Sit on that Stump in Muddy Bottom

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.

Vikki sits down with Michelle Monte of Lifeline Children's Services to share a powerful conversation about open adoption, birth mother support, and answering God’s call. This episode explores the beauty, challenges, and lifelong impact of adoption—for children, families, and first mothers alike.

In this powerful episode of Sit on that Stump in Muddy Bottom, Vicki Parker sits down with Michelle Monte from Lifeline Children's Services to explore the real story of adoption—beyond the myths and misconceptions. From Michelle’s generational family legacy of fostering and adopting, to her work with Shared Beginnings and now Lifeline, this conversation dives deep into open adoption, honoring birth mothers, and walking out God’s calling with obedience and faith. A moving discussion on what it truly means to be chosen, to choose life, and to build families through love, transparency, and Christ-centered ministry.

In this powerful episode of Sit on That Stump in Muddy Bottom, host Vikki Parker sits down with Leslie Boone to share the remarkable story of Laura Abbott—a survivor of a near-fatal violent crime and a leading advocate for victims’ rights in Arkansas. Through faith, perseverance, and community, tragedy was transformed into purpose. This conversation sheds light on domestic violence, trauma, healing, and the life-changing impact of enforceable victims’ rights, offering hope to survivors and those who walk alongside them.

In this powerful episode of Sit on That Stump in Muddy Bottom, host Vikki Parker sits down with Chase Gwyn, a high school junior and founder of a Club America (Turning Point USA) chapter at Cabot High School. Chase shares his journey of faith, leadership, and conviction—what it means to stand for truth in today’s culture, why young people can’t wait until “someday” to lead, and how courage, faith, and responsibility are shaping the next generation.

When a woman says, “I want to choose life, but how am I going to do this?”—the answer can’t stop at encouragement alone.
In this episode of Sit on That Stump in Muddy Bottom, Vicki Parker is joined by Lindsay Moon, Arkansas Coordinator for Her Plan, to talk about building a real, workable pro-life safety net. From housing and childcare to legal aid, recovery programs, and church involvement, this conversation explores how community connections make choosing life possible—and sustainable—for women and families across Arkansas and beyond.

Host Vickki Parker shares a powerful story of survival in the Alaskan wilderness to illustrate the life-saving importance of hearing and obeying God’s voice. In a world full of noise, learn how to find your "stump," quiet your soul, and look for the cross at the end of the runway.

In this powerful episode of Sit on That Stump at the Muddy Bottom, guest host Brandi Cunningham sits down with Amber Singleton, the new Executive Director of Arkansas Right to Life. Amber shares her personal calling, her heart for mothers and babies, and the urgent need for truth, compassion, and action in a post–Roe v. Wade world. The conversation covers the March for Life, Bow Ties for Babies, legislative priorities, and the church’s role in standing for life—from the unborn to the aging—while offering hope and healing to women and families in crisis.

In this powerful episode of Sit on That Stump in Muddy Bottom, host Vicki Parker sits down with therapist and author Jessica Derrickson to talk about family dysfunction, generational trauma, and what it truly means to be labeled the “black sheep.”

Jessica shares the story behind her book Cycle Breaker and offers compassionate insight into toxic family dynamics, emotional invalidation, and the patterns that get passed down when healing never happens. Together, Vicki and Jessica explore forgiveness, boundaries, communication, and how understanding perspective can begin the process of restoration—for individuals and entire families.

Whether you’ve felt like the outcast, struggled with broken relationships, or want to stop harmful cycles for future generations, this episode offers hope, validation, and practical tools for healing and growth.

A deep, practical conversation about Psalm 23:5 and the powerful truth that God sets a table for you in the presence of your enemies. Vikki Parker and guest Brandi Cunningham unpack how we unintentionally give the enemy a seat at our table through offense, fear, bitterness, and old wounds—especially during the holidays. Learn how to guard your mind, protect your peace, walk in forgiveness, and sit confidently at the table Jesus prepares for you.

In this deeply moving episode of Sit on That Stump in Muddy Bottom, host Vikki Parker welcomes guest Steventhen Holland, who shares his powerful testimony of being conceived in rape, carried by a mentally challenged mother who fought for his life, and adopted into a loving family. Together, they discuss God’s redemption, the value of every human life, and the emotional weight carried by pregnancy-center leaders. Steventhen also introduces the We See You Retreats, a new ministry designed to restore and refresh frontline workers in pro-life pregnancy centers. A conversation filled with hope, healing, and God’s purpose in the muddy bottom moments of life.

On this special Thanksgiving episode of Sit on That Stump in Muddy Bottom, Vikki Parker sits down with her dear friend Trina Welch for a raw, tear-stained, joy-filled conversation about gratitude that doesn’t wait for the storm to pass.

From teen pregnancy and public shame to walking the streets of Israel alone and hearing the audible voice of God, Trina shares how a heart of thanksgiving—even in the darkest, muddiest moments—became the very weapon that brought healing, breakthrough, and supernatural miracles.

If you’ve ever wondered how to thank God when life hurts, when you can’t see the way out, or when the pain feels wasted, this episode will remind you: gratitude isn’t just an emotion—it’s a sacrifice that shifts atmospheres, silences the enemy, and turns broken hallelujahs into diamonds.

Pull up a stump, grab a tissue, and let two women who’ve lived it show you how to praise your way out of the pit.

Follow Trina Welch https://linktree.com/trinawelch

In this heartfelt episode of Sit on That Stump Muddy Bottom, host Vicki Parker sits down with Jennifer Jones from Embrace Grace at First Baptist Cabot. Discover how this powerful 11-week support and discipleship program wraps single moms facing unplanned pregnancies in love, practical help, and the hope of the gospel. From “Daughter of the King” pampering nights to life-changing baby showers and ongoing family-style support, Jennifer shares real stories of healing, gratitude, and brave women choosing life. Learn how Embrace Grace is filling a vital gap for pregnancy centers and bringing young moms into the church family – and how your church can start a group today. A beautiful picture of the hands and feet of Jesus in action.

Is it okay for a Christian to cuss? Vicki Parker (author and CEO of Options Pregnancy Center) sits down with Pastor Kerry Rosenbaum for a candid, no-condemnation conversation about the “Cussing Christian.” Pulling straight from Ephesians 4 & 5, they unpack why Scripture is so serious about our words, share their own past struggles with foul language, and talk practical steps to let the Holy Spirit clean up a mouth that once sounded more like the world than the Word. Raw stories, real grace, and a whole lot of hope for anyone who’s ever let a word slip and wondered, “Does God really care about this?” Spoiler: He does—and He’s ready to help.

When life gets messy and the road ahead disappears into the fog, how do you keep walking? Join Vikki Parker—author, speaker, and CEO of Options Pregnancy Center—as she shares heartfelt stories of faith, provision, and perseverance from her journey through life’s muddy bottoms. In this episode, "Walking By Faith" Vikki opens up about trusting God through uncertainty, from launching life-saving pregnancy centers with no resources to waiting patiently for His perfect timing.

With warmth, humor, and deep biblical insight, Vikki reminds listeners that faith isn’t a feeling—it’s a choice to keep stepping forward when you can’t yet see the next step. Whether you’re facing a foggy path, a delayed promise, or a mountain that feels too high, this episode will encourage you to hold tight to the One who makes a way through the mud.