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Terri has loved church and been devoted to her faith even as a small child. Her journey is marked by courage, love and an unexpected appreciation of donkeys.
In 100 years, 2124, very few people will remember me or anything I have done. The only things that truly last are the seeds of God's eternal love we …
Terri Estreich has been a store manager with the Salvos for over ten years. Her association with Bryce and the Brisbane Streetlevel Mission has been …
My family has been influenced recently by Taylor Swift. People are desperate to be in her physical presence. Who influences you and how do you influence others?
I used to babysit Rachael when she was just a toddler and so have known and loved her like family for many years. She and her husband Phil are Salvo officers in Kempsey, but in many ways their defining ministry was in a …
The apostle Peter said this: "We must obey God rather than man". What seems best to the authorities or even to our families and friends, is not …
Nathan lives in one of the Salvos houses of hope. It has been a game changer, as for the first time he has exited one of his many attempts at recovery through residential rehab into safety and stability.
Nathan experienced significant challenges from a very early age and has has spent the majority of his life feeling frustrated and angry. Using drugs has been a way to cope. It was't until recently that he was just sick …
The early followers of Jesus had varying success in sharing the message. Not everyone was keen to join up. Likewise today, people hesitate to join …
Geanette Seymour is a retired Salvation Army officer who has held a number of top leadership appointments most recently heading up the Salvos …
Two of the early followers of Jesus lied about how generous they were and were struck down dead for their trouble. Deceit and disingenuousness is a …
Lyndal Barker has not had an easy life. Her first husband fell ill and died at the age of 27, her son was killed in a motor accident at the age of 19 and a few years ago her second husband died of cancer. But through it …
Most families and healthy community groups will share things like camping gear, tools and even cars. The first followers of Jesus shared like this …
Danielle Strickland is a world renown speaker, author and founder of various charities. Her parents were both taken in by the salvos as children and they eventually became Salvo officers. Her story is inspiring, …
Sometimes we need to speak our truth with confidence and boldness. The way of love can be corrupted, and strength is required to restore justice and …
Joseph Pinkard is the Disability Inclusion Lead for the Salvos across Australia. His journey to this role is really special and the caliber of his …
The early church leaders reported seeing signs and wonders, however these days we tend to explain everything like this through science. But almost every day we say things like, "that was amazing", or "I cant believe …
Bridget had a safe and happy childhood, but at age 14 life took a turn and she suffered from Anorexia Nervosa. From here life spiralled into cycles of addiction and a struggle to stay stable. She eventually found …
The disciples of Jesus were largely uneducated and simple men. They had a vibe about them though, that came directly form the Love they had …
Merv Collins grew up in a tiny town in the UK called Tavistock. His dad was a baker and at just 21 years of age he migrated to Australia and joined …
The Love and grace of Christ are the cornerstones of faith. Peter and John demonstrated this when they helped a lame man. The lovely Sue demonstrates this when she signs me up to be kind to others. #Salvos, …
Danny and I met at the Salvos maybe 20 years ago and bumped into each other recently at a mutual friends memorial service. Danny's life story is peppered with hardship and tragedy, but also with determination and some …
Often the love we have to offer is inadequate and simple. Yet when offered in the right spirit it can be life giving and even healing for the people who receive it. Peter and John gave what they had to a lame man and it …
Nuria came to Australia 19 years ago and managed to find ways to settle into the new culture and lifestyle. She now works for the Salvos assisting us …
The early church was committed to evangelism. Spreading the message of Jesus wherever they went. In Australia the pulpit pounding fire and brimstone …
Greg Morgan is the Salvos secretary for Mission in Australia. His time in country Victoria, the Northern Territory and the UK has all shaped his …
The early church community praised God. They noticed what was a blessing and praised God for the gift that it was. Aussies worship sport more than God, I reckon but more and more they are appreciating nature and the …
Marcus Hutchins grew up on a farm in country Victoria. The solid Christian values and example of his family created a foundation that has lasted to …
Christmas is a time when people often gather for parties, carol services and even attendance at church. The early church gathered regularly, not just …
Erica Jones grew up in Western Australia in a very challenging family situation and found support and a sense of belonging in the Salvos when she was very young. Her story has depth and joy as she encounters the beauty …
The early Christian community was marked by generosity. When people are generous, healthy relationships and community is almost inevitable. My friends Maryam and Sepher are two of the most generous people I know and …
John Roundhill is a keen park runner, a husband and father of two adult children and is an Anglican Bishop responsible for 49 parishes in South …
Prayer is a mysterious thing but in essence it is all about love. I've been praying in my garden recently and have had helpful insights on how to …
Scott Frame shares with beautiful clarity and honesty about his journey to faith, a career as an engineer, Christian ministry, marriage and family. …
Relationships grow so much when we share food together and for people who are lonely and unsure of how they belong, to be welcomed at a table is monumental!
#salvos, #storiesofhope, #salvationarmy, #podcast
Matt Davis has a rich Salvo family heritage and is now the Director of Salvo Stores across Australia working with over 10,000 volunteers and staff …
The first Christians met together every day and shared a special sort of friendship and unity the scriptures called fellowship. But soulful …
Rob Harley visited Melbourne to catch up with friends. While he was in town I interviewed him as he has strong links to the Salvos and an amazing story. His life as a journalist, author, church pastor and family man is …
People learn in different ways and so to be devoted to teaching could be through books and study, as well as friendship and significant conversations.
Jason is a 5th generation Salvo and grew up with a love of music, singing and community. He is a scientist and has worked and studied internationally …
Us Aussies are quite cynical about people promising great deals and strategies that are sure to change your life. So getting all preachy about Jesus is never a good plan. Best to live the sort of life that points people …
Daryl Crowden grew up in India and Sri Lanka as his parents were Salvation Army Missionaries. His world view and capacity for discipline and independence was forged through these years. He has since worked in some of …
Leaders making mistakes is not a new phenomenon. King David was a shocker. In the book of acts we see a way to foster balanced and careful community …
Wendy Gale had a huge impact on my life as a young man growing up at Camberwell Salvos. She is intelligent, honest and safe to talk to about anything. She is currently the Victorian state manager of the Salvos Doorways …
On the day of Pentecost the book of Acts records that the Holy Spirit came in power. Wind, fire and tongues that foreigners understand were …
Nathan Rowe is a brilliant musician and has a beautiful heart for people from all walks of life. He is a leader with the Salvos in Geelong and has a …
We all run out of steam sometimes, but there is a promise of power to live out our lives with passion in the book of Acts that is like breath to an athlete. Regenerative and life giving to every fibre of our being. It's …
David grew up with loving parents and was well educated but has always struggled with his mental health and relationships. His life has been interesting and diverse, growing up in Alice Springs and spending some time in …
Jesus says in Marks Gospel that believers should be able to handle snakes and drink deadly poison. Thats absurd. How do we make sense of this? It is …
Richard was a student at the Salvos Streetlevel mission and it fitted him like a glove. He loved it. He eventually went on to work in our homelessness service for three years. This is challenging work and the mental …
Most of us struggle with the paradoxes of our lives, let alone grappling with the mystery of a loving God. But when we have the courage to dig a little deeper, we often find the presence of love, hope and joy - or if …
Tony and I grew up together at the Salvos and shared significantly in musical groups and social circles. Tony has transitioned from the corporate world to a lawn mowing business and not only loves the outdoor lifestyle …
We all have times when we get down and negative about our lives. We find it hard to believe that good will come. However many people believe that love and goodness are always around the corner for us all and that we …
Anna and my daughter Eliza have been close friends since they met on the school bus in year 8 and discovered they were both a bit uncoordinated and …
Every year the lovely Sue and her Mum Helen make home made biscuits and sticky date puddings for the Streetlevel Fraser Island (K'gari) fishing …
Paul's mum was just 15 years old when he was born and his brother was born when she was just 12. His mum passed away when he was 3. To say it was …
I'm reading a book called phosphorescence by Julia Baird. She talks about finding our ert. The idea being that when we are inert we are stagnant. …
Every year the Salvos at Brisbane Streetlevel Mission run a week long Fraser Island 4WD fishing trip for men. This year 17 of us ventured onto this …
When Jesus died on the cross the curtain of the temple tore from top to bottom, signifying that all are welcome into the presence of God and the old …
It is with great sadness that I share that Wayne passed away recently. I spoke with his partner, Bea and she was happy for this podcast episode to be …
We all experience hardship and unfortunate circumstances. However our response to this and our capacity to remain hopeful despite the random nature …
Joycelyn McIver had a challenging childhood, but in the midst of this, was beautifully loved and cared for by families within the Salvos. Her story …
When we position ourselves to love others, we often find ourselves compelled to behave in loving ways, when it might well be the last thing we really want to do. The lovely Sue is rarely inclined to love me but she has …
Katharine grew up in Sydney and says she was a bit of a party girl, but her life turned around when she wholeheartedly embraced Christian faith. She …
Jesus was ridiculed and hurt by the soldiers who dressed him up in a robe, put a crown of thorns on his head and bowed before him in mock worship. …
Viv Callander has been beautiful friend to the lovely Sue and I for over 30 years. Not always in the same city, but always close. Viv and her …
Blaming others for our foolishness, laziness and troubles breaks friendships and does nothing to effect change. We continue to make mistakes and …
Ashish was born in India to parents who were brought to a salvo orphanage as babies and who grew up to be salvo officers. He married an Aussie girl and now, an officer himself, has had appointments in the UK, …
