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  • Raising Expectations, June 22, 2026

    Raising Expectations, June 22, 2026
    2026/06/23
    Raising Expectations with Pastor Joe Schofield, Melba Schofield, Stefanie Thayer, Dr. Craig Thayer, Dr. Paul Hall, and Ron Greer Fathers, Faith, and the Legacy of Love That Outlives Loss Guest, Will Cintron Friends, Will and his wife, Dr. Marianne Cintron, have been part of our Raising Expectations family for many years. Recently, God called Marianne home, and we all mourned, but also rejoiced in the fact that we will see her again. Will has continued to be a loving, godly father to his family and to us all. He walks with the Lord and gives strength to his family, showing God's complete faithfulness in all ways. Our Raising Expectations team will join with Will in discussion and uplifting conversation and joy about fathers in our lives…and being fathers! A Family Conversation Rooted in Faith and Fatherhood In this episode of Raising Expectations, hosts Pastor Joe Schofield and Melba Schofield, Stefanie Thayer and Dr. Craig Thayer, Dr. Paul Hall, and Ron Greer welcome returning guest Will Cintron for a warm, reflective conversation about Father’s Day, family, grief, legacy, and the faithfulness of God. Pastor Joe opens by celebrating the show’s sixth anniversary season, thanking BBS Radio TV, and reminding listeners that life’s deepest questions are answered through Christ: where believers are going after death, and how they are called to live in the meantime. Remembering Mary Ann and Honoring Her in Yosemite The team welcomes Will with tenderness, acknowledging the recent passing of his wife, Dr. Mary Ann Cintron, who had been part of the Raising Expectations family. Will shares about taking his family to Yosemite, a place filled with memories for him and Mary Ann. He describes driving the RV for the first time, traveling with family members, hiking familiar trails, visiting Happy Isles, and honoring Mary Ann by leaving some of her ashes near the river. The moment becomes a picture of grief held together with gratitude, memory, beauty, and the hope of seeing loved ones again in God’s presence. A Father’s Love Shown Through Presence The conversation turns to Father’s Day as Will reflects on his own father, who did not often say “I love you” or “I’m proud of you,” but showed affection through action. Will remembers his father taking time to hit baseballs to him and his brother, even though sports were not his strength, and recalls the handmade workbench his father built for him. These memories open a larger discussion about the many ways fathers communicate love, sometimes through words, sometimes through sacrifice, presence, work, tools, play, and the simple willingness to show up. The Blessing and Responsibility of Being a Dad Dr. Paul Hall, Melba Schofield, Ron Greer, and the rest of the team each add personal reflections on fathers, parenting, and the lifelong impact of being present for children. Paul recalls his father warming his cold hands while ice skating and later requesting “The Battle Hymn of the Republic” at his funeral. Melba remembers her father keeping his promise to take her and her brother to the rodeo despite dental pain, and how his encouragement helped her pursue education. Ron speaks passionately about fatherhood as a sacred title entrusted by God, emphasizing that fathers are called not only to provide, but to shape, teach, sharpen, and bless their children. The Father Wound and the Power of Redemption The team also discusses the pain caused when fathers are absent, emotionally unavailable, or unable to express love. Ron shares sobering statistics from prison ministry about the effects of father absence, including increased risks related to poverty, school failure, incarceration, and broken family patterns. Yet the conversation does not stay in despair. Ron explains how God changed his view of his own father, helping him see a man who may not have known how to express affection but never abandoned his family and worked tirelessly to provide. The group emphasizes that even deep father wounds can be healed, redeemed, and transformed through forgiveness, spiritual fathering, and God’s grace. Faith, Memory, and the Joy Children Teach Their Parents The hosts reflect on how children remember affection, laughter, silliness, and shared moments more than perfect lessons or polished speeches. Pastor Joe talks about long conversations with his daughter, playful memories, and the importance of children knowing that their parents delight in them. Dr. Paul adds that parenting is not only about what adults teach children, but also what children teach adults. The group shares humorous family memories, including toilet-paper pranks, tools, guitars, and the everyday stories that become lifelong signs of love. These memories point to a larger truth: legacy is often carried through ordinary moments made sacred by affection. Seeking God, Listening, and Carrying Love Forward As the episode closes, Will encourages listeners to seek the Lord, stay in God’s Word, get quiet,...
