Best Dr Mark Thornton Podcasts (2025)

1
What I've Learnt - Sarah Rosenberg 46:42

17d ago46:42

46:42

Stigma, suspicion and a lack of support. That’s the view on why only 10% of sexual assaults are reported in Australia. As a result, sexual assault victims are grossly under-represented and do not receive the social or judicial validation that they deserve. While systemic reform is slow-moving, With You We Can is fighting for victims now, by empower…

1
What I've Learnt - Wendy Sachs 40:48

25d ago40:48

40:48

Wendy Sachs Director It’s a timely and tragic day to feature the Director of the October 8 film with the devastating murder of two young innocents Last night, a couple was shot and killed in Washington, DC by a man who was screaming, "Free Palestine." Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Milgrim were leaving a peace-building event at the Capital Jewish Museu…

1
What I've Learnt - Kat Stewart 34:18

1M ago34:18

34:18

Kat Stewart Actor Kat Stewart has built a reputation as one of Australia’s most outstanding actors. Renowned for her exceptional performances across a diverse range of unforgettable characters on both stage and screen, Kat has played leading roles on productions including Five Bedrooms Offspring and Underbelly One Night, Black Snow (series 2), Mr a…

1
Resilience in Discipleship, with Glenn Packiam 18:21

1M ago18:21

18:21

In this episode, recorded live at the 2024 Child Discipleship Forum, Glenn Packiam emphasizes the importance of nurturing faith in children. He reflects on his own experiences growing up in Malaysia and the impact of early faith encounters. The conversation explores the challenges faced by church leaders in times of crisis, the need for resilience …

1
Transforming Young Hearts Through the Gospel, with Trevin Wax 29:59

2M ago29:59

29:59

In this episode, recorded live at the 2024 Child Discipleship Forum, Trevin Wax emphasizes the importance of imparting old truths to awaken the hearts of the next generation. Drawing from his experiences and biblical teachings, he discusses how the gospel can transform young minds and hearts, urging listeners to raise their expectations of what chi…

1
What I've Learnt - Sherele Moody 35:31

2M ago35:31

35:31

At 3am on Sunday 23 March, police were notified of the disappearance of a 19-year-old woman last seen in Erina on the NSW Central Coast. The next day in the afternoon, police found the body of Audrey Griffin in a creek in Erina. At the time, police said the death was not suspicious. But yesterday a 53-year-old man was arrested in Surry Hills, Sydne…

1
Understanding the Role of Fathers in Discipleship, with Blair Linne 29:20

2M ago29:20

29:20

In this episode, recorded live at the 2024 Child Discipleship Forum, Blair Linne discusses the profound impact of fatherlessness on children and families. Drawing from her personal experiences and statistics, she highlights the importance of fatherhood in shaping lives and communities. Blair emphasizes the church’s role in supporting fatherless chi…

1
Navigating Child Discipleship in a Digital World, with Jay Kim 26:56

2M ago26:56

26:56

In this episode, recorded live at the 2024 Child Discipleship Forum, Jay Kim discusses the challenges and opportunities presented by technology in ministry, particularly for emerging generations. Drawing parallels between the evolution of art and the digital age, he emphasizes the need for church leaders to resist resignation and reimagine their ap…

1
Empowering the Next Generation: The Role of Apologetics with Sean McDowell 35:54

3M ago35:54

35:54

In this episode, recorded live at the 2024 Child Discipleship Forum, Sean McDowell discusses the critical role of apologetics in children’s ministry, emphasizing the need to equip kids with the ability to understand and defend their faith. He highlights the cultural shifts and challenges that today’s youth face, including increased secularism, the …

1
Empowering Families for a Resilient Future 48:53

3M ago48:53

48:53

In this episode of the Child Discipleship Podcast, Melanie Hester and Dee Dee Meyer discuss the importance of family connection and the challenges faced by today’s parents. They explore the role of the Boone Center for the Family in supporting families, the impact of social media and technology on parenting, and the need for resilience and responsi…

