This page contains bonus awakenings from new guests. When we were looking for guests, the number of responses we received from people with inspiring stories was tremendous, so we decided to add a section for Bonus Awakenings. Unlike the regular podcast episodes which is in interview form, these awakenings are taped by the guest and are shorter in length.
We will release a number each month, so check back often.
December 2025
1) Deric GiIllard
Author/Activist/historian Deric Gilliard discusses his awakenings around growing up black in the segregated Jim Crow south, his revelation about his mother's struggle with love and compassion, the understanding of the relevance of his father's place in history and ultimately, the pain and sense of loss in realizing that his father's battle with Alzheimer's had robbed him of his understanding of who his son was. Gilliard, author of two books, one of which resulted from his time working as national communications director of Dr. King's organization, and a new book about his time working for political appointees in the last five administrations, also points to the time he discovered what God's professional and missional purpose was in his life.
Bio