Crossroads with Jenny Bushkell

Life can be really difficult and sometimes we get stuck in our brokenness - broken relationships, addictions, and replaying past hurts and mistakes!! We may be stuck in toxic resentments, childhood trauma, or grief. We talk about “stinkin’ thinkin’” in recovery and sometimes we just don’t know how to get out of that and all the dysfunction. And - did I mention emotions!!! Oh how our emotions can steer us & play havoc in all of this!! Jenny’s guest is Debbie Chavez - former top-rated news anchor & talk show host and an award- winning manager at a news-talk radio station for 27 years. She’s an Author, Podcaster and Speaker and founder of Squadron of Sisters - a ministry geared to help women in areas of brokenness, trauma and grief - and she’s a Pastor’s wife. Debbie shares her story - and “some good news” in her book, “Pivot - How to Break Free From Grief, Heartbreak, Past Abuse & Resentment.” Debbie reveals how she broke free from a victim mindset, found forgiveness and healing after abuse, and discovered her true identity in Christ. debbiechavez.com

“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you..” Is 43:2. - a promise of God’s presence in life’s deepest trials. Jenny’s guest shares her inspiring journey of faith, trust and gratitude offering valuable insights for handling life's transitions and seasons. There are times in our lives to be grateful we didn’t know about the outcome. We’ve heard hindsight is 20/20 and especially true if we look back in life’s valleys and see the many ways God was there and how Jesus carried us through. Author and Speaker Vonna Laue knows the emotional turmoil, and uncertainty experienced during challenging times. Her new book entitled “Glad I Didn't Know: Lessons Learned Through Life's Challenges and Unexpected Blessings” shares stories centered on the importance of trusting God in seasons of uncertainty, the value of sharing our testimonies, and the surprising blessings found in difficulty and obedience. She shares how gratitude can shift our perspective—even in the darkest times. Whether you're facing uncertainty, grief, or simply seeking a reminder that hope is never out of reach, this conversation will uplift and encourage you. Tune in and discover how unexpected blessings often come wrapped in life’s hardest moments.You can find more at gladididntknow.com

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” Romans 15:13. Jenny and her guest are bringing hope and a miracle story to you today. Given a 1% chance to live 8 months in Nov 2024, Dr. Pete Sulack has survived what most don’t: an aggressive terminal brain cancer. Instead of surrendering to the prognosis, Dr. Sulack, a nationally respected healthcare provider became his own patient, applying the very protocols he’d developed for others throughout his career. Just four months later, doctors declared him in full remission. Now, Dr. Pete is using his personal miracle, faith and clinical knowledge to transform how we approach cancer and chronic illness. Dr. Pete has an extraordinary story. He’s is a chiropractor and an anointed international evangelist and known as “America’s Leading Stress Expert.” He shares his 5 pillars of health, more about this journey and how Jesus was with him. He’s the Owner of Redeem Health and Chiropractic, and the founder of Matthew 10 Ministries. He is a family man based out of Knoxville, TN. He’s actively reaching others through: The Be Resilient Program and his Redeem Essentials and he’s going to be sharing with us today. You can see his videos and reels on FB, you tube and his website: drpetesulack.com

In a world of chaos, life can be challenging. We all need places where hope, inspiration and practical guidance meet us right where we are—. Life's easier when you're not facing it alone. Jenny’s guest is John Fuller co-host of the daily “Focus on the Family Broadcast” with Focus President Dr. Jim Daly. He’s the vice president of the Audio team, which creates and produces award-winning audio programs, podcasts and radio features. Known for his authentic stories, humor, and wisdom - John has spoken globally on everything from faith and family to creativity and workplace relationships. He has written for dozens of magazines and wrote the book, “First-Time Dad: The Stuff You Really Need to Know.” Today he shares insights on his career, family and as always, he’s as genuine and relatable as ever - like the kind of friend you’d want to sit down with over coffee. Their website is focusonthefamily.com. Focus on the Family Broadcast is heard by millions on more than 1,000 radio stations across the U.S. and streamed worldwide. At Focus on the Family You Tube channel, you can find all sorts people and interviews. Their website is focusonthefamily.com. You can find their Marriage Assessment and Parenting Assessment to help you take a look at where you are and so many great topics and guests.

