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  • 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
  • Raising Expectations, April 13, 2026

    Raising Expectations, April 13, 2026
    2026/04/14
    Raising Expectations with Pastor Joe Schofield, Dr. Paul Hall, Stefanie Thayer, Dr. Craig Thayer, Pastor Ron Greer Reclaiming California, Faith, Policy, and the Path to Prosperity Guest, Elizabeth Wong Ahlers Friends, We are anxious and very happy to have our dear friends Elizabeth Wong Ahlers and her husband Ron with us again this week! She is making a major “victory headed impact”, continuing a leadership role in statewide “Comeback California” for State Assembly District 40! Elizabeth’s values, wisdom, family and faith are game changers for every problem we face in the former Golden State- California! We all know that her insights and ideas are also exactly what America needs to hear! Elizabeth’s heartfelt message will encourage and strengthen everyone in all 50 states and around the world…as we “watch God at work” in the coming months! In this episode of Raising Expectations, host Pastor Joe Schofield welcomes Elizabeth Wong Ahlers, a candidate for California’s 40th Assembly District. The discussion explores the intersection of Christian faith and urgent political reform, focusing on reversing California's current trajectory regarding energy costs, public safety, and the business climate. A Foundation of Faith and Leadership The program opens by introducing the "Raising Expectations" team, a group of leaders across various fields united by their Christian faith. Pastor Joe emphasizes that the show aims to provide intuitive and encouraging insights into the decisions facing Americans today. The team introduces Elizabeth Wong Ahlers as a "classic California mama bear" and a fifth-generation Californian who transitioned from a career in academia to homeschooling her six children and serving as a councilwoman. Her campaign is presented not merely as a political endeavor but as a spiritual battle for the future of the next generation, rooted in the belief that government should manifest the goodness of God through practical principles. Energy Crisis and the "California Cocktail" A significant portion of the dialogue centers on California’s energy policies and the high cost of living. Elizabeth and her husband, Ron, critique the state’s "gas tax," which adds approximately $1.60 in fees to every gallon. They argue that while California was once a leading oil producer, regulatory bodies like the California Coastal Commission and the California Air Resources Board (CARB) have "choked off" domestic production. This has forced the state to import oil from foreign countries, ironically increasing the carbon footprint due to shipping. Furthermore, the discussion highlights the "California cocktail"—a unique environmental blend of gasoline that prevents the state from importing cheaper fuel from neighboring states during crises. Restoring Public Safety and Law & Order The team addresses the rise of "smash and grab" robberies, attributing them to Proposition 47, which reclassified many thefts under as misdemeanors. Elizabeth advocates for the full funding and implementation of Proposition 36 to restore consequences for repeat offenders. The conversation takes a critical look at the state′s prison system; while it costs roughly 132,000 annually to incarcerate a single person in California, the team argues that the economic impact of crime—estimated at 60 to 70 billion—is far more damaging. They express concern over the Governor's decision to close prisons while crime remains a primary concern for families and businesses. The Exodus of Innovation and Agriculture The "mismanagement" of the state has led to a notable exodus of iconic companies, including Tesla, Chevron, and Hewlett-Packard. Even In-N-Out Burger has shifted its headquarters focus to Nashville due to the business climate. Beyond the corporate world, the discussion touches on the Central Valley, described as the "breadbasket of the world." The team laments the diversion of water away from orchards to protect the "smelt fish," which they argue has devastated conservative farming communities and turned once-lush lands into dust. Elizabeth calls for a return to "common sense" management of these basic resources to unleash California's creative and innovative potential. Call to Action for District 40 Elizabeth highlights that District 40 (North San Fernando Valley and Santa Clarita) is one of the most targeted seats in the state for a political flip. She emphasizes that the 2022 election was lost by only 522 votes, making every new voter critical. The episode concludes with a spiritual exhortation to "not grow weary in doing good," urging the community to stay, be a light, and pray for the prosperity of the city. The discussion underscores a pivotal moment for California, where the "Raising Expectations" team believes that a combination of faith-led leadership and common-sense policy can reclaim the state's beauty and prosperity. By addressing the "sinister" mismanagement of resources and public safety, Elizabeth Wong ...
