Sit on that Stump in Muddy Bottom

What happens when God places a vision so deeply on someone's heart that it changes the course of their life? In this inspiring episode of Sit on that Stump in Muddy Bottom, Vikki Parker welcomes Dr. Terrence Farrier, founder of The Lamb's Plan, a Christ-centered ministry dedicated to providing safe housing, life skills, spiritual guidance, and long-term support for pregnant women facing crisis situations.

Dr. Farrier shares the remarkable story of how God called him to launch this ministry, the vision behind creating a maternity home where women can find stability, hope, and practical training, and why helping mothers thrive benefits entire communities. Together, Vikki and Terrence discuss the importance of offering more than temporary assistance by equipping women with life skills, employment readiness, parenting support, biblical discipleship, and a foundation for lasting independence.

The conversation also explores the critical role churches, businesses, pregnancy centers, and volunteers can play in transforming lives through mentorship, counseling, financial support, and practical resources. If you've ever wondered how faith can become action—or how ordinary people can make an extraordinary difference—this episode will encourage and challenge you.

Join us as we discover how one act of obedience can create a legacy of hope for generations to come.

Join Vikki Parker, CEO of Options Pregnancy Center, as she welcomes bestselling author, speaker, and podcast host Lane Lawson Craft to discuss her inspiring children's book, The Beginning of You. Together they explore the importance of identity, purpose, faith, and speaking life over children from the very beginning.

Lane shares her personal testimony of marriage restoration, raising prodigals, and how God led her to write a book that reminds every child they are intentionally created, deeply loved, and designed with purpose.

They also discuss the mission behind Love Before the First Breath, an initiative to place The Beginning of You into pregnancy centers across the country to encourage mothers facing unexpected pregnancies.

Topics include:
• Identity in Christ
• Pregnancy center ministry
• Pro-life resources
• Parenting with purpose
• Speaking truth over children
• Faith and family
• Christian parenting
• The Beginning of You
• Love Before the First Breath
• Encouraging mothers and families

If you enjoyed this conversation, please Like, Subscribe, and Share to help encourage families and spread hope.

What if the very first words spoken over a child could shape their identity for a lifetime?

In this inspiring episode of Sit on That Stump in Muddy Bottom, Vikki Parker sits down with bestselling author, speaker, and podcast host Lane Lawson-Craft to discuss her beautifully illustrated children's book, The Beginning of You. Together, they explore why a child's identity begins with God's truth—not the culture's opinions—and why those truths should be spoken over every child from the moment life begins.

Lane shares her personal testimony of how God restored her marriage, led her into ministry, and later inspired her to write a book that reminds children—and their parents—that every life is intentionally created, deeply loved, and filled with purpose. Vikki and Lane also discuss the incredible impact words have on children in the womb, the importance of intentionally speaking Scripture over the next generation, and how parents can establish a biblical foundation before the culture ever has a chance to redefine their children.

The conversation also highlights Lane's Love Before the First Breath initiative, an effort to place The Beginning of You into pregnancy centers across the nation so every mother facing an unexpected pregnancy receives a life-affirming message of hope.

Whether you're a parent, grandparent, church leader, pregnancy center volunteer, or someone who simply believes every child is a gift from God, this episode will encourage you to speak life, truth, and purpose into the hearts of the next generation.

In this thought-provoking episode of Sit on That Stump in Muddy Bottom, Vikki Parker welcomes author Sabrina McDonald to discuss why every Christian needs a solid biblical worldview in today's rapidly changing culture.

Drawing from her book, The Bible, Politics and Culture: A Biblical Worldview Guide for Christian Women, Sabrina explains how Scripture—not politics, popular opinion, or emotions—must remain the foundation for every believer's convictions. Together, Vikki and Sabrina tackle today's biggest cultural questions, including biblical truth, parenting, education, abortion, family, children, LGBTQ issues, discipleship, and how Christians can lovingly stand firm without compromising God's Word.

The conversation explores why so many believers struggle to explain why they believe what they believe, the importance of raising children with biblical discernment, and how God's design always leads to human flourishing. Vikki also shares powerful insights from decades of ministering to women affected by abortion, reminding listeners that while the enemy comes to steal, kill, and destroy, Jesus offers forgiveness, healing, and abundant life.