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    1 時間 14 分
  • Raising Expectations, June 15, 2026

    Raising Expectations, June 15, 2026
    2026/06/16
    Raising Expectations with Pastor Joe Schofield, Melba Schofield, Stefanie Thayer, Dr. Craig Thayer, Dr. Paul Hall, and Ron Greer Comedy, Courage, and the Cost of Discipleship in America Today Guest, Conservative Comedian: Brad Stine! Friends,, Tonight we have special guest, Brad Stine, God's Comic! Brad Stine pulls no punches as he takes on cancel culture, political correctness, and the upside-down logic of modern America. With his signature blend of righteous outrage and razor-sharp wit, Stine challenges the cultural gatekeepers, defends free speech, and dares audiences to laugh at what we're all thinking but too afraid to say. Recorded live in Nashville, Tennessee and produced by Honest Fox Media, this unapologetically honest performance hits hot-button topics like identity politics, free speech, race, gender, COVID mandates, and America's spiritual crisis—all rooted in Stine’s deep convictions as a conservative Christian. Whether he's dissecting the absurdity of word policing or poking fun at generational fragility, Brad reminds us that comedy is meant to provoke, unite, and most of all—set us free. This is more than a comedy show. It’s a call to courage. It’s truth wrapped in laughter. It’s a reminder that freedom isn’t free—and sometimes the most rebellious thing you can do is laugh. Laugh hard. Speak truth. And above all—laugh while it’s still legal! Don’t Miss Brad Stine- God has a message just for you… Check out more of Brad Stine's work on his website: https://bradstine.com/ Don't forget to follow Brad Stine's Podcast: Brad Stine Has Issues on Youtube! https://www.youtube.com/c/bradstinehasissues Faith, Family, and a Night of Bold Conversation In this episode of Raising Expectations, Pastor Joe Schofield opens the program by welcoming listeners and reminding them that the show is rooted in faith in Jesus Christ, the belief that Christ answers the deepest questions of life, and the desire to help people raise their expectations from “good to better to best together.” He introduces the full team: Melba Schofield, Stefanie Thayer, Dr. Craig Thayer, Dr. Paul Hall, and Ron Greer, each presented as part of a faith-centered family of believers committed to truth, grace, encouragement, and Christian witness. Introducing Brad Stine, “God’s Comic” The guest for the hour is conservative comedian Brad Stine, described as a nationally known performer whose comedy takes on cancel culture, political correctness, free speech, identity, gender, COVID mandates, race, politics, and America’s spiritual crisis. Pastor Joe notes that Brad has been called “God’s Comic” and recalls meeting him personally in church settings where his humor and ministry made a strong impression. The show then plays an extended clip of Brad’s stand-up, giving listeners a sense of his rapid-fire style, cultural commentary, sarcasm, and willingness to confront controversial subjects directly. Laughing at the Language of Cultural Confusion In the comedy clip, Brad takes on modern identity politics, pronouns, cancel culture, and the way language is used to redefine reality. He jokes about being a man “the old-fashioned way,” being Christian, being white, and being conservative, while arguing that people are often manipulated through changing definitions. He uses examples such as “super spreader,” “peaceful protest,” “insurrection,” “domestic terrorist,” and “safe for democracy” to make the point that whoever controls language can control public perception. His larger message is that people must learn to “laugh while it’s legal” and call out what he sees as cultural absurdity. Conserving Common Sense Brad explains in the clip that being conservative does not necessarily mean being loyal to a political party. He says he wants to conserve the original intent of the Constitution, history, wisdom, and common sense. He criticizes elites and billionaires who, in his view, tell ordinary people how to live while promoting climate policies that he finds hypocritical or impractical. His jokes about cows, flatulence, windmills, fossil fuels, and miniature cow-powered turbines use absurdity to make a broader point about energy, environmental policy, and what he sees as the loss of practical reasoning. From Stand-Up Comedy to Ministry After the clip, Brad joins the conversation and explains how he began as a stand-up comic in nightclubs while maintaining his Christian convictions. He says he avoided profanity and sexual material because he wanted to compete at the highest level without compromising his faith. Over time, he felt drawn beyond entertainment into ministry. Comedy, he says, became the “flavor” or delivery system for a deeper message about culture, freedom, faith, discipleship, and America’s need to remember what made it free and spiritually grounded. A Missionary to America Brad describes himself as a “missionary to America.” He says he loves the country ...
