show episodes
 
CIA: The Contagious Influencers of America Podcast. Meet the Gamechangers, the Influencers and those who are not afraid to show up with a shovel if that's what it takes to move a mountain. Go inside the minds of true American trailblazers who are making a difference by sharing their stories of personal triumph, overcoming obstacles, defeating fear, fighting addiction, and rejecting failure. Hosted by 9-time Emmy winner David Sams.
  continue reading
 
Loading …
show series
 
Wink Martindale, the legendary radio and television icon, died in Rancho Mirage, California on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, at the age of 91. The king of game shows who was perhaps best known for hosting the beloved Tic-Tac-Dough and Gambit, had a remarkable 74-year career. He was surrounded by family and his beloved wife of 49 years, Sandra Martindale…
  continue reading
 
The epic tale of David and Goliath has inspired generations—but what if you could experience it like never before? Award-winning filmmaker Jon Erwin (Jesus Revolution, I Can Only Imagine) is bringing this legendary story to life in House of David, a groundbreaking new TV series streaming worldwide on Prime Video starting February 27th. In this comp…
  continue reading
 
Where do you place your value? Demi-Leigh Tebow has learned her identity is much more than her Miss Universe crown. In this episode, nine-time Emmy winner David Sams chats with Demi about her book “A Crown That Lasts” and the inspiration behind it. Demi, who’s the wife of former NFL quarterback Tim Tebow, shares how her own experiences of failure a…
  continue reading
 
It was Einstein who said: "There are only two ways to live your life. One is as though nothing is a miracle. The other is as though everything is a miracle." In this engaging conversation, nine-time Emmy winner David Sams and New York Times bestselling author Pastor Mark Batterson explore the concept of miracles in contemporary life, discussing per…
  continue reading
 
What better time than now to ignite your comeback with the original comeback coach, Tim Storey, life coach to the stars! In this special episode, nine-time Emmy winner David Sams catches up with his good friend to discuss personal growth, overcoming obstacles, and unlocking your hidden potential through the transformative power of mindset. Drawing …
  continue reading
 
He's most recently known for his performance of "God Bless America" at the Butler, Pennsylvania Trump Rally, and now he'll be performing again this time as President Donald Trump is sworn in as the 47th President of the United States. Nine-time Emmy winner David Sams gets to sit down with international classical-crossover vocalist, Chris Macchio. I…
  continue reading
 
Regardless of how stressed and anxiety-ridden you entered 2025, it's possible to live joyfully and without worry. Radio host and podcaster Brant Hansen shares the message of taking Jesus seriously in all of life and in turn finding a sense of peace amongst the chaos. In this engaging conversation, nine-time Emmy winner David Sams chats with Brant a…
  continue reading
 
Would you give up everything you've worked for your entire life in the name of justice? Maya Moore Irons is a two-time NCAA champion, two-time Olympic gold medalist, four-time WNBA champion, and WNBA MVP. But Maya put that all aside in 2019 to focus on exonerating her now husband, Jonathan Irons, from a 50-year prison sentence for a crime he didn't…
  continue reading
 
Farewell to country music, guilt, and pain. Granger Smith now has newfound purpose. After 24 years touring as an award-winning, platinum-selling, country music singer-songwriter, Smith chose to leave the music business to pursue a future in ministry. Nine-time Emmy winner David Sams sits down with the now best-selling author, five years after the t…
  continue reading
 
Iconic Southern Rock brothers Donnie and Johnny Van Zant reunite as VAN ZANT to release their first ever Christian album sharing about their faith that has been a constant thread throughout their lives. Collectively they have sold over 50 million records, from Johnny’s work as the lead vocalist of Lynyrd Skynyrd to Donnie’s success with 38 Special,…
  continue reading
 
Nollaig Shona Duit! Merry Christmas! We Are Messengers are celebrating this holiday season in an authentic Irish way. They have had 11 consecutive top 10 radio singles including the multi chart #1 hit song “Come What May” and the Gold certified “Maybe Its OK’. Now their new EP "Rejoice! A Celtic Christmas" is out, putting a Celtic spin on some of y…
  continue reading
 
It's the biggest Christmas celebration for this quadruple GRAMMY-winning Christian pop duo yet! For KING + COUNTRY is not only touring the month of December and releasing a new "Drummer Boy Christmas Live" album this week, but they are also taking their tour to the big screen offering a cinematic concert experience "A Drummer Boy Christmas Live" in…
  continue reading
 
Silent night? Not with this band! The Trans-Siberian Orchestra’s music is a staple over the holiday season and you can experience it all during their 2024 winter tour. The Trans-Siberian Orchestra (TSO) is one of the world’s top touring artists of the past decade and has sold over 12 million albums. Nine-time Emmy winner David Sams chats with lead …
  continue reading
 