1
What I've Learnt - Greg 'Diesel' Williams 35:56

3M ago35:56

35:56

As the much loved footy Season looms with the excitement of packed stadiums team scarves and hot meat pies it’s the players the teams that thrill us the most ! So we’re excited to welcome a major footy legend to the Pod winning countless awards includingthe Brownlow Medal, Norm Smith Medal, Carji Greeves Medal and Leigh Matthews Trophy · An excepti…

1
Creating Discipleship Moments at Home This Easter 42:07

3M ago42:07

42:07

In this conversation, Melanie Hester speaks with Kenneth Padgett, the director of Dwell Kids, about the importance of discipleship, family engagement with scripture, and the role of storytelling in shaping children’s faith. Kenneth shares his journey into family discipleship and emphasizes the need for accessible resources to help families connect …

1
What I've Learnt - David Southwick MP 34:22

3M ago34:22

34:22

David Southwick is the Member for Caulfield in Victoria. David has held several Parliamentary Positions. In April 2013, David was appointed as the Parliamentary Secretary for Police and Emergency Services. In December 2014, David was appointed into the Shadow Ministry as the Shadow Minister for Innovation, Shadow Minister for Energy and Resources a…

1
Embracing the Call to Discipleship, with Diane Comer 28:39

3M ago28:39

28:39

In this episode, recorded from the 2024 Child Discipleship Forum, Diane Comer dives into the heart of church ministry, unpacking its challenges, rewards, and deep spiritual significance. She shares candid reflections on the emotional toll of leadership, the inevitability of conflict, and the sacrifices required to embrace a life of service. Diane e…

1
What I've Learnt - Maggie Zhou 34:03

3M ago34:03

34:03

Maggie Zhou is a Melbourne-based writer, editor, slow fashion advocate and the co-host of the Culture Club podcast. She's written for publications such as The Guardian, ABC, The Age, Frankie, The Big Issue, ELLE, Harper's Bazaar and Cosmopolitan, and has been interviewed by the BBC, ABC, Nylon, The Project and Teen Vogue. She's previously held posi…

1
Finding Peace in an Anxious World, with Mark Sayers 32:56

3M ago32:56

32:56

In this live episode from the 2024 Child Discipleship Forum, Mark Sayers unpacks the rising anxiety epidemic among today’s youth, tracing its cultural roots and the amplifying role of technology. He discusses the shift from community to individualism, the confusion of the “gray zones” between past and future, and the transformative power of wildern…

1
The Crucial Middle, with Sean Sweet 28:53

4M ago28:53

28:53

In this episode of the Child Discipleship Podcast, Sean Sweet, speaking from the 2024 Child Discipleship Forum, explores how to empower preteens to take ownership of their faith. Sean highlights the unique developmental stage of preteens, explaining how their growing ability to question, wrestle with beliefs, and interpret Scripture creates opportu…

1
Habits of the Household, with Justin Whitmel Earley 40:15

4M ago40:15

40:15

In this episode of the Child Discipleship Podcast, Justin Whitmel Earley, a featured speaker at the 2024 Child Discipleship Forum, unpacks the power of habits in shaping faith and identity within the home. Drawing from his expertise and personal experience, Justin explores how everyday rhythms—like bedtime liturgies, family meals, and intentional s…

1
Beyond Words - Greg Zaralides 33:06

4M ago33:06

33:06

World Literacy Summit 2025 Over 150 Sessions with over 200 speakers from 80 different countries.This year's conference will take place from April 7-9th at Oxford University. Monday’s program will be held in the Sheldonian Theatre with Keynote speakers in the Morning including: Dr Molly Ness Literacy Advocate “When There Are No Bedtime Stories: Obst…

1
Mixtape: The Intentionally Layered Tracks that Form Childhood Faith, with Matt Markins 34:45

4M ago34:45

34:45

In this episode of the Child Discipleship Podcast, recorded live at the 2024 Child Discipleship Forum, Awana President and CEO Matt Markins dives into the critical themes shaping childhood faith formation. From the surprising early stages of spiritual development to the layered, intentional process of nurturing lasting faith, Matt unpacks the mirac…

