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EP 307: Why Gen Z Is Returning to Church? In this episode of Revival Town Podcast, Andy and Chuck unpack 10 reasons why they believe Gen Z is taking a fresh look at church and Christianity. From a hunger for meaning and authentic relationships to loneliness, emotional exhaustion, prayer, worship, and the search for truth, purpose, and hope, this generation may be discovering that endless information and constant connectivity still can’t answer life’s deepest questions. Maybe Gen Z isn’t looking for more religion. Maybe they’re looking for something real—community, purpose, truth, hope, and ultimately, an encounter with Jesus. Apple | Spotify | YouTube  revivaltownpodcast.com

EP 306: Meet Bible Bill: A Life Built on the Word This week on Revival Town Podcast, Andy and Chuck sit down with a Central Illinois legend: Bill Winkler, former CEO of Peoria Charter Coach and the man many throughout the region simply know as “Bible Bill.” Bill shares lessons learned from building and leading Peoria Charter, including the challenges that came with covid. But behind the businessman is an even bigger passion: Jesus and the Bible. Hear the story behind the “Bible Bill” nickname as Bill explains how his passion for helping people understand Scripture eventually led to Bible comic books, coloring books, and other creative ways of sharing God’s Word. This is a fun, encouraging conversation...and yes, Bill also became the first guest in RTP history to show up for an interview in costume!” 😄 🎧 Apple | Spotify | YouTube  📍 revivaltownpodcast.com

EP 305: In this powerful episode of Revival Town Podcast, Andy and Chuck sit down with bestselling author, speaker, advocate, and A Reason to Stand founder Ashlee Boyson, whose remarkable story has been featured on Dateline NBC and Dr. Phil and has reached millions of readers. Ashlee opens up about navigating unimaginable loss, betrayal, grief, and public scrutiny while raising five young children. She shares what it was like to grieve both a marriage and a spouse, how she found the courage to begin telling her story through The Moments We Stand, and the difficult journey from seeing herself as a victim to using her voice to help others. This is a raw, honest, and hope-filled conversation about grief, resilience, healing, and finding the strength to keep moving forward when life doesn't go according to plan. If you've ever wondered how you get back up after life knocks you down, this episode is for you. Apple | Spotify | YouTube  revivaltownpodcast.com

EP 304: Twenty-five years later, we still remember where we were. On September 11, 2001, America experienced a day that changed our nation forever. Nearly 3,000 lives were lost, countless families were forever changed, and ordinary people displayed extraordinary courage in the face of unimaginable evil. In this special episode of Revival Town Podcast, Andy and Chuck look back on 9/11 through their own memories of that morning—the images they can still see, the heroes who ran toward danger, and the first responders whose sacrifice continued long after the rubble was cleared. With an entire generation now too young to remember 9/11 firsthand, Chuck and Andy wrestle with an important question: When we say “Never Forget,” what exactly are we asking them to remember? Remember the victims. Remember their families. Remember the first responders. Remember the courage. Remember the sacrifice. Remember how America came together. And above all, remember that even in our darkest moments, God remains our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble. 🇺🇸 25 years later, we remember. We honor. We pray. We will never forget.

EP 303: More than a year ago, we devoted a True Crime episode to the heartbreaking and deeply disturbing story of Mica Miller, the 30-year-old pastor’s wife whose death in April 2024 was ruled a suicide. Now, with Netflix releasing its three-part documentary The Death of a Pastor’s Wife, Andy and Chuck revisit the case—and there is a lot to unpack. The documentary takes viewers inside Mica’s relationship and marriage to Pastor John-Paul Miller, tracing allegations of manipulation, coercive control, infidelity, stalking, harassment, sexual abuse, financial control, and the repeated use of Mica’s mental health struggles against her. It also examines the final months of Mica’s life, her attempts to leave the marriage, the disturbing statements she reportedly made about fearing for her safety, and the circumstances surrounding her death. In this episode, Chuck and Andy walk through all three parts of the Netflix documentary, discuss the warning signs that emerge throughout Mica’s story, and wrestle with difficult questions about spiritual authority, accountability, abusive relationships, and what can happen when power inside a church goes unchecked. Important Disclaimer: This episode contains discussion of mature and potentially disturbing subjects, including domestic abuse, sexual abuse, coercive sexual behavior, stalking, suicide, mental health, and death. Listener discretion is strongly advised. Please note: Many of the claims discussed in this episode are allegations presented in the Netflix documentary and attributed to Mica’s family, friends, counselors, attorneys, and others interviewed for the series.