In today's complex world, parenting is a tough job and especially difficult today because of the adversity we face in our culture. Beyond the difficulties of the changing world we live in, there are also the daily frictions of imperfect people sharing a home together. However, Jenny’s guest, Dr. Danny Huerta, Focus on the Family's Vice President of Parenting & Youth, Psychologist, and clinical social worker offers hope and help for you to become an effective parent. His book titled “7 Traits of Effective Parenting” will inspire and equip you to guide children with grace and love—so they may come to understand God’s deep love for them and to follow Jesus. God gives us contributors, encouragers and/or influencers in our lives and you may be one or more of these, too! And as we explore these traits together, you may find they not only strengthen your parenting, but also deepen and enrich your marriage. You can take the assessment you'll hear about at Focus on the Family.com /7 traits assessment LP. You can find his book online at Amazon and Focus on The Family. focusonthefamily.com. For many years, Danny has provided families with practical, biblically-based, and research-based parenting advice on key parenting topics. He has been interviewed by various media outlets including Fox News, Fatherly, Christianity Today, WORLD Magazine, The Christian Post and CBN, and regularly speaks on Christian radio stations and podcasts across the United States. He’s also written for various publications and is a regular speaker at retreats, conventions, family camps, online events worldwide, and on various social media channels.

“Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it. - Hebrews 13:2. The Bible gives us so much about practicing hospitality! Jenny interviews author and expert at real-life hospitality, Annie McCune will tell you hospitality doesn’t have as much to do with the table linens or the food as it does opening our heart to others. Her book, Practicing Hospitality: The Joy and Grace of Loving Strangers takes us on the adventure of following Jesus! Hospitality breaks down barriers and blesses others, as well as ourselves. When we show hospitality to others, we follow Jesus’ example of welcoming all to the table! God's loving Spirit has graced you with the Gift of Hospitality. Are you using it? Annie recounts the story of one such experience being alone in a foreign country in a recent TED/X talk she was selected to present.

Society tells us that success means sacrificing —our time, our peace, even our purpose. But what if I told you there’s a better way - one led by faith instead of fear and pressure and brings peace & joy! Jenny interviews Erin Harrigan, a much sought-after speaker, author, podcaster and Biblical business coach for Christian women to reach new heights in their business or career without compromising their faith. Erin leads women not only to find their passion, but success “God’s way.” She helps us step into our purpose - and finding our identity knowing who we are and whose we are. Her book, Pursuing Success God’s Way:: A practical Guide to Hustle with Heart weaves her story and scripture to give us tools to successfully reach for more in whatever we do. - and offers a Christ-centered approach to entrepreneurship. And - She has an Award winning weekly podcast - “Redefining Hustle: Navigating Success as a Christian Woman,” for high-achieving “sisters in Christ” who desire harmony between their faith and ambition.

“Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity.” Col 4:5. Jesus was asked, ”Who is my neighbor?” He gives us answers throughout scripture: “The Good Samaritan,” “The Great Commission,” The Samaritan Woman” and in his compassion for the least, the last, the lost.. We can turn to the timely wisdom of the Bible to live out the Gospel. Whether in foreign global missions, when we welcome immigrants to our country, or right down the street, we fulfill a significant purpose as commanded by Jesus. “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” – John 13:34 Hear how people from other nations and religions are surrendering their lives to Him. Jenny welcomes back Melanie Azarcon, who serves as a Partner & Church Liaison for Healthbridge Global International. After years of chronic illness with no cures and no answers - God gave her a gift - connecting her to the suffering of people in other parts of the world who don't have access to any healthcare and God changed her life and many more lives - because of her suffering. With her is Jon Hallsted - Founder and President of Healthbridge Global International and Paul Bagai, Minister of Discipleship, Young Adults and Missions at First Baptist Knoxville located in our downtown area, who became connected Health Bridge Global International and their mission. For more info their website is Healthbridgeglobal.org.

