Current Episodes
Prior Restraint
Episode 67
Guest: Dr. Karen Swallow Prior
Today, we feature Dr. Karen Swallow Prior. She is a renowned international speaker, professor, and author with a diverse portfolio of books on topics from theology to literature, with a particular focus on 18th-century British Literature. Despite recent notable disagreements with the Southern Baptist Convention, her faith remains unwavering. Her passion for words and profound reverence for The Word are central to her life. During the discussion, she explores the impact of Christian worldviews on historical events, including the abolition movement and the cause of animal safety. Tune in for a conversation with Dr. Karen Swallow Prior that promises to enlighten and inspire.
Previous Episodes
Our guest, Dr. Daniel Silliman, is the news editor for Christianity Today magazine. Three weeks ago, he released his newest book "One Lost Soul - Richard Nixon's Search for Salvation" to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Nixon's resignation from the presidency.
Nixon is a complicated historical figure who wrestled with God for most of his life. Today's episode will help us discover if he was eventually able to find what he was looking for.
Meredith Wills has a Ph.D. in solar astrophysics and is a sports data scientist. She's a physicist and a baseball analyst, who happens to also be a world-class knitter. Rumor has it, Lynda Carter wears a Meredith Wills costume for Halloween.
Wills' grandfather may or may not have worked at Area 51.
Let's see how she weaves these interests into another fascinating episode of "Stories from Real Life."
Ericksen Dickens is a documentarian who captures memories, but not all films are for public viewing. Together with his brother, they produce "legacy documentaries," which shine a positive light on businesses, foundations, or individuals. These films delve into the narratives of entities and individuals with compelling stories, preserving their legacies for posterity by providing an in-depth look at their life's journey.
Ericksen, who holds a Master's degree in Psychology, applies his expertise to shape these narratives. He recognizes storytelling as the most ancient and essential form of communal communication. In today's episode, he will share his insights and discuss how we can pass our own stories down to future generations.
Previous Episodes
Today, we welcome Pat Kahnke ("con-key"), who is recognized for his diverse communication skills, especially in video podcasting. He's a former pastor in St. Paul, Minnesota, and is set to release his second book this month.
With two decades of experience as a pastor, he delves into profound contemplations and stimulating dialogues about the complex interplay between belief systems and governance, and the dangers of Christian Nationalism.
Pat’s YouTube channel is called “Culture, Faith, and Politics” and has 25,000 subscribers. Some of his videos have drawn a quarter of a million views.
While much of his following has been because of his political stances, he is also here today to talk about other things that interest him, like skinning muskrats and rooting for the Vikings. Yes, I said "skinning muskrats."
Rodney Smith Jr’s simple act of assisting a neighbor with lawn care has blossomed into a nationwide movement centered on compassion and kindness. Born in Bermuda on the Fourth of July, Rodney is the hero Americans didn’t know we needed.
Find out what would happen if our guests
Michael Freeman and Jeff Hubbard
took the wheel as President of the U.S. or Commissioner of Baseball for a day. Spoiler alert: courtesy runners might be running for cover! Tune in to uncover the whys.
About the Host
Melvin E. Edwards
My name is Melvin E. Edwards, an introspective storyteller known for crafting intricately layered and profound narratives predominantly in written form. This distinctive quality lends a unique touch to my podcast.
Embrace this movement subtly as we delve into heartwarming tales and sprinkle in some light-hearted humor.
Melvin E. Edwards, a sixth-generation Texan, boasts a distinguished career transition from an acclaimed newspaper reporter and columnist to the vibrant realm of Texas politics. Initially covering Texas high school football, he swiftly ascended to become a speechwriter for the Lieutenant Governor and Governor of Texas.
His literary prowess shines through two award-winning books that meticulously trace his Texan lineage back to the days of the Republic of Texas, earning him recognition as one of the pioneering African-American members of the Sons of the Republic of Texas.
Possessing the exceedingly rare Myers-Briggs personality type INFJ, Melvin E. Edwards' affinity for cowboy boots, hats, and baseball, and his capacity to conceive expansive narratives that dwarf even the vastness of Texas, reflect the unique essence of his creative spirit.
Literary Awards
The Strength of a Thousand Sons (2022)
• 1st Place – Texas Authors Institute: Biography
• 1st Place – Literary Titan: Memoir/Autobiography
• 2nd Place – PenCraft Award for Literary Excellence: Historical/Cultural
• Gold Star– OnlineBookClub.org
The Eyes of Texans: From Slavery to the Texas Capitol (2020)
• 1st Place – AMI Best Book Awards: Memoir/Family History
• 3rd Place - Kops-Fetherling International Book Awards: Autobiography & Memoir
Want to
connect with us?
Our Socials
Have an idea for an episode or know a great storyteller who wants to share their story?