Community Spotlight

Hope Chest for Women - Community Spotlight

In this special six-year anniversary episode of Community Spotlight, host Braxton sits down with Pastor David Murray of Glory Land Missionary Baptist Church in Kings Mountain, NC. Pastor Murray shares how his church is bringing the gospel outside its walls—specifically through a powerful outreach at the Cleveland County Fair. From serving food and engaging fairgoers with Bible questions to planting seeds of faith through one-on-one conversations, he explains how God is using everyday opportunities—even the “devil’s playground”—to reach the lost. His passion for revival, community, and unapologetic love for Jesus shines through in every story and prayer.

Braxton sits down with Todd Cutter—campus pastor, Director of Spiritual Life, and Director of Counseling at Lenoir-Rhyne University in Hickory, NC—to hear how God is moving among college students. Todd shares how students are leaning into faith, engaging in civil conversations, and caring for one another in a post-COVID culture. From a new 24/7 food pantry to weekly chapel gatherings and community care packages, God’s love is being made visible on campus. Plus, hear how local churches can pray, support, and come alongside this next generation as they grow in Christ.

In this episode, Braxton talks with Cole Thompson of CPS Construction in Shelby, NC, about how a construction company is making an eternal impact. From organizing the Diaper Run bike ride to support foster families with diapers, to providing Roofs for Veterans at no cost, Cole shares how God has opened doors to serve people in practical ways. Hear how partnering with ministries like the One More One Less Project has inspired families to step into foster care, and how everyday skills—whether in construction or any field—can be used to show the love of Jesus.

Braxton welcomes returning guest Bryn Journey from Legacy of Hope International, a WNC-based, Christ-centered nonprofit fighting human trafficking through prevention, survivor-led education, and global outreach. Bryn unpacks “safety parties” that teach kids body safety and the power of “no,” warns about online grooming, and shares how LOHI’s work in Cambodia has grown into churches, schools, and prevention training. Plus: ways to volunteer locally, and a creative “Sip & See” art pop-up supporting 20 years of impact. A hopeful, practical convo on protecting kids, empowering communities, and shining light in dark spaces.

In this episode of Community Spotlight, Braxton talks with Aaron McMahon, founder of CPR Missions and former police officer who left law enforcement to follow God’s call into full-time ministry. Aaron shares how his journey from the streets of Knoxville to international missions began with simply stepping out in faith and sharing the gospel one-on-one. Hear how CPR Missions is reaching the homeless, training believers to evangelize effectively, and preparing to take this work to Papua New Guinea. Aaron’s story is a powerful reminder that God is still changing lives when we say “yes” to Him.

In this episode of Community Spotlight, Braxton sits down with Stacey Fields, owner of Mini Batch Bakery, to share how God has been at work in her life and business. Stacey opens up about stepping out in faith, the joy of serving her community, and how small acts of generosity can lead to big impacts. From supporting local nonprofits to creating a kitchen filled with laughter and encouragement, Stacey reminds us that God’s faithfulness shows up in both the everyday miracles and the unexpected blessings.

In this Community Spotlight, Braxton reconnects with Pastor Mack from Roadside Ministry as he prepares for their third annual 40-day crusade. Traveling in an RV with a portable early-church-style chapel, Pastor Mack and his wife stop at gas stations, malls, rest areas, and more to share the simple gospel message, pray with people, and meet practical needs. This year’s theme, from Luke 10:2, focuses on the plentiful harvest and the need for more laborers. Pastor Mack shares powerful stories from past crusades, including lives saved from despair, thousands of Gospels of John distributed, and unique outreach methods like giving bottled water, children’s gifts, and gift cards to those in need. He also details how listeners can partner financially, donate supplies, or join them for the September 11th launch in Mooresville, NC.

In this Community Spotlight, Braxton talks with Melanie Burr, leader of the Totally Free Clothing Store in Shelby, NC—a volunteer-run ministry providing free clothes, accessories, and essentials to anyone in need. Melanie shares how she stepped in to keep the store open after COVID, expanding to a larger space and serving the community through God’s provision. From helping the homeless and disaster survivors to supporting foster families, the store has become a place of hope, prayer, and practical help. She explains how the store operates without paid staff, relies on donations and fundraisers, and is now preparing to open a thrift store to help cover expenses. Melanie also invites volunteers to join in serving, from sorting donations to packing backpacks for school kids, demonstrating how one act of faith can make a big difference in a community.

In this Community Spotlight, Braxton talks with Kris Swiatocho from The Singles Network about the exciting growth of singles ministry in Western North Carolina and beyond. Chris shares how God is opening doors for churches to reach singles—whether never married, widowed, or single parents—through new Sunday school classes, Bible studies, and retreats. They discuss the upcoming Flat Rock Labor Day Singles Retreat with its theme “Truth and Lies,” designed to help attendees recognize God’s truth over the enemy’s deception while building friendships and community. Chris also highlights her other ministry events, including the Restoration Experience for women, and ongoing outreach efforts for hurricane relief.

In this unique Community Spotlight episode recorded live at Atlanta Bread Company in Asheville, Braxton chats with Bob Machen of the Asheville Gideons. Their convo dives into how Bob and fellow Gideons are sharing the gospel in bold but gentle ways — literally on the sidewalks outside graduation ceremonies and through everyday encounters.

Bob shares powerful moments from recent outreaches, like giving out over 1,600 New Testaments during Asheville-area graduations and having spontaneous prayer sessions with students and families — many of whom were surprisingly open and hungry for deeper connection.