1
Empowering Parents and Churches for Intentional Discipleship with Bobby Harrington 33:10

4M ago33:10

33:10

In this episode, Bobby Harrington and Matt Markins tackle a pressing challenge in modern church ministry: the disconnect between church leadership and parents in the discipleship of children. Drawing from Scripture, personal experience, and groundbreaking Barna research, they explore the “stalemate” between consumer-driven church models and the urg…

1
Discipling the Next Generation: Engaging Kids in a Polarized World with Sean McDowell 36:45

5M ago36:45

36:45

In this episode of the Child Discipleship Podcast, Sean McDowell and Matt Markins discuss the critical themes of child discipleship and apologetics in today’s complex landscape. They explore the significant impact of digital technology on children, the challenges of raising kids in a polarized culture, and the necessity of addressing doubts in fait…

1
The Golden Window: Shaping the Next Generation in Africa 35:45

5M ago35:45

35:45

In this inspiring episode of the Child Discipleship Podcast, CDF24 main-stage speaker Stephen Maphosah highlights the critical importance of nurturing the next generation through child discipleship in Africa. He shares about the life-changing opportunities within the ‘golden window’ (ages 1-14), the most receptive period for sharing the gospel. Be …

1
The Intentional Journey: Discipleship, Family, and Formation with Glenn Packiam 40:16

5M ago40:16

40:16

Mike Handler and Melanie Hester join Glenn Packiam, lead pastor of Rock Harbor Church, as he unpacks the profound journey of intentional discipleship. In this inspiring podcast, Glenn dives deep into the pillars of encounter, formation, and mission, exploring how they shape both personal faith and ministry. Whether you’re leading a church, raising …

1
What I've Learnt - Dr. Alison Thompson OAM (2025) 32:56

5M ago32:56

32:56

Third Wave Volunteers are now in full deployment, with volunteer firefighters in Los Angeles battling the fires and our local volunteers doing what they can to assist. This will all unfold over the following months. Third Wave Volunteers have been disaster responders for the past 24 years and were founded at the Sept 11th, 2001 attacks in NYC by Dr…

1
The Importance of Orthodoxy in Children’s Ministry 34:14

5M ago34:14

34:14

In this episode of The Child Discipleship Podcast, Matt Markins and Trevin Wax delve into the significant challenges children face in today’s rapidly changing culture. They discuss the effects of technology and the rise of secularism, highlighting the critical need for teaching the true gospel to counteract various counterfeit gospels. The conversa…

1
What I've Learnt - Ella Ward 27:29

6M ago27:29

27:29

Author Ella Ward What does the world feel like when it’s ending for you, and no one else? What does life feel like when you are running away from it? This is a story that begins in a way you expect and ends very far from there. It is a story of creaking English hallways and vast Australian skies. Of hands that feel like warm sandpaper. Cicadas that…

1
What I've Learnt - Maggie Alderson 35:32

6M ago35:32

35:32

Maggie Alderson is the author of ten novels and four collections of her columns fromGood Weekendmagazine. Her children’s book Evangeline, the Wish Keeper’s Helper was shortlisted for the Prime Minister’s Literary Award. Before becoming a full-time author she worked as a journalist and columnist in the UK and Australia, editing several magazines, in…

1
Running to the God of All Comfort 26:46

6M ago26:46

26:46

In this special edition of the podcast, you’ll hear Elizabeth Mitchell’s mainstage talk from the 2024 Child Discipleship Forum. As she shares her very personal journey of love and loss, she’ll encourage you to run to the God of all comfort for your help and hope. Listen in as she encourages those facing difficult times to turn their face, and not t…

1
Beyond Words - Andrew Kay 30:16

7M ago30:16

30:16

Andy Kay In his role as CEO of the World Literacy Foundation, Andy spearheads a powerful literacy organisation - he has the wonderful opportunity to meet likeminded amazing people and organizations around the world. With more than 750 million people globally struggling with literacy this is an epidemic It affects all aspects social health education…