Hannah Kerr, a Curb recording artist and gifted songwriter with over 146 million career streams, is known for her chart-topping hit "Warrior." Yet, like many young adults today, she battles one of the most common challenges of our time: anxiety. In a heartfelt conversation with nine-time Emmy winner David Sams, Hannah opens up about her journey to …
  continue reading
 
Silent night - hold on tight! Imagine this: "the worst kids in the history of the world" crashing your town's Christmas pageant? Would you turn them away, or show them the true spirit of Christmas? That's the heart of the new film, "The Best Christmas Pageant Ever," directed by Dallas Jenkins, the creator behind "The Chosen." In an interview with n…
  continue reading
 
Want to love your neighbor, but also stand firm in your convictions? Stephen Arterburn says both are achievable, even in today's social climate. Stephen is the founder and chairman of New Life Ministries and host of the syndicated Christian counseling talk show "New Life Live!" He's also a speaker, bestselling author with more than 15 million books…
  continue reading
 
If you were left with no power, no food, and water intruding on your home, who would you turn to for help? Convoy of Hope is a global, faith-based, nonprofit organization that delivers emergency relief to communities affected by disasters like the Hurricanes Milton and Helene that have hit the Southeast. KeepTheFaith Charities is partnering with Co…
  continue reading
 
He stood for the rights of every American by taking a knee. Actor Eric Close (Nashville, Without A Trace) is starring in the movie “Average Joe” that’s based off the true story of coach Joe Kennedy. Coach Kennedy, a Marine, was fired as a high school football coach for praying after football games. He decided to fight for religious freedom and free…
  continue reading
 
Joe Kennedy wants you to stand up, or kneel down rather, for what you believe in! Joe was a high school football coach who was under fire for taking a knee in prayer after games. Eventually he was fired, launching a seven-year legal battle for religious freedom that went to the Supreme Court. Nine-time Emmy winner David Sams sits down with Joe to h…
  continue reading
 
There’s no better time than now for a message of spreading kindness! Nine-time Emmy winner David Sams speaks with CEO Kevin Downes and President and COO Brandon Gregory from Kingdom Story Company about their upcoming film “White Bird,” the importance of kindness, and the unique approach they take in creating faith-based films. They discuss the chal…
  continue reading
 
Feeling lost? Famous At Home founder Dr. Josh Straub can help you find your way back home. He breaks down why it’s crucial to prioritize emotional well-being, not just for yourself but for the health of your home and relationships. From dealing with stress and conflict in marriage to fostering emotional resilience in your kids, he speaks with nine-…
  continue reading
 
​Are you tired of feeling weighed down by ​​today’s complex racial, cultural, and socio-political challenges? James E. Ward Jr., known as "America's Zero Victim Pastor," offers a fresh perspective on how to break free from these burdens. A highly sought-after speaker, James addresses ​t​hese taboo subjects with a message that’s both timely and tran…
  continue reading
 
God's timing is always perfect and that couldn't be more true for the latest installment of the "God's Not Dead" franchise. David A.R. White is starring in "God's Not Dead: In God We Trust" that is set to hit theaters on September 12th. David sits down with nine-time Emmy winner David Sams to talk about how the movie centers on contemporary issues …
  continue reading
 
Did you know that 40 million Christians don’t vote? The latest “God’s Not Dead” movie is on a mission to change that, and it starts with letting people know their voices deserve to be heard. “God’s Not Dead: In God We Trust” is in theaters September 12th. Nine-time Emmy winner David Sams sits down with Scott Baio who stars in the film. Scott is bes…
  continue reading
 
When one dream fades, it can often be the dawn of a new one! The story of President Ronald Reagan is filled with overcoming the odds—making his way from small-town roots, to Hollywood stardom, and then onto sitting in the White House. The movie "Reagan" hits the theaters nationwide on August 30th. Actor Dennis Quaid takes on the role of the 40th Pr…
  continue reading
 
You may know her for the more than two dozen books and Bible studies she’s written, or for her popular conferences with Going Beyond Ministries, but this month you’ll be able to see her on the big screen once again. Priscilla Shirer is starring in the latest Kendrick Brothers’ film, “The Forge,” that hits theaters on August 23rd. Nine-time Emmy win…
  continue reading
 
"Whoever wants the next generation the most, will get them." We are all role models to someone in this world, and we can have a positive impact. The Kendrick Brothers are the creators of film hits like "War Room," "Overcomer," and "Courageous." Now, after years of prayer, their new movie "The Forge" is set out to inspire those of us to become mento…
  continue reading
 
Drug-dealer-turned-Christian is the latest role for Oscar winning actor Cuba Gooding, Jr. "The Firing Squad" is in theaters August 2nd and Cuba's starring role has him reflecting on his own faith journey. It's based on the incredible true story of prisoners who found faith while facing execution in a third world country and their love for Christ ch…
  continue reading
 