Apparently women use more words each day than men. And apparently it's because men don't listen. Being silent has its advantages. If you are accused unjustly like Jesus it can highlight the absurdity of the charges. …
Marty grew up in a religious family in Sydney and for the most part found this to be a positive experience. But later in life after a marriage breakdown and the general business of life he found himself disconnected to …
We all have an idea of what is the right thing to do. Sometimes we have people close to us who see a foolishness that we are blind to and they let …
Recorded before a live audience at the Salvos Creative Arts Engagement Conference in Melbourne, Julia works full time for the Salvos encouraging and …
People will attempt great things when they are assured of the support and encouragement of others. My friends complete epic marathons and trail runs. The lovely Sue is by nature a little timid, but has been shark cage …
Greg is the founder of Sanctuary. A place of refuge and community in down town Toronto. I know Greg because he has come to Australia to teach and share his story with Arrow leadership. A great quality of this man is …
Jesus - the kindest and most enlightened person you could imagine was brutally killed because he was a threat to people with a completely different …
Wayne was a teacher and school principal and has enjoyed a fulfilling life as a husband, father and committed Salvo. He has worked for many years …
Thinking about death is not easy. Dwelling on it in prayer is even harder. But prayer is often about facing up to the things we would rather not …
Dominique Rizzo is one of Queenslands most successful female chefs. She is dynamic and soulful and has featured on ready steady cook and runs …
When we are betrayed by someone, it is really challenging to trust them again. Not impossible, but not easy. Grace and courage is required and there are always consequences for bad behaviour. But if we can't reconcile …
Leanne Rogers visits refugee camps all over the world to teach English and spread hope, love and music to some of the most desperate people on earth. Her journey to this, from life as a middle class church attender, …
Sharing a meal can be the consumption of food or the opportunity to really encounter other people. Eye contact, the inflection of a voice and body language is all on display around a table. Lets not miss our …
John Viles is a Salvo officer in Tweed Heads. He is married to Nicole and they have two children. John was loved and valued beautifully as a kid by …
Most people are struggling with something. Everyone has significant events in their lives. even if it's just a birthday. To pause and honour someone with a gift, some kind words or to arrange a gathering, is really …
Bethany Baillie is married to BJ and is a Salvo officer living in Western Australia. She is a young woman with a huge heart for people on the margins. A true blue Salvo who cares deeply for others. Life was cruising …
We all have seasons where we get a bit complacent. Things are going OK so we just hit the cruise buton and let life mooch along. Or maybe we are just tired and in a rut. However we still need to be watching out for …
Vince Ross grew up living in a humpy on the banks of the Murrumbidgee river in New South Wales. Madi Madi country. His father was Scottish and His mum was aboriginal and so he found it hard to find his place in the …
There will always be seasons where everything seems doomed. Mark Ch 13 is a chapter of end times apocalyptic doom and gloom. But Marks world was quite small and the troubles of the day were to him of global …
Brenda Linsell is a keen park runner and likes to have a go at anything. Her cancer journey taught her to value every moment. She lives in Melbourne with her husband Derek and loves art, mosaics and cooking. She has …
The poor widow who gave her last two coins was not being generous - she was oppressed by the religious leaders who demanded her compliance with …
Winsome grew up in a little town called Burnie on the North West Coast of Tasmania and didn't think she would travel far from this part of the …
What is really worth doing? What is important? What helps us live our best life? Jesus was asked this one day and he basically said this. Love God and love others with all that you are. Love the mysterious and …
Kathryn McKay felt strongly at age 5 that she wanted to be a Salvo for the rest of her life. She is now a mother of three and runs a mums and bubs program for the Salvos in Sydney. She has seen huge changes in Salvo …
Apparently the effigy of Queen Elizabeth the 2nd on our coins will be phased out and a new image of King Charles the 3rd will soon. take it's place. …
Dean Clifford was born with a rare skin disease and was often referred to as a cotton wool baby or a butterfly wing baby as his skin was extremely …
The best of a spiritual life, things like love, hope, peace and purpose has often been represented by wine. To drink deeply of Gods love and presence. When religious leaders of Jesus time were dodgy, Jesus compared …
Gerrard was born blind and yet from an early age lived life wholeheartedly. He even rode his bike to school each day as a kid, following his …
I'm running an anger management course Called Circuit Breaker and finding it really helpful. The parallels with Jesus' teaching in Mark 12 about …
Mark grew up in a troubled home and struggled with self worth and confidence. His engagement with good people in the Salvos as a young man and a sincere faith in Jesus, has enabled him to overcome these challenges and …
The other day someone paid for my meal at a drive through so I paid for the guy behind me. He then paid for the guy behind him. I have no idea why this happened.
Kindness and goodness is everywhere and not always easy …
Rod grew up in the Salvos and got kicked out of a music camp by my brother for sneaking out after dark. Despite this setback, Rod’s career as a professional singer has taken him all over the world and he has been a …
Groups and organizations need to deliver on their promises or people feel ripped off and disappointed. My Tooheys trot running group promises a friendly and comfortable trail run experience and always delivers. It's a …
Emma Ralston had a health scare when she was a small baby and I was at the hospital with her and her parents during this time. Ever since then she has had a special place in my heart. And she loves Stories of Hope …
Apparently cold showers are very good for you, but it is a breathtaking shock to the system. The Easter message reminds us that the capacity to …
Jonathon Ralston works for CSIRO and develops remote mining technologies that are designed for the moon and ultimately Mars. He is a scientist, a …
Downloads for the Stories of Hope podcast have skyrocketed lately and I'm not really sure why. Maybe I am on the road to fame and fortune like BTS. The lovely Sue thinks it's just a technical glitch. She's probably …
Hans came to the Salvos a broken man. Addicted to drugs and lost. Unable to stay clean, unable to work and unable to maintain relationships. On his 13 year journey with the Salvos he has fallen many times, but the …
We can all feel a bit insignificant at times. But Henri Nouwen suggests that when we drink the cup of our humble lives wholeheartedly we become a …
Ian Brown is a husband, father, grandfather, Thoracic Physician and a dedicated Salvo leader. He has kept fit over the years by jogging and playing a bit of tennis. He has always needed to juggle the challenges of his …
Raising a glass at a party is a way of saying welcome, I see who you are and am glad you are here with us. Sharing honestly with others even if the …
Chris Reid is a national leader with the Salvation Army and is also a wife, a mother and a grandma, known to her grandchildren as GG. Her life has been a journey of self discovery, incorporating times of tragedy as a …
Henri Nouwen wrote a book called "Can you drink the cup"
It is an invitation to live our lives fully. Drinking deeply of every experience - both …
Jamie Lee never knew her father and was homeless by the time she was 17. For many years she has lived on the streets and in youth shelters. She has dyslexia and a variety of mental health conditions. Her life has not …
It's scary to leave the comforts and security of the known way, but if we trust that whatever we leave will somehow be made up for, we will take the risk. Our dog Maggie left the comfort and security of her mother and …
Narelle Sketcher is the principal of Mt Evelyn Christian School in Melbourne and is a well educated and thoughtful person. She grew up at Camberwell …
Some Christians say Jesus is the answer, but a book around at the moment is titled "Jesus is the question" Jesus asks far more questions than he answers. We need safe places for conversation and enquiry if we are ever …
Graeme Golding is from rich Salvation Army heritage here in Australia, trained as a professional musician and was a Salvo officer for a while. We …
Winning and being the best isn't all it's cracked up to be. Not to say we don't try our best, but we will almost always be out done in some way, by someone. For example, Nigella may be a better cook than the lovely …
Narelle is a third generation Salvo and grew up in PNG with her Missionary parents. Her life story is a consistent development of what it means to serve, to be real and to be authentically engaged in community. …
The rich young ruler who asked Jesus how to inherit eternal life was really asking how to live here on earth with passion, purpose and love. Turns …
Ruth Kohe is a Salvation Army Officer in Papua New Guinea. She and her husband Ramson are responsible for children and youth activities in the …
The breakdown of families and tensions in households can be a dreadful thing to cope with. Hardheartedness can cause a lot of damage. So how do we …
Colin and I grew up together at Camberwell Salvos and were best mates as teenagers. The richness of this friendship is evident as we share even …
The bug-a-salt fly killer gun has great potential for the development of men's groups. But salt is also a descriptor of a useful and interesting …
Michelle is a transgender woman who has two daughters and lives in Melbourne. She works as an advocate for transgender and diversity issues within the transport department. I am friends with her partner Cara and we …
For the power of community to be fully realized, we cannot stay safe and comfortable. We need to learn how to suffer a bit and give ourselves away …
Kevin Beach grew up in stable and loving family and was a Rugby player in Queensland and also in the UK. Life took a tragic turn when, mid career, he was struck by a car and had both his legs smashed up. Drinking got …
People fulfill the loving purposes of God in all sorts of ways and Jesus didn't seem to mind what their background was of even what they believed. …
Matt Reeve is a husband to Clare, Father to Sadie, Matisse and Darby and a Salvo officer. His Mum and Dad fostered babies for 25 years and his sister died tragically at just 43 year of age. He knows about grief and …
Profound moments of the divine happen every now and then, often when we are in the midst of suffering. I am experiencing the grief of losing my mother just before Christmas and although this is really sad and …
I met Nadine at a parkrun a few months ago and we chatted for about 15 minutes, but knew we could chat forever if we had the chance. We became …
The lovely Sue and I have come to know what to expect from each other. That is how any relationship tends to function. Our relationship with God and the mysterious forces of love is a bit the same. At some level this …
Wez Koni was born in PNG and rolled into a fire when he was just three years old suffering dreadful burns. Even after 33 major operations, a move to …
Even magical genies find some things impossible to understand. So it stands to reason that we will need the humility to shift our views on life and God from time to time.