1
Caring for the Vulnerable: Being the Hands and Feet of Jesus 42:50

7M ago42:50

42:50

In this heartfelt episode, Blair Linne joins Mike Handler and Melanie Hester to discuss the church’s call to live out pure and undefiled religion by caring for the fatherless, widowed, and vulnerable in our communities. Drawing from Scripture, personal testimony, and practical insights, Blair shares how discipleship includes everyday acts of love—m…

1
Peace in a Fast-Paced Culture 36:20

7M ago36:20

36:20

In this episode, Jay Kim, an author and pastor in Silicon Valley, shares his journey and the unique challenges of pastoring and parenting in a fast-paced, achievement-driven culture. He emphasizes the importance of slowing down and following Jesus. Jay encourages listeners to grow good fruit where God has planted them, reminding us that it’s not ab…

1
What I've Learnt - Collette Dinningan 41:25

7M ago41:25

41:25

Collette Dinnigan 🌺 Her style is one of simple yet sophisticated beauty. Bellissima: An Australian–Italian Affair takes you into Collette’s world of beauty – interiors, gardens, food, friends, curiosities, art and travel – in Italy and Australia. It shows us Collette’s remarkable eye for detail, vignettes, texture and colour. She shares her design …

1
What I've Learnt - Lisa Messenger & Sarah Megginson 53:32

7M ago53:32

53:32

THE POWER OF TWO LISA MESSENGER & SARAH MEGGINSON A life-changing story of friendship, surrogacy and true connection Fourteen years of friendship. Eight years of ‘trying’. Eighteen rounds of IVF and now, one beautiful baby boy. The Power of Two is a remarkable true story that shows how together, we can do more than we ever thought possible. Lisa an…

1
What I've Learnt - Janice Breen-Burns (2024) 27:00

8M ago27:00

27:00

Janice BREEN Burns Janice Breen Burns is a highly respected fashion journalist, editor and features writer of more than 30 years experience in metro daily newspapers and more recently, digital media. Voxfrock.com.au is her digital blogzine based on the variety of content and style of newspaper fashion pages. Renowned for her industry knowledge and …

1
Creating a Culture of Discipleship: Language and Community 26:02

8M ago26:02

26:02

In the final episode of this four-part series, Mike Handler and Sam Luce stress the significance of language in shaping the values of both church and home, encouraging listeners to prioritize intentional conversations and create dedicated time for discipleship activities. Additionally, the episode highlights the importance of intergenerational rela…

1
What I've Learnt - Nikki Gemmell (Wing) 38:42

8M ago38:42

38:42

Nikki Gemmell An explosive, contemporary literary thriller from international bestselling author Nikki Gemmell - Wing is Lord of the Flies meets Picnic at Hanging Rock meets Promising Young Woman. Students from an elite girls' school go on a camping trip into the Australian bush. Four of them - a girl gang, a group of best friends dubbed 'The Cins'…

1
Creating a Culture of Discipleship: Vision and Time 32:48

8M ago32:48

32:48

In this episode, Sam Luce and Mike Handler explore the vital role of vision and deliberate discipleship in both the church and the home. They emphasize the necessity of a long-term vision for child discipleship and the importance of parents partnering with the church in this journey. The conversation dives into the central formational objectives of…

1
Navigating Lasting Faith in Children 22:33

8M ago22:33

22:33

In the second episode of our Forming Faith series, Matt Markins and Mike Handler tackle the pressing need for a new map in the journey of forming lasting faith in children. They explore the disconnect between the church’s messaging and today’s cultural realities and introduce a fresh approach to discipleship, emphasizing the importance of community…

1
What I've Learnt - Ben Shewry 36:50

9M ago36:50

36:50

Ben Shewry Chef Ben Shewry strives for truth in life and perfection in his new memoir, Uses for Obsession. This year marks 19 years for Ben Shewry’s Ripponlea fine-diner Attica, a restaurant whose legacy was built on imagination and creative fearlessness. It also marks the release of his second book, a memoir aptly titled Uses for Obsession. “Ultim…