There’s a spiritual battle going on all around us. Have you ever done something that you said you would never do? Are you believing lies that keep you stuck? Our culture is inundated with lies. One of Satan’s chief goals is to create doubt in our thoughts - and his lies will kill, steal and destroy lives. (John 10:10) The way you can thwart the devil’s lies, is to turn on the light of God’s Truth. Failure is NOT final. Jenny welcomes Pastor, Author, Speaker and popular radio host Dr. Jeff Schreve. He has a new book just released, titled “THE DEVIL’S NEWSROOM; Muting Satan’s Fake News & Tuning in to God’s Truth.” He unveils the enemy’s schemes and how we can combat his attack on us. Once we understand that these lies are the problem, we can break free from destructive lies, turn back to the truth and promises from God’s word that bring joy and peace. Dr. Jeff Schreve is the Senior Pastor of First Baptist Church Texarkana, Founder of From His Heart Ministries, and is Host of the radio show “From His Heart,” “Real Truth for Today” on American Family Radio & Podcast and “Real Hope Minute.” He’s heard on hundreds of stations and streaming, including Joy620 wrjz at 8:00 pm weekdays. You can find more at fromhisheart.org. and hear him on pray.com. His books are available on Amazon.

“Satan builds the strongholds in the secrets of our lives and reinforces them with silence…,” (Dr. Richard Dobbins) Most of us know the mouth-watering aroma of fresh baked pretzels in the mall or in an airport. Their familiar scent wrap you in a hug of comfort. They are pretty irresistible! Anne Beiler, founder of Auntie Ann's Pretzels journey towards success began years before she rolled the first pretzel when they experienced any parent's worst nightmare – the death of a child. Then came a dark secret. Their loss propelled Anne into years of darkness, depression, despair, and betrayal by someone she trusted. She shares the dark secret and the resulting trauma that haunted her for years. But out of all her pain - came purpose and the desire to persevere toward personal and professional success. But more, she encourages those with deep secrets of their own - to break their silence and reach a whole new level of freedom! In Psalm 32 King David said, “When I kept silent, my bones wasted away through my groaning all day long.” Jenny has talked about this on Crossroads for many years - secrets keep us in darkness and bondage. You can find more about Anne's Podcast, books and speaking at annebeiler.com. What started as a single farmer's market stand grew into Auntie Anne's, the world's largest hand-rolled soft pretzel franchise!

“For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” Eph 6:12 The gap between seen and unseen, between natural and spirit, is narrowing. Never has the ongoing battle between the kingdom of darkness and the kingdom of light been more apparent. All you have to do is look at the chaos, evil and confusion going on in our world today. Jenny’s guest is Speaker & Author Paul Renfro with Paradigm Lighthouse. His book, Nobody Sees These Nations: How Darkness Rules the Many Through the Few gives us insight that the battle is real, but we have the Holy Spirit with us. Time is short on this earth. His book brings revelation about the nations, spiritual warfare and most of all understanding what is happening around the world. His “The Unseen Series” of books helps you feel at home in the spirit world and how to unlock Bible mysteries. His podcast The Unseen Realm with Paul Renfroe and Friends has over 61 episodes and has grown since I met with him. In audio alone, it’s averaging 100 weekly downloads! Paradigm Lighthouse is the ministry of Paul & Diane Renfroe. You can find his personal testimony and more about their ministry at PaulRenfroe.com and ParadigmLighthouse.com. His books are available there and on Amazon. He’s on you tube too! “He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.” Psalm 91

This special feature is one of several about the International Christian Media convention that took place in February. It’s the world’s largest gathering of Christian Communicators. Around 600 people attended and there were many first time attendees and an additional 60 exhibits in the exhibit hall. Jenny shares some exciting news from the convention. Some of what you will be hearing The NRB Board approved nine resolutions addressing freedom of expression, child digital safety, artificial intelligence, and peace in the Middle East. The week included many great messages from Opening night with NRB’s President and CEO, Troy Miller’s welcome speech included the mission of NRB and the role it plays in protecting our Christian values and freedoms. Speakers such as Pastor Jack Hibbs, the senior and founding Pastor of Calvary Chapel Chino Hills, gave great messages, there were Focus Talks and discussions on topics such as the defense of Christian values, the responsible use of AI, and strategies for expanding the reach of Christian media. There was much talk throughout the week about optimizing Social Media by expanding our reach and impact on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube and great quality videos and technology. Join her to hear this report in a series of features!

