ABQ Connect Episode Archive

Search Episodes

Ava Pennington is an author, speaker, and Bible teacher who serves as a teaching leader with Bible Study Fellowship International. She is also the author of Flourish and is known for delivering relevant, challenging, and engaging presentations that connect deeply with her audiences.

Home – Ava Pennington

George Stahnke has served as a pastoral counselor at Focus on the Family for over 20 years, providing biblically grounded support to individuals, families, and ministry leaders. He counsels on a wide range of issues, including marriage, parenting, church relations, career transitions, depression, trauma, and pornography.

Home – Focus on the Family

 

Dirk Smith of EEM (Eastern European Missions) joins us to share the organization’s enduring mission: placing God’s Word into the hands of anyone who requests it—completely free of charge. Since its founding in 1961, EEM has remained steadfast in providing Bibles and biblical materials throughout Eastern Europe and beyond. In our conversation, Dirk walks us through the inspiring history of EEM and introduces The Impossible Dream, a new book that highlights remarkable stories of faith, perseverance, and the impact of Scripture in regions once closed to the Gospel.

EEM — The Impossible Dream – theimpossibledreambook.com

 

In this insightful piece, Glenn Lutjen— a licensed marriage and family therapist with over 30 years on the Focus on the Family counseling team—addresses the growing epidemic of adult children distancing themselves or cutting off contact from their parents. With studies indicating that more than a quarter of young adults experience some form of estrangement, Lutjen offers compassionate guidance to help parents navigate the emotional pain, confusion, and relational challenges that arise when their children shut them out. Drawing on decades of clinical experience, he provides practical tools for maintaining hope, fostering healthy communication, and pursuing healing even in the midst of broken family connections.

Parent-Adult Child Estrangement in the United States by Gender, Race/ethnicity, and Sexuality – PMC

Mike Gomez of U-Turn for Christ joins us in studio to share how the ministry is helping men and women find restoration from lives bound by addiction and destructive lifestyles. He discusses the Christ-centered programs, accountability, and community that support long-term transformation. Mike also introduces their newest endeavor—Well Coffee NM, a coffee shop run by U-Turn for Christ that provides meaningful work experience and a welcoming space for connection.

Enrollment-Men’s and Women’s Program – U Turn For Christ New Mexico %

Steve Reimann and Bri Peters from KLYT share the heart behind the GFA World Christmas Critter Campaign, explaining how the station is partnering to bring hope and practical help to families in Asia and Africa. They discuss the work of missionaries on the ground, the challenges these communities face, and the tangible impact simple gifts—like livestock and other essentials—can make. Listeners will learn how they, too, can join the mission and extend blessings that change lives.

Kristina from For The One joins the conversation to share what the organization offers in the fight against child trafficking. The organization is now preparing Christmas gifts for 90+ survivors of sex trafficking they are working with this year! They can use some volunteer and financial help. Reach out to For the One through their website at https://www.ForTheOne.one. For the One is a faith-based sex trafficking prevention ministry and a Phase 3 survivor support program offering emergency financial assistance to survivors who are ready to take independent next steps. Jesus is the reason for the season!

Jodi Hendricks from the New Mexico Family Action Movement joins us just in time for Thanksgiving to talk all things turkey and holiday traditions. She also shares how NMFAM is actively strengthening the community by engaging churches, empowering voters, and encouraging local involvement to make a meaningful impact right here at home.

Paula Gonzales, Stephenie Montoya, and Sharon Sanchez from CareNet Pregnancy Centers join us in studio to share the wide range of services CareNet provides. They discuss the organization’s commitment to supporting women and families through compassionate care, practical resources, and guidance during pregnancy and beyond.

Home | CareNet Pregnancy Center of Albuquerque | Albuquerque, NM

Paul Asay, Director of Media and Culture at Focus on the Family, joins us to discuss the upcoming release Wicked for Good and whether it’s appropriate for kids. He explores the film’s themes, content considerations, and what parents should know before deciding if it’s right for their family.

Home – Focus on the Family