Billy Hallowell's Playing With Fire Podcast

Exorcism. Possession. Diabolical evil. These themes, which are mainstays in many Hollywood productions, are also deeply rooted in Scripture, with the New Testament highlighting Jesus' ministry of expelling the demonic from afflicted individuals. These are themes at the heart of "The Exorcist Files," a podcast created and hosted by Ryan Bethea. He joins us to explain why — and how — these spine-chilling stories show the dangers of dabbling in the occult. MORE INFORMATION: - Want to know more? Read Billy's book, "Playing With Fire: A Modern Investigation Into Demons, Exorcism, and Ghosts" - Follow Billy on Facebook - Follow Billy on Twitter - Follow Billy on Instagram

Andrew Columbia was once a New York Police Department officer known by his colleagues by some rather unfortunate monikers: "Evil" and "Ice Man." The darkness in his eyes reflected the trauma and difficulty he witnessed day in and day out on the job. Columbia would often turn to alcohol for solace as he struggled to comprehend and cope with the horrors he observed. One night, it all came to a head on a New York City rooftop where Columbia screamed out to God — and had a radical encounter. Soon, the once-depressed and downtrodden cop was on a very different journey, turning to Jesus, seeking peace, and showing up to police calls to command demonic spirits out of people. From despair to deliverance, Columbia's journey of discovering, discerning, and combatting evil is captivating. Today, Columbia is a pastor in Carmel, New York, where he's continuing his mission of sharing his story and the Christian Gospel. He joins today's "Playing With Fire" to break it all down. MORE INFORMATION: - Want to know more? Read Billy's book, "Playing With Fire: A Modern Investigation Into Demons, Exorcism, and Ghosts" - Follow Billy on Facebook - Follow Billy on Twitter - Follow Billy on Instagram

Ex-porn star Joshua Broome was once one of the most famous adult film stars. But he almost lost his life, left the industry, and found Jesus. Now, he's a preacher warning people about Satan's diabolical lies. In Broome's new book "7 Lies That Will Ruin Your Life: What My Journey from Porn Star to Preacher Taught Me About the Truth That Sets Us Free," co-authored by Billy Hallowell, he reveals the "lies our culture tells us and guides us to the only thing that creates authentic happiness: a relationship with Jesus." Hear him explain how porn impacted him spiritually and why exposing the devil's lies is so essential. MORE INFORMATION: - Want to know more? Read Billy's book, "Playing With Fire: A Modern Investigation Into Demons, Exorcism, and Ghosts" - Follow Billy on Facebook - Follow Billy on Twitter - Follow Billy on Instagram

"I was very involved in the occult, channeling spirits, casting spells, playing with Ouija board six to eight hours a day — all of those things." That's how military veteran and artist Timothy Gagnon described his early years, explaining how he descended into evil practices while he was a young man. When he hit the sixth grade, Gagnon recalled an oral report assignment he was given. Unsure of what to do, he went to the school library and stumbled upon books on the occult. That introduction to the topic led him into spell casting, playing with Ouija boards, and channeling spirits, among other similar activities — things he did "all day long" and "all night long" alongside two of his friends who also descended into the same practices. Gagnon said these spells weren't empty practices — that something happened when he would engage with the occult. He said he and his friends interacted with three entities that claimed to be an angel, a demon, and a "lost spirit in purgatory." In the end, it was a true encounter with the demonic. And then God stepped in. MORE INFORMATION: - Want to know more? Read Billy's book, "Playing With Fire: A Modern Investigation Into Demons, Exorcism, and Ghosts" - Follow Billy on Facebook - Follow Billy on Twitter - Follow Billy on Instagram

Ex-psychic Jenn Nizza is issuing a dire warning after Fox News host Jesse Watters interviewed a psychic this week named Paula Roberts. Nizza said she was "surprised" and concerned over the "demonic" practice being so prevalent on a TV news network. "[People are] being exposed to divination," Nizza told CBN Digital. "Many people are not aware and may think it's entertainment and I was really disappointed to see a news program pushing this out there, and even making light of it — making it seem like it's just entertainment and a joke." She continued, "That's not what it is, and it doesn't matter if you think it's entertainment or not; the outcome is going to be the same." And that outcome, according to Nizza, is one that can breed spiritual danger. Roberts used Tarot cards during her appearance, offering predictions about former President Donald Trump's future prospects; she also addressed current President Joe Biden as well as Watters himself. Listen to Nizza's warnings. MORE INFORMATION: - Want to know more? Read Billy's book, "Playing With Fire: A Modern Investigation Into Demons, Exorcism, and Ghosts" - Follow Billy on Facebook - Follow Billy on Twitter - Follow Billy on Instagram