Amaru is a ten year old young lady who lives in Brisbane on Yugambeh land and is of Aboriginal and South Sea Islander decent. I know her Mum Lucy. …
G'day. This episode is a recap of the year that was and an update on what is on the cards for 2023.
I want to thank you for listening in and being supportive and to wish you all a terrific Christmas.
Emma grew up with the love and support of a devoted mother who raised her and her two siblings alone. Her family was helped by the Salvos at Christmas one year and from there she connected and is still a Salvo today. …
Trusting people is important for any financial or relational interaction and scammers and tricksters abound. Jesus wanted His disciples to know who he was and he asked them about this directly. They thought he was the …
Alison Hawley is one of the most enthusiastic and colorful people I know. She has been helping people get fit and stay fit for most of her working …
Fred Hollows was an irreverent and bombastic sort of fellow who had no time for cumbersome institutions. He just wanted people all over the world …
John Dalziel has 4 generations of Salvo officer leaders in his family. But he decided at an early age, not to become a salvo officer and instead to …
Rachel is 11 years old and lives with her mum and dad and two sisters in Melbourne. She is a second cousin to me and I think she is terrific. She …
Jesus warned the disciples against the yeast of the Pharisees; an arrogant form of spiritual pride and certainty that required signs from heaven and …
Noela is an honorary member of my Rotary Club and has always been active in serving others, both here in Australia and in her beloved Tanzania. Her life story is not without hardship and she has allowed these …
There have been times when I have spoken before big crowds and been seen to do amazing work only come home to the lovely Sue who is cranky with me for being a jerk. Integrity and character is found in the simple and …
I trained as a Salvo officer with Kathryn back in 1994, but our lives have taken us in different directions and so catching up on her interesting and …
Much of life is preparation for something that is yet to come. Digging compost into a dry old garden bed is a good example. This work requires a …
Tracy is a salvo officer who despite a difficult childhood, has found her way to a place of hope and service to others. She is married to Steve and …
Jesus tells us in Mark Ch 7 to honor our parents and to look after them. Not all parents are easy and as they age, caring becomes more challenging. So getting this right requires wisdom and sacrifice.
Dave Fitness Grew up in the Salvos in New Zealand and his life has certainly had its ups and downs. I met Dave on a cycling trip from Sydney to Brisbane and encountered one of the most friendly and enthusiastic humans …
It is possible to count the number of seeds in an apple. But impossible to count the number of apples in a single seed. Seeds grow in their own time frame and we do well to trust this process rather than to try to …
Colin Reynolds was engaged to a girl name Elaine who had Cystic Fibrosis. Her tragic death shaped his life profoundly. He traveled to Vietnam where …
Georgia lives in South Australia and is a delightful 11 year old young lady. Georgia and her Mum have a lovely chat with me on the podcast and it …
Divine love often finds us but sometimes we need to search for it like it is hidden treasure. The lovely Sue loves me and I love her and sometimes its just there and natural. Other times it takes a lot of work!
Paddy Moore has personal experience with abuse and trauma. His encounter with genuine community that felt like a loving family impacted him deeply and his journey of recovery and healing continues today. He is …
Just like everyone has access to the sewer system, everyone has access to the love and blessing of God. It’s not earned, it’s generously available to everyone!
It's fair to say Belinda is not your A-Typical Salvo officer. Her life has been both tragic and beautiful and her vibrant personality makes for a …
Jesus was scathing towards the religious leaders who pretended to love God but were not reflecting the love of God in their actions towards others. In a similar way, I can appear to be devoted to the lovely Sue, but …
Bernie Muendel had an encounter with the Salvation Army and God most powerfully when a Salvation Army Major hugged him when he was at his lowest …
Spirituality is a bit mysterious and hard to understand, but it seems to come to everyone in some way or another and like Jesus waking on water to comfort his disciples, it is often unlikely, but very real when we are …
Graeme Mclimont passed away suddenly in September 2022. I interviewed him on this podcast in May of 2022 and repost this today as a way to remember and honor this amazing man.
Graeme was a lecturer at the Salvo …
My expert ten year old on the podcast today is Aaliyah who lives in Sydney. She has a lot to say and is a very interesting and delightful young lady!
There are too many big issues to resolve and I sometimes feel insignificant and powerless. But if we love like Jesus did, we will do the small …
Sandra and I have been friends for many years, but it went to a whole new level when I was on the support crew for a 50K Oxfam walk she did a few …
Being busy can be a badge of honor. But there is great wisdom in slowing down at times and rediscovering the gently art of prayerful reflection. …
Jerry and I met at the Men's Walk and Talk group we both attend. Jerry is into Munga animation, gaming and singing. He has autism and as he shares his story, it is inspiring to hear the way he has pushed through so …
When we love others we need to understand that we can only ever bring a small portion of the love they need to feel whole and complete. Reminds me of …
Bob is a Baptist pastor and has vast experience in many different aspects of ministry. His engagement with the military and a variety of different …
We all have an influence no matter how insignificant we may see ourselves to be. Every time we engage with others we bring things like hope, love, despair and hatred into the space. When we bring love, who knows what …
Tracy Iles has been a strong and loving support to people on the margins of society for many years. Her work with the Salvos has been powerful and a …
Allegra is 8 years old, but is turning 9 soon so is quite close to 10 years old. She lives in Brisbane and loves AFL. She barracks for the Calamvale …
There is plenty in life to shut us down and plummet us into despair. Politics, climate change and health challenges to name a few. To stay positive …
Lucas Cairns is a talented musician, a loving husband and a father of 4. He is a Salvo officer who loves young people and is also a heart transplant …
When we love like Jesus did, people will feel free to leave or stay. They will never feel trapped or obligated to repay us or align to our agendas.