If you've ever wondered how to confidently navigate today's cultural challenges through the lens of Scripture, this episode will encourage you to build your life on the unchanging truth of God's Word.

In this powerful conversation, Vicki Parker welcomes Pastor Kerry Rosenbaum of Bethel Assembly of God in Jacksonville to discuss a battle every believer faces: temptation.

Many Christians assume temptation is a sign of spiritual failure, but even Jesus was tempted. So how does Satan work? How does compromise begin? And why do strong believers sometimes find themselves trapped in situations they never intended to enter?

Together, Vicki and Pastor Kerry unpack biblical examples from Adam and Eve, David and Bathsheba, Samson, and even Jesus' temptation in the wilderness. They explore how the enemy often works through subtle thoughts, doubt, isolation, and small compromises that gradually pull us away from God's best.

In this episode, you'll discover:

• Why temptation itself is not sin
• How Satan uses doubt, deception, and compromise
• The importance of knowing God's voice and His Word
• How to take every thought captive and recognize spiritual attacks
• Why isolation makes believers vulnerable
• The power of accountability and Christian community
• Lessons from David, Samson, and other biblical figures who faced temptation
• How guilt, shame, and past mistakes can be overcome through Christ
• Why standing for biblical truth still matters in today's culture

This is Part 1 of a candid and Scripture-centered discussion about spiritual warfare, holiness, grace, and the practical ways believers can stay close to Jesus when life gets muddy.

Remember: Satan seeks compromise, but Jesus seeks communion.

Even when life gets muddy, God is still working in the middle of it.

In Part 2 of this powerful conversation, Vicki Parker welcomes Pastor Kerry Rosenbaum of Bethel Assembly of God for a deep and honest discussion about temptation, spiritual warfare, and the importance of guarding your heart.

Together, they explore how Satan targets believers, ministry leaders, pastors, and everyday Christians alike, seeking opportunities to distract, discourage, and divide. Drawing from biblical examples such as Judas, Peter, and Job, Vicki and Pastor Kerry discuss how temptation often begins subtly, how isolation can become a dangerous foothold for the enemy, and why prayer, accountability, and God's Word are essential weapons in the believer's life.

The conversation also addresses ministry burnout, spiritual numbness, grief, church leadership, restoration after failure, and the importance of praying for pastors and their families. Most importantly, they remind listeners that no failure is final when surrendered to Jesus, and that the blood of Christ remains greater than any mistake, struggle, or attack of the enemy.

Vicki shares the heart behind "Sit on That Stump in Muddy Bottom," encouraging listeners to quiet the noise of the world, spend time alone with God, and learn to recognize His voice above every other influence.

Whether you're facing temptation, walking through a difficult season, recovering from failure, or seeking God's direction, this episode offers biblical encouragement and practical wisdom for standing firm in your faith.

In this powerful episode of Sit on That Stump in Muddy Bottom, host Vicki Parker sits down with Crystal Vinson-Holland to discuss her extraordinary journey from addiction, incarceration, and hopelessness to faith, healing, and a life dedicated to helping others.

Crystal shares the defining moment that changed everything—waking up alone in a hospital bed after years of destructive choices and realizing she could no longer continue down the same path. Through faith, surrender, and the support of people who believed in her when she couldn't believe in herself, Crystal began the difficult road to recovery.

Together, Vicki and Crystal explore the realities of addiction, the importance of addressing underlying trauma, the struggle of self-forgiveness, and the life-changing power of God's grace. Crystal also discusses her work helping incarcerated individuals and those battling substance abuse find hope, purpose, and a future beyond their mistakes.

The conversation expands into personal transformation, health and wellness, overcoming shame, rebuilding relationships, and the importance of surrounding yourself with people who encourage growth and healing.

This episode is a reminder that no matter how far you've fallen, your story isn't over. God is still writing your story, and redemption is always possible.

Topics discussed:
• Addiction and recovery

• Faith-based healing
• Self-forgiveness and grace
• Incarceration and second chances
• Trauma and recovery
• Peer support and mentorship
• Health and wellness transformation
• Rebuilding family relationships
• Hope, purpose, and redemption

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, shame, or feeling stuck in life, this episode offers encouragement, inspiration, and proof that transformation is possible.