Misty Phillip is back with Jenny to talk about her latest book and venture. Misty is a visionary leader, entrepreneur, speaker, author, and podcaster dedicated to empowering others to live boldly in their faith. Her new book, “Spark Your Influence” has recently been released at #1 new release on Amazon! She hosts the outstanding Video podcast, “It Is Time to Stand Up” where she shares Biblical wisdom and insightful conversations. Misty is also the host of the "By His Grace" podcast, where she shares inspiring stories and insights on overcoming challenges with faith and resilience. Her book, “The Struggle Is Real, But So Is God,” became a #1 Amazon New Release, offering hope and strength to countless readers navigating life's difficulties. Misty felt God calling her to change direction and she is obedient to follow. You will hear about it in this episode. Beyond her professional achievements, Misty is passionate about mentoring and supporting others in their God-given callings. She is a dynamic leader in podcasting, media, and event production, with a mission to inspire and equip others to make a meaningful impact. Misty has been instrumental in launching and growing hundreds of top ranked award-winning podcasts while creating a supportive community for Christian communicators. Her work reflects her deep commitment to her faith and the equipping of others in the Christian community. She has had a tremendous influence on Jenny.

Back with Jenny is award-winning media executive, actor-producer, writer and speaker, Kathleen Cooke. She’s a founding partner & VP of Cooke Media Group with her husband Phil. She co-founded the nonprofit The Influence Lab/Influence Lab Women, where she leads and mentors Christian professionals and leaders – particularly women in the media industry. She has such a passion for what she calls the “4 C’s” for women - connecting, collaborating, creating - for Christ - to change our culture! Kathleen wants to see you thrive, flourish and to make a meaningful impact wherever God leads you! They have lots to talk about from Christian movies to Actor Russell Brand. Kathleen has had a huge influence on Jenny’s career in Christian media and encouraged her to write her one minute stories; “Standing At The Crossroads.” She challenged Jenny and she did it!

Cindy lost her beautiful mother, the late great tennis champion Maureen “Little Mo” Connolly Brinker, to cancer when she was just twelve and shares how she strived because she thought God hated her to let her mother die. Jenny interviews Cindy Brinker Simmons is a best-selling author, businesswoman, energetic speaker, philanthropist and mom who cares deeply about helping people in the midst of life’s challenges. She shares her story and steps to overcome losses in her book 'Restored: Reconnecting Life's Broken Pieces.’ Cindy's victory in overcoming the sorrow of multiple personal losses of both her precious mother and beloved husband provides comfort and hope to those struggling through life’s most difficult trials. She reminds us that God is always working behind the scenes and that the God of the Universe who created everything, even galaxies unknown, loves and cares about you! If you are living in a fragile place after loss, pain, or grief and excitement in life and fullness of purpose is too hard to imagine, I know you will find hope in this interview! You can find out more about Cindy on social media and her website brinkersimmons.com. All net proceeds from the sale of her Amazon best-selling book, Restored: Reconnecting Life’s Broken Pieces, will be donated to Wipe Out Kids’ Cancer (WOKC) and the Maureen Connolly Brinker Tennis Foundation. Cindy is the author of the popular book, LITTLE MO’s LEGACY: A Mother’s Lessons, A Daughter’s Story. The book chronicles the lessons her late mother taught her in life and in death. The Lord uses trials to do many things, but many blessings are only received from the residue of pain. When we have trials we focus on the difficult, but sometimes the path of suffering is the only way to attain them. So many things happen through trials.

