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Mike Comer was 28 and a change management consultant at Andersen Consulting when he woke up in a hotel room and couldn't remember what city he was in. That moment led him to leave the corporate track for something mission-driven: building the business program at Bethany College in Santa Cruz, California, where Dick Foth was president. Thirty-five years later, Mike leads the Hayes Group International in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Founded by Dr. Merwyn Hayes in 1976, the firm has worked with more than 1,700 organizations in 28 countries. Mike and Dick talk about why change today calls for leadership, not just management, in a world where people are "pinged, dinged and overwhelmed." Mike shares how to get off the treadmill through a shift in mindset and identity, and Dick reflects on growing up as a stutterer and learning that it's better to be respected than liked. Mike draws on General Fred Franks and the research behind Start with Humility to explain why humility means being "close to the ground," and he lays out practical tools for communicating with busy people: the first 90 seconds, the rule of three, and primacy and recency. The conversation turns personal as Mike traces a chain of "God moments": a phone number only Dick could have given out, a staff retreat where he met his wife Mary, and a months-long prayer for wisdom answered on an elevator. Mike previews two lessons from his new book, and closes with advice for a 25-year-old: believe yourself blessed, invest in relationships, and trust that there will be guidance along the path. Five-Minute Leadership: 50 Lessons from 50 Years, from the Hayes Group International: 50 one- to two-page lessons, each readable in under five minutes. https://a.co/d/0eH7sKBq Start with Humility: Lessons from America's Quiet CEOs, by Mike Comer and Merwyn Hayes.

Pete Bullette grew up in the small coal-mining town of West Frankfort, Illinois. He was working in public accounting at KPMG in St. Louis when a Chi Alpha speaker at church set him and his wife Amy on an unexpected path. On the drive home, they both sensed God calling them to campus ministry. They quit their jobs, interned with Chi Alpha at Georgetown, and then planted Chi Alpha at the University of Virginia. When they called their pastor to tell him, he said he already knew and had presented them to the missions board the night before. Twenty-six years later, Pete joins Dick to reflect on the "Stories of Faith and Friendship" evening his team hosted two years ago. They chose the theme in response to what they saw in students after COVID: a generation shaped by smartphones and social media, facing high anxiety and loneliness. They wanted a night that met that need for friendship and pointed clearly to Jesus, with "no bait and switch." Pete describes the venue, Old Cabell Hall. It sits at the foot of UVA's Lawn and has a replica of The School of Athens behind the stage. The words "And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free" are carved above the building. Years earlier, Pete had hoped the gospel would one day be shared inside. He also describes the rare standing ovation that night, the students who decided to take steps toward Jesus, and the full-circle moment of watching students hear Dick's stories the way Pete once heard them on cassette tapes in college. Dick closes with two favorite quotes on story, from Ursula K. Le Guin and Madeleine L'Engle, and announces the upcoming release of the Stories of Faith and Friendship audiobook. In this episode •      Pete's road from southern Illinois to Charlottesville •      How the Holy Spirit confirmed the call to plant Chi Alpha at UVA •      Why faith and friendship speak to a post-COVID generation •      The history and meaning of Old Cabell Hall •      What the night meant to students and to Pete •      Why story is built into us, and why Jesus told stories Mentioned Chi Alpha · University of Virginia · Old Cabell Hall · The School of Athens · John 8:32 · John Lennox · Ursula K. Le Guin · Madeleine L'Engle · A River Runs Through It Audiobook Stories of Faith and Friendship (live recording from UVA) will be released within the next two weeks on Audible, Spotify, and other audio platforms.