Vikki Parker sits down with Faulkner County Republican Women President Charlotte Mead-Layer for a powerful conversation about faith, politics, America’s Christian foundation, and why believers must get involved in shaping the future of their communities. They also discuss the upcoming Flag Day celebration featuring historian David Barton and the importance of teaching real American history to the next generation.

What separates a leader who falls apart from one who rises with purpose? In this episode, Vikki Parker and Brandy Cunningham unpack the powerful contrast between Saul and David, revealing how insecurity, pride, and people-pleasing can quietly destroy leadership. They also highlight how humility, repentance, and obedience to God create lasting impact. This conversation goes beyond scripture into real-life leadership challenges—covering communication, emotional health, accountability, and maintaining peace under pressure. Whether you lead in ministry, business, or everyday life, this episode offers practical wisdom to help you lead with clarity, strength, and integrity.

In this deep and honest conversation, Vikki Parker and Brandy Cunningham explore the powerful question: if God is our King, why do we still need leadership? Through scripture, real-life experiences, and practical wisdom, they unpack the dangers of self-leadership, the importance of accountability, and how lack of structure can lead to confusion and chaos. This episode challenges believers, leaders, and anyone seeking direction to examine the role of humility, wise counsel, and spiritual authority in their lives. Get ready for a meaningful discussion on leadership, obedience, and growing in wisdom.

A powerful and emotional conversation about loss, addiction, and the fentanyl crisis. Stacey shares the story of her son Hagen—his life, his struggles, and the devastating moment that changed everything. What began as unimaginable grief became a mission to educate others, fight stigma, and save lives.

This episode dives into the reality of fentanyl poisoning, the truth about substance use disorder, and why open conversations can make all the difference. It’s a story of heartbreak, faith, and purpose—and a reminder that no one has to face these battles alone.

A thoughtful discussion on the role of Christians in politics, the responsibility of pastors to speak on moral issues, and how faith shapes leadership, culture, and personal conviction in today’s world.

A powerful and unfiltered conversation on abortion pills, how they work, the risks involved, and what women may not be told before taking them. Featuring medical insight and real-world experiences, this episode explores the physical, emotional, and ethical realities surrounding abortion pills—and why informed decisions matter.

A conversation with Dr. Mark Newman on why people avoid difficult topics, how that silence impacts individuals and communities, and an upcoming Little Rock event designed to equip people to engage with confidence, clarity, and compassion.

A powerful, deeply personal conversation about an unplanned pregnancy, the pressure surrounding life-altering decisions, and the long road to healing. This episode explores fear, silence, regret, and redemption—offering insight into what many experience but few openly discuss.

A powerful and encouraging message about overcoming life’s deepest struggles and trusting God’s plan through every season. This episode reminds us that pain, delay, and hardship are not the end—but part of the journey toward purpose, growth, and restoration.

Most programs focus only on short-term prevention, but what if there was a way to equip young people with lifelong skills for healthy, impactful decisions?
In this powerful episode, Thelma Moten reveals how a small Bible-based initiative grew into a statewide movement impacting thousands of students, families, and communities over 35 years — all while facing cultural shifts and funding challenges.
You'll discover:

• The origin story of Choosing to Excel and how one woman's desire to help young women led to a nationwide ripple effect
• Practical tools for fostering emotional health, character, and critical thinking in youth
• How including real-life stories, including her own family’s grief, transforms fostered resilience and purpose
• The importance of community, parental involvement, and advocacy in sustaining programs that genuinely change lives
• Why this approach is more vital than ever in an age of social media, misinformation, and early exposure to adult content
  Neglecting this vital work risks our kids growing up unprepared for the emotional and social complexities of today’s world. The opportunity? Equipping the next generation with internal assets, hope, and the ability to make healthier choices for a brighter future.
  Perfect for educators, parents, community leaders, and anyone passionate about raising resilient, responsible, and morally grounded youth. Unlock the power of faith-based, evidence-driven mentorship that turns pain into purpose.
  Visit choosing2excel.org to support, replicate, or learn more about expanding this life-changing work. Because these are not just kids — they are our sons and daughters, and their future depends on what we do today.
  Tune in now to discover how a village of believers is shaping a legacy of hope and success for generations to come.

