On this episode of Our American Stories the Mars family makes some of the most recognizable products in the world from M M's Snickers and Skittles to Pedigree pet food Yet more than a century after Frank Mars founded the company in Mars remains privately held and controlled by the family even as it has grown into one of the world's largest family businesses Victoria Mars the founder's great-granddaughter and former chair of the Mars Board of Directors explains how her family has managed something few businesses survive passing a global company from one generation to the next From the [... more]

ESG investing promises to align your portfolio with your values But an important question remains Whose values are shaping the standards Environmental social and governance ratings are often presented as measures of corporate responsibility Yet the assumptions behind those ratings may not always align with biblical convictions Nick Schmitz Professor of Finance at The Catholic University of America and a Board Member of the Christian Investing Council CIC joined the show today to explain the differences between ESG and faith-based investing and why Christians should pay attention not only to what they own but also to how their shares are [... more]

Share a commentA single insult can reveal what's been building in the heart for weeks maybe years We start with a haunting phrase the disease of me and track how selfishness and resentment can spread through a team a family or a church until people who should be grateful become petty reactive and hard To make it concrete we retell an unforgettable sports moment from the Los Angeles Lakers the team rallies without its star then falls apart when the spotlight returns It's a picture of what happens when recognition matters more than character Then we open our Bibles to [... more]

The pursuit of comfort outside of God can lead to a cycle of seeking temporary relief in things like food, relationships, and material possessions. However, true comfort and peace can only be found in a deep trust in God and His truth, which requires seeking Him first and inviting Him into our lives to bring healing and understanding to our emotions and experiences. [... more]

The pursuit of comfort often leads to false comforters, causing individuals to seek solace in external sources rather than God. This can result in a cycle of seeking justice, truth, and peace, but ultimately finding temporary relief. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding God's sense of justice, mercy, and peace, and how these concepts can bring true comfort and peace. [... more]

During World War II, a woman named Laura Margolis worked tirelessly to help Jewish refugees trapped in Japanese-occupied Shanghai, facing numerous challenges and obstacles along the way. With her determination and resourcefulness, she was able to create a new kitchen facility and help feed thousands of people, earning her recognition as a hero of the Jewish community. [... more]

Clarence Birdseye, an American inventor, revolutionized the food industry with his groundbreaking idea of quick-freezing food, which led to the creation of a $300 billion industry and changed the way people live and eat. Birdseye's story is one of innovation, perseverance, and a passion for food, as he experimented with various products, including dehydrated food and paper making, until his untimely death. [... more]

Governor Josh Stein signed four bills into law, including one that reduces his appointment powers and another that extends housing supplies and limits local zoning barriers across North Carolina. Meanwhile, North Carolina Attorney General Jeff Jackson rejected a proposed settlement with Duke Energy Progress, citing a 6.8% rate hike as too high. Senator Ted Budd led an unsuccessful effort to amend the U.S. Senate's continuing resolution to delay federal restrictions on hemp products, while North Carolina lawmakers remain deadlocked over legislation that would incorporate federal hemp standards into state law. The North Carolina Department of Labor recovered a record $3.7 million in unpaid wages for workers across the state. [... more]

God is the ultimate source of comfort, and as Christians, we can be secure in knowing that when we die, we can look forward to an eternity of being in God's wonderful presence. However, in the meantime, people often seek comfort in various ways, including food and humor, as discussed by the Banda Brothers on The Masculine Journey. [... more]

The Philea Fish Sandwich was created by Lou Grone, a desperate franchise owner trying to make a little extra money catering to Catholics during Lent. He pitched the idea to Ray Kroc, who initially rejected it, but eventually allowed him to trial the sandwich. The sandwich became a huge success, selling 2,324 units in the first month alone, and was eventually added to the McDonald's menu, predating the Big Mac by about half a decade. [... more]

Many Christians are trapped by situations and circumstances that the world calls addictions, but Dr. Tony Evans explains that the problem is not in the habit, but in the mind, and that fixing the habit requires fixing the thought. He shares a powerful lesson on reversing the addiction curse and overcoming emotional strongholds, emphasizing the importance of obedience, faith, and connecting with God's power to find freedom. [... more]

Walter Dimer, an accountant, accidentally invented bubblegum in 1928 while working for Fleer, a struggling baseball card manufacturer. The candy became a huge success, saving the company and making Dimer a beloved figure, despite not receiving royalties or a patent for his creation. [... more]

