Advertise on podcast: Conversations with Christians Engaged - Hosted by Bunni Pounds and Ben Quine

Local government may not get the attention Washington does—but the decisions made closest to home can have an enormous impact on our families and communities. In this episode of Conversations with Christians Engaged, part of our Local Government Lessons series, Ben Quine sits down with Tarrant County Commissioner Matt Krause to explore why local government matters, why Christians are needed in the public square, and how believers can make a meaningful difference right where they live. Drawing from his experience in the Texas Legislature, constitutional law, and now county government, Matt shares why he chose to serve locally, what county commissioners actually do, and why biblical principles and God-given rights matter in government. He also takes us behind the effort to place a Ten Commandments monument outside the historic Tarrant County Courthouse and discusses religious liberty, the proper relationship between church and state, and the importance of restoring America’s foundational principles. Whether you’re ready to volunteer on a campaign, meet your local elected officials, attend a government meeting, or simply begin praying for your leaders by name, this conversation will encourage you to take your next step and become salt and light in your community. In this episode: Why local government has such a significant impact on everyday lifeWhat county commissioners actually doWhy Christians are needed at every level of governmentThe story behind Tarrant County’s Ten Commandments monumentGod-given rights, religious liberty, and church and stateHow to build relationships with your local elected officialsPractical ways to get involved in local elections and campaignsWhy your voice can have an outsized impact close to home

God often calls ordinary people to do extraordinary things—but taking that first step of faith can be intimidating. In this episode of Conversations with Christians Engaged, part of our Local Government Lessons series, Ben Quine sits down with Victoria Cernadas, a Texas board-certified paralegal, ministry leader, and community advocate, to discuss how God led her from prayer to public engagement. Through a powerful personal testimony, Victoria shares how faithful obedience, persistent prayer, and a willingness to trust God opened doors she never expected. Together, they explore why local government matters, the importance of praying for community leaders, and how every Christian can faithfully respond when God places a burden on their heart to serve. Whether God is calling you to start a prayer group, serve your community, or consider public office, this conversation will encourage you to take your first step in faith. In this episode: How God prepares ordinary people for extraordinary assignmentsWhy prayer is the foundation of faithful civic engagementThe importance of local government and community leadershipOvercoming fear and taking the first step of obedienceEncouraging Christians to boldly live out their faith in publicTrusting God's direction one step at a time

State government affects your family every day—but many Christians don't realize just how much influence state legislators have over the issues that matter most. In this episode of Conversations with Christians Engaged, part of our Local Government Lessons series, Ben Quine sits down with Indiana State Representative Joanna King to discuss how state government works, why biblical leadership matters, and how Christians can faithfully serve their communities through public office. Representative King shares her journey from business owner and school board member to the Indiana House of Representatives, offering practical insight into the responsibilities of state legislators, the importance of principled leadership, and the impact state governments have on education, public safety, parental rights, the sanctity of life, and protecting children. Whether you've considered running for office or simply want to better understand how state government affects your everyday life, this conversation will encourage and equip you to engage with wisdom and purpose. In this episode: Why state government impacts your daily lifeWhat a state legislator actually doesHow Joanna King was called into public serviceWhy biblical worldview matters in policymakingProtecting children, strengthening families, and defending lifeHow Christians can influence the next generation of leaders

Local government affects our daily lives more than many people realize—but how well do we really understand it? In this episode of Conversations with Christians Engaged, part of our Local Government Lessons series, Ben Quine sits down with Smith County Commissioner John Moore to pull back the curtain on local government and explore why Christians should pay attention to the decisions being made in their own communities. Drawing from nearly four decades of experience in journalism, public service, and local government, John shares how God called him into public office, what county commissioners actually do, why local elections matter, and practical ways every Christian can become more informed and engaged in their community. Whether you've ever wondered what happens at a city council meeting, commissioners court, or school board meeting—or you're considering serving in your own community—this conversation will help you better understand the important role local government plays in everyday life. In this episode: Why local government impacts your daily lifeWhat a county commissioner actually doesHow God called John Moore into public serviceWhy Christians should engage in local governmentPractical ways to connect with your local leadersHow prayer, service, and faithful leadership can strengthen your community

Artificial intelligence is transforming how we work, learn, communicate—and even how we think about truth, human dignity, and religious freedom. But how should Christians respond? In this episode of Conversations with Christians Engaged, part of our Impacting the Culture series, Ben Quine sits down with Dr. Daniel Trippie, Director of Faith Engagement for the Biblical Foundations Initiative at America First Policy Institute, to explore the opportunities and challenges of artificial intelligence through a biblical worldview. Together, they discuss why being made in the image of God matters in the age of AI, the potential impact of AI on religious freedom, the importance of wise public policy, and how Christians can faithfully engage one of the defining technologies of our time. Whether you're curious about AI, concerned about its influence, or simply looking for a biblical framework to navigate emerging technologies, this conversation will equip you to approach today's technology with wisdom rooted in God's Word. In this episode: What artificial intelligence is—and what it isn'tWhy the image of God matters in the age of AIAI's impact on religious freedom and human dignityThe importance of thoughtful safeguards and public policyPractical ways Christians can engage AI with wisdom and discernmentWhy our ultimate hope is found in Christ—not technologyLearn more about America First Policy Institute: americafirstpolicy.com