1
Walking Upstream: Navigating Children’s Ministry in a Post-Christian Culture 18:58

9M ago18:58

18:58

In this thought-provoking podcast, we dive into the urgent need for a fresh approach to children’s ministry as we grapple with the realities of an increasingly secular world. Join Matt Markins and Mike Handler as they unpack the limitations of outdated church growth and entertainment models, emphasizing the importance of nurturing lasting faith in …

1
The Child Discipleship Podcast: Season 5 3:35

9M ago3:35

3:35

Welcome to the Child Discipleship Podcast! Listen to this short update to learn what’s new and what you can expect from season 5. Show Notes: Check out resources for your children’s ministry at ChildDiscipleship.com. The post The Child Discipleship Podcast: Season 5 appeared first on Child Discipleship.…

1
What I've Learnt - Anthony Koutoufides 34:22

9M ago34:22

34:22

Anthony “Kouta” Koutoufides is a former award winning AFL player and a Carlton Football Club legend, playing over 270 games for the club. Anthony was often referred to as the ‘Prototype of the Modern Footballer’ as he was notably athletic and versatile, allowing him to play almost every position throughout his career. Koutoufides – who insisted he …

1
What I've Learnt - Michael Klim 46:23

10M ago46:23

46:23

Michael Klim is an entrepreneur and head of the Klim Foundation best known for being and awesome guitar strumming and pumping Olympic swimming gold medallist. In July 2022, Klim revealed that he had been diagnosed with the auto-immune disorder which affected his legs and feet and left him struggling to walk unassisted. Based in Bali the journey has…

1
What I've Learnt - Eylon Levy 38:46

10M ago38:46

38:46

It takes courage to stand up and that is what Eylon Levy has done since Oct 7 As the cultural wars rage across media platforms he has used his skills intelligence and even humour to tell the world about the siege that has engulfed Israel but the global Jewish community He is a former Israeli Government Spokesman, who became one of the most prominen…

1
Beyond Words - Molly Ness 34:41

11M ago34:41

34:41

Molly Ness is a former classroom teacher, a reading researcher, and a teacher educator. She earned a doctorate in reading education at the University of Virginia, and spent 16 years as an associate professor at Fordham University in New York City. The author of five books, Molly serves on the Board of Directors for the International Literacy Associ…

1
What I've Learnt - Simone O'Brien 37:25

12M ago37:25

37:25

Simone O’Brien is a domestic violence survivor, speaker, strong advocate for women against violence, and mother of three beautiful children. Her journey started in 2012 when she suffered a horrific attack at the hands of a perpetrator who would not take “no” for an answer. It started with emotional and psychological abuse and ended up with her bein…

1
What I've Learnt - Mia Findlay 51:06

1y ago51:06

51:06

Mia Findlay, Founder and Principal Coach | Australia Mia is deeply passionate about helping others reach the same freedom she now enjoys without her eating disorder. She has worked in the eating disorder advocacy field for nine years and has been working with clients as a coach since launching Beyond Body in December 2017. Mia is based in Sydney an…

1
What I've Learnt - Fiona Sweet 36:08

1y ago36:08

36:08

The Stella Prize CEO - Fiona Sweet Fiona is the former Artistic Director and CEO of the Ballarat International Foto Biennale responsible for the programming and curation of three Biennales. She founded the National Centre for Photography in Ballarat and was the inaugural director. Founder of Sweet Creative, and co-founder of Melbourne’s Acland Stre…

1
What I've Learnt - Anna Grosman 31:52

1y ago31:52

31:52

Anna Grosman, creator and owner is relaunching a new male escort agency - HER CONFIDANT. In its new incarnation, HER CONFIDANT will also cater to women who are looking for companionship in any form: emotional, sexual or for company on a date. "I want to provide a safe space for women to explore their desires and feel desired," says Anna. "There are…

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