On this episode of Stories from the Road, Dick Foth sits down with Van Clements ahead of the release of their new audiobook, Stories of Faith and Friendship, coming around October 1 on Spotify and other audio platforms. The book was recorded in October 2024 at the University of Virginia’s historic Old Cabell Hall, where Dick spent an evening telling stories to more than 300 students at the invitation of longtime friend Pete Beulette and the UVA Chi Alpha team. Dick and Van talk about how a family Zoom call and a Malcolm Gladwell audiobook sparked the idea of capturing live storytelling nights, why Jesus “never spoke without a story,” and what it was like to watch a room full of college students lean in, laugh, and open up. Dick also shares the story of the cardiac surgeon who prayed over Ruth in the middle of the night, and the surprise appearance he and his wife made on stage at UVA. Plus: why college students are “Dick’s people,” his grandson’s take on why his generation is so anxious, the “information Niagara” of the AI age, and the student who came up afterward to say she’d decided to give God a shot. In this episode: •      How the audiobook format came together •      Why storytelling is “in our DNA” •      The surgeon, the law dean, and a night that embodied faith and friendship •      “You don’t have to be interesting, you have to be interested” •      Why relationships matter more than more information References Mentioned •      Scripture: Matthew 13:33–35 (NLT) — the parable of the yeast and “Jesus always used stories and illustrations like these” •      Books & audiobooks: The Bomber Mafia by Malcolm Gladwell; Miracle and Wonder: Conversations with Paul Simon by Malcolm Gladwell and Bruce Headlam •      Chi Alpha at the University of Virginia — led by Pete Beulette, host of the evening •      Old Cabell Hall, University of Virginia — where the audiobook was recorded (October 2024) •      Dr. Thomas Matthew — former chief of cardiac surgery, Suburban Hospital (Johns Hopkins Medicine), Bethesda •      Dayna Bowen Matthew — Dean, George Washington University Law School •      Previous storytelling night — Chi Alpha at Colorado State University, Fort Collins •      Wake Up and Live — Dick’s early radio program in Urbana, Illinois •      Coming soon: Stories of Faith and Friendship audiobook, releasing around October 1 on Spotify and other audio platforms (includes a PDF with photos from the night) Chapters 00:00:00 Introduction: Can I Be Your Surrogate Grandpa? 00:01:33 The Birth of an Audiobook Idea 00:03:48 The Power of Story in Scripture 00:05:20 Old Cabell Hall: A Historic Evening at UVA 00:07:40 Van's Perspective: Watching Students Lean In 00:08:57 A Divine Appointment: The Cardiac Surgeon's Prayer 00:13:39 Why College Students Matter 00:16:14 Being Interested, Not Interesting 00:17:44 The Information Niagara: Understanding Gen Z Anxiety 00:20:34 One Student's Decision: Giving God a Shot

Dick Foth remembers September 11, 2001 — and the quiet, unexpected moment three days later that he has carried with him ever since. In the aftermath of the attacks, Dick and his wife Ruth were invited to a service of prayer and remembrance at the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C., alongside four former presidents, members of Congress, and thousands of grieving Americans. Slipping away just before the service began, Dick found himself face-to-face with the man he calls "the great inviter": Dr. Billy Graham. In this episode, Dick recalls Graham’s simple greeting, his brief but powerful message of prayer, remembrance, repentance and hope, and the moment thousands of mourners rose to their feet in spontaneous applause. It’s a story about the difference between being told about life and being invited to it — and about a handshake Dick has never forgotten. Chapters 00:00:00 Introduction: Remembering 9/11 00:00:52 September 14, 2001: A Nation Gathers 00:02:12 Arriving at the Cathedral: Security and Solemnity 00:02:40 A Bathroom Break Becomes a Divine Appointment 00:03:06 Hello, I'm Billy Graham: The Great Inviter 00:04:07 The Message: Foundation, Hope, and God's Blessing 00:05:11 A Standing Ovation: A Moment of Unity 00:05:46 The Lord's Prayer: Denise Graves' Sacred Song 00:06:34 The Power of Invitation: Being Invited to Life 00:07:27 Legacy of the Great Inviter: Welcome Home

Twenty-five years after losing his older brother in the South Tower on September 11th, Craig Woodall — a retired 30-year high school educator and principal from Fort Collins, Colorado — joins Dick Foth to talk about the long road from grief to hope. Craig walks through the last phone call he ever had with his brother, the agonizing wait for news, and the seven months he spent "running from the storm" before a single, unmistakable moment turned him around. Using the image of a buffalo that faces into a storm instead of fleeing it, and anchoring everything in Romans 5:3-4, Craig unpacks how suffering can produce perseverance, character, and ultimately hope — and how one small word, "yet," can change the trajectory of a life. It’s a conversation about loss, faith, family, and the quiet, daily choice to let hardship develop you instead of define or defeat you. Chapters 00:00:00 Introduction: Meeting Craig Woodall 00:01:39 The Buffalo Metaphor: Charging Into Storms 00:02:45 September 6, 2001: The Last Conversation 00:04:25 September 11, 2001: The Day Everything Changed 00:07:52 Running From the Storm: Seven Months of Grief 00:08:46 The Holy Spirit Moment: Pick Your Head Up 00:10:20 His Niece: A Legacy of Hope 00:12:35 Romans 5:3-4: The Path Through Suffering 00:15:00 Building Hope: Daily Practices and Mindset Work 00:17:07 Define, Defeat, or Develop: Choosing Your Response 00:19:31 God Can Redeem What He Did Not Orchestrate 00:21:04 Ask Those Coming Back: The Power of Community 00:23:41 Overcome: A Book and a Journey 00:25:22 The Power of Yet: Transforming Negative Statements

