ABQ Connect Episode Archive

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Brian Cochran, President of John Moore Associates, joins us on ABQ Connect to discuss an often-overlooked topic in today’s investment environment: the risks and cautions investors should consider when it comes to bonds. While bonds are often viewed as a safer investment, Brian explains how factors such as rising interest rates, inflation, credit quality, and duration risk can impact bond portfolios. He also shares how bonds fit within a well-diversified investment strategy, why investors should understand what they own, and how biblical stewardship principles can help guide wise financial decisions during uncertain market conditions. It’s a practical conversation about balancing risk, preserving capital, and investing with a long-term perspective.

Emerson Collins, Program Manager of Parenting and Youth at Focus on the Family, joins us on ABQ Connect to discuss the upcoming Bring Your Bible to School Day. Emerson shares the history and purpose behind this annual event, how it encourages students to live out their faith with confidence and respect, and why it’s still relevant in today’s culture. It’s an encouraging conversation for students, parents, and educators about boldly following Christ, standing for biblical truth, and creating opportunities to share the hope found in God’s Word with friends and classmates.

Melanie Israel from The Heritage Foundation joins us on ABQ Connect to discuss a recent Daily Signal article examining efforts by Senator Josh Hawley and others to address the availability and regulation of mifepristone, a drug used in chemical abortions. Melanie explores the legal, policy, and pro-life implications of the ongoing debate, the questions surrounding federal oversight, and what these developments could mean for the future of abortion policy in America. It’s a timely conversation about life, public policy, and the continuing national discussion surrounding abortion and healthcare.

Glenn T. Stanton, director of Global Family Formation Studies at Focus on the Family and a contributor to The Daily Citizen, joins us on ABQ Connect to discuss two recent articles examining the growing public conversation around polygamy and its cultural implications. Glenn explores why some advocates are attempting to defend polygamy as compatible with Christianity, what the Bible actually teaches about marriage, and why recent policy discussions in places like Seattle have renewed debate over the definition and purpose of marriage. It’s a thoughtful conversation about faith, family, culture, and the importance of grounding our beliefs in biblical truth.

Paul Gessing, President of the Rio Grande Foundation, joins us on ABQ Connect to discuss several of the major policy debates currently shaping New Mexico. Topics include efforts to create a paid Legislature, concerns about the state’s aging transportation infrastructure and potential gas tax increases, New Mexico’s economic dependency challenges, the impact of the gross receipts tax on business growth, film industry subsidies, and whether record state revenues are translating into a stronger economy. It’s a timely conversation about taxes, spending, economic development, and the policy choices that could influence New Mexico’s future.
Listen to Paul’s podcast at Tipping Point New Mexico.

Nick Macedo and Kaiden Ritchie, pastors with Calvary Youth at **Calvary Church Albuquerque, join us on ABQ Connect to share about The Story Conference 2026, a powerful two-day event for middle school students, high school students, and young adults. Taking place September 25-26 at Calvary Church Albuquerque, the conference will feature biblical teaching from Elijah Lamb and Tebo Mpanza, along with worship led by SEU Worship. Nick and Kaiden discuss their heart for the next generation and how this event is designed to help students encounter God, build lasting friendships, and discover renewed purpose and direction for their lives. Learn more and register at cabq.us/tsc.

Jenni Beadle from Child Evangelism Fellowship of New Mexico joins us on ABQ Connect to recap the recent CEF Golf Tournament Fundraiser, celebrating a wonderful day of fellowship, generosity, and support for sharing the Gospel with children across New Mexico. Jenni will share highlights from the tournament and how the event helps strengthen CEF’s outreach ministry to kids throughout the state.

She’ll also bring exciting news for families and supporters: CEF is once again active in Albuquerque Public Schools, opening new opportunities to reach students through Bible clubs and character-building programs. It’s a joyful conversation about ministry growth, answered prayer, and the impact of bringing biblical hope to children right where they are. Learn more at cefofnorthernnewmexico.com and CEFofNewMexico.com.

Join Pastor Ray and Associate Pastor Daniel Trinidad as they share about the upcoming Southwest Men’s Conference 2026 – Vessels of Honor at Calvary Chapel Rio Grande Valley. Centered on the theme “Vessels of Honor” from 1 Thessalonians 4 and 5, this powerful men’s conference will encourage men to live boldly and faithfully for Christ in today’s world. Attendees will enjoy biblical teaching, worship, fellowship, great food, and the popular Brolympics competitions, while connecting with Christian men from across the Southwest. The conference takes place September 25-26, 2026, and registration is available at ccrgv.com/events. Come be challenged, encouraged, and equipped to become a vessel of honor for God’s Kingdom.

Marcy Patten from Joni & Friends New Mexico/Colorado joins us on ABQ Connect with a ministry update and a heartfelt thank you to the volunteers, donors, and prayer partners who helped make a busy summer of outreach possible. Marcy shares details about the upcoming Barn Dance on October 3, featuring free BBQ, games, a petting zoo, music, and fellowship for the whole family, along with opportunities to connect through respite events and a special fundraiser this fall. It’s a wonderful reminder of how communities can come together to support and encourage individuals and families impacted by disability.

Jane Bickelman, founder of Pursonalities Plus ABQ, and volunteer Shari Lucero join us on ABQ Connect to share how a simple purse can become a powerful message of hope. Through donated purses filled with personal-care items and thoughtful gifts, Pursonalities Plus encourages women facing homelessness, domestic violence, trafficking, incarceration, and other difficult life challenges. It’s an uplifting conversation about compassion, dignity, and reminding women throughout our community that they are seen, valued, and not forgotten.

Connect with Pursonalities Plus on Facebook, Instagram, or email at ppabq1@gmail.com