Today, Richard Lorenzo Jr. is a Christian pastor — but that wasn't always the case. The ex-warlock was at one time embroiled in the occult, engaging in evil and encouraging others to do the same. All that changed when he accepted Jesus in 2019. "I definitely was possessed," he recently said. "I was hearing voices — I was literally hearing voices." Lorenzo said he began dabbling in selling drugs, but when a massive drug package went missing, he became obsessed with finding out who took it. That's when he turned to a voodoo priest for answers. Soon, he was so enthralled with evil that he forgot about the package. The subsequent journey led him into the bowels of the occult, diving so deep into the abyss he gave up everything to study such practices. In the end, Lorenzo started down a dangerous road. "I know I was possessed. ... I used to believe that the things I was doing were right," he said. "I used to believe ... abortion is right. ... I would convince people about abortion, convince people to get drunk, to cheat on their wives." Lorenzo continued, "I was literally working for the devil." But all of that changed when he found Jesus. Watch Lorenzo share the incredible journey to faith and the pastorate. MORE INFORMATION: - Want to know more? Read Billy's book, "Playing With Fire: A Modern Investigation Into Demons, Exorcism, and Ghosts" - Follow Billy on Facebook - Follow Billy on Twitter - Follow Billy on Instagram

"The demons in her screamed like you wouldn't believe." That's how evangelist Ray Comfort described a shocking encounter he once had in Christchurch, New Zealand, with a young woman who he believes was fighting the demonic. "I'm right in the middle of a horror movie that I couldn't believe was happening," he said of the experience. He also revealed another example of freeing a young man from possession. Listen to Comfort explain why understanding true evil is essential — and what he's learned throughout his evangelistic career. MORE INFORMATION: - Want to know more? Read Billy's book, "Playing With Fire: A Modern Investigation Into Demons, Exorcism, and Ghosts" - Follow Billy on Facebook - Follow Billy on Twitter - Follow Billy on Instagram

In the wake of Hamas' horrific terror attack in Israel, it's likely that prophecy discussions will ramp up in some circles. This shouldn't come as a surprise, though, as many contemporary theologians and pastors believe that the world is currently observing numerous signs that mirror the supposedly prophetic contents of scriptures in Old and New Testament books like Ezekiel, Daniel and Revelation. Some of these apparent signs, of course, involve Israel, which is why news about the nation sparks intrigue. Here are five reasons many Christians believe the end times could be drawing nearer. MORE INFORMATION: - Want to know more? Read Billy's book, "Playing With Fire: A Modern Investigation Into Demons, Exorcism, and Ghosts" - Follow Billy on Facebook - Follow Billy on Twitter - Follow Billy on Instagram

This week, we revisit a classic episode from season one: From a terrifying childhood of seeing "shadow people" to a 38-year stretch as a medium who lived in the grips of evil without even knowing it, Ivani found herself on a troubling journey that ended in a dramatic deliverance that changed absolutely everything. Listen to Ivani and her family share the unsettling, stunning and powerful moments that led to her healing. And for more on this topic, be sure to read Billy Hallowell's book, "Playing with Fire: A Modern Investigation into Demons, Exorcism, and Ghosts." MORE INFORMATION: - Want to know more? Read Billy's book, "Playing With Fire: A Modern Investigation Into Demons, Exorcism, and Ghosts" - Follow Billy on Facebook - Follow Billy on Twitter - Follow Billy on Instagram

What are generational curses? Does God punish the children for the sins of the father as we see noted in Exodus 34:7? And how does one go about breaking such a curse? The topic of generational curses is no doubt fiercely debated in the church today, with people taking a variety of stances. Some reject the notion of generational curses, while others see them as a major stumbling block in believers’ lives. Today, Alexander Pagani, author of The Secrets to Generational Curses, joins us to share his perspective. His is just one view on the matter but an important one to be discussed. Listen to what he had to say. MORE INFORMATION: - Want to know more? Read Billy's book, "Playing With Fire: A Modern Investigation Into Demons, Exorcism, and Ghosts" - Follow Billy on Facebook - Follow Billy on Twitter - Follow Billy on Instagram