A sunrise can be beautiful. But what if it can also be a reminder? In this episode of Stories from the Road, Dick Foth reflects on light, creation, hope, and the gift of a new day. The conversation begins with Dick describing a summer morning in Colorado and the beauty of the sun coming up over the horizon. That scene leads him to Genesis 1 and the first words of God's creative work: “Let there be light.” Dick then revisits a spontaneous conversation recorded with three friends in the southern Wyoming Rockies. Each man sees the sunrise differently. Curt calls it “God's palette.” Phil sees a reminder that God's mercies are new every morning. Vern looks toward the horizon and sees opportunity. Together, their observations become a simple challenge: don't rush past the beginning of a new day. Notice what God has made. Remember that He is faithful. And look for the opportunities in front of you. Learn more at https://DickFoth.com

As America approaches its 250th birthday, Dick Foth and Susanna continue reflecting on road trips that shaped their family and the biblical journeys that shape our faith. From Boston's Freedom Trail and the Boston Pops to the helpers who serve our communities and the journeys of Mary, Joseph, and Paul, this episode reminds us that every road carries opportunities for hope, discovery, generosity, and freedom in Christ. Summary • Hope gives every journey purpose. • America's ideals call us toward freedom and responsibility. • Family road trips become lifelong memories. • Celebrate the helpers who serve others. • The Gospel unfolds through journeys. Historical References • Declaration of Independence • U.S. Constitution • Boston Tea Party • Freedom Trail • Boston Pops Biblical References • Luke 2 (Mary & Joseph travel to Bethlehem) • Matthew 2 (Flight to Egypt) • Acts 9 (Paul on the road to Damascus) Books Mentioned • America's Grateful Stateful Road Trip • The Greatest Sentence Ever Written (Walter Isaacson) • Man's Search for Meaning (Viktor Frankl) Memorable Quotes “When we lose the capacity to hope, life goes away.” “Take road trips seriously because of the discovery.” “You never know... you might meet an angel along the way.”

As the United States prepares to celebrate its 250th birthday, Dick Foth sits down with his daughter, author Susanna Foth Aughtmon, to talk about one of America's favorite traditions—the road trip. Their conversation begins with Susanna's newest children's book, America's Grateful Stateful Road Trip, then broadens into family memories, spontaneous adventures, and the biblical theme of journey. From Abraham to Moses, Scripture reminds us that life is not simply about arriving somewhere—it's about becoming someone along the way. What You'll Hear • Why road trips capture something uniquely human • America's upcoming 250th birthday • The inspiration behind America's Grateful Stateful Road Trip • Memories from family vacations across America • Why children remember spontaneous moments • Barry Corey's father-son baseball road trip • Road trips throughout Scripture • Why life is about discovering what's around the next corner Memorable Quotes “Life is one huge road trip.” “We'll remember the spontaneous moments.” “Discovering new places, meeting new people—we were surprised with goodness.” “I'll leave my place. I'll come to your place. I'll take your place. Then we'll go to my place.” Key Themes Adventure, Family Memories, Discovery, Gratitude, Curiosity, Faith as a Journey, America's Story, Legacy, Parenting, Hope Scripture References Genesis 12 Exodus John 14:1–6 Philippians 3:12–14 Hebrews 11 Psalm 121 Reflection Questions 1. What road trip from your life do you remember most vividly? 2. Why do unexpected moments often become our favorite memories? 3. When has God surprised you with goodness? 4. How has your life resembled a road trip? 5. What next adventure might God be inviting you into? Call to Action Think about one road trip that changed your life. Share this episode with someone who helped shape your own journey, and join us for Part 2.