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    1 時間 16 分
  • Raising Expectations, June 8, 2026

    Raising Expectations, June 8, 2026
    2026/06/09
    Raising Expectations with Pastor Joe Schofield, Stefanie and Dr Craig Thayer, Dr Paul Hall, and Ron Greer Fatherhood, Identity, and the Healing Power of Godly Mentorship Guest Teri Werner, Author of Train Wreck to Triumph Friends, Join us for a heartfelt discussion with Teri Werner, 'Raising Expectations' family member, as she shares her expertise in helping people overcome trauma and life's challenges, offering a message of hope and transformation. Special insights on what a Father is and means to us all! Teri, a renowned coach, author, and speaker, will inspire and uplift us with her gift of encouragement, alongside her husband Dave, a special witness for Jesus Christ. Pastor Joe Schofield Opens Raising Expectations In this episode of Raising Expectations, host Pastor Joe Schofield welcomes listeners and introduces the program’s faith-centered mission of raising expectations through Christ, family, freedom, finances, and encouragement. He notes that Stefanie Thayer and Dr. Craig Thayer are not present for this episode, while Dr. Paul Hall, Ron Greer, and Melba Schofield join the conversation. Pastor Joe also welcomes returning guest Teri Werner, describing her as part of the Raising Expectations family and highlighting her work as a transformative coach and author of Train Wreck to Triumph. Teri Werner Reflects on Father’s Day and God’s Loving Kindness Teri opens the main discussion by reflecting on the approaching Father’s Day season and the spiritual importance of fatherhood. She shares how deeply her own father shaped her understanding of God’s loving kindness, describing the biblical idea of loving kindness as covenant loyalty, mercy, forgiveness, grace, unconditional love, and steadfast affection. Teri explains that many women told her that getting to know her father helped them better understand the Heavenly Father, because he gave them a visible example of godly love, strength, and care. Fathers, Daughters, and the Formation of Identity A central theme of the episode is the powerful influence fathers have on daughters. Teri says daughters often see themselves, the world, and future relationships through the lens their fathers give them. If a father shows love, respect, attention, and honor, a daughter is more likely to expect those things from others. If he withholds them, she may become comfortable with neglect, disrespect, or emotional distance. Teri also discusses how girls who do not know their importance to their father by adolescence may later search for validation through overachievement, overproduction, or unhealthy relationships. Ron Greer on Fatherlessness and Social Breakdown Ron Greer responds by drawing on his years of ministry and research, including work with prison ministry and men’s discipleship. He says the absence of a biological father in the home is strongly connected to many social problems, including incarceration, gang involvement, school dropout rates, suicide risk, sexual assault, and cycles of family breakdown. Ron emphasizes that the damage of fatherlessness can continue across generations, affecting children, grandchildren, marriages, and spiritual identity. He argues that nothing is more important than a biological or godly father figure who reflects the character of the Heavenly Father. The Struggle to Understand God as Father The group also discusses how painful father experiences can make it difficult for people to understand God as a loving Father. Ron explains that when he trained people for prison ministry, he warned them to be careful using phrases like “loving Father,” because many inmates had no positive concept of fatherhood. To them, “father” could mean abandonment, hurt, harsh discipline, or distrust. Teri adds that hopelessness can enter when a person cannot trust an earthly father and then struggles to trust God. The conversation frames healing as a process of separating God’s true character from wounded earthly examples. Gender Identity, Masculinity, and the Family Dr. Paul Hall raises the question of gender identity and how it may connect to father absence, family confusion, and cultural instability. Ron responds that many identity struggles are tied to the lack of strong father figures and the destruction of biblical masculinity. He argues that Satan’s attack on manhood, marriage, and family begins in Genesis and continues today. The discussion also touches on feminism, the cultural shifts of the 1970s, abortion, the Ahab and Jezebel spirits, and the ways both men and women can abandon or distort their God-given roles. Teri stresses that these issues are not simply about blaming one gender, but about recognizing spiritual patterns that damage families. Mentorship, Spiritual Fathers, and Restoring Young Men and Women The conversation then turns toward solutions. Ron describes resources from Man in the Mirror, including tools for spiritual fathers, mentoring, and discipleship, designed to help older men pour wisdom into ...