In this episode recorded before a live audience at Carindale Salvos, we chat to Matt Boulton about his life and how his personal life journey shaped …
Jesus was intentional about loving people with troubled minds. His compassion for the anguish of traumatized people was consistent. The heartwarming …
Louanne and the Lovely Sue have known each other since they were children. Louanne has endured a lot in her life, including relationship breakdowns, and serious health challenges, but her resilience and faith is …
There will always be difficult times in life, as we are all subject to sickness, conflict and ultimately death. But to be filled with fear is just …
Karl and his family immigrated from the UK in 2016 and were living their dream of a whole new life in Australia. But Karl's 7 year old son Richie was …
When we live wholeheartedly and shine brightly, we need not be afraid of what others might think. Our lives are often wonderful and inspiring and …
Ryan's mum worked with me a few years ago and he now lives with his parents and his little brother in Tasmania. He is nearly 8 years old and wants to …
When we love people we are foolish to expect predictable outcomes as a result. The journey to wholeness and growth is a mystery, much like how a seed …
Lauren is a beautiful person and despite a cancer journey during the pandemic has maintained a positivity and hope that warms your heart and helps …
Families are a mixed bag. Sometimes we are close and feel very safe and at other times there may be distance and even animosity. If we are to love like Jesus, we need to let some people get close. Really close. Close …
Jason is a wonderful thoughtful man who has been a wise voice for the poor within the Salvos for many years and who now works in the court system in …
Jesus was often misunderstood as he gave preference to loving people who were unable or unwilling to benefit the powerful institutions of his day. …
Eddie Miekus has been volunteering for the Salvos off and on for over 20 years. He has an interesting life story and a big heart to serve others.
Jesus chose unlikely and ordinary people to be his co workers in sharing the message of God's love to the world. My daughter Georgia helped me wash …
Alberto grew up in an orphanage in Jamaica and was eventually adopted by an Australian Salvo couple here in Brisbane. He had no idea that we was …
Charity Barnam “You don’t need everyone to love you, just a few good people" Unfortunately some of us ignore this wise advice and get carried away …
Shirli works for the Salvos in Wulgurukaba country near Townsville and is responsible for a national team of workers who educate and connect Salvos …
If we are to love like Jesus did, we will stand up for people who are treated unfairly. Even if it costs us our security and comfort.
Rosy grew up in a loving family and in the folds of a loving church, but needed to spread her wings and push the boundaries. She lived a quite risky …
Life and the world we live in has certainly changed a lot since I was a kid snuggling up to my Grandma Davies and we need to be wise and flexible to …
For many years Kristy struggled to believe she was of great worth. Even with a loving family and a forgiving church, she struggled. But one day it landed for her and since then, she has had the strength to overcome …
Linda had quite a challenging childhood and found family and hope in the Salvos at an Early age. She and her husband Steve have been Salvo officers for many years and they now run an organic Faith Expression on the East …
I was at a Salvo community meal last week and loved chatting with the people at my table. They were a bit rough and ready, but they were sincere and seemed to really care about each other. Jesus often shared meals with …
Brodie was teaching English to kids in Vietnam as part of an extended working holiday, when his life was turned upside down by a devastating …
Everybody makes mistakes and has annoying personality traits. But if we are to love like Jesus did, we will have a huge capacity for forgiveness. To …
Lucy and my daughter Georgia studied together and were flat mates. I love her like a daughter. Lucy is a bubbly delight to chat with and her story will make you smile and know again, that there really are still …
If we are to love like Jesus, we will be safe for people who feel like they are lepers to hang out with. No judgement, no rejection, just warmth and acceptance and maybe even healing!
Tony Kerridge had a challenging childhood and spent many years in and out of jail and in addiction. His five beautiful children were deeply affected …
Confronting evil and the demonic in our day and age seems extreme and the language is laced with judgment and condemnation. But Jesus loved people enough to confront the things that were destroying them and causing …
Katie Jackson and I ran the Red Shield Appeal at a private girls school she worked at for about three years We hit it off and loved doing this …
Jesus was a master teacher and people felt loved and inclined to grow, heal and learn from him. If we love like Jesus, we will teach others in ways …
Matt is a gentle and thoughtful sort of fellow and yet tackles one of the hot topics on the philosophical and political landscape - environmentalism. …
I was a fat little kid and not a great footy player, but one time a senior staff member at my school noticed me and I overheard him say to my footy …
Peter Janetzki is an educator and counselor and often ran sex education programs in schools. He also heads up a yearly Fraser Island fishing trip …
In my quest to be a more loving person I am exploring how Jesus loved people by carefully reading Marks Gospel. Turns out his first step was to do …
SJ is one of the most positive people you could meet. Her running and support of others who run is spectacular to witness. But her life has not …
Not the easy sort of love you feel when you are happily together with friends eating cheesecake, the sort of love you have when the people in front of you are behaving badly and you really want to slap them or …
The lovely Sue and I did our Salvation Army training with Sandy Fernee back in 1993. Since then, she has studied Egyptian Archeology with a side …
We live very fast paced lives and we can often struggle to find perspective and peace. Mindfulness is a way to slow down, notice our actual lives and …
Brad McIver grew up in the Salvos but ended up living a double life. It was in a broken place in his life in Darwin that he gave up trying to run his life and he surrendered to God. He got honest, lost 40 kg, started …
When we truly feel what someone else is feeling, we get to love on a deep level. This is not always pleasant, as many people are sad, afraid and …
Heather Hawkins is an extraordinary marathon and ultra marathon runner, She has run in extreme environments all over the world. She grew up in the …
I've not been well. I have a head cold and have been flying, so my ears are blocked and I feel like I do life in a deep sea diving helmet. But there …
Most of us don't do what we know we should and can experience a lot of shame and guilt about this, especially, it seems, if we have grown up in the …
Kris Halliday's great grandfather was a renown drunken sailor who found his way the the Salvos in Australia way back in the late 1800's. Kris had a desire to be a Salvo officer from an early age and endured through many …
Albert Einstein is quoted as saying "A ship in harbor is safe, but that is not what ships are built for". There are seasons to develop, consolidate …
There are not too many people I know who are as passionate about faith in Jesus and who back it up with decades of effective frontline, earthy Salvation Army ministry like Craig Stephens. Buckle up for a life story that …
What good is faith if it does not result in loving behavior? In the 2011 Brisbane floods, thousands of people could not just sit by thinking kind …
Conor Watt dreamed of being a photographer and a surfer as a child, but addiction ravaged his life and those dreams dissolved. But now with 23 years …
Richard Rohr says the opposite of faith is not doubt, it is certainty. To have faith is to acknowledge that we cannot see what is ahead and to go there anyway. To leave our comfort zones and hang on to hope. When we do …
Jennifer Short had her challenges as a child but they all served to make her mentally tough and resilient. The Salvos were supportive through her childhood and so she decided to give back by riding from Sydney to …
My new role in Tasmania with the Salvos is to encourage and support what we are calling Organic Faith Expressions. Let’s unpack this. What does …
Jason is of Indian descent and grew up feeling different and when his Father left home his sense of being lost was crippling. He became involved with …
The cute puppy on my social media pages has the capacity to be a terrorist when she puts her mind to it. So I am attending puppy school - not so much …
Kim Haworth is my boss when I am working in Tasmania. She shares her interesting life story and the fact that as a child she was a tap dancing duck. …
I once went on a simulated ride in a space shuttle. It was sort of real, but it didn't prepare me for piloting an actual space shuttle. Sometimes our …
Nic Marchesi and Lucas Patchett helped out at a soup van when they were teenagers. This birthed a dream to do something and make a difference. That dream is now Orange Sky, a mobile laundry and shower service to …
If we are to be encouraging, we need to take the risk of getting involved in other people’s lives. We don't always need to fix their problem, …
John Cleary was a radio producer with the ABC for over 30 years and has a rich personal and philosophical experience with the Salvos. From Solid Rock …
Everyone needs encouragement and there are things we can all learn to do this better, like asking good questions and listening well.
People are often afraid and need little moments of hope, so lets not be stingy with …
Stuart Glover is a proud Bundjalung man who is currently the secretary for Mission in the Salvation Army, Australia wide. Years ago, he and I were part of a little group called "thrash" where we wrestled with our doubts …
Stories of Hope Podcast started in April 2020 and has published over 250 episodes and 32000 downloads. But there are a few podcast changes afoot for 2022, one of which is our new puppy Maggie, who is sure to get a few …
Kate Baudinette grew up in the Salvos and enjoyed an idyllic childhood. As an adult, family and church life was rewarding and happy. Then cancer …
I have a new role in 2022 that will involve me travelling 6 times a year to Tasmania. I will still live with the lovely Sue in Brisbane, which is …
Jesus describes the kingdom of God as a banquet where everyone is welcome. It’s not that complicated really, just go outside and fire up the BBQ or a cook up some vegetable soup. The smells and an “Everyone is welcome” …
Shelley is one of the most gregarious and positive people you could meet. She is a fabulous singer and runs a vintage poster shop in a trendy suburb …
When a disaster hits, like the 9/11 terrorist attacks or even a flood – people are usually generous and compassionate in response. Reality is, there is always a crisis for someone and we have opportunities, every day …
The lovely Sue has a saying. It’s better to be married to a goat than a Fox. She generally trusts me, however she let me choose the frames for my glasses once, but has never trusted me to do it again.
