from North West NSW will have the opportunity to be rewarded for their good school attendance with a "Bush to Beach" experience — many of whom will be seeing the ocean for the very first time. The program is also celebrating its 20th year - founded by Jack Cannon AM, who aims to inspire hope, confidence, and self-esteem by promoting education for our Aussie bush kids. Jack recently joined Chris Jolly on Hope Drive.

This Sunday, January 19, marks Aboriginal Sunday for 2025. Each year, on the Sunday before January 26, the Common Grace movement equips churches to reclaim (William Cooper’s) Aboriginal Sunday by providing free church resources developed by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Christian Leaders. Listen as Bianca Manning Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Justice Coordinator and Gomeroi woman with Common Grace joins Chris Jolly.

Christmas is a time for joy but there are plenty of us out there who aren't feeling it, maybe it's feeling too busy. Today we're chatting with Craig Russouw - Lead Psychologist with Health Bright and Online Psychologists Australia.    We'll look at benefits of therapy, possible hurdles of online therapy, and some tips for the Christmas holidays.

With Christmas on the doorstep, Compassion Australia has launched its annual ‘Gifts of Compassion’ catalogue, providing ethical gift options for Australians looking to make a difference for children living in poverty this Christmas. Today we're joined by Murray Web of Compassion Australia.

Just as a marathon demands endurance, so too does the race God set before us. In the face of trials, Stephanie Walters discovers that true victory is measured not by podium finishes, but by fixing our eyes on Jesus and trusting His perfect plan. When life feels like a marathon, how do you find the strength to keep running the race? Today we're chatting with Stephanie Walters about her journey that inspired the book: t’s Not a Sprint: Lessons of Faith and Endurance on the Marathon of Life.

With budgets stretched thin, many feel that creating a memorable Christmas and/or buying gifts is out of reach, but a few simple parenting tips can help reduce the stress this holiday season and enjoy time together instead.   Offering up some great Christmas on a budget advice and tips to not burn out, is Carol Mackie-Dadds of Triple P Parenting.

Today we're talking with Marielle Boutros from ACN International - Aid to the Church in Need. Marielle is based in Lebanon, but helps Lebanon, Syria, and Egypt.   Find out: What's happening in Syria and how are everyday people effected? What support is Aid to the Church in Need providing in Syria? What difference would it make if more people followed Jesus, The Prince of Peace? How can Australians help the people of Syria?  

The Mission Australia Christmas campaign is all about Safe Homes. Today we're chatting with Ben Carblis, Executive of Community Services with Mission Australia to find out ways we can help.

Today we're talking with an Australian who spent most of her life in Asia. First as a missionary kid (living in Taiwan and schooling in Malaysia and Philippines) and then as a missionary with OMF (1999-2021 in Taiwan and now working for the state office in Sydney). Prior to 1999 Christine Dillon studied physiotherapy working in various hospitals and studied at Sydney Missionary and Bible College. Christine joins Hope Drive today to talk about her OT Era fiction novels.

You would have heard the devotionals by today's guest on Hope 1032, he is also the CEO of Olive Tree Media and has been a pastor for over 30 years, Karl Faase. We're talking today about the new series Encounter – Olive Tree Media.

Budding authors listen up, because we're talking about NaNoWriMo and we'll also get general tips for writing a novel and becoming an author. Today we chat with Carolyn Miller, an Australian author of inspirational historical romance, particularly that of the Regency era, and loves creating worlds where flawed people can grow in faith, hope and love.

Join Chris Jolly and Linda Berrigan, Director of Good Things Australia, as they delve into the digital divide in Australia. Discover why 25% of Australians find themselves digitally excluded and the challenges they face in keeping up with technology. Explore initiatives like Get Online Week 2024, which offers free digital skills events to help people build confidence in a tech-driven society. From learning to navigate government services to overcoming fears about online safety and scams, this episode offers insights into bridging the digital gap for a more inclusive future.

Today is World Mental Health Day and sometimes it's easy for us to forget about the kids, especially if we're struggling, and advocates from Triple P Parenting are emphasising the need for parents and carers to support their children’s wellbeing along with their own to combat Australia’s growing mental health crisis. Triple P International Country Director, Carol Markie-Dadds joins Chris on Hope Drive.

Most of us have a dream when we’re little to go to space, before abandoning it as young adults. But Katherine Bennell-Pegg never gave up on that dream. As of April 2024, she is Australia’s first female astronaut and the first astronaut to potentially go to space under the Australian flag.

Imagine fleeing your home, your friends, your extended family – everything you know, at the age of nine. Before most kids have even learnt their times tables, Deena Yako fled her home country of Iraq to escape war and persecution. Almost four years later, she and her family settled in Australia. Deena Yako is a Hope listener and Director of Community Engagement at the Refugee Council of Australia.

Is there someone in your life or workplace that deserves recognition for their work? Nominations for the NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards are now open. NSW Senior Volunteer of the Year for 2023, Leanne Hillman, joined Hope Drive to discuss her work with victims and witnesses of crime, and the importance of volunteer recognition. 

Losing your mum is hard at any age, but going through that as a young person is a unique form of grief and pain. And it’s one that Nicole Hurley knows all too well.   Nicole is a volunteer for Motherless Daughters Australia – a not-for-profit who connect and support women and girls who have lost their mums. Nicole joined Hope Drive for National Volunteer Week to share more.  

This week is National Reconciliation Week – an opportunity to celebrate and build on the relationships between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and the wider community. However, in the light of the Voice to Parliament referendum, there is a sense of deep pain and grief among many Indigenous Australians.   So, in light of this, how can we move towards true reconciliation? The answer may lie with Christians.  Bianca Manning is a Gomeroi woman and an emerging young Aboriginal Christian Leader from Newcastle. She is also the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Justice Coordinator for Common Grace – and she joined Hope Drive ahead of Reconciliation Week to discuss how Australian Christians can get involved.  

National Volunteering Week is a celebration of the incredible volunteers across the country, who serve the community – and an encouragement for us all to find a way to use our time and skills to do the same.   Megan is Wesley Mission’s newest volunteer – teaching yoga once a week at the School for Seniors in Sydney. She joined Hope Drive to share how much the classes mean to her and what steps we can take to volunteer in our own communities.

Chaplain, pastor and author of Notes on Grieving Kath Henry joined Hope Drive to discuss ways to take care of ourselves and our children in the wake of the Bondi Junction attack. 

Telstra, Australia’s biggest telecommunication company, is set to turn off its 3G networks in June – but many consumers are worried that 4G and 5G coverage is not yet adequate to provide service to all Australians, especially those that live rurally.   Leigh Stark, founder and editor of tech news site Pickr.com.au, joined Hope Drive to discuss how the news will affect the average Aussie – and how to be prepared for the shutdown.