Artificial intelligence is changing how we work, learn, communicate, and search for truth. But how should Christians respond? In this episode of Conversations with Christians Engaged, part of our Impacting the Culture series, Ben Quine sits down with author and speaker Misty Phillip to discuss AI through a biblical lens. Together, they explore why AI is not neutral, how believers can practice discernment, why families need guardrails, and how Christians can use technology wisely without losing sight of God's Word. In this episode: How Christians should think about AI Why artificial intelligence is not neutral The importance of biblical discernment Protecting children and families in the digital age Using technology with wisdom instead of fearLearn more about Misty Phillip and The Trojan Horse of the Digital Age: mistyphillip.com Watch more episodes: christiansengaged.org/podcasts

What does it mean to remember those in prison—and why should Christians care? In this episode of Conversations with Christians Engaged, Ben Quine sits down with Heather Rice-Minus, President and CEO of Prison Fellowship, to discuss the biblical call to justice, mercy, and restoring lives through the hope of the gospel. Heather shares how Prison Fellowship is serving incarcerated men and women, supporting correctional staff and families, equipping churches, and advocating for meaningful second chances through biblical justice. In this episode: Why Hebrews 13:3 still matters todayThe impact of Prison Fellowship AcademyHow Angel Tree strengthens familiesThe role of Christians in justice reformPractical ways to serve those impacted by incarcerationWhether you've considered prison ministry before or not, this conversation offers a compelling reminder that no one is beyond the reach of God's grace. Learn more:PrisonFellowship.org Connect with Christians Engaged:ChristiansEngaged.orgTake the PledgeCE Academy ```

What does it take to restore a culture in crisis? In this episode of Conversations with Christians Engaged, Ben Quine sits down with author, speaker, and Family Policy Alliance Foundation board member Tim Goeglein to discuss his new book, What Really Matters: Restoring a Legacy of Faith, Freedom, and Family. Tim shares a hopeful vision for America’s future while addressing marriage, family, the crisis facing young men, religious faith, civic responsibility, and the need to recover our nation’s history. In this episode: Why faith, family, and freedom matter for cultural renewal The challenges facing marriage and family formation in America Why the church must lead in restoration How believers can help impact the culture with hope and convictionAt Christians Engaged, we believe faithful believers can make a lasting impact through prayer, voting, and civic engagement. Resources:ChristiansEngaged.orgTake the PledgeCE Academy

What if one of the most impactful ways to advance biblical values isn't through politics—but through the everyday decisions you make with your money? In this special post–America Reads the Bible episode, Bunni Pounds is joined by Scott Coburn, Chief Marketing Officer of Patriot Mobile, to discuss stewardship, faithful citizenship, and how Christians can support organizations that align with their values. Scott shares the remarkable story behind Patriot Mobile, why the company was founded, and how it has become a leading example of a business committed to advancing faith, freedom, the sanctity of life, and support for America's military and first responders. Together, Bunni and Scott explore an important question for every believer: Are we being intentional with the resources God has entrusted to us? Whether it's where we shop, who we bank with, or even who provides our cell phone service, every dollar we spend has an impact. This conversation will challenge you to think differently about stewardship and encourage you to use your influence wisely. In this episode: The founding story of Patriot Mobile Why stewardship extends beyond giving to everyday spending How Christians can “vote with their wallets” The importance of supporting faith-driven businesses Patriot Mobile's commitment to faith, freedom, and life Lessons from America Reads the Bible and the power of God's WordLearn more:https://www.christiansengaged.org Patriot Mobile:https://www.patriotmobile.com Christians Engaged exists to awaken, educate, and empower believers to pray, vote, and engage.

What if the largest sporting event in the world became one of the greatest Gospel opportunities of our lifetime? In this episode of Conversations with Christians Engaged, Ben Quine sits down with pastor, evangelist, author, and former professional soccer player Jesse Bradley to discuss the power of sharing your faith and why believers should boldly engage the culture for Christ. Jesse shares his journey from spiritual emptiness to a life transformed by Jesus Christ, recounting how God used a simple invitation, the Gospel of John, and faithful Christian friendship to lead him to faith. He also offers practical encouragement for overcoming fear, trusting God with the results, and embracing every believer's calling to be a witness. The conversation highlights Victory Beyond the Cup, a nationwide outreach effort surrounding the FIFA World Cup that seeks to equip churches and believers to share the Gospel with millions of visitors and viewers from around the globe. In this episode, you'll discover: Why evangelism is the responsibility of every believer How to move past fear and step out in faith Practical ways to start Gospel conversations The role of prayer, boldness, and obedience in sharing Christ How the World Cup can become a mission field Resources to help churches and families reach their communitiesResources Mentioned: Victory Beyond the Cuphttps://victorybeyondthecup.com Just Choose Hopehttps://justchoosehope.org America Reads the Biblehttps://www.americareadsthebible.com Learn more about Christians Engaged at:https://www.christiansengaged.org Join us as we awaken, educate, and empower believers to Pray, Vote, and Engage.