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    1 時間 20 分
  • Raising Expectations, April 6, 2026

    Raising Expectations, April 6, 2026
    2026/04/07
    Raising Expectations with Pastor Joe Schofield, Dr. Paul Hall, Stefanie Thayer, Dr. Craig Thayer, Pastor Ron Greer Guests, Dr. Pamela and Scott Pyle on The Christian Church Retreat from American Politics Friends, We are all looking forward to having Dr. Pamela and Scott Pyle back with us this week! As part of our RE family, they are such a blessing to everyone! We are going to have a discussion concerning the “secret agenda of the enemy” and the “good news we can share!” Insights, encouragement and assurance will flow from hearing about God’s faithfulness and powerful presence in our lives as we hear from Dr. Pamela and Scott! Join us and tune in with friends to listen and watch- God has encouragement and a blessing just for you! On this episode of Raising Expectations, you'll find a profound discussion featuring guests Scott and Pamela Pyle. The conversation centers on the urgent need for the Christian Church to re-engage with American politics, governance, and holistic health to counter systemic "engines of harm" and restore the nation's foundational values. The Conflict of Systems: Engines of Harm vs. Good The discussion identifies a systemic "engine of harm" built over decades by specific billionaires and political actors who have weaponized the U.S. Treasury and institutions like education. Scott Pyle highlights how approximately $14 trillion in debt was pushed through this engine to redistribute tax dollars and buy out cultural institutions. Furthermore, USAID funds were allegedly perverted to pressure developing nations into adopting extreme leftist ideologies. In response, the group advocates for an "engine of good," where aligned faith organizations utilize federal and private grants to promote human flourishing and the "two hands of the Gospel"—combining compassionate acts with the spoken Word. Historical Decline and the Church's Retreat The participants trace the current state of the U.S. government back to the Woodrow Wilson era, specifically the 17th Amendment, which they argue weakened the states' ability to check federal power. They contend that the Church's retreat from the public square—surrendering the care of widows and orphans to the government in the mid-20th century—created a vacuum filled by secular and Marxist ideologies. Ron Grier notes that the Church has become "biblically illiterate," allowing counterfeit rhetoric to infiltrate seminaries and pulpits, leading to a generation of believers who are hesitant to vote or speak on social issues. Leadership, Health, and National Security Despite the critiques, the guests express optimism regarding the presence of "deeply faithful believers" within the current administration's cabinet. The conversation shifts to holistic health as a national security issue, highlighting the mission of figures like RFK Jr. (referred to as Secretary Kennedy in context) to combat chemical dependency, protect sustainable farming, and ensure food security for children. The group views these efforts as a manifestation of God’s created order, requiring the Church to support leaders who prioritize the physical and spiritual well-being of the next generation. The Call to Awakening Drawing parallels to The Great Awakening led by George Whitefield, Pastor Joe emphasizes that national change begins with a change of heart. The team urges Christians to move beyond "three-point Sunday sermons" and live out their faith throughout the week. They advocate for biblical voting—putting personality aside to support principles—and maintaining unity among believers to ensure that America remains a beacon of hope for the world. The message is clear: the Church must wake up and reclaim its rightful place in the community and the state. By combining fervent prayer with active civic participation and a commitment to holistic health, believers can ensure that the "Great Awakening" continues to shape the future of America.
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    57 分
  • Raising Expectations, March 30, 2026

    Raising Expectations, March 30, 2026
    2026/03/31
    Raising Expectations with Pastor Joe Schofield, Dr. Paul Hall, Stefanie Thayer, Dr. Craig Thayer, Pastor Ron Greer Guest, Elizabeth Wong Ahlers and her plan for a Comeback California Friends, We are excited to have our dear friend Elizabeth Wong Ahlers with us again this week, as she continues “Comeback California” running for State Assembly District 40! Her values, wisdom, family and faith are game changers for every problem we face in the former Golden State- California! Her insights and ideas will encourage and strengthen everyone in all 50 states and around the world ,as we watch God at work in the coming months! Please consider supporting Elizabeth and her journey to help retake California at her website: https://elizabeth4assembly.com/ Pastor Joe Schofield hosts a deep-dive session of Raising Expectations, featuring California State Assembly candidate Elizabeth Wong Ahlers. The discussion explores the intersection of conservative governance, spiritual resilience, and the urgent need for "righteous leadership" to address California's systemic challenges. The "Raising Expectations" Mission and Team The program serves as a platform for conservative believers to discuss personal, professional, and corporate decisions through the lens of faith. Host Pastor Joe Schofield is supported by a diverse team, including Dr. Paul Hall, Dr. Craig and Stephanie Thayer, and Pastor Ron Greer. The team emphasizes "finding God in the ordinary" and producing "authentic hope" through trust in Christ, a theme echoed in the various books authored by the hosts, such as Saved and Legitimate Faith. Reclaiming the Golden State: The Ahlers Platform Elizabeth Wong Ahlers, a fifth-generation Californian and mother of six, is running for the State Assembly in District 40 (Santa Clarita area). Her campaign is built on the "Mama Bear" instinct—a response to what she describes as a failing educational system, sky-high gas prices, and exploding homelessness. She argues that the current "one-party