A budget is a plan for managing what God has entrusted to you, not a burden or source of shame. It's a tool for faithfulness, helping you live with biblical wisdom and generosity, and revealing patterns in your spending. Best practices include starting with giving, knowing your true income, giving every dollar a job, planning for irregular expenses, building margin, and reviewing and adjusting your budget regularly. [... more]

Christian investors are using their influence to confront exploitation and encourage companies to protect the vulnerable, with a focus on combating human trafficking and promoting faith-based investing principles. [... more]

God's self-sufficiency is a fundamental aspect of His nature, meaning He does not need anything to exist. In contrast, humans are by nature dependent beings, requiring God's provision and care. Recognizing this dependence is essential for a genuine relationship with God, and it is through prayer that we can submit to His sufficiency and trust in His plan for our lives. [... more]

Cultivating a generous spirit in families from early years to adulthood involves modeling giving, hosting reverse birthday parties, and encouraging children to help others. As children grow, parents can connect generosity to their passions and interests, and involve them in experiential learning opportunities. Ultimately, generosity is a whole-life purpose-filled concept that makes a lasting impact. [... more]

The Bible is a source of spiritual nourishment, restoring, refreshing, and transforming believers. It provides guidance, comfort, and peace, and is a reliable source of truth, confirmed by science and archaeology. Building a life on Christ and His Word is essential for spiritual growth and success. [... more]

In rural America, seniors face unique challenges in accessing healthcare, transportation, and companionship. One program in North Dakota is bringing neighbors together to support each other. Meanwhile, a cyclospora outbreak has raised concerns about food safety, and a revolutionary war hero, Thaddeus Kosczusko, is being recognized for his contributions to the American Revolution. Meanwhile, model and actress Lauren Hutton reflects on her trailblazing career and her experiences as a supermodel, and a man in Florida is making a living by worm grunting, a unique method of catching earthworms. [... more]

Chef Hector Boyardi, a real person, created the iconic Chef Boyardee brand, popularizing Italian food in the United States during the Great Depression. His company's innovative canning process and wartime efforts supplied rations to the US military, earning him a Gold Star Order of Excellence. Boyardi's legacy continues to shape American cuisine. [... more]

Moses Beckelman, a social worker with the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee, played a crucial role in helping thousands of Jewish refugees escape from Lithuania during World War II. With the help of Japanese Consul Kimi Sugihara, who issued thousands of transit visas despite facing severe consequences, Beckelman worked tirelessly to facilitate the escape of refugees to destinations such as Curacao, Suriname, and Shanghai. [... more]

The Todd Stern Show discusses various topics including Social Security, the 9th Congressional District race in Tennessee, the National Guard, junk food, Iran's nuclear capabilities, food safety, and the Republican Party's nomination process. [... more]

General Anthony McAuliffe and his men were tasked with defending Bastogne at all costs during the Battle of the Bulge in December 1944. Despite being outnumbered and outgunned, McAuliffe's courageous leadership and his troops' determination to hold the line against the German forces ultimately led to their relief and the Allied victory. [... more]

The story of Oak Ridge, Tennessee, a secret city built during World War II to develop the atomic bomb, and the photographer Ed Westcott who captured its history through thousands of photographs, revealing the lives of the workers and the town's transformation from a rural community to a bustling industrial complex. [... more]

During the Great Depression, a family in Iowa relied on hunting and trapping to supplement their diet, with wild game like raccoon, possum, and rabbit becoming a common feature at their dinner table. The family's resourcefulness and determination to make the most of their situation are a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. [... more]

The Israelites' grumbling and lack of faith in God's provision is a recurring theme in their wilderness journey. God provides for them miraculously, but they often forget and complain, leading to their own downfall. The solution lies in developing a constant dependence on the living Lord, cultivating a thankful attitude, and remembering God's past provisions. [... more]

Tamboli's Pizza and Pasta is a popular restaurant in Memphis Tennessee The other day four young National Guard troops showed up hoping to get a slice or two Instead they were shown the door The staff at Tamboli's ordered the troops to leave Eyewitnesses report that other diners cheered as the young men were publicly shamed and kicked out of the restaurant The owner posted a message on social media explaining that he does not allow National Guard troops to eat his food Tamboli's says they do not support the Memphis Safe Task Force or President Trump's efforts to stop [... more]