This conversation is the heart behind Christians Engaged. In one of the most personal episodes we’ve ever recorded, Bunni Pounds and Tony Perkins reflect on why believers must be grounded in the Word of God before anything else — before politics, policy, or cultural influence. Christians Engaged was founded on this conviction: discipleship must come before civic engagement, and lasting transformation only happens when believers know and live the truth of Scripture. Tony shares his testimony, the cost of standing for life and truth, and why the future of our nation depends on Christians who are willing to stand firmly on the Word of God. This is a deeply reverent conversation about faithfulness, courage, family, spiritual warfare, and the calling on the Church in this generation. Connect with us at ChristiansEngaged.org.

What does it take to rebuild a broken nation? In Part 2 of this conversation on Nehemiah, Bunni Pounds and Ben Quine unpack the strategy, opposition, revival, and leadership lessons behind rebuilding a nation. From inspecting the walls to mobilizing the people, Nehemiah’s story is a powerful reminder that godly leadership requires prayer, courage, wisdom, and perseverance. Bunni also shares from her new book, Stepping Up to Lead: Rebuilding a Nation in the Footsteps of Nehemiah, and why God is still raising up leaders willing to pray, build, disciple, and stand firm for truth in America today. Resources & Links: Get Bunni’s new book Stepping Up to Lead: https://www.bunnipounds.com/books/stepping-up-to-lead Christians Engaged Academy: https://christiansengaged.org/ce-academy More podcasts: https://christiansengaged.org/podcasts America Reads the Bible: https://www.americareadsthebible.com Take the Christians Engaged Pledge: https://www.christiansengaged.org#ChristiansEngaged #Nehemiah #Leadership #PrayVoteEngage #ChristianLeadership

America doesn’t just need better politics — America needs courageous leaders. In this powerful episode, Bunni Pounds and Ben Quine unpack the leadership lessons of Nehemiah and why his story still matters for believers today. From prayer and fasting to courage, strategy, humility, and rebuilding a broken nation, Nehemiah’s example offers a biblical blueprint for leadership in difficult times. Bunni also shares the story behind her new book, Stepping Up to Lead: Rebuilding a Nation in the Footsteps of Nehemiah, along with personal stories from America Reads the Bible and lessons she has learned about faith, favor, and leadership. If you’ve ever felt burdened for your community, church, or nation, this conversation will encourage you to step forward in prayer, courage, and obedience. Resources & Links: Order Stepping Up to Lead: https://www.bunnipounds.com/books/stepping-up-to-lead Christians Engaged Academy: https://christiansengaged.org/ce-academy Listen to the Jesus for America Podcast: https://christiansengaged.org/podcasts Learn more about America Reads the Bible: https://www.americareadsthebible.com Take the Christians Engaged Pledge: https://www.christiansengaged.org#ChristiansEngaged #Nehemiah #Leadership #PrayVoteEngage

What happens when the Word of God takes center stage in a nation? In this special recap episode, Bunni Pounds and Ben Quine go behind the scenes of America Reads the Bible—a historic week that reached millions, united believers across denominations, and sparked powerful moments of worship, salvation, and revival. From 3 million streams to unforgettable stories of lives changed, this conversation unpacks what God did… and why this is only the beginning. You’ll hear: The most powerful moments from the week Stories of unity, salvation, and spiritual hunger How families and individuals were transformed Why Scripture must remain central in our lives What’s next—and how YOU can be part of itThis wasn’t just an event—it’s a movement. Now the question is: Will you carry it forward? Watch the full event + learn more:https://www.americareadsthebible.com/online

What does it look like to live out the Gospel in a world that feels increasingly divided and hopeless? In this episode of Conversations with Christians Engaged, Ben Quine sits down with Heather Wilson, co-founder of GiveSendGo, to talk about generosity, freedom, and the power of sharing the hope of Jesus in life’s hardest moments. From helping families in crisis to standing for free speech in the public square, Heather shares how God is using simple acts of faith—giving, praying, and showing up—to transform lives across America. This conversation will challenge you to live more intentionally, reject distraction, and step into the adventure God has prepared for you. Series: Bible Revival for America 250This episode is part of a special series calling believers to return to God’s Word and experience national revival. In this episode, you’ll hear: Why generosity is the gateway to the Gospel How prayer changes lives in real, tangible ways The importance of standing for freedom—even when it’s hard Stories of hope from GiveSendGo campaigns Why true change starts with the heart, not politics How to live intentionally and be used by God dailyAmerica Reads the Bible | April 18–25Join believers across the nation for a historic public reading of Scripture. Learn more: https://americareadsthebible.com Get connected with Christians Engaged: Watch more episodes: https://christiansengaged.org/podcasts Take the Pledge: https://christiansengaged.org/pledge Support the mission: https://christiansengaged.org/donateWhen Christians pray, vote, and engage—America will be transformed.