As Memorial Day approaches, Dick Foth reflects on the power of memory, sacrifice, and gratitude. In this moving episode of Stories from the Road, Dick explores the origins of Memorial Day, the lives behind the tradition, and the enduring meaning of remembering those who gave “the last full measure of devotion.” From the Civil War roots of Decoration Day to the haunting beauty of John McCrae’s famous World War I poem In Flanders Fields, this episode reminds us that freedom has always come at a cost — and that remembrance matters. A thoughtful reflection for Memorial Day weekend on leadership, sacrifice, honor, and gratitude. Episode Summary What does it mean to remember well? In this Memorial Day episode, Dick Foth reflects on the importance of memory — not just personal memory, but collective remembrance. He traces the origins of Memorial Day from the Civil War era through its evolution into a national day of honor for fallen service members. Dick shares reflections on leadership and sacrifice, recounts conversations with national leaders about the qualities of true leadership, and closes with the powerful story behind Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae’s World War I poem, In Flanders Fields. This episode is a tribute to those who gave their lives so others could live in freedom. Chapters 00:00 — Introduction: The Meaning of Memory00:37 — Remembering in Scripture02:05 — The Origins of Memorial Day02:57 — Decoration Day and General John Logan03:29 — Why Memorial Day Matters04:15 — Freedom Isn’t Free05:03 — Leadership and Sacrifice05:57 — World War I and Trench Warfare06:24 — John McCrae and Alexis Helmer07:07 — The Red Poppies of Flanders Fields07:30 — “In Flanders Fields” Poem Reading08:54 — Gratitude for the Fallen09:35 — Closing Thoughts Key Themes Memory and remembrance Memorial Day history Sacrifice and leadership Gratitude for military service World War I reflections The story behind In Flanders Fields

"He is risen… indeed" In this special Easter Sunday episode, Dick Foth reflects on the defining moment of human history—the resurrection of Jesus. For over 2,000 years, this moment has been celebrated, debated, and experienced personally by millions around the world. But beyond tradition and culture, Easter asks a deeper question: Do you believe the resurrection actually happened—and what does that mean for you? Drawing from Scripture, history, and voices like N.T. Wright, Dick explores the significance of the resurrection—not just as an event, but as the beginning of a new creation. From the testimony of the Apostle Paul to the transformed lives of figures like John Newton, this episode traces the power of resurrection hope—freedom, forgiveness, and a life made new. This isn’t just a story about then. It’s an invitation for now. He is risen. What does that change for you? Key Themes The resurrection as a defining moment in history Faith vs. tradition: cultural Easter vs. personal belief The implications of resurrection (1 Corinthians 15) New creation and eternal hope Lives transformed by grace Scripture References 1 Corinthians 15:1–4, 14, 50–57 Gospel resurrection accounts (Matthew, Mark, Luke, John) References Mentioned Larry King interview (People Magazine, 1990) N.T. Wright – Surprised by Hope George Frideric Handel – Messiah (Hallelujah Chorus) John Newton – Amazing Grace Call to Action This Easter, consider the possibility: What if the resurrection is not just history—but an invitation to a new life?

In this special Holy Week episode, Dick Foth reflects on the most significant week in human history—the final days of Jesus’ life leading to the cross and resurrection. From Palm Sunday to Good Friday, the story unfolds with tension, betrayal, sacrifice, and ultimately love. Through different lenses—political, personal, relational, and spiritual—Dick explores how this week reveals the contrast between two kingdoms: one built on power and self-interest, and the other on love, sacrifice, and giving. At the center of this reflection is a powerful moment from the Gospel of Mark: the story of the widow’s offering. While others gave out of abundance, she gave everything she had. Her act becomes a profound picture of intention, sacrifice, and what it truly means to love. This episode invites us to ask a deeper question: Where is my heart? Key Themes Holy Week as the defining moment in history Light vs. darkness, good vs. evil Power vs. humility The intention behind giving Love as sacrifice Scripture References Mark 12:38–44 (The Widow’s Offering) 1 Corinthians 13 (The Love Chapter) Gospel accounts of Holy Week (Matthew, Mark, Luke, John) Call to Action Take a moment this week to reflect: What are you holding onto—and what might it look like to give from the heart?