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    1 時間 17 分
  • Raising Expectations, June 1, 2026

    Raising Expectations, June 1, 2026
    2026/06/02
    Raising Expectations with Pastor Joe Schofield, Dr. Paul Hall, Stefanie Thayer, Dr. Craig Thayer, Pastor Ron Greer Digital Threats, Family Safety, and Faithful Preparedness in a Changing World Guest, Frank Roberson with the Black Rhino Protection Agency Friends, Monday night we're thrilled to welcome back our dear friend and valued family member Frank Roberson. With expertise in protective services, counterintelligence, and threat analysis, Frank will share insights on safeguarding political leaders, like President Trump, and cultivating 'Situational Awareness' for everyday life. By learning from Frank's expertise, you'll gain clarity on navigating life's challenges and understand the importance of preparedness in the face of adversity. Lives can depend on it, and with this knowledge, you'll be better equipped to protect and serve your loved ones. Frank will offer practical wisdom to help you navigate life's complexities with confidence. You won’t want to miss this powerful discussion. Pastor Joe Opens Raising Expectations In this episode of Raising Expectations, Pastor Joe Schofield welcomes listeners and introduces the show’s regular team, including Stefanie Thayer, Dr. Craig Thayer, Dr. Paul Hall, Ron Greer, and the wider Raising Expectations family. Pastor Joe reminds listeners that the program is rooted in Christian faith, encouragement, prayer, and practical wisdom for life in America today. He also highlights the show’s website, the hosts’ books, and the program’s ongoing desire to help people move forward with hope, clarity, and stronger faith. Frank Roberson and Black Rhino Group The guest for the episode is Frank Roberson, founder of the Black Rhino Group, a protection and security organization. Pastor Joe introduces Frank as someone who works in protective services, counterintelligence, and security preparedness for families, businesses, and public leaders. When Frank joins the show, he shares that Black Rhino is expanding and may be acquiring its first security company to build out a uniformed division. He also says the world of protection is changing quickly because technology is evolving so fast. Smart Glasses, AI, and the New Surveillance Problem A major focus of the conversation is emerging technology, especially Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses and similar devices. Frank explains that glasses with hidden or subtle camera functions create new security risks because people can record video, capture documents, photograph credit cards, observe jewelry stores, or gather private information without others realizing it. The group discusses how this can affect malls, medical offices, corporate meetings, financial institutions, and everyday family privacy. Frank emphasizes that the same tools available to security professionals are also available to criminals. Data Privacy, Cloud Storage, and Digital Exposure The discussion expands into data privacy and the risks of cloud storage, facial recognition, AI-generated images, and social media data. Frank explains that uploaded videos, photos, and recordings may pass through systems controlled by third parties, contractors, or cloud providers, leaving people uncertain about who has access. He also discusses AI photo tools that can create realistic images of people using uploaded pictures, warning that someone could gather photos from social media and create fake profiles, poses, websites, or misleading content. Scams, Phishing, and Protecting Personal Information Frank gives several examples of modern scams, including fake invoices, fraudulent text messages, fake Apple or AT&T alerts, payday-loan threats, gift-card scams, fake legal-service calls, and voice imitation scams targeting grandparents. He explains that criminals may study billing patterns, imitate companies, slightly alter email addresses, and trick people into paying fake bills. His advice is to avoid clicking suspicious links, independently look up company contact information, call the company directly, and