Paul Moulds has helped hundreds of young people and asylum seekers with great compassion and skill as a salvo leader. He was adopted as a baby and …
The Salvos run heaps of great Christmas parties each year for people who come to us throughout the year for support. Volunteers love to help out each …
Social media seems to produce a lot of insecurity as we look at others and compare. When we find ways to celebrate others successes and genuinely …
Narelle came to the Salvos as a child by joining in our equivalent of Girl Guides. She ended up spending a large part of her working life with the Salvos, including 11 years in Malawi. She has a dog named Miko.
Janice Hoogeveen is a corporate leader in branding and marketing. Her journey to be involved with the Salvos advisory board at Streetlevel is …
Christmas is a time of wondrous impossibilities. Angels chatting to shepherds, virgin birth, wise men following a star etc. Inexplicable happenings …
Alison grew up in the Salvos and was used to a middle class church community. She ended up involved at the Salvos Streetlevel drop in center and in …
One of the wonderful parts of being human is to celebrate. Often we do this with food but it can also be dancing, music, hugging and even growing …
The other night I want to look at Christmas lights, and ended up having an unexpected cuddle with the beautiful newborn baby of some friends of ours. …
A chat with Maryam Zafari about strategies to cope with loneliness - especially at Christmas time.
I've been helping out at the recovery center with the Salvos for the Inglewood floods over the last few days and have been privileged to hear their stories and to be able to offer some financial support. I get to be …
Our bodies are 70% water. When people and rivers are dehydrated, disaster is not far away. When I run I need to drink before I am thirsty or I will …
Sometimes gift giving is very token and means very little. But at other times gift giving can touch our hearts and nurture love and friendship …
Fire can cook bacon, refine metal and burn down a house. It is useful and powerful, but demands respect. Sometimes we get apathetic and lack the fire …
Bronwen Healy grew up in a fairly loving home, but found herself addicted to drugs and funding her habit through prostitution by the time she was 21. Her story of transformation and consequent capacity to help others is …
Australia has more big things like a giant lobster and a big pineapple than anywhere else in the world. We love to promote the good things our communities have to offer and, cheesy as it is, it's not a bad thing.
A kite without a good breeze is about as useful to me as ballet shoes, but when the wind blows, it's a lot of fun. We don't know where the wind of …
Mitch and Jeff have been mates for 30 years. But when Mitch experienced a tragedy and started drinking, Jeff realized having a beer with him was not …
Church life at Caboolture Salvos the other Sunday was simply delightful. We are a group of committed people who serve the local community and try to …
Our relationship with the earth is important and the Aboriginal people of Australia have known this for thousands of years, but not so for many new Australians. The gift of the land and an appreciation for it, prompts …
Mark Curtis was an alcoholic and a drug addict for over 20 years. He ended up in jail and was mandated to do a Salvo rehab in Perth.
He as been sober …
I have been attending a men's shed and I love it. They often restore old furniture and make things in slow old fashioned sorts of ways. I have been …
Bill Violas depiction of 4 martyrs encountering the 4 elements of nature; earth, wind, fire and water; can stimulate our thinking about God and …
Maryam Zafari and I worked together for the Salvos in Villawood and helped lots of people who struggled with various addictions. Today we delve into some of the challenges and insights we have gained along the way
Halloween zombies and skulls are everywhere at the moment and death is a part of life that we do need to think about. What will people say at your …
In Jesus time, where you sat at a wedding banquet table was important. If you sat in the place of honor and were then displaced when someone more important came along, it was humiliating. Far better to sit in the lowest …
Francis had a tough childhood and spent many years in prisons and institutions. I met him in rehab 20 years ago and we keep in touch. He has found a way to live a simple yet happy life. This is his inspirational story.
The Netflix documentary, my octopus teacher, is the story of one mans intimate friendship with an octopus. Surely we can work out how to be friends with humans, if he can find a way to befriend an octopus!
There were two epic fails in the outback that proved to be important in the development of Australia as a nation. Failing is actually an important part of any progress.
Ben Brewer is the regional manager of the Salvos welfare services on the Sunshine coast in Queensland. He has worked for the Salvos for many years. His life story is not without troubles but it is certainly grounded in …
Peter Hodges was a hopeless alcoholic. He completed a Salvo Rehab in 2000 and got sober. He became a reliable and passionate Salvo, but died …
We do well to let healthy sadness be a part of our lives. If we don't, we often allow ourselves to live contrary to our own convictions and beliefs. …
Julie Bell has experienced her fair share of suffering, as her father died when she was just 19 and her sister was disabled. Her heart for the people …
My lovely daughter Georgia has started jogging with me. This has been good for our relationship. But running early in the morning, watching the sunrise and sharing in a perfect coffee and some raisin toast the other …
Our capacity for love and kindness is often determined by our own personal experiences of forgiveness. Largely this is from other people, but many embrace a philosophy of life that we are intrinsically loved and valued …
Nikki Curtis is a Salvo officer from an outer suburb of Perth called Merriwa. Every week Nikki and her team engage with and support dozens of local people doing it tough. She is kind, fun and wise. Her story is one of …
I have recently purchased an electric bike to help restore my confidence as a cyclist. It's bright pink, but none the less, I'm back out there riding and enjoying all the benefits of cycling.
When the lovely Sue and I were dating, we went on a bus trip to some very romantic places in Europe and she asked me to marry her at every one of them. I was not interested. But she persisted!
Ann Maree attends my Rotary club and is working towards becoming a mid life mentor for women. "Women in their fifties suddenly become invisible" Ann Maree participates in a number of networking groups and is always …
Many of our kitchen appliances are amazing, but they sometimes live in the dark cluttered corners of our low cupboards - unused and unappreciated. …
Jesus had an agenda to smash through the old religious idea that certain people were in and others were out. His association with the dodgeyest …
"Going to church" is a phrase Christians use to describe their involvement in the gathered people of God. Traditionally this has focused around what …
The lovely Sue and I attended a night of poetry last week with my Rotary club. It was not exactly Dead poets society, but it was profound, nostalgic, funny and highly relational.
A sincere cry from a place of brokenness and despair is better any day that cocky confidence from a place of superiority. We do know this, but the trickery of power, money and position can easily blind us.
20 years after the 9/11 terrorist attacks, I have been watching documentaries and movies about it on the TV. I am sad, horrified and impotent all over again. But I can still love and support my immediate neighbors …
Is there a big chunk of your time and energy set aside to feed something that bears no fruit? Assess it and give it another good year, but if it's still useless it might be a good idea to cut it down.
Shushannah Anderson also known as Shush, is a young, super bubbly, creative and enthusiastic Salvo. She is a fellow podcaster, recently married and spent time doing a creative arts training program in New York. It's …
At Caboolture Salvos the other week we potted dozens of Bromeliad plants as we had the people, the resources and the vision for a worthwhile project. …
We think we need ten times more money than we really do to be happy. The world can't sustain our decadent lifestyles so we will need to learn how to be happy with less. The lovely Sue found a way!
A massively high priority for me is to be a good dad, but there was no "how to be a good dad" subject in the school curriculum. I chat today with my …
I've always believed that more people die each year from falling coconuts than from shark attacks. Turns out this is just not true.
The Parable of the Good Samaritan reminds us that we can all be helpful, even if we think we are inadequate and have nothing to offer. Sometimes …
Dan Casey with his co-host Shushannah are the hosts of a Salvo creative arts podcast called 7 days. Dan's story includes a fairly traditional Salvo upbringing, but his life is anything but traditional and his enthusiasm …
When we trust people, everything is easier. I trusted Andy, despite his taste in running pants on a recent trail run and it was fabulous. If nations …
Our inner life needs solid rock to secure our minds and hearts in the inevitable storms of life. But they are very rarely perfect and we can be …
Selina is married to my brother Russell. She is currently a senior researcher at a feminist unit at Stellenbosch University in Cape Town, South Africa and she focuses on the complex relationships between Christian faith …
Older people love being invited into big ideas, as they like being a part of a team and have wisdom and experience to bring to the table. And if not, they like a cup of tea and have time for a chat.
