ABQ Connect Episode Archive

Search Episodes

Jim Daly from Focus on the Family joins us to discuss the highly anticipated Truth Rising documentary, a powerful collaboration between Focus on the Family and the Colson Center. The film offers a sweeping look at the current cultural and moral state of Western civilization—its challenges, its decline, and the deeper truths at stake. In this conversation, Jim addresses concerns that the documentary may seem “alarmist” to some, and shares the vision and urgency that led both organizations to create this timely and thought-provoking project.

Michael Kelshaw, elder and teaching pastor at Trinity at the Marketplace, joins ABQ Connect to share about their church and the upcoming Christianity Explored course starting September 17th. Centered on the book of Mark, the course is designed for everyone—whether you’re a longtime believer or just beginning to explore faith. It’s an open invitation to get to know Jesus and understand His heart in a deeper, more personal way.

Brian Cochran, President of John Moore Associates joins ABQ Connect for a full hour on this week’s Friday Financial Update to tackle the often controversial topic of life insurance. In this insightful episode, Brian breaks down common myths, clarifies who truly needs life insurance, and offers practical guidance on how to wisely incorporate it into a broader financial stewardship plan. Don’t miss this candid and informative conversation that could reshape how you view one of the most misunderstood tools in personal finance.

Dee Dee Jones and Peggy Padilla Burns from Alongside Ministries join us to share the heart behind their organization. In this episode, we explore their mission, who they serve, and the impactful programs they offer for mentees seeking support and guidance. Dee Dee and Peggy also give us a preview of their upcoming fundraiser on September 19th at New Covenant Church—a meaningful event that supports their continued work in the community.

In this episode, we’re joined by Ryan Ramsey, Associate Director of Health Coverage and Benefits at the National Council on Aging, to shed light on the major financial challenges facing older adults today. Ryan highlights a common misconception: Medicare isn’t free. Many seniors struggle with the rising costs of premiums, copays, and deductibles, placing significant strain on their limited incomes.

He also discusses the wide range of public benefits available to help, from food assistance to help with medical costs — and the frustrating barriers that keep older adults from accessing them. Despite being eligible, millions of seniors are missing out on an estimated $30 billion in benefits each year. Ryan emphasizes the urgent need to raise awareness and simplify access to these vital programs, a message at the heart of the National Council on Aging’s current public service campaign.

Jodi Hendricks from the New Mexico Family Action Movement joins us to talk about a new initiative called My Kid, My Choice. This initiative is focused on protecting parental rights and ensuring that families—not government agencies—have the primary say in their children’s upbringing, education, and medical care. Jodi shares how My Kid, My Choice aims to empower parents and safeguard their role in shaping the values and future of the next generation.

Donald Clinger and James Foust, Southwest Area Vice President, join us from The Gideons International to share how their mission goes far beyond placing Bibles in hotels. The Gideons are an evangelical association dedicated to equipping and mobilizing Christian business and professional men—and their wives—to share God’s Word and spread the message of Jesus Christ around the world. They discuss their global outreach efforts and the lasting impact of personal evangelism through Scripture distribution.

Marcy Patton joins ABQ Connect to share details about upcoming Respite Dates with Joni and Friends, highlighting how these special events provide much-needed breaks for families and meaningful service opportunities for volunteers. The conversation also previews the exciting Family Fiesta Barn Dance on October 18th—a lively, family-friendly event full of fun, connection, and celebration.

Matthew Ellison and Denny Spitters join us from 16:15 to discuss The Sending Shepherd, a new book written by Matthew and Denny; and how the purpose and timing of the book are relative to missions – which is the heart of 16:15. We also dive deeper into missions and break down the metrics of how they are being executed today.

  • Can your faith and the Word of God help direct your relationship with food?
  • What effect do artificial sweeteners have on your body?
  • Why do diets often fail to help people lose weight?
  • Are alkaline, ionized, and electrolyte waters worth the investment to maintain your health?

These are just a few of the questions Registered Dietitian, Jennifer Bryant, RD, LD, CDES, answers for us in this episode of ABQ Connect. The Nourished Nutrition Counseling website, located at https://nourishednutritioncounseling.com/, offers free resources, including healthy and delicious recipes, as well as Jennifer’s newsletter, “Food and Faith to Fuel Your Health!”