never volunteer personal details just because someone on the phone asks for verification. Social Security Numbers, Travel Posts, and Everyday Risk The hosts discuss how easily people give away identifying information. Frank explains that social security numbers, birth dates, addresses, and travel information can be combined to steal identities, commit fraud, or target homes. He warns against posting vacation photos while still away, because criminals can use public social media information to know that a house is empty. The group also discusses family code words as a practical tool when someone receives a frightening call that appears to be from a relative in danger. Security, Churches, and the Problem of Visibility The conversation turns to physical security, including churches, public events, and protective details. Frank says many churches are vulnerable because they are open, welcoming, and often not security-minded. He also criticizes overly visible security teams that ...
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    1 時間 14 分
  • Raising Expectations, May 18, 2026

    Raising Expectations, May 18, 2026
    2026/05/19
    Raising Expectations with Pastor Joe Schofield, Stefanie and Dr Craig Thayer, Dr Paul Hall, and Ron Greer Faith, Freedom, and America’s Heritage: The Star-Spangled Banner, Biblical Values, and Civic Action Guest, Denice Gary-Pandol, Faith Former United States Senatorial Candidate Friends, If you love America and believe Americans must turn to God with faith (Matthew 19:26) to become responsible, knowledgeable citizens… you must read below the words of our dear friend, former U.S. Senatorial candidate Denice Gary-Pandol! “Across America, primaries are underway. The challenge before Republicans is not merely to energize the faithful, but to awaken the millions of Americans who have stopped voting because they no longer believe their voice matters. The winning message is clear: America can still be restored — but only if ordinary citizens rise before decline becomes irreversible. America's blessings and prosperity cannot be separated from the practice of God's principles, which are found in our Judeo-Christian beliefs. Benjamin Franklin wrote: Without His concurring aid . . . we ourselves shall become a reproach and a byword down to future ages." Our Founders understood that America must embrace and honor God. As our nation approaches its 250th Anniversary, we should remember that America was forged by men and women who risked not only their lives, but everything for liberty, self-government, limited government, opportunity, and the God-given rights of free people. People follow movements that believe in their country. Americans have some good leaders who speak with moral confidence about faith, family, freedom, national strength, secure borders, economic opportunity, and the dignity of productive work — not as relics of the past, but as the foundations of the greatest republic in human history. America must remain a nation of liberty and self-government — or continue down the path of economic decline, bureaucratic control, and national weakness. The voters who stopped participating must be reminded that their vote still matters, their country is still worth fighting for, and America’s best days can still lie ahead.” My best regards, Denice Gary-Pandol Former United States Senatorial Candidate 661.747.1829 Raising Expectations Through Christian Faith and National Reflection In this episode of Raising Expectations, host Joe Schofield is joined by his wife and co-host Melba, along with co-host Dr. Paul Hall. Joe opens by identifying the program as a Christian show focused on what God is doing in people’s lives and in the world. He emphasizes belief in Jesus Christ, gratitude for the United States, and anticipation of America’s 250th anniversary. Joe then welcomes returning guest Denice Gary-Pandol, introducing her as a popular guest prepared to discuss national events, faith, public policy, and developments affecting the country and the Middle East. Francis Scott Key and the Faith Behind the National Anthem Denice begins by discussing remarks she recently delivered at a One Nation Under God event in California’s Central Valley. Her subject was The Star-Spangled Banner and the Christian faith of its writer, Francis Scott Key. She describes Key as a deeply religious man, husband, father of eleven children, lawyer, hymn lyricist, and supporter of Sunday school education. Denice emphasizes that the national anthem contains four verses, focusing especially on the fourth verse and its references to God’s power, national preservation, justice, and