Salty + Bright

In this podcast episode, Stuart Penhall joins you for a conversation about faith and adversity. Stuart first shares about how he became a Christian, at a time when teenagers were often pressured to be baptised. Stuart then talks about his decision to work in full-time ministry, nearly 40 years on. Finally, Stuart shares how raising a daughter with Down syndrome and watching other Christians drift in their faith have ultimately brought him closer to God.

In this episode of the podcast, Simon Valk joins you for a conversation about faith and adversity. Simon first shares about his early life in Holland and work in the Dutch navy. Simon also explains how he came to know Jesus, and some of the challenges of being a Christian in regional Australia. Simon then talks about his marriage to his late wife Susannah, providing a picture of persistent, sacrificial love. Lastly, Simon shares about life as a nonagenarian, and the reality of death here on earth.

In this episode of the podcast, Pauline Tabalujan joins you for a conversation about faith and adversity. Pauline begins by describing her Singaporean upbringing, and how a persistent colleague first introduced her to Jesus. Pauline then talks about being baptised against her family’s wishes, and the challenges of moving to Australia as a young mum and new Christian. Pauline also details her own experiences of miscarriage and stillbirth. Lastly, Pauline urges Christians to comfort one another in times of grief.

In this podcast episode, Bob Abney joins you for a conversation about faith and adversity. Bob first shares how he was baptised as a teenager, and went on to study education and Bible in college. Bob then explains how he ended up in Australia where he, alongside his wife Melba, served various churches over three decades. Bob also talks about the ups-and-downs of marriage, ministry, and life after his wife’s unexpected death. Most importantly, Bob shares how and why he’s stuck with God through it all.

In this episode of the podcast, Jackie Baldwin joins you for a conversation about faith and adversity. Jackie first talks about her childhood in New Zealand, when she navigated complex family dynamics and her father’s unexpected death. Jackie then explains how she ended up in Australia, and soon met many Christians who helped nudge her towards Jesus. Jackie also discusses the struggles she faced as a parent, particularly of a son with a disability. Finally, Jackie shares why and how she clings to God in tough times.

In the last episode of the series, Evertt Huffard joins Faith for a deep dive into leadership. Evertt begins by describing his childhood, much of which was spent learning about diverse people and cultures. Evertt and Faith discuss what Christian leaders can glean from passages like 1 Thessalonians 5, as well as the strengths of the "reluctant leader". Evertt also talks about the importance of following well.