Donal and Cornelia McKernan from the Bruderhof community near Inverell, came to the Salvos in 2015 and offered to serve for 6 months. They are …
The 2021 Olympics often brought me to tears. Tears of hope and inspiration. Hope that the world can in fact get along and relief that inspirational leaders like Aussie Boomers basketball captain, Paddy Mills, are in the …
Janelle is a great friend Sue and I met in 1987 on a bus tour of Europe. She was your average suburban Christian housewife 5 years ago, but today is …
Watching the Olympics has been good for the soul. Love, respect and a culture that values the power of community is a welcome contrast to the fear …
Dr Russell Rook grew up in a Salvo family in the UK and attends the Raynes Park Salvos in the UK. He is the founder of a variety of amazing …
For most of us, self-discipline is a challenge and we need to get involved in events that inspire us and hold us accountable. No one will sponsor me …
The Bible mentions sheep over 200 times. And as I often relate, feeling a bit stupid and lost, I like to hear what it has to say. Turns out Sheep …
Born in Northern Ireland, Sharon Callister is an amazing ultra marathon runner, recently completing a 320 kilometer event in the Arctic Circle. She …
We find meaning in our lives when we have healthy relationships. When we are in lockdown and tempted to stock up on dunny paper and look after No 1, lets take opportunities to look out for others and connect, even if it …
God is always doing a new thing and we need to be open-minded to keep up with this. We do this every time we pray. We open ourselves up to receive new truth about how Gods kingdom love is to be expressed in this …
Mike Carter grew up in America and moved suddenly to Australia when he was 13. This change set him on a course of drug using that nearly killed him. Now, over 20 years clean, Mike is the founder of a charity for young …
Jean Fox was involved in a weekly cooking show on channel 7 back in 1955. She came to the Salvos in real need as her husband struggled with alcohol. …
Every day we have the opportunity to allow good seeds of truth to grow in our lives. But often the soil of our spirit is hard or overgrown or shallow. When we nurture our spirits, seeds of truth, opportunity and love …
Lucy Davis is an Aboriginal, South Sea Islander woman who lives in Brisbane. Lucy is the National Coordinator of the Salvation Army’s Reconciliation …
A few weeks ago on the 26th May 2021 there was a lunar eclipse, a Blood Moon. Just a small incidental alignment of objects in our tiny solar system, …
Sometimes people stray from the ways that seem best for them and there are often good reasons for this. Coming to our senses and finding our way home to truth and love takes courage, humility and faith.
Matt Reeve and Sandy McLean join me to chat about a few topics raised in the interview with Phil Wall back in May 14. We discuss how a mature Christ like Love is the main power of our living rather than having all the …
I shared a podcast the other week about the fabulous love and compassion of the town of Gander in Newfoundland that inspired the musical Come from …
My brother Russell lives in South Africa and is the director of a NGO that helps financially disadvantaged young people progress into higher education. His journey from a middle class Salvo upbringing in Melbourne to a …
I’m not much for the big sing fest type gatherings where we seem to sing forever and never have time to chat. I’d much rather gather with a dozen or so sincere friends and have more of a fireside sing along.
Love and hope in a person is infectious and hard to contain. Like a warm smile or a big laugh, it just seems to influence whoever witnesses it. A …
Kelvin Merrett is a naturally introverted and quiet sort of fellow, but he has the integrity and capacity to carry senior leadership responsibilities for the Salvation Army in Australia. This is his story.
Nobody really knows what it’s like inside our skin. People can empathize, but we ultimately need to face our lives alone, nobody can face it for us. …
Damo has had a tough life in some ways and ended up needing help from the salvos. He now works at the Salvos recycled Bike workshop and I hang out with him every Wednesday morning for a few hours. I really like him and …
Ambition can be a dangerous fixation on a set future that drives us to achieve a goal in a way that diminishes our humanity and hurts the people around us. Ambition that is not generous, creative and loving is often …
David Garlick teaches at Sir Joseph Banks Hi School in Sydney and runs a program for year 9 boys called Triple M. (Mentoring, Masculinity and …
Four challenges for World Environment day.
1 Pick up rubbish
2 Stop using plastic bottles.
3 Walk and cycle more.
4 Fall in love with your local environment.
Life and faith is complicated and challenging. Socrates said “The only true wisdom is in knowing you know nothing” I learned this in the veggie …
Matt Reeve and Sandy McLean join me in this episode to unpack the meaning of true friendship. Last Mondays nugget of truth and the interview with Phil wall touched on this important subject and we take some time to have …
Paul has come to Fraser Island on the Salvos 4WD fishing trip for three years now. The first year his behavior was challenging. The second year his …
Friendship is almost always underestimated and a diminishing circle of close friends is the first sign of a life in serious trouble. Without …
Miriam is a fun person. However she is a powerful agent of change and hope within the Salvation Army and makes things happen. She is creative, …
Akemi and Kazu Kobyashi have been supportive members of the Salvos at Streetlevel in Brisbane for over ten years. Akemi ran the occupational Health …
Everyone needs a purpose and a sense of meaning in their lives and loving people, even in seemingly small ways, can fulfill a life in surprisingly …
Phil Wall is an international speaker, Executive coach and founder of "We see hope" He is a foundation member of the Raines Park Salvos in the UK and …
Simone and her family from Fire’N’Dough Mobile wood fired Pizzas have supported the salvos by supplying fabulous free pizza to people from the …
I bite my nails and it drives the lovely Sue a bit mental. However she perseveres with me and still loves me, most of the time. All lasting friendships and loving relationships require perseverance and a good measure …
After 12 months of Stories of Hope Podcasts, I wanted to chat with a few friends about it all. Join us for insights into the power of story and the potential for podcasts to communicate and educate.
ANZAC day is a powerful reminder of the cost of greed and war. Australians gather in amazing numbers to reflect and pause to be thankful for peace …
At the Salvos Drug and Alcohol recovery center in Brisbane there is a sign on the front office wall which says “There is Hope”. Love always hopes and …
Winsome's great grandfather was a drunk, who once rode a horse though a Salvo open air meeting, however his life was transformed and Winsome is now a key leader in the Salvos in Australia. She also survived Cyclone …
Getting out of bed and doing some exercise can require some complex mental gymnastics. Believe me, I know! But it is worth the effort and will make you feel better – body, mind and spirit.
Professor Mapendere grew up as a street kid in Harare, Zimbabwe. He showed promise at school and ended up being supported by my brother and his wife …
Maintaining good friendships is a challenge. But our friends John and Liz have been in our lives for over 20 years and the way we keep it interesting is “Monthly Mayhem”
Love always protects and so when the lovely Sue finds out that you are having a go at me, she has a raft of strategies to protect me unless of course you have just cause, then she will join in the party and enjoy it as …
A few months ago I watched a guy remove a tree stump by using a Sampson Post. I’d never seen this before and I thought it was ingenious. I learn best when someone shows me what to do then gives me a go. I’m not too …
Schadenfreude is a German word used to describe the pleasure derived from another person’s mishap or misfortune. It’s how I feel about cats; both the feline variety and the Geelong football club variety.
Peter Slegers (Hop) lost his leg in a motorbike accident at just 19 years of age. This, along with family and relationship challenges drove him into addiction. But he has nearly 20 years in recovery and is a funny …
Sharing coffee or a meal with people seems to produce the environment for good conversation. So coffee is very important to me. It even made on my medical chart in a recent visit to hospital!
People let us down, but if we are wanting to have any sort of decent relationship, we need to leave these mistakes in the past. My friend Lauren told …
Spunky Bruiser is a shop in Darlinghurst, Sydney that repurposes second hand clothing into unique sustainable Australian Fashion. I had an encounter with these guys and ended up helping to make a unique one-off Salvo …
It is important to be angry at injustice, as it can fire us up to get involved in important work. But in loving relationships, the anger caused by …
Warren came to the Salvos over 20 years ago, a broken man. Gambling had ravaged his life, but he found a new life of freedom and service that has …
When people step out of their comfort zone together and share a unique experience, it creates growth and a relational bond. When the salvos ran an adventure trek along the larapinta trail, we ticked all these boxes. …
When I can honestly say, its not about me, I am on the right track to finding love and ironically, deep happiness for guess who?...
Me!