the phrase “In God is our trust.” She presents Key’s words as evidence that faith in God was central to his understanding of America’s survival and freedom. Fort McHenry, the War of 1812, and Divine Protection Denice retells the circumstances surrounding Key’s writing of the anthem during the War of 1812. She explains that President James Madison sent Key to help negotiate the release of American prisoners, including Dr. William Beanes, and that Key remained aboard a British vessel during the attack on Fort McHenry. She describes the British bombardment, the presence of civilians within the fort, and the survival of the American flag through the night. Denice interprets the fort’s endurance, including accounts of rain extinguishing bomb fuses, as possible evidence of God’s protection over the country. For her, Key’s response at dawn reflected gratitude that America had endured the attack. Founding Principles, Scripture, and the Ten Commandments The conversation broadens into Denice’s view of America’s religious foundation. Referring to quotations she attributes to early American leaders, including John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, George Washington, Samuel Adams, James Wilson, and Benjamin Franklin, she argues that the founders regarded biblical principles as essential to a moral and free society. She calls for the Ten Commandments to be restored in American schools, saying they teach children the moral foundations needed for ...
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    1 時間 10 分
  • Raising Expectations, May 11, 2026

    Raising Expectations, May 11, 2026
    2026/05/12
    Raising Expectations with Pastor Joe Schofield, Stefanie and Dr Craig Thayer, Dr Paul Hall, and Ron Greer Finding faith-based identity and Healing through Transparent Communication Guest, Teri Werner, Author of Train Wreck to Triumph Friends, Join us for a powerful discussion with Teri Werner, 'Raising Expectations' family member, as she shares her expertise in helping people overcome trauma and life's challenges, offering a message of hope and transformation. Teri, a renowned coach, author, and speaker, will inspire and uplift us with her gift of encouragement, alongside her husband Dave, a special witness for Jesus Christ. This episode of "Raising Expectations" features guest Terri Warner and a panel of co-hosts discussing the profound intersection of spiritual identity, family trauma, and the life-saving power of honest communication. The conversation moves from the emotional complexities of Mother’s Day to scientific evidence linking transparent dialogue with physical longevity. The Foundation of Identity: Being a Child of God The discussion opens with Terri Warner sharing a personal spiritual experience where the Holy Spirit centered her on the simple yet transformative phrase, "Jesus is Lord." She emphasizes that before any earthly roles—such as being a wife, mother, or professional—a woman’s primary identity is as a daughter of God. This shift in perspective is crucial for maintaining "purity of purpose" and intimacy in all other areas of life. The panel explores how aging and societal pressures often cause individuals to dismiss this foundational identity, leading to burnout and a sense of being overwhelmed by life's "whirling plates." Healing Generational Trauma and the "Mother’s Day Void" A significant portion of the dialogue addresses the pain Mother’s Day can bring to those with broken family histories, including adoption, loss, or abusive parenting. The co-hosts discuss how God "makes up the difference" for those who lacked natural nurturing, often using that very void to call individuals into "mentoring" roles for others. Ron Greer and Paul Hall share insights from prison ministry and personal loss, noting that many struggle to see God as a loving Father because of traumatic experiences with their biological parents. The group concludes that healing comes from renouncing "generational curses" and replacing lies with the truth of God’s restorative nature. The Science of Communication and Longevity Terri Warner introduces a compelling Harvard study that tracked 4,200 women over 18 years, revealing that those who felt unable to speak their truth ("saying they were fine when they were not") faced significantly higher risks of cardiac arrest and immune disorders. The study suggests that suppressing one's truth creates chronic low-grade inflammation, effectively reducing life expectancy by an average of eight years. Conversely, as little as 23 minutes of transparent, heart-driven conversation per week can eliminate these inflammation markers and