Community Spotlight

In this powerful episode of Community Spotlight, Braxton sits down with Earl and Nicole from Shepherds for Sheep Dogs, a ministry based in Lenoir, NC that provides professionally trained service dogs to disabled veterans and first responders. But these aren’t just dogs—they’re doorways to healing, reintegration, and Gospel conversations. Hear how this grassroots ministry went from a local need to a statewide impact, all while keeping Jesus at the center. Plus, find out how you or someone you know can apply or get involved.

In this Community Spotlight, Braxton sits down with Catherine and Jody from Focus Ministries in Knoxville and Powell, Tennessee — a Christ-centered nonprofit dedicated to walking alongside women during and after incarceration.

Jody shares her powerful story of a 27-year drug addiction, early arrests, and ultimately a life transformed by Jesus. Her experience fuels her passion to remind incarcerated women that their story isn’t over and that God can rewrite any chapter.

Catherine opens up about the wake-up call God gave her regarding marginalized communities. What started as a shift in how she saw homelessness turned into a calling to serve women who feel unseen, unloved, and stuck in cycles of trauma and low self-worth.

Together, they explain how Focus Ministries provides Bible studies, emotional healing, life-skills training, and a 9–12 month reentry home where women learn who they truly are in Christ. As lives change, faith grows, relationships heal, and hope takes root.

The episode also highlights how essential volunteers are to this mission — whether teaching a class, leading a study, watching The Chosen with the ladies, or simply showing up with the love of Jesus.

Listeners interested in supporting, volunteering, or learning more can visit FocusTN.org.

Braxton sits down with Sheriff Ricky Buchanan to break down how today’s scammers spoof legit numbers (even banks and sheriff’s offices), pressure victims to stay on the line, and demand payment via gift cards or cash drops. Hear real cases—from fake jury-duty warrants to an “FBI” impersonator who walked away with $25,000—and learn the non-negotiables: law enforcement will never take payment over the phone, never text for your ID or bank info, and will meet in person for real issues. Get practical tips to protect your family, including verification questions, call-back protocols, and a simple family code word to beat AI voice clones.

Braxton sits down with Jameson Healy, founder of Autistic Faith, to unpack how churches can welcome and disciple people with autism and ADHD. Jameson shares his story, why so many neurodivergent adults feel unseen on Sundays, and practical steps—like buddy systems, volunteer training, and awareness tools—that help congregations move from “good intentions” to genuine inclusion. Plus: how Autistic Faith’s online content is reaching those who’ve already left church, and how pastors can get equipped today at autisticfaith.org.

In this Community Spotlight episode, Braxton reconnects with Kyle Palmer, director of Camp Living Water in Bryson City, NC. Kyle shares how the camp has fully surrendered its mission and finances to God—opening its doors to families, ministries, and the community without setting a price tag, trusting that the Lord will provide.

Hear powerful stories of faith in action, from housing hurricane-displaced families to hosting Praise Fest, a free celebration of hope in Jesus. Kyle’s testimony reminds us that when we give God full control, He shows up in ways that blow us away—sometimes even with six-figure miracles.

This is an uplifting story of faith, generosity, and God’s provision that will inspire anyone seeking to live with deeper trust and kingdom purpose.

This week on Community Spotlight, Braxton chats with David Eaton, CEO and founder of Axis.org, about one of the biggest questions parents face today: When should I give my kid a smartphone?

David shares insight into how parents can wisely guide their kids through technology, build trust instead of tension, and keep faith at the center of family conversations. They unpack practical tools, like the eight “smartphone domains,” and discuss how Axis helps families bridge generational and cultural gaps in a digital world.

Recorded ahead of David’s free event at Asheville Christian Academy, this episode is full of humor, wisdom, and encouragement for parents, grandparents, and mentors alike who want to raise connected, Christ-centered kids in a screen-filled culture.

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.