1. Building influence starts with listening and responding to real needs
The most impactful programs often originate from genuine awareness of community pain points rather than top-down initiatives. When leaders listen carefully and create tailored solutions, their influence naturally expands through authentic relationships.
Why it matters
Leaders who prioritize listening unlock deeper engagement and trust, which are essential for lasting change. Believing that impact begins with understanding transforms outreach from superficial to transformational.
In practice
Thelma’s approach of listening to students’ voiced struggles allowed her to tailor programs that resonated deeply, turning initial small efforts into statewide movement.2. Long-term change requires a principle-centered model over short-term campaigns
Programs built on core values like integrity, purpose, and relational trust outlast fleeting trends and adapt effectively to cultural shifts. They create a mental framework that sustains impact even when external circumstances change.
Why it matters
Relying on principles rather than transient techniques ensures programs remain relevant, resilient, and capable of shaping future generations amid societal turbulence.
In practice
Choosing to excel’s focus on character and values, rather than just knowledge or prevention, enables it to navigate shifting cultural landscapes and maintain influence.3. Influence on young people flows from demonstrating authenticity and integrity
Young people are drawn to honest, relational engagement—seeing adults who embody the values they promote. External programs succeed when leaders exemplify what they teach in character and behavior.
Why it matters
Authenticity builds credibility and trust with youth, making messages more persuasive and durable than information alone.
In practice
Thelma’s strategy of involving real couples and relatable stories shows that authenticity in action accelerates behavioral and worldview shifts among students.4. Effective education goes beyond information to asset-based transformation
Concepts like internal assets and emotional health are crucial for empowering youth not just to avoid risks but to thrive. Recognizing and developing internal strengths leads to sustainable life choices.
Why it matters
Shifting from fear-based or risk-only messaging to asset recognition fosters resilience, confidence, and agency in young people.
In practice
Thelma’s utilization of personal stories where pain was converted into purpose exemplifies how acknowledging internal assets inspires youth to envision possibilities.5. Resilience in community programs demands continual adaptation and funded support
Sustaining impactful efforts requires ongoing investment, innovation, and training aligned with current cultural realities. Without resources, even the most effective models risk extinction.
Why it matters
Investing in consistent training, research, and expansion ensures programs stay relevant and able to meet evolving needs.
In practice
Thelma emphasizes the necessity of grassroots funding and strategic partnerships to continue and expand her program’s reach and effectiveness.6. Teaching relational and emotional skills is as vital as academic knowledge
Equipping youth with critical thinking, boundary setting, and relationship management skills empowers them to navigate complex social landscapes and long-term life challenges.
Why it matters
The future stability and health of communities hinge on the development of these foundational social-emotional competencies.
In practice
The program’s inclusion of real-life scenarios, peer panels, and mentor stories exemplifies practical relational skill-building that transcends traditional curriculum.7. Addressing cultural shift requires a proactive, value-driven community response
Cultural changes—like the normalization of risky behaviors—demand that communities and leaders proactively communicate core values through trusted voices and comprehensive support systems.
Why it matters
Communities must act intentionally to counteract misinformation and cultural norms that threaten youth well-being.
In practice
Thelma advocates for community-wide awareness, local funding, and direct youth engagement as essential strategies to reinforce foundational health and character in a changing societal landscape.

In this episode of Sit on That Stump in Muddy Bottom, host Vikki Parker discusses how to respectfully and persuasively defend the pro-life position in today’s culture. Drawing from training by Scott Klusendorf, she explains practical tools like the pro-life syllogism and the SLED argument while emphasizing compassion, clarity, and calm dialogue. Learn how everyday conversations can make a difference for life, families, and communities.

In this powerful episode of Sit on That Stump in Muddy Bottom, Vikki Parker explores how to thoughtfully and compassionately defend the value of human life in today’s culture. Drawing from insights in The Case for Life by Scott Klusendorf, she explains the SLED framework, discusses the concept of innocence, and encourages Christians to approach this sensitive topic with truth, clarity, and compassion.

In this powerful episode, Leslie shares her journey through teen pregnancy, abortion, addiction, and despair—and how a radical encounter with Jesus transformed her life. This is a real-life John 10:10 testimony of forgiveness, healing, and generational restoration. If you’ve ever wondered whether God can truly redeem your past, this story is your answer.