EP 302: This week on Revival Town Podcast, Andy and Chuck sit down with Pamela Henkelman, Certified Empty Nest Coach, speaker, writer, and host of The Midlife Momma Podcast, for an honest and hope-filled conversation about navigating one of life’s biggest transitions. As a mom of five adult children and a joyful grandma, Pamela knows firsthand that letting go isn’t always easy. She shares practical wisdom for building healthy relationships with adult children, knowing when to speak—and when to keep your mouth shut!—strengthening your marriage after the kids leave home, and rediscovering your God-given purpose in a brand-new season. If you’re approaching the empty nest, already living it, or simply trying to figure out how to parent your adult kids without parenting your adult kids, this conversation is for you. 🎁 FREE RESOURCE FROM PAMELA: 10 Things Not to Say to Your Adult Kids (And 5 Ways to Stop Yourself from Saying Them) https://wandering-union-986.myflodesk.com/atrt8t373z The empty nest isn’t the end of your story. God still has purpose, adventure, relationships, and plenty of good ahead!

EP 301: Dan Learned, Director of Heart of Illinois Youth for Christ, joins Andy and Chuck in the studio for an honest and hope-filled conversation about reaching this generation with the Gospel. Dan gives us a front-row look at what teenagers are facing today—from anxiety, loneliness, social media pressure, and questions about identity to the deep need every young person has to know they are seen, valued, and loved. But despite the challenges, Dan sees plenty of reasons to be encouraged about this generation. We talk about Dan’s own faith journey, his calling to youth ministry, what Youth for Christ is doing throughout Central Illinois, and why building genuine relationships with young people matters more than ever. Dan also shares powerful stories of lives being changed when caring adults simply show up, listen, and point students toward Jesus. If you care about teenagers, have teenagers, work with teenagers—or simply want to see this generation encounter Jesus—this conversation is for you. 🎧 Apple | Spotify | YouTube  📍 revivaltownpodcast.com

EP 300: 300 Episodes. Countless Stories. One Mission. WE MADE IT TO 300! 🔥 Six years. 300 episodes. Hundreds of conversations. Countless laughs, unforgettable guests, powerful testimonies, and more than a few moments we definitely didn’t see coming. For this milestone episode, ‘Tate and His Mate’ are taking a trip through Revival Town Podcast history, beginning all the way back in 2020. Year by year, they revisit some of their favorite episodes, remarkable stories, unforgettable guests, funniest moments, and conversations that left a lasting impact. But this isn’t just a “greatest hits” episode. Andy & Chuck also pull back the curtain and share never-before-told stories from behind the scenes—the stuff that happened before the microphones turned on, after the recording stopped, and everywhere in between. Whether you’ve been listening since Episode 1 or discovered RTP somewhere along the way, Episode 300 is a celebration of what God has done through six incredible years of conversations—and of everyone who has listened, watched, shared, encouraged, prayed, and joined us for the ride. 300 episodes down…and we’re just getting started. 🔥 🎧 Apple | Spotify | YouTube  📍 revivaltownpodcast.com #RevivalTownPodcast #Episode300 #ChristianPodcast #PodcastMilestone

EP 299: The Surge of Clean Comedy Is clean comedy making a comeback? In this fun-filled episode of Revival Town Podcast, Chuck and Andy dive into the surprising surge of comedians proving you don't need profanity or shock value to leave audiences laughing until they cry. From arena-filling stars like Nate Bargatze and Jim Gaffigan to fan favorites like John Crist, Dusty Slay, Brian Regan, Tim Hawkins, Aaron Weber, and Johnnie W.—plus past Revival Town Podcast guests Kerri Pomarolli and Jeremy Nunes—we celebrate the comedians who remind us that some of life's funniest moments come from everyday observations, not vulgarity. Along the way, we discuss why audiences seem to be craving clean entertainment, the creative challenge of writing comedy without relying on cheap laughs, and why laughter itself is one of God's greatest gifts. We even talk about John Crist's hilarious new Instagram sitcom Springfield First and why family-friendly comedy is finding a bigger audience than ever. If you've ever needed a reason to laugh—or you're looking for comedians you can enjoy with the whole family—this episode is for you. So grab your favorite drink, settle in, and join us for a conversation that's lighthearted, encouraging, and guaranteed to leave a smile on your face. 🎧 Apple | Spotify | YouTube  📍 revivaltownpodcast.com

EP 298: From Tragedy to Purpose: Deb Beaupre's Story of Hope After Loss One phone call changed everything. When Deb Beaupre's daughter, Mia, was tragically killed by an underage drunk driver, her world was shattered in an instant. Mia was riding in the backseat of a vehicle after a party when a preventable decision forever altered the lives of countless people. Her brother survived. Deb was out of state when she received the devastating news. In this deeply moving conversation, Deb courageously shares her journey through unimaginable grief, the faith that has sustained her, and how she has found purpose in the midst of profound loss. Rather than allowing tragedy to define her, she has become a passionate advocate for preventing impaired driving, educating families, and helping others navigate the darkest valleys of life. Together, we talk about healing, hope, forgiveness, honoring Mia's legacy, and why every decision behind the wheel matters more than we often realize. Whether you've experienced the loss of a loved one, are walking alongside someone who has, or simply want to be reminded that one choice can change countless lives, this episode is both heartbreaking and hope-filled. Mia's story deserves to be heard. We pray it inspires wiser choices, deeper compassion, and lasting hope.