fundamentally alter a person's health trajectory. Practical Tools for Deep Connection To bridge the gap between "intellectualizing" and true heart-connection, the panel offers specific communication techniques. These include setting "connect coffee dates" and using the "arrowhead" finger posture to maintain focus on the speaker. The "Tell me more" prompt is highlighted as a powerful tool to build trust and validate others without immediately jumping to solutions. The co-hosts emphasize that true intimacy is not about winning a debate but about being "seen" and "known" by another person. The episode concludes with a powerful reminder that while relationships are the "toughest challenges in the world," they are also our primary design. By moving from passive or "compliant" communication to active, heart-centered transparency, individuals can heal generational wounds and significantly improve their physical and spiritual well-being. The Team! Pastor Joe Schofield, Dr. Paul Paul Hall, Stef Stefanie Shaw Thayer, Dr. Craig Craig Tank Thayer, Pastor Ron Ron Greer.
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    1 時間 16 分
  • Raising Expectations, May 4, 2026

    Raising Expectations, May 4, 2026
    2026/05/05
    Raising Expectations with Pastor Joe Schofield, Dr. Paul Hall, Stefanie Thayer, Dr. Craig Thayer, Pastor Ron Greer California and Restoring Faith, Family and Common-Sense Governance Guest, Elizabeth Wong Ahlers Friends, Elizabeth Wong Ahlers joins us once again on Raising Expectations! Join us for an extraordinary encounter with Elizabeth Wong Ahlers. Elizabeth's unwavering values, profound wisdom, loving family, and strong faith are the catalysts for overcoming every challenge and bringing back the Golden State of California! Her visionary insights and innovative ideas are precisely what America and California need to thrive! Elizabeth possesses the message that can inspire a nation! Remember…YOU hold the power of the VOTE! Pastor Joe Schofield and the "Raising Expectations" team host Elizabeth Wong Ahlers, a candidate for the California State Assembly, to discuss the urgent need for "common sense" governance. The conversation focuses on leveraging faith, family values, and fiscal responsibility to address California's systemic challenges. The "Mama Bear" Candidate and the Call for Experience Elizabeth Wong Ahlers, a fifth-generation Californian and mother of six, positions herself as a "mama bear" fighting for the future of the state's children. With a PhD and experience as a councilwoman in La Crescenta, she argues that the current "one-party rule" in Sacramento has failed to address the basics: education, gas prices, and public safety. The team emphasizes that her background as a parent and community leader provides the "life experience" and "financial wisdom" often missing in career politicians who have never managed a household budget or run a business. Critique of Current Governance and Legislative "Noise" The discussion highlights a disconnect between current legislative priorities and the reality of California citizens. Dr. Paul Hall points to "absurd" bills, such as designating Bigfoot as a state cryptid (AB 666) or imposing rooster fines (AB 928), while the state suffers from the highest cost-adjusted poverty rate and the worst roads in the country. Elizabeth notes that many legislators do not own property or have children, leading to policies that ignore the burden of high taxes and unreliable energy and water supplies. She advocates for a return to "fiscal responsibility" modeled after how families manage their own finances. Education Reform and Constitutional Foundations A central pillar of Elizabeth’s platform is SCA1, a school choice initiative that would create flexible accounts for families, allowing them to choose between private, charter, or home schooling. Stephanie Thayer notes that this competition is vital for lower-income families stuck in failing districts. Elizabeth further grounds her mission in the California Constitution, specifically citing the Preamble’s gratitude to "Almighty God" and its protection of inalienable rights like liberty and property. She views her campaign not just as a political race, but as a spiritual effort to "let the light shine" in a dark political landscape. The episode serves as both a political endorsement and a spiritual call to action. By contrasting "ridiculous" current legislation with "common sense" solutions like school choice and fiscal transparency, Elizabeth Wong Ahlers and the "Raising Expectations" team aim to mobilize voters to reclaim California’s constitutional promise of liberty and prosperity.
