ABQ Connect Episode Archive

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Jennie Beadle from Child Evangelism Fellowship of New Mexico joins us on ABQ Connect to discuss how Bible clubs and other student-led clubs can operate in local elementary schools, and what parents need to know about their rights and opportunities for their children. Jennie also shares details about the upcoming CEF Golf Tournament Fundraiser, a fun day of golf benefiting ministry outreach to children across New Mexico.

Todd Nettleton, Vice President of Message for The Voice of the Martyrs and host of VOM Radio, joins us on ABQ Connect with an update on the persecuted church around the world. Todd shares encouraging and challenging stories from Iran, China, India, Pakistan, and Myanmar, including the release of a Chinese pastor after years of imprisonment, the ongoing struggles of church leaders still behind bars, and a remarkable answer to prayer as a kidnapped Christian girl in Pakistan was reunited with her family. He also highlights how believers continue to worship faithfully despite persecution and hardship, reminding us of the power of prayer and steadfast faith. Learn more, sign up for VOM’s free magazine, and download the VOM App at persecution.com.

Dr. Deana Thayer, marriage and parenting specialist with Focus on the Family, joins us to share practical tips for making family vacations more enjoyable and less stressful. From preparing children before the trip begins to navigating travel challenges and easing the transition back home, Dr. Thayer offers helpful strategies for parents traveling with kids of all ages. It’s an encouraging conversation filled with real-world advice to help families create meaningful memories, manage expectations, and enjoy more vacation and less frustration.

Join Mike and Evangeline Gomez from U Turn For Christ New Mexico as they share about their upcoming Fundraiser and Matanza, designed to help support the ministry’s next mission trip to California. Hear inspiring stories of God’s faithfulness through lives transformed by Christ-centered discipleship, recovery, and outreach. Mike and Evangeline will also discuss how U Turn For Christ continues to impact individuals and families through its ministry, thrift store, and community outreach efforts. Learn how you can support the mission and get involved at uturnnmthrift.org.

Col. James Quick (USAF Ret.) joins us on ABQ Connect to talk about the upcoming Folds of Honor Patriot Dinner, an evening dedicated to honoring America’s heroes and supporting their families. Held on September 12, 2026, at the Isleta Convention Center, this annual fundraising gala helps provide educational scholarships to the spouses and children of fallen and disabled military members and first responders. Guests will enjoy a cocktail reception, dinner, inspiring stories, and live and silent auctions, all while helping make a lasting impact in the lives of those who have sacrificed so much for our country.

Jeff Apodaca, President of ASG, joins us on ABQ Connect to discuss his vision for turning New Mexico’s water challenges into a long-term opportunity. With Elephant Butte Reservoir at historically low levels, Jeff proposes a large-scale brackish groundwater desalination strategy that he believes could help strengthen agriculture, support communities across Southern New Mexico, restore reservoir levels, and create new economic opportunities for the state. The conversation explores the potential benefits, costs, legal considerations, and practical realities of developing a new water supply for New Mexico’s future. Read Jeff’s proposal dated 7-25-2026 in the Santa Fe New Mexican at Jeff Apodaca The Water Shortage in New Mexico Can be an Opportunity..

Brian Cochran, President of John Moore Associates, joins us on ABQ Connect for a conversation about biblical stewardship and generosity. Brian shares how developing a stewardship mindset can transform the way we view the resources God has entrusted to us, and why generosity is about more than finances. We’ll discuss practical ways to give through our time, talents, and treasure, the value of both planned and spontaneous giving, and tools such as Donor Advised Funds and Qualified Charitable Distributions that can help maximize your impact. It’s an encouraging look at making generosity a meaningful and intentional lifestyle.

 

Mia Montano from Calvary Youth joins us on ABQ Connect to talk about the upcoming Calvary Sports League Fall 2026 season. Designed to help young athletes grow in faith, sportsmanship, and athletic ability, the league offers basketball, flag football, and run club opportunities for students of all ages, plus an adult run club and family runs. Learn how this Christ-centered program is creating community, encouraging healthy competition, and helping families stay connected. The season runs August 1 through October 10, with registration available through August 7 at calvarynm.church/events.

Carla Sonntag from the New Mexico Business Coalition (NMBC) joins us on ABQ Connect to discuss some of the latest issues affecting businesses, families, and communities across New Mexico. Carla shares updates on key policy concerns, economic challenges, and opportunities for civic engagement, while highlighting the work NMBC is doing to inform and empower New Mexicans. She also gives us a preview of the upcoming Heroes Banquet, a special event recognizing individuals who have made a positive impact in our state through leadership, service, and advocacy. Learn more at nmbizcoalition.org.

Angel Perez, a Christian counselor with Focus on the Family, joins us to discuss the struggle of addiction and the hope available through Christ-centered recovery. From substance abuse to pornography, gambling, gaming, and other compulsive behaviors, addiction affects millions of people and their families. Angel explores how faith and clinical care can work together, the warning signs loved ones should recognize, and practical steps toward healing and freedom. It’s an encouraging conversation for anyone seeking hope, support, or guidance in overcoming addictive behaviors.