Loneliness isn’t just a feeling—it’s an epidemic. In this reprise episode of Stories From The Road, Dick Foth explores a quiet but powerful battle happening within millions of people today: the battle of loneliness. Drawing from history, personal stories, and timeless wisdom, Dick compares the spread of loneliness to the 1918 Spanish Flu pandemic—widespread, deeply impactful, and often hidden in plain sight. Referencing insights from the American Psychological Association and research by Julianne Holt-Lunstad, this episode highlights how loneliness affects not just our emotions—but our physical health as well. But this episode isn’t just about the problem—it’s about the antidote. From meaningful friendships and intentional solitude (as described by theologian Paul Tillich), to the power of listening, kindness, writing, and faith, Dick offers practical and hopeful ways to push back against isolation and rediscover connection. If you’ve ever felt disconnected, unseen, or alone… this conversation is for you. Here are the key references and influences mentioned in this episode: Historical Context 1918 Influenza Pandemic (“Spanish Flu”) World War I (1914–1918) Research & Studies American Psychological Association – Loneliness and social connection research Julianne Holt-Lunstad (Brigham Young University) – Research on loneliness and health risks Cultural & Organizational References Sidewalk Talk Listening Project (San Francisco) United Kingdom Minister for Loneliness initiative Authors, Thinkers & Influences Mother Teresa – “The most terrible poverty is loneliness…” Annabel Moseley – Reflections on combating loneliness Paul Tillich – Distinction between loneliness and solitude C.S. Lewis – “We read to know we are not alone” S.E. Hinton – On friendship Jay Sidlow Baxter – Biblical teacher and theologian Books & Media Mentioned Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis Known: Finding Deep Friendships in a Shallow World by Dick & Ruth Foth Downton Abbey (TV series reference) Scripture References Genesis 2:18 – “It is not good for man to be alone” Romans 8:31–37 Philippians 4:8 Matthew 28:20 Key Themes Loneliness as a modern epidemic The difference between loneliness and solitude The importance of deep relationships over quantity The role of faith, community, and intentional living

In this episode of Stories from the Road, Dick Foth reflects on one of the simplest yet most profound words in the English language: “be.” From the famous line in Shakespeare’s Hamlet—“To be or not to be”—to the powerful moment in Exodus when God tells Moses, “I AM who I AM,” Dick explores what it means that God simply is. When life feels uncertain or stormy, we long for something solid and real. In the Scriptures, God reveals Himself as the One who exists, does not change, and remains present through every generation. Through personal stories, biblical reflection, and timeless wisdom, Dick reminds us that in a world full of questions, there is deep comfort in knowing the One who says, “I AM.” -------- The power and comfort of the word “be.” In This Episode Why words matter and shape how we understand reality The famous question from Hamlet: “To be or not to be?” The Hebrew name of God revealed to Moses What it means that God says “I AM who I AM” Why the most secure truth in the universe is that God simply is How Jesus echoes the same truth in the New Testament Finding peace in the reminder: “Be still and know that I am God.” Key Takeaway When life feels uncertain, the most grounding truth may be the simplest one: God is.

In “A LEGO World Revisited!”, Dick Foth reflects on the humble beginnings of LEGO and uses those familiar building blocks as a metaphor for life, relationships, faith, and communication. From creativity and patience to the power of words and the nature of God as Creator, this episode invites listeners to consider what they’re building—and what foundations truly matter. A thoughtful, story-rich meditation on how small pieces, faithfully assembled, can shape a meaningful life. The surprising origin story of LEGO and why it resonates across generations Why building blocks—whether toys, skills, or words—matter The fundamentals that shape bodies, relationships, leadership, and faith A personal reflection on words, stuttering, and the power of language God as Creator vs. humans as makers—and why that distinction matters A closing reminder: when you speak to the Creator first, every other conversation changes Theme: Foundations, words, creation, and the quiet power of faithful building

As we step into a new year, Dick Foth reflects on the meaning of time, rhythm, and renewal. Drawing from Scripture, memory, and storytelling, this episode explores why calendars matter — not just as tools for scheduling, but as markers of meaning, commitment, and hope. From Selah and sacred seasons to the creation of light in Genesis, this opening episode of 2026 invites listeners to pause, breathe, and consider what’s shaping the year ahead — and how new creation brings order out of chaos.