EP 297: What if your greatest calling isn't found on a movie set—but in simple obedience to God? This week on Revival Town Podcast, we're joined by beloved Hallmark actress, producer, singer, author, and advocate Jen Lilley for one of our most inspiring conversations yet. Jen shares her powerful faith journey, what it's really like following Jesus in Hollywood, and how she has remained grounded in an industry that often challenges biblical convictions. We also talk about some of her favorite films and how she prayerfully chooses the roles she accepts. We dive into her devotional Wake Up Your Faith, where she encourages readers to encounter Jesus every day, and spend significant time discussing her heartfelt new book, Called to Foster? Jen opens up about the joys, challenges, and life-changing lessons she's learned through foster care, while offering practical ways every church and every believer can support vulnerable children and foster families. Whether you're a Hallmark fan, someone exploring foster care, or simply looking for fresh encouragement to trust God's leading, this conversation will inspire you to live with greater faith, compassion, and purpose.

EP 296: The FIFA World Cup has captivated America and the World like never before—and we're here for it! ⚽🌎 In this fun-filled episode of Revival Town Podcast, Andy and Chuck dive into the electric atmosphere surrounding the world's biggest sporting event, from passionate fans filling the streets to unforgettable moments that have made this tournament unlike any other. We laugh about the incredible traditions of supporters from around the globe—from Norway's legendary fan antics and Scotland's bagpipes to Japan's inspiring habit of cleaning stadiums after matches—and why soccer fans may just be the most dedicated in sports. But beyond the goals and celebrations, something even more significant is happening. A growing number of players are boldly living out their faith in Jesus, gathering for prayer before and after matches, pointing people to Christ in interviews, and reminding the world that their identity is found in Him—not in trophies or championships. We talk about the powerful witness of Christian athletes, the spiritual conversations taking place on the world's biggest stage, and why this year's World Cup feels like more than just a sporting event. Whether you're a lifelong soccer fan or you're just catching World Cup fever, this episode is packed with laughter, encouragement, and a hopeful reminder that God is at work in every arena—even on the world's biggest pitch. 🎧 Apple | Spotify | YouTube  📍 revivaltownpodcast.com

EP 295: As America celebrates its 250th birthday, we welcome John D. Morris, President & CEO of the Peoria Riverfront Museum, for a fascinating conversation about our nation's remarkable story. John is a passionate student of American history—a true walking encyclopedia—and his enthusiasm is contagious. Together, we explore the courage of the Founding Fathers, the enduring significance of the Declaration of Independence, the leadership of George Washington, the legacy of Abraham Lincoln, and why Ronald Reagan continues to inspire millions. You'll also discover the surprising connection between this week's historic America 250 celebration in Washington, D.C., and the Peoria Riverfront Museum, along with why preserving our nation's history matters now more than ever. Whether you're a history buff or simply grateful for the freedoms we enjoy, this conversation will leave you with a deeper appreciation for America's past and renewed hope for its future. Happy Independence Day, and thanks for celebrating America's 250th birthday with us!

EP 294: Summer Deck Discussions wraps up with our most relaxed—and perhaps most competitive—episode yet! This time, Andy and Chuck trade the deck for a dock on the water as they spend the day fishing, laughing, telling stories, and enjoying the kind of unscripted conversation that happens when friends simply enjoy being together. Of course, one question hangs over the entire episode: 🎣 Who will catch the most fish? Along the way, you'll hear plenty of friendly banter, unexpected moments, reflections on life and faith, and maybe even a few fishing tips (though no guarantees on their effectiveness). This episode isn't built around a specific topic—it's built around friendship, fun, and authentic conversation. So grab your favorite drink, pull up a chair, and come spend some time with us on the water as we close out our Summer Deck Discussions series. 🎧 Apple | Spotify | YouTube  📍 revivaltownpodcast.com #RevivalTownPodcast #SummerDeckDiscussions #FishingTrip #ChristianPodcast

EP 293: In Part 2 of our Summer Deck Discussions series, Chuck and Andy grab a couple glasses of sweet tea and tackle a topic every Christian has encountered at some point: the things believers argue about that probably aren't worth dividing over.From worship wars and Bible translations to women in ministry and church dress codes, this conversation is filled with laughter, honesty, Scripture, and a reminder that not every disagreement should become a battlefield.Can you love hymns and modern worship? Is the KJV the only faithful translation? Does wearing a suit make you more spiritual than someone in jeans? How can Christians discuss difficult topics without losing sight of what matters most?Along the way, Andy and Chuck explore the difference between essential doctrines, personal preferences, and areas where sincere believers may land differently while still remaining united in Christ.This episode is fun, thoughtful, and maybe just a little bit convicting. Pull up a chair, pour a glass of sweet tea, and join the conversation.What is one church debate you've seen create more heat than light? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments.