Sit on that Stump in Muddy Bottom

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.

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.