Malcolm Linsell is a plastic surgeon and author, but success has not been easy. His parents were salvo officers and were relatively poor. His journey …
Every year the Salvos put on a men’s camp and on the Saturday afternoon there is a Billy Cart race. One year the team at a coastal salvo welfare center build the world’s first ever Salvo Surfboard Billy cart. It was …
Love is not rude, but often we are more rude to the people we love than we would ever dream of being to the local butcher or a work colleague. The …
My mate Andrew Grinsted returned to the UK after a living for a few years in Australia as a teenager and he ended up marrying the lovely Jill. Jill's story through cancer and working for the NHS in the UK this year is …
A few years ago the Salvos started connecting with people in a local Park in Merrylands. We shared great food and often had a kick of the soccer ball with some of the kids. This soon grew and kids and their parents came …
Boasting is something we really don’t like to see in other people, but can be slow to recognize in ourselves. When we blow our own trumpet, we drown out others and for me, my wife, the lovely Sue, is willing to help me …
Lyn Edge has been a Salvo Minister for over 20 years, serving in Australia and even France. She has multiple degrees and a doctorate. She has written …
Life can sometimes be a bit serious. We need to find ways to be playful and when I took a bunch of guys from Villawood Salvos on a bike ride, they …
Matt Guelzow is a happily married man with a beautiful teenage daughter and a dynamic young son. His wife Jackie came to Australia from Africa and …
Graeme Seeley was in my Plumbing class back in 1983. He started coming to the salvos where he met and fell in love with his now wife, Bronwen. They now have a daughter, who I met for the first time at my 50th birthday …
Kindness has been described as the most powerful, least costly, and most underrated agent of human change.
Andrew was adopted by Salvo officers when he was ten weeks old. He has faced tragedy and a lot of disruption throughout is life, but today has a …
4 years ago I shared a room with a young Salvo computer nerd for a week, while we delivered relief to residents of Airlie Beach after the devastation …
To be patient with someone we love, is in fact being loving.
Love is patient. But in a world of instant gratification, being patient is getting harder and harder.
Janine Donaldson, with her husband Robert are the leaders of The Salvation Army in Australia. Her story as a Mum and as a missionary in Zambia help …
As a family, we recently had to make the painful but necessary decision to put our beautiful dog Bella to sleep. Her last day was special. A whole …
When we meet someone who is hurting or sad, we often do stuff to try make the situation better, by maybe giving advice or financial support, but if we just attempt to fix people and don't genuinely love them, what's the …
Luka-Angel is a vibrant and delightful 17 year old girl. 4 years ago she could not walk 50 meters without risk of a cardiac arrest and had a heart …
Michael is a Wiradjuri man and I met him when we went on a camping trip together. Our friendship grew and he ended up painting me a picture. I loved it as soon as I saw it, but I had no idea of the special meaning it …
Impressive speeches on great themes of life are powerless without love. Love brings all our ideas and relationships to life. And love is about action and a sort of deep connection that words alone cannot deliver.
Well, this is the first full length podcast interview.
Michelle (Shelly) and I have been running buddies for a few years now and she is one of the …
The Nanna Fittys Fruitcake Cycling Club rode from Sydney to Brisbane and raised $130,000 for the salvos work with homeless people. Ordinary men - Extraordinary accomplishment.
Have you ever been angry and felt like you are surrounded by turkeys. Asking for a friend.
Kelly is an effective community leader and helped to start and a park run that has hundreds of dedicated members. She is friendly and colorful, but …
Robbo has struggled all his life. But has found a community at the Salvos in Villawood where he feels like he belongs and can contribute. Best of all though, he gets and gives hugs!
There are times when people are just not being real. They say one thing and do another. We all need authentic friends and look for honesty and truth in our leaders. But like the Velveteen rabbit discovers, it hurts to …
Dave Andrews has lived in community with the poor in Afghanistan and India. He is an influential Christian who has genuine friendships with leaders from other faiths. He is an author and international speaker and his …
The Salvos Streetlevel community in Brisbane is "like a home" for many people on the streets in Fortitude Valley. A safe and welcoming place to belong. The people who came to us for help, wrote a song. This is the story!
When I saw the movie Jaws when I was 11 years old, I ended up being afraid of the ocean for decades. Lots of us have been traumatised by something. …
Samantha Briggs is just 24 years old. She moved to Australia from the States to Marry Jarrod and soon after, tragedy struck and her father died …
On November 16 2008, a ferocious storm devastated a suburb in Brisbane called "The Gap". Houses were destroyed and lives turned upside down. But in the aftermath, the Salvos got a coffee van and a litle girl fell in …
The hardest part of any new journey is the start. It's here we have to learn new paths and push though our uncertainties and fears.
When I first arrived in Sydney I met up with the Reverend Graham Long AM from the wayside chapel and I soon discovered that he is actually not all that Reverent at all, in the traditional sense. I like him.
At an Aussie kids camp, for a construction elective, kids made wooden kazoos for themselves and extras for kids in an orphanage in Nepal. How cool is …
Winter is over and what a winter 2020 has been. Spring is here now and new hope and possibilities are blossoming. Not all seasons are easy, but they can often teach us something important if we are willing to learn.
Hannah Hathway is an absolutely fabulous young woman - always has been. To hear her share her journey through the ravages of bulimia and self harm …
Each year 84 year John Allen puts on a Christmas lights display at his house and families come from all over the place to experience the beautiful …
The lovely Sue and I are moving to Queensland in the new year and there is great sadness at leaving Sydney and my Villawood and Helensburgh friends. I have loved them deeply and the inevitable suffering and separations …
Back in the day, Ross Coverdale was the quintessential Salvo. Despite being a terrible baritone player, his love and dedication to serve the poor and …
Christmas gatherings are not perfect and there is often an uncle Eddie in the mix to make life interesting. But if we gather for a meal, even if we …
Robert Donaldson's father was a garbage collector and for a time so was Robert. He then went on to study micro biology and fell in love with Janine. …
Every year young bandsmen from the salvos at Camberwell dress up in Santa suits and play carols on Christmas eve and Christmas morning at random …
A friendly and supportive neighborhood is such a blessing. People who you trust nearby to love and support. What if the Spirit of Jesus was as close as a friendly supportive neighbor, present and available 24/7? That …
Bridget and Mikalea are two 18 year old young women from regional country towns who decided to do a gap year studying mission and theology in Sydney. …
Each year the guys at the Salvos rehab in Brisbane decorate with Christmas lights and put on a massive street party. People see the property transform and also hear the stories of recovery from the participants. A …
Toni Hoffman exposed Jayant Patel as a dodgy surgeon and was tormented and ridiculed for her trouble. Doing the right thing often results in shining …
Paul Maunder runs a front line work for the salvos in a challenging inner city suburb in Brisbane. He has known personal tragedy, losing his sister …
Robbo is one of my heroes. He is the friendliest bloke I know. He came to a school with me one time and shared about the work of the Salvos. It went …
Being peacemakers in a world of troubles is a challenge. Lets start with the small stuff and do our part to be at peace with our friends, colleagues …
Join Bryce as he has a chat with Major Sandra Mclean (His boss) and Lauren Martin (journalist with the Salvos) about the Podcast journey so far. (WARNING - there is some kazoo playing in this episode)
Gathering in small groups is a great way to build decent friendships and have stimulating discussions; And if you can find a way, buttering hundreds …
To have a pure heart is a lot more about single-minded purpose than a squeaky clean lifestyle that none of us can actually attain.
Next Friday 20th Nov is the 100th episode of this podcast. Please let us know where you …
Overcoming shyness and a limited education as a child, Commissioner James Condon has been a Salvation Army officer for over 40 years and has had appointments in the UK, Papua New Guinea and a variety of senior …
For most of my life I did not celebrate Australian indigenous culture or people in any meaningful way. But for the last five years or so, I have, on …
Susan Boyle presented at Britain's Got talent as a somewhat dowdy and odd person; but then she sang. It was spectacular! I'm so glad she was given a …
Wayne had to lie about his name at school so his father could avoid the police finding him through the education department, because of his …
Some of the most effective and wonderful people I know are not as pure and squeaky clean as you might think. But they are often hungry to be involved …
Every year Andy, who has Parkinson's disease goes on a holiday with the salvos to Fraser Island, but this year it was cancelled. Instead we had a …
In the movie The Shawshank Redemption, Andy Dufresne is wrongly convicted of his wife's murder. But in prison he does not allow his anger to make …
Majors Don and Eva Hill have served as Salvo officers for many years in a variety of appointments such as PNG, Longreach as flying Padres and in Drug …
Lina and Bashar came to Australia fleeing the war in Syria. Lina was in a conversational English class I ran and I taught her to drive. Bashar is a terrific cook and the hospitality and resilience of this family is …
In Australia, we are insanely rich, compared to the rest of the world. But if we are not generous, we are poor in ways that are much more disastrous than not having much money.