In this inspiring episode of Community Spotlight, Braxton sits down with Melanie Bell, founder and director of City Lights Ministry in Winston-Salem, NC. What started 11 years ago as a simple neighborhood outreach to kids has now grown into a multifaceted ministry meeting real needs—everything from mobile food distribution and clothing closets to building beds for children and supporting new moms with essential baby supplies.

Amanda Gopel of The Hundred Movement joins Braxton to share how God is working in the fight against human trafficking across North Carolina. From trauma-informed counseling to community partnerships and creative housing solutions, this episode explores how local churches—and ordinary people—can be part of the healing journey for survivors. Plus, get the details on their upcoming fall fundraiser: a family-friendly puzzle competition in October.

In this episode, Braxton speaks with Amanda Newcomb of In His Steps, a faith-based dance ministry that’s been serving Western North Carolina since 1998. What started with a few preschoolers dancing in church has grown into a full studio where worship, discipleship, and community collide. From summer camps and nursing home tours to powerful moments of transformation, Amanda shares how God is using movement to minister to hearts and heal lives.

Legacy of Hope International is working to prevent child trafficking and empower families—right here in our own backyards. Bryn joins Braxton to talk about their upcoming June 29th safety party in Columbia, SC, how trauma affects generational cycles, and why teaching kids the power of "no" and identifying five safe adults can be life-changing. Through education, community outreach, and the love of Jesus, this ministry is helping bring light to the darkest places.

Jeff and Natalie Dorman from Power Cross Ministries share how a simple Bible study with a few neighborhood boys in 2006 grew into a thriving ministry serving over 300 young men in Statesville and Salisbury, NC. Through sports, meals, academics, and discipleship, Power Cross is breaking cycles of poverty and fatherlessness—raising up a generation of Christ-centered leaders with a 100% high school graduation rate and millions in college scholarships.

In this powerful episode of Community Spotlight, Braxton reconnects with Christie Brown from Ascend Women’s Center (formerly Mountain Area Pregnancy Services) to talk about the real, raw, and redemptive stories unfolding every day in their ministry. From women on the verge of abortion to those still healing from past decisions, Christie shares how God is moving—even in the most heartbreaking situations. Plus, hear how Ascend is expanding, what volunteers can do to help, and why choosing life is about more than just saving babies—it’s about saving hearts.

In this heartfelt and hope-filled episode of Community Spotlight, Braxton welcomes back Kris Swiatocho from The Singles Network to talk about navigating the hard side of Mother’s Day—grief, unmet expectations, and the many ways motherhood shows up beyond biology. Kris shares powerful encouragement for those who may feel left out or overlooked this time of year. Plus, she gives us the inside scoop on the upcoming Labor Day Singles Retreat in Flat Rock, NC—an unforgettable weekend of worship, community, and truth for singles of all ages and backgrounds. Whether you're single, grieving, or simply looking to connect with others, this episode reminds us: God sees you, and you’re never alone.

In this energizing episode of Community Spotlight, Braxton sits down with Scott from Youth for Christ Western North Carolina to talk about how God is moving in the hearts of middle and high school students across the region. With student-led Campus Life clubs, partnerships with local churches, and a passion for seeing youth come to know Jesus, Youth for Christ is creating safe, Christ-centered spaces for young people to share their faith and find belonging. You’ll hear powerful stories of lives changed—some starting with nothing more than donuts and a gym—and how you can be part of this growing movement to reach the next generation for Christ.

In this inspiring episode of Community Spotlight, Braxton talks with Christine Hand, founder of Cabin Creek Homestead in Shelby, NC—a teaching farm born out of her own healing journey from foster care and chronic illness. Christine shares how rescued horses, garden beds, and a whole lot of love are helping children—especially those in foster care—find peace, purpose, and belonging. With powerful stories of transformation and a vision for free camps for vulnerable kids, Christine’s work is a beautiful example of how God uses creation to bring healing.

What happens when Jesus meets you in the darkest place? In this powerful episode of Community Spotlight, Braxton sits down with Chris Johnson—currently incarcerated but on fire with purpose. Chris shares how a traumatic experience in prison led him to surrender his life to Christ, and how that encounter sparked the birth of New Hope Initiative, a ministry bringing real change to the lives of the incarcerated. From redemption to reform, this is a story of hope rising out of the ashes.

In this episode of Community Spotlight, Braxton sits down with Barry Yin from Basics Ministries in Rutherford County, North Carolina, to discuss the powerful work being done through their food pantry, thrift store, and spiritual outreach. Barry shares the story of how the ministry began after a young boy collapsed from malnutrition, sparking a community effort to address hunger in the area. Since its founding in 2015, Basics Ministries has served thousands of families, distributing over 12,000 pounds of food per month, while also sharing the gospel with every person they serve. With a focus on both physical and spiritual needs, Barry encourages others to take that first step in faith, trusting God to provide the resources needed for any ministry. Volunteers and donations are key to the success of the ministry, and Barry invites those interested to get involved and make a difference.

In this episode of Community Spotlight, Braxton speaks with Amber Wheat, co-founder of Bakeroos, a nonprofit in Knox County, Tennessee. Amber shares the heartwarming mission of their organization, which bakes and delivers custom birthday cakes to children in foster care, offering them a sense of celebration and hope. What started as a small gesture for one foster child in need has grown into a thriving ministry, providing over 200 cakes each year and touching the lives of children who might otherwise not experience a birthday celebration. Amber explains the impact of this simple yet profound act of kindness, and the organization's vision for future growth, including partnerships with other agencies and potential vocational training for women who have been trafficked. Through the act of baking cakes, Bakeroos is serving as the hands and feet of Jesus, offering hope to children in need.