rule" has led to unsafe streets and a mass exodus of businesses, and she advocates for a return to innovation, opportunity, and freedom. Political Integrity and "Fake Republicans" A significant portion of the dialogue focuses on the internal friction within the Republican party. Ahlers criticizes candidates who have recently switched from the Democratic party but do not uphold conservative platform values, such as standing for the national anthem. She specifically points to an incumbent who reportedly missed 2,000 opportunities to vote "no" on harmful legislation, choosing instead to remain off the record to avoid political fallout. Ahlers asserts that her refusal to compromise on issues like Proposition 1 (abortion) has made her a target for the establishment, but she remains committed to her "conscience". Spiritual Warfare and the "Armor of God" The participants frame the political landscape as a manifestation of a spiritual battle. Drawing from Ephesians 6 and the Book of Daniel, they discuss the "demon princes" and "spiritual armies" that influence geographical areas. Dr. Paul Hall and Ron Greer use military analogies—such as being "over the target" when facing heavy fire—to encourage Ahlers. They emphasize that the "Armor of God" only protects the front, signifying that believers must continue marching forward by faith rather than retreating. Marriage and Family as the Campaign's Foundation Ahlers highlights her 36-year marriage to her husband, Ron, as the "culmination of their giftedness." She describes Ron as her "medic"—the strength and common sense that stabilizes her amidst political gunfire. She insists that her campaign team must respect this hierarchy, as any political victory that undermines the foundational unit of marriage would be a hollow one. This "complementary giftedness" allows them to navigate the "wicked and dark" areas of culture together. The episode concludes with a call to action for believers to disengage from "quietism" and actively participate in the political process. By standing firm in their worldview and refusing to compromise on core principles, the speakers believe they can inspire a "great California comeback" led by righteous leaders who represent the people's rejoicings rather than their groanings.
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    56 分
  • Raising Expectations, March 16, 2026

    Raising Expectations, March 16, 2026
    2026/03/17
    Raising Expectations with Pastor Joe Schofield, Dr. Paul Hall, Stefanie Thayer, Dr. Craig Thayer, Pastor Ron Greer Guest, Dr Jim Robbins - Geopolitical Shifts and the Future of Iran Dear Friends, This week on Raising Expectations we have Dr. Jim Robbins joining us again: Join us for a special discussion with Dr. Jim Robbins of the Institute of World Politics in Washington DC. We will explore the issues and events surrounding the war with Iran, Washington politics, and the implications for the future under President Trump and his administration. Dr. Robbins, an outstanding historian and Dean of Academics at IWP, Senior Fellow in National Security Affairs at the American Foreign Policy Council, and former special assistant in the Office of the Secretary of Defense, will share his expertise and insights. Jim is a great man of Faith and has a God given ability to not only understand questions but to discern the heart of the person asking! I am often reminded of the sensitivity of C.S. Lewis with Dr. Robbins. Find out more about Dr. Jim work at his institute's website: www.iwp.edu In this episode of Raising Expectations, host Joe Schofield and his team sit down with historian and academic dean Jim Robbins to discuss the shifting landscape of Middle East diplomacy, the strategic use of energy markets, and the ongoing challenges to American national security. The conversation highlights the potential for a "new world" in the Middle East through regime pressure and economic leverage. Strategic Perspectives on the Middle East The discussion centers on four critical issues currently facing the administration in the Middle East: the ongoing conflict with Iran, the stabilization of oil markets, the pursuit of the Abraham Accords for regional normalization, and the long-term redevelopment of Gaza. Jim Robbins emphasizes that the primary goal is to return to a period where Iran acts as a strategic partner rather than an adversary, noting that before the 1979 revolution, Iran maintained strong ties with both the United States and Israel. The current strategy involves maintaining pressure to eventually defund regional proxies like Hezbollah and Hamas, which rely heavily on Iranian oil revenue. Economic Leverage and Global Security A significant portion of the dialogue focuses on the "drill, baby, drill" energy policy as a tool for national security. Robbins argues that lowering oil prices serves a dual purpose: it eases domestic inflation for American consumers and simultaneously cripples the Iranian economy. Historical data suggests that when oil prices drop toward $52 per barrel or lower, the Iranian regime loses its ability to fund its nuclear program and global terrorism. Furthermore, the participants discuss the internal "crisis of legitimacy" in Iran, where a younger, digital-native population increasingly rejects theocratic control in favor of Western-style freedoms and prosperity. Regarding domestic safety, the panel expresses concern over "lone actor" terrorist threats. Robbins notes that while the administration has been successful in targeting high-level leadership abroad—disrupting their ability to coordinate large-scale attacks—the presence of unvetted individuals within the U.S. remains a high-risk factor. The conversation also touches on a new "War on Fraud" initiative aimed at uncovering the destination of approximately $2 trillion in funds dispersed during the COVID-19 era. The episode concludes with a call for national resilience and strategic patience. By combining economic pressure through energy markets with a firm stance on border security and domestic oversight, the speakers envision a future where both American interests and Middle Eastern stability are significantly enhanced.
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    53 分