Don Woodland has seen more tragedy and heartache than most of us could dream possible. He has supported and loved people through their toughest times …
There are over 200 million rabbits in Australia and they are a costly pest for farmers. Thomas Austin, who introduced them here thought they were just a bit of harmless fun. But, like the guys at Facebook and twitter, …
To be a person of faith is in some ways to believe in magic. Like, believing for joy in terrible sadness or to hope for change in a person who seems too far gone. Is it all just hocus pocus??
Major Brendan Nottle runs the amazing Salvation Army 614 program in Melbourne. His Salvation Army story begins back in 1928 when his Grandmother was given practical and timely support by the salvos in her time of need.
I was a part of a holiday kids program one year that required me to play the role of Con the Fruiterer. It was a seriously fabulous event where the …
Denise experienced a number of significant challenges with church life, including a cult that nearly destroyed her. She found some hope at the Salvos …
The lovely Sue and I are on holidays in the Queensland outback and were surprised to learn that there is a huge amount of water below the surface of …
It takes a lot of love to see someone as they truly are and still accept them. It takes courage to let someone really see you, as it leaves you …
Paul had a really tough childhood and has struggled with addiction and identity for many years. He came to the Salvos a broken man and although …
Most days, the lovely Sue and I go to the hydro pool and meet our new frineds, who need to be there to stay on top of their health issues. They are …
Dave Eldridge AM is an icon of the Salvation Army in Australia. His work establishing the Crossroads youth network in Melbourne and the influence and respect he has with the highest levels of Government and the guy on …
Ashlea has had many challenges in her life, but is a caring and generous person. She loves kids and cares beautifully for people who cannot look …
When I was 16 I joined a Salvo brass band and took my place amongst the other Men of my community. I was expected to do my part in the band and I was relied on and valued. It was a rite of passage that I've always been …
This is the entire recording Jubilant Brass made in 1986. If you are a brass band nut, you will probably enjoy this. If not, it might be a new experience for you. have a listen anyway! Bless ya, Bryce
Real life human friendship can only work if we learn to be good listeners. I have been helping a friend of mine develop these skills and in this weeks episode, I share some insights I have been teaching him. The lovely …
Sue Hodges is a Wiradjuri woman who grew up in Wellington NSW. She is a delightful woman, despite the many tragedies and challenges of her life. She …
The loving heart of God is often expressed beautifully by people with intellectual disabilities. Today's stories are examples of this wonderful truth.
Life is unpredictable at the best of times, but lately, even more so. I ended up doing today's podcast in a bathroom! The lovely Sue and I are in …
Olive Lucas is 82 years old. She is an Aussie Salvo officer who has served in India, Africa and the UK. Her life of vibrant faith is an ongoing bold …
In recovery from addiction, everyone stumbles along the way. For Hans, the stumbles were frequent and spectacular and required a lot of grace. But …
Dr Catherine Philpot is a highly trained psychologist, who is also a salvo. Her journey to value psychology and her faith in the context of helping …
Dan Burke came to the Salvos for help with his addiction issues. He graduated from the program but relapsed and unfortunately died as a result. …
At a rural Catholic retreat center in Queensland, there is a swing chair overlooking a stunning valley. People with addictions, mental health …
Fear and worry are an option, just like love and hope.
This little extra podette is an update and review of the Podcast journey so far. Check it out and I'd love you to fill out the survey on the facebook page, so I get some feedback. Bless ya, Bryce
Diem Dinh was born in Vietnam and came to Australia in 2003. Her life turned upside when her marriage broke down and she came to the salvos for help, with very few possessions, poor English, no support and a two year …
Three things are certain death, taxes and plumbing. Death is not particularly surprising, yet we rarely talk about it.
When we rest and slow down a bit, we can tune in to the more subtle truths of our lives. We need some white space to be creative and find the inspo we need to stay motivated and loving.
Lauren Martin is a journalist who started writing for the Salvos when she was just 18 years old. She saw love in action, opened her heart to God and …
Mui is a 70 something year old Vietnamese lady who lives in Villawood. She is my unlikely surrogate grandmother, even if the food she gives me is a …
St Lawrence is the Patron Saint of Chefs and comedians. He loved the poor and was literally roasted for it. But are the poor really worth being martyred for?
Elizabeth and Michael Johnson share about recent encounters in rural Australia. Raw stories about bush fires, drought, suicide and the power of just being there for people!
I rescued a sick Labrador on a remote walking track back in 2009. I had no idea how this random act of kindness would link me to the dogs family for …
It's hard to get passionate about issues that don't directly affect you. So meeting in a yarning circle and chatting about racism has changed how I feel about these issues, because I now see how it affects my friends.
Telling the truth is good for us. But can our friends and family handle our truth?
Last week at Villawood Salvos, we flooded Urana Street with colorful messages of hope and love. Unlikely saints, who offered up their beautiful …
Loving people is not as easy as it sounds. The first step in this, is to love yourself - and that's not as easy as it sounds either!
Andy played rep footy as a teenager, but has struggled for most of his life with a gambling addiction and Parkinsons disease. Today he has friends, …
Every year for the last ten years the salvos have joined with a group of men who spend a week fishing, camping and 4WD on Fraser Island. This is the story.
I'm a big Jack Reacher fan, but I'm trying to read more widely, so I'm reading the Choice by Edith Eger. It made me cry, but it also helped me grow a bit.
Hannah did her student placement at the Salvos in Brisbane back in 2014. She was a natural, and she loved being involved and for over two years …
Mr Xaing hardly speaks any English, but is a loved and treasured part of the Villawood salvo community. This is the story of how we came to love him.
People are often more resilient when they have a wide circle of trusted friends. Buy a fire pit and invite the neighbors over. It will make the world a better place.
Bill Hunter is a Salvo who has been a Policeman, a champion marathon runner and Chaplain to the Broncos rugby league club. He now runs a sports …
Fiona has had a tough life, but involvement with the salvos has softened her and given her a new sense of purpose, community and hope.
Often we cannot change the stuff we are concerned about. But lets do what we can when we can. Even if its just as simple as having a yarn.
Maryam Zafari was born in Iran and trained as a lawyer. She immigrated to Canada 14 years ago and has worked with indigenous people in Canada who have been separated from families as children. She has a brother with …
Over the last 12 months the Salvos have been involved at a government housing complex in Villawood. Great partnerships have been established and we …
We all find it hard to believe that we are OK at times, faced with stupid things we do and our own head telling us we are no good. How do we start believing we are loved and gonna be OK?
I was the bouncer at the jumping castle at a Christmas event for kids with special needs. What happened next was a painful, but beautiful encounter …
Andy Steel was doing well, but he knew something was missing from his life. He followed a path that has led to Bike repairs, prisons and a …
Anthony has struggled with addiction for many years but is on the journey towards recovery. In this episode we get an insight into how friendship plays a part in this journey and how plumbing and camping brought us …
Tune it to hear about how the podcast is evolving and the new ways to subscribe and get reminder emails.
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As is often the case, I am disappointed by what promises to be spectacular. I needed a few friends to help me believe again.
Saty left home in India when he was just ten years old and lived on the streets of Calcutta. He eventually came to Australia on the promise of a …
As a result of Covid 19 restrictions I have been on a massive techy learning curve. here I chat about 19 new programs I now use and basically what …
This is episode 1.
19 things I've done in the last 6 weeks that I wouldn't normally do.
Episode 2 is my newest 19 computer and tech skills. That …
The story of how my father in law, John Allen became the reason we have an award presented every year at the Salvos fishing trip to Fraser Island.
It was when the food came out that the Emmaus walkers recognized Jesus. Maybe sharing meals together is at the heart of finding God and experiencing true community?
Douglas has plenty of challenges in his life and yet when he mows lawns - he is everybody's hero!!
The stories we believe about our lives can be foundational in how we behave and think.
Maybe its time to author a new story.
So my lovely wife Sue hates the Kazoo jingle I used in my first trial episode. She has made it clear that living together with Covid19 restrictions is hard enough without excessive kazoo playing. HOWEVER, she did not …
A few thoughts about finding hope in the face of trouble.
The Resurrection is the ultimate story of hope.
LOTR - the idea of the Eagle rescuing …
An attempt to unpack the meaning of good Friday.
So here is where the podcast is up to.
It still needs a lot of work, but getting something online is an exciting first step.
Don't worry, the kazoo, drumming bit is just a one off. I promise never to have kazoo …
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