John Ramirez spends his time today preaching the Gospel, but he was once a Satanist and occultist who says he had a relationship with the devil. But Ramirez says a terrifying visit to hell and interaction with the devil led him on a journey to finding Jesus. Listen to Ramirez explain how witchcraft, Tarot cards, and chaos led him into the spiritual abyss — and how he escaped on today's "Playing With Fire." MORE INFORMATION: - Want to know more? Read Billy's book, "Playing With Fire: A Modern Investigation Into Demons, Exorcism, and Ghosts" - Follow Billy on Facebook - Follow Billy on Twitter - Follow Billy on Instagram

Are aliens and UFOs real? Astrophysicist Hugh Ross, who is also a Christian apologist, has intensely looked at this issue for decades. Ross became a UFO expert by accident, though his theological take on the issue — particularly in light of the newfound cultural obsession with the topic — is fascinating. On today's episode of "Billy Hallowell's Playing With Fire," he explores the nature of aliens, why he believes things might not be what they seem, and what people (and, in particular, Christians) might want to pay attention to. MORE INFORMATION: - Want to know more? Read Billy's book, "Playing With Fire: A Modern Investigation Into Demons, Exorcism, and Ghosts" - Follow Billy on Facebook - Follow Billy on Twitter - Follow Billy on Instagram

An ex-medium who found Jesus and abandoned the occult is speaking out and issuing a warning after actress Raven Symoné recently spoke about having "psychic" moments. Jenn Nizza, a former fortune teller who hosts the podcast "Ex-Psychic Saved," joins the show to break it all down. MORE INFORMATION: - Want to know more? Read Billy's book, "Playing With Fire: A Modern Investigation Into Demons, Exorcism, and Ghosts" - Follow Billy on Facebook - Follow Billy on Twitter - Follow Billy on Instagram

Evil is real. Tailah Scroggins felt dead inside. After growing up in a Christian home, she somehow fell into the occult, embracing astrology, witchcraft, and the New Age. But after embarking on a dark journey and losing the will to live, she had an incredible interaction with God that changed everything. Today, Tailah is an online evangelist, writer, and truth-teller on a mission to help others escape evil. She joins "Billy Hallowell's Playing With Fire" to share her testimony, her journey into — and out of — the occult, and what she believes about deliverance ministry. Most notably, she explains what led her to dive into social media to share her vulnerable story. When Tailah saw witchcraft, Tarot cards, crystals, and astrology blowing up on the Internet during the pandemic, she said she was grieved. "I was into New Age, I was into the false spirituality, in witchcraft ... so, I saw people going through what I had been set free from by Jesus," she says on the show. "And I was like, 'This is not OK. It's not OK that these videos are getting millions of [views].'" Listen to Tailah share her powerful journey. MORE INFORMATION: - Want to know more? Read Billy's book, "Playing With Fire: A Modern Investigation Into Demons, Exorcism, and Ghosts" - Follow Billy on Facebook - Follow Billy on Twitter - Follow Billy on Instagram

Mike Signorelli, pastor of V1 Church in New York City, is sounding the alarm on "Pauline," a new Disney+ show Deadline describes as a "German original about a teenager who falls in love with the devil." It's just the latest in a slew of Satan-themed content that should be giving Christian parents pause, and causing us to ponder why Hollywood continues to progress the "cartoonification" of evil. "My reaction [to the show] was: Satan always comes masquerading as an angel of light, and so he's going to portray himself in the form that people are most readily able to accept," Signorelli said. "Because he wants to appeal to the masses, and we're seeing this over and over and over again." Listen to the broad conversation about evil, Disney, and why these spiritual issues are of great importance. MORE INFORMATION: - Want to know more? Read Billy's book, "Playing With Fire: A Modern Investigation Into Demons, Exorcism, and Ghosts" - Follow Billy on Facebook - Follow Billy on Twitter - Follow Billy on Instagram

A new talking board promises to connect Christians to the Holy Spirit and Jesus, and while the product — which is legitimately for sale — allegedly seems to be a massive troll, ex-psychic Jenn Nizza is sounding the alarm about the board and over Ouija boards more generally. She explains why Christians should avoid the occult at all costs and why such boards are dangerous and problematic. Listen to Nizza explain the issue and share how her own experience in the occult showed her the reality of evil. MORE INFORMATION: - Want to know more? Read Billy's book, "Playing With Fire: A Modern Investigation Into Demons, Exorcism, and Ghosts" - Follow Billy on Facebook - Follow Billy on Twitter - Follow Billy on Instagram

