ABQ Connect Episode Archive

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Glenn Stanton from Focus on the Family and The Daily Citizen joins us on ABQ Connect to discuss a recent article examining a poll that suggests growing support for Sharia law among some younger Americans. Glenn explores what may be driving these attitudes, how younger generations view religion, culture, and government, and why understanding different worldviews is important in today’s society. It’s a thought-provoking conversation about faith, freedom, culture, and the role religious beliefs play in shaping values and public life.

Clay Schroff with Love New Mexico and Calvary Church Albuquerque joins us on ABQ Connect to discuss Finding Hope and Wholeness, a special community event designed to help people navigate life’s challenges with practical tools, biblical encouragement, and real-world support. Whether you’re facing stress, anxiety, grief, trauma, isolation, or overwhelming pressure, this gathering offers hope and helpful resources for finding healing and resilience.

Featured speakers include Dr. Danny Huerta, Vice President of Parenting and Youth at Focus on the Family, and Tihara Taverner, licensed clinical social worker and combat veteran. Join us on Thursday, October 22, from 4:00 to 8:00 PM at the Vista Grande Community Center for an evening of practical help, honest conversations, and renewed hope for the journey ahead.

Paul Gessing, President of the Rio Grande Foundation, joins us on ABQ Connect to take a closer look at the issues New Mexico voters will be considering this election season. From Albuquerque ballot measures and proposed constitutional amendments to judicial retention elections, school choice, childcare policy, and the ongoing debate over eliminating the state income tax, Paul helps unpack what’s on the ballot and why it matters. It’s a timely conversation designed to help voters stay informed, understand the policy implications behind the headlines, and make thoughtful decisions before heading to the polls.

Seth Udinski, producer and co-host of Financial Issues Stewardship Ministries (FISM), joins us on ABQ Connect to discuss the growing controversy surrounding Netflix’s upcoming adaptation of The Chronicles of Narnia. For generations, readers have embraced C.S. Lewis’ beloved stories for their rich Christian themes and the Christ-like character of Aslan. Seth shares concerns raised by critics about the new adaptation, what these changes could mean for Lewis’ original vision, and how Christians can thoughtfully engage with entertainment and culture from a biblical perspective. It’s a timely conversation about faith, storytelling, and the influence of media in today’s world.

Richard Krauland joins us on ABQ Connect to discuss his book, The Bridge from Science to God. A former atheist, Richard shares his personal journey from skepticism to faith and explains why he believes modern scientific discoveries point not away from God, but toward the reality of a Creator. Drawing from both science and personal experience, including seasons of adversity and loss, Richard explores the relationship between faith, evidence, and the hope found in Jesus Christ. It’s a compelling conversation for believers, skeptics, and anyone searching for answers about life’s biggest questions.

Toya Kaplan, founder of For the One, and Shelley Repp, co-founder of the New Mexico Dream Center, join us on ABQ Connect to discuss the upcoming Be the Hero event in Santa Fe on November 14. This free, registration-requested gathering is designed to help people better understand the realities of sexual abuse, sexual exploitation, and human trafficking, while equipping them to respond in safe, informed, and meaningful ways.

Toya and Shelley explain why human trafficking does not require movement across borders. What gets lost when abuse, exploitation, and sex trafficking are treated as the same issue, and how greater awareness can lead to practical action rather than fear. They also discuss the often-overlooked work of prevention and long-term recovery, including a three-phase program that helps survivors move toward independent living. It’s a powerful conversation about hope, restoration, and how ordinary people can become part of the solution in their communities.

Brian Cochran, President of John Moore Associates, joins us on ABQ Connect to discuss how the upcoming midterm elections could impact New Mexico’s debate over the state income tax. Candidates and policymakers have proposed a variety of approaches, ranging from reducing rates to eliminating the tax altogether, while others argue for maintaining current revenue streams to fund government priorities. Brian walks us through the potential economic and personal financial implications of each position, helping listeners understand how tax policy can affect families, businesses, retirement planning, and long-term financial stewardship. It’s a practical conversation about making informed financial decisions amid changing political and economic landscapes.

Delano Squires of the Heritage Foundation joins us on ABQ Connect to discuss a recent Daily Signal article examining election integrity efforts ahead of the upcoming elections. Delano shares insight into how political organizations are preparing to monitor the voting process, the ongoing national conversation surrounding ballot security and voter confidence, and why many Americans continue to view election integrity as an important issue. It’s a timely discussion about civic engagement, public trust, and the importance of informed participation in the democratic process.

Glenn Stanton from Focus on the Family and The Daily Citizen joins us to discuss his article, “Fixing Feminism with a Christian Worldview: Is it Possible?” Glenn explores the original goals of feminism, where modern movements have diverged, and whether a biblical worldview offers a more complete vision for the dignity, value, and flourishing of women. It’s a thoughtful conversation about faith, culture, family, and how Christian principles can help address some of today’s most important questions surrounding identity, purpose, and equality.

Carla J. Sonntag, President and CEO of New Mexico Business Coalition and Better Together New Mexico, joins us on ABQ Connect to discuss several key issues facing New Mexico voters ahead of the election. Carla breaks down the proposed constitutional amendment on legislative compensation, including how New Mexico currently compares with neighboring states on legislative pay, per diem, and retirement benefits. She also shares updates on early voting, election-related issues, and why informed civic engagement is so important. It’s a timely conversation about government accountability, public policy, and the decisions that could shape New Mexico’s future.