Your story matters. Every day, God performs miracles around us, even in the most unexpected lives. Imagine a child who endured the unimaginable—molestation, disbelief, and rejection. Picture a pregnant teenager, rejected by her family and church, and almost murdered by someone she should have been able to trust. If you've ever felt alone, questioning, "Does God see me? Does He hear me?"—there is hope. Jenny is joined by friends Ty Roberts, Executive Director of Gennisi Charitable Birth Services, Inc., CEO/Founder of Miracle V. Birth Concierge, and Worship Coordinator at Overcoming Believers Church, alongside Deborah Spencer, Public Directions Manager at Overcoming Believers Church. Together, they share a powerful testimony of forgiveness, redemption, and purpose. Forgiveness is a journey, but God transforms our pain into blessings for others. When we align with His plan, He fulfills the desires of our hearts. This is the miraculous story of a young girl who dreamed of caring for babies and, through faith and perseverance, became a doula and the CEO of her dream!

How do we make sense of what all is going on in the world? He’s here to talk about the messy things in life and how to begin to understand we’re going to be ok! Jenny’s guest is our friend Dr. Steve Brown - the Founder of Key Life Network, Inc., a wonderful Bible teacher on the radio program Key Life and host of the talk show Steve Brown, Etc. A former pastor, he is also an Author, speaker, and visiting seminary lecturer. Steve has a great sense of humor, and is very down to earth and transparent. He is called one of the most compelling communicators within the evangelical community. His Key Life tag-line is “God’s not mad at you.” If that doesn’t draw us in, I don’t know what would! Oh, and he ends his shows with “You think about that!” Find his podcasts and sermons at keylife.org and on social media.

Imagine being brought up in the Muslim faith, suffering from depression and thinking of ending your life - only to cry out to GOD to have mercy on you and to show you the way to HIM - and that night seeing the heavens open up and seeing Jesus in a dream! Back with Jenny is Author, Kenza Haddock, talking about what it cost her to follow Jesus. Today we are talking about her book “The Ex-Muslims Guide to Christianity” and what it reveals. Muslims are coming to Faith through dreams and visions! This book is written to muslims on finding faith in Jesus Christ, and we can learn what they are up against leaving their religion. It sheds light on the destructive, Islam-based mindset that has to be resisted by every new follower of Jesus. How great it is to realize how much God loves you and to know "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—" Eph 2:8. Kenza is a licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor, pastoral counselor and accredited trauma specialist and author of “The Three Enemies of Your Mental Health.” Kenza & her husband own “Oceanic Counseling Group, LLC. headquartered in SC.

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.” (Romans 15:13) One of the most uplifting individuals is back as Jenny’s guest. He has faced numerous challenges and transformed them into opportunities for growth and success. Friend, Derrick Furlow Jr., is the founder and president of Sports Life Business and SLB The Agency, a pioneering sports agency and the first mental health agency for athletes, ONRISE. Among the things they discuss is “Name, Image, and Likeness” (NIL) and the hurdles that young athletes and sports teams encounter. Derrick is a sought-after inspirational speaker, former college and professional football player, sales team trainer, and entrepreneur. Derrick is the Author of “What’s Next? How To Transition Like A Champion. & The Transitional Playbook.” in sports, life, and business. Today, Derrick travels across the United States sharing his story with the hope of empowering others to never to yield when facing adversity. His motto: Impact, Inspire, and Empower!! You can find Derrick on social media and on his website at derrickfurlow.com.

Jesus warned us that deception would grow worse as we draw nearer to the end times. In Matthew 24:4 he tells us, “Take heed that no one deceives you.” Pastor Jack Hibbs is back to talk about the growing cultural deception, God's mercy on us, what's happening in CA and more! Jack Hibbs is the Senior and Founding Pastor of Calvary Chapel Chino Hills, based in Southern CA.,Founder & President of Real Life Network, and a nationally syndicated TV & Radio host. He shares about his book “Living in the Daze of Deception: How to Discern Truth from Culture’s Lies,” written to help us navigate a world of growing deception. His goal is to help us learn to discern truth, recognize falsehoods, and stand firm in our faith. Let’s shine our light for others to find Jesus. We also hear some from one of his podcasts with answers to questions on prayer, forgiveness, near-death experience claims and what confession of sins really means. You can get The Real Life App which is packed full of features such as: Real Life TV programs, Real Life Radio daily broadcasts, a library of Pastor Jack’s teachings, Jack Hibbs podcasts, weekly devotions, and so much more. Everything that they do centers around the Word of God, and it’s their desire that you discover God’s Word for yourself.