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    1 時間 20 分
  • Raising Expectations, April 20, 2026

    Raising Expectations, April 20, 2026
    2026/04/21
    Raising Expectations with Pastor Joe Schofield, Dr. Paul Hall, Stefanie Thayer, Dr. Craig Thayer, Pastor Ron Greer The Battle for America’s Soul Guest, Denice Gary-Pandol Friends, On Raising Expectations Monday Night we have long time friend, Denice Gary-Pandol former California US Senatorial candidate with us. Clearly one of the most knowledgeable and wise leaders in California, United States and world politics today is our dear friend and former California Senatorial Candidate Denice Gary-Pandol! She will bring us poignant and much needed information under the title “The Battle for America’s Soul: How We, the People, Win in 2026 by Restoring the Light and the Glory!” As a women of great Faith , intense research, conservative political experience and clear understanding of our national constitution…we are in for a very special and enlightening evening with Denice Gary-Pandol! Mark your calendar as always for your Monday nights on “Raising Expectations!” Let’s all be a part of “Restoring the Light and Glory!” This episode of Raising Expectations features host Joe Schofield and guest Denise Gary Pandol discussing the spiritual and biblical foundations of the United States. The conversation centers on reclaiming American identity through faith, understanding the original intent of the founding documents, and mobilizing conservative action ahead of the 2026 elections. The Spiritual Foundation of "Raising Expectations" The program opens with a reflection on the role of faith in navigating life’s decisions. Host Joe Schofield emphasizes that "Raising Expectations" is rooted in the belief that God has specific plans for every individual, as outlined in the book of Ephesians. The team, comprising pastors, counselors, and theologians from across the nation, posits that true peace and "authentic hope" are anchored in a relationship with Jesus Christ, rather than worldly circumstances. The Biblical Roots of American Liberty Guest Denise Gary Pandol discusses the upcoming 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, arguing that the "soul of America" is inextricably linked to the Hebrew Bible. Citing John Adams, she describes the signing of the Declaration as a "day of deliverance" comparable to the Israelites' exodus from Egypt. The founding fathers, many of whom were deeply steeped in scripture and even studied Hebrew, viewed unalienable rights—life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness—as divine endowments rather than state-granted privileges. This "natural law" tradition remains the bedrock of Western jurisprudence. Legislative Challenges and Cultural Identity A significant portion of the discussion addresses California Bill AB 2017, which proposes making certain Muslim religious holidays legal state holidays. Pandol opposes this bill, arguing that it shows partiality toward an ideology that she claims does not share the Judeo-Christian values of equality and freedom of speech. She suggests that such legislation sets a dangerous precedent and moves the country away from its historical roots. Furthermore, she expresses concern over the lack of "classical education" and civics in modern schools, noting that many students are no longer taught the Pledge of Allegiance or the significance of the Ten Commandments. Economic Prosperity and National Security Looking toward the 2026 midterms, the speakers outline key "talking points" for conservative voters. These include the benefits of the Trump-era tax cuts, which provided relief for seniors and small businesses, and the achievement of energy independence. Pandol argues that "energy dominance" via clean American oil and gas is the solution to high food prices and inflation. Additionally, the conversation touches on national security, emphasizing the need for strict border enforcement to prevent the entry of individuals with ties to foreign cartels or terrorist organizations. The episode concludes with a call for Americans to "stand tall" and remain proud of their unique heritage. By returning to the foundational principles of faith and limited government, the speakers believe the nation can overcome its current "battle for the soul" and secure a prosperous future for the next generation.
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    1 時間 18 分