"The Exorcist Files" podcast host Ryan Bethea joins "Billy Hallowell's Playing With Fire" to tackle the "alarming increase in the number of reported demonic possessions" across the U.S. — and the globe. Bethea reveals some of the crazy stories he's heard while working with Father Carlos Martins, a renowned Catholic exorcist. "The Exorcist Files" dramatically tells real-life cases, and Bethea shares his journey into exploring the occult — and the "robust theology" and framework at the center of it all. "After hearing about possessed 9-year-olds, Ouija boards, truck drivers, witches, curses, levitation, and objects ... at the very least, there's stories here," Bethea said of his surprise when first hearing Martins' experiences. "Even people who are not religious are fascinated by this topic." Listen to this fascinating conversation. MORE INFORMATION: - Want to know more? Read Billy's book, "Playing With Fire: A Modern Investigation Into Demons, Exorcism, and Ghosts" - Follow Billy on Facebook - Follow Billy on Twitter - Follow Billy on Instagram

Evil is real. That's a lesson Chris DeFlorio, a former officer with the New York Police Department, has learned all too well. DeFlorio is using his investigative skills to help people who believe they’re facing ills from the demonic realm. He and his wife Harmony run New York Demonic Investigation, an organization that seeks to explore these potential scenarios. “It wasn’t until I pretty much focused full-time into this area, which we’ll call demonology, through the church, [that] I started to try to differentiate … the secondary evil that I was seeing on the street in human beings,” he told "Billy Hallowell's Playing With Fire Podcast." “And then [I wondered], ‘What’s behind that? There, there must be a primary evil.'” That’s when DeFlorio began to take a Bible-based approach to try and understand wickedness — a path that led him to apply his law enforcement skills to demonology and the biblical understanding of the manifestation of evil. Listen to Chris and Harmony describe confronting evil and why they do what they do. MORE INFORMATION: - Want to know more? Read Billy's book, "Playing With Fire: A Modern Investigation Into Demons, Exorcism, and Ghosts" - Follow Billy on Facebook - Follow Billy on Twitter - Follow Billy on Instagram

Once overtaken by the occult, an ex-psychic is speaking out about culture’s obsession with crystals, herbs, and other items tied to witchcraft. Jenn Nizza, a Christian who now shares her testimony on social media and through her new podcast, “Ex-Psychic Saved,” warned about young people’s increased use of such tools. “This is so New Age … using crystals for protection, to ward off evil, for enlightenment, to bring about psychic awareness, to place on chakras, thinking you’re going to open them up and use the energy from the crystals,” she told CBN’s Faithwire. “This whole thing is relying on energy with crystals.” Nizza reflected on her past use of crystals as a psychic, noting she used a heart-shaped rose quartz pendant to try and draw love toward herself. She said people use crystals for other reasons as well, including protection against illness. “It’s really so scary,” she said, noting the use of such tools is growing. Listen to her break down the issues — and sound an alarm for parents. MORE INFORMATION: - Want to know more? Read Billy's book, "Playing With Fire: A Modern Investigation Into Demons, Exorcism, and Ghosts" - Follow Billy on Facebook - Follow Billy on Twitter - Follow Billy on Instagram

Yoga is one of the most popular workouts in the world, but not everyone is a fan. While some see it as mere stretches and poses, others, like ex-psychic Jenn Nizza, believe Yoga is diabolical. “Yoga is a Hindu spiritual practice, and the word ‘yoga’ is rooted in Sanskrit. It means ‘to yoke to’ or ‘to unite with,’ and what they’re doing,” she said on "The Playing With Fire" podcast. “They have deliberate postures that are paying tribute, honor, and worship to their false gods, and they have over 330,000,000 false gods, which are demons, and they’re honoring them with these postures.” Listen to Nizza break down her perspective on Yoga and share her own past experiences on the matter. MORE INFORMATION: - Want to know more? Read Billy's book, "Playing With Fire: A Modern Investigation Into Demons, Exorcism, and Ghosts" - Follow Billy on Facebook - Follow Billy on Twitter - Follow Billy on Instagram