Self-control is a heart issue, a spirit-given ability to enjoy God's gifts without letting them replace God as our ultimate treasure. Pierce Taylor Hibbs joins Rob West to discuss how temperance shapes the way we handle money, and how it's not just about willpower or discipline, but about keeping God at the center of our desires. [... more]

The invention of air conditioning had a profound impact on American society, transforming the way people lived, worked, and entertained themselves. From its humble beginnings in the 19th century to its widespread adoption in the 20th century, air conditioning reshaped the country, making it possible to live almost anywhere and changing the entertainment industry forever. [... more]

Chip Ingram explores how to follow Jesus in a culture that is hostile or suspicious of faith, and how to pray for all people, including those we disagree with, to bring about internal transformation and change the world. [... more]

Carter Conlon teaches from Galatians chapter 6, emphasizing the importance of not growing weary in doing good and the promise of reaping in due season. He shares five reasons not to give up, including knowing the truth, the healing and restoring power of God, the love of a father, the power to break addictions, and the benefit of escaping self-focus and living for the sake of others. [... more]

Charles Myers, a 40-year-old husband and father of two, shares his remarkable story of survival after a food truck explosion left him with severe burn injuries. Despite the tragedy, Charles' faith and hope in God have only grown stronger, and he now uses his experience to inspire others and share the goodness of God. [... more]

Rob West discusses six financial choices that can help individuals steward their resources wisely, including choosing to spend with a plan, choosing the right car for their budget, and preparing for the unexpected. He also answers listener questions on topics such as reverse mortgages, charitable donations from IRAs, and finding a certified kingdom advisor. [... more]

The US Supreme Court has made several significant decisions, including blocking a Federal Reserve takeover plan and allowing mail-in ballots postmarked by election day to be included. Meanwhile, a heat wave is gripping Europe, with some countries experiencing temperatures above 100 degrees Fahrenheit. The French government has blamed the US for the heat wave, claiming that the country's high rate of air conditioning use is contributing to the problem. However, experts say that the heat wave is actually caused by a natural weather pattern known as the Omega block, which is not related to climate change. In other news, the Lebanese government has formed an alliance with the Israeli government, and the US has been helping to facilitate this alliance. Additionally, a Texas Senate candidate has sparked controversy with comments about his personal life and his views on issues such as gun control and immigration. [... more]

The United States celebrates its 250th birthday, reflecting on its history, culture, and the people who shaped the nation. From the Founding Fathers to Route 66, American culture is a melting pot of diverse influences, and the country's history is marked by struggles for freedom and equality, including the fight for women's rights and the abolition of slavery. [... more]

Steve Stollier recounts his remarkable experience working as Groucho Marx's personal assistant and archivist, learning about the comedian's life, career, and friendships with other legends, and gaining insight into the Marx Brothers' history and humor. [... more]

Families in Lebanon are struggling to survive amidst ongoing war and displacement, but thanks to the generosity of listeners, 275 families have received critical support, including food, shelter, and the gospel of Jesus Christ. However, the need remains urgent, and more support is needed to continue caring for these families and expanding their reach with the hope of Christ. [... more]

Starbucks workers in St Louis were fired when they fought back against two robbers The workers now have an attorney Starbucks is not commenting See omnystudio com listener for privacy information [... more]

The Obama library project has left contractors owed millions of dollars, sparking controversy over public land use and gentrification in Chicago's Jackson Park. The project's delay and cost overruns have also raised questions about the Obama Foundation's influence and potential misuse of public funds. [... more]

North Carolina is headed to the College World Series final after beating West Virginia. The team's experience has been a key factor in their success, and they'll face either Oklahoma or Georgia in the final. Meanwhile, in Major League Baseball, the Chicago Cubs are looking to acquire a top pitcher, and Darren Vought discusses the possibilities. In a lighter moment, the hosts discuss their favorite fast food desserts and Darren announces his move to Southern California. [... more]

A widow in North Carolina shares her story of receiving help from a listener after calling a financial assistance hotline. A listener named Duane felt led to help, and a ministry called Helping Hands walked her through a process to review her documents and bills, ultimately paying off her medical debt. The hosts discuss various financial topics, including credit repair, investing, and retirement planning, offering biblical wisdom and practical advice. [... more]