If you're wondering if there's any hope out there, let Kevin Sorbo shine down a light. His new film: "The Firing Squad" is based on the incredible true story of three prisoners who find faith and redemption while facing execution in a third world country. Kevin, who first rose to fame as TV's "Hercules," has appeared in films like the box office hi…
  continue reading
 
Three-time Grammy nominee and American Idol finalist Danny Gokey is back at the Contagious Influencers of America podcast studio ahead of his new album drop. “Sound of Heaven” is set to be released on July 26th. Nine-time Emmy winner David Sams asks Danny all sorts of burning questions about his Latin influence in music, his ultimate dream in life,…
  continue reading
 
Let’s hear your “ROOOAR!” Grammy Award-winning Christian singer/songwriter Brandon Lake is known for his inspiring, heartfelt music, but he’s on a new journey with his wife, Brittany, to help young children experience the power of faith. The couple wrote a new children’s book called: “Little Lion Lungs.” It’s inspired by the words of Brandon’s wors…
  continue reading
 
Want to learn how to turn fear into faith, tragedy into triumph, suffering into strength? Taya Kyle was thrust into the national scene when her husband, Chris Kyle, became known as one of America’s greatest heroes. His story was told in the book and movie, “American Sniper.” After Chris’ death at a shooting range in Texas, Taya is continuing to hon…
  continue reading
 
Be ready to be moved to tears and ignite a fire into your soul to fight for kids this July 4th. The movie "Sound of Hope: The Story of Possum Trot" is inspired by a powerful true story where a rural church in East Texas adopted 77 of the "most difficult to place" children in the foster care system. It's a story that proves with real, determined lov…
  continue reading
 
When you’ve spent the better part of your life making people laugh, it can be hard to imagine a life filled with darkness and tragedy, but the Chonda Pierce has learned how to be at peace with it all. Nine-time Emmy winner David Sams sits down with the award-winning comedian, TV host, and actress. Chonda digs deep into family secrets, untimely deat…
  continue reading
 
We all have a past, parts of it we fondly recall, and others, not so much. Licensed therapist Jason VanRuler has his own difficult past he's faced head-on and now is helping others find healing from brokenness. Nine-time Emmy winner David Sams sits down with Jason to hear encouragement and practical wisdom to gain true authentic connection. Jason V…
  continue reading
 
When darkness is all around you, it’s hope that can be the light and help you have sight! Dr. Ming Wang is a world-renowned eye surgeon that has helped restore eyesight to millions of patients thanks to his patented technology. But that’s just the latter half of his story. As a teenager, Dr. Wang fought to escape China’s Cultural Revolution — durin…
  continue reading
 
“Your family, they aren’t in the way, they are the way.” The remarkable true story of the Smallbones is coming to theaters nationwide on April 26th. Luke Smallbone, a quadruple GRAMMY®-winning artist and one-half of the pop-duo “for King + Country,” sits down with nine-time Emmy winner David Sams to talk about the movie “Unsung Hero.” It follows th…
  continue reading
 
How can you live out your faith in everyday life? Pastor Allen Jackson is here to guide your path. And no, we're not talking about the country star either. He’s the senior pastor at World Outreach Church right outside Nashville, TN that has grown from just 30 people to now over 15 thousand under his decades of leadership. Nine-time Emmy winner Davi…
  continue reading
 
Sometimes the only mode of transportation to take you where you want to go is a leap of faith! You would think someone as successful as New York Times bestselling author, Karen Kingsbury, wouldn’t need to take risks anymore, but Karen and her family used their life savings to fulfill her dream of making her fan-favorite book, “Someone Like You,” in…
  continue reading
 
He’s worked with some of the biggest names in the Christian music industry and now he’s here to give you a how-to manual for singers, artists, and really anyone wanting a career in the music business. Scott Brickell is the founder and CEO of BrickHouse Entertainment and currently manages artists like MercyMe, Cain, and Micah Tyler. He’s also previo…
  continue reading
 
Miracles happen every day, and when your last name is quite literally Miracle, you have to believe it! As author and speaker Gary Miracle describes it, his life caught up to his name in 2020 when an infection nearly killed him after going into septic shock and caused him to lose his arms and legs. His incredible story reached the world when the Gra…
  continue reading
 
C.S. Lewis said it best: “You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream!” As you think about your goals and aspirations for the new year, let Hope Darst be your source of inspiration. Hope is a Christian singer, songwriter, and worship leader who signed her first record deal in 2019 at the age of 39. Before her professional sing…
  continue reading
 
Does the state of the world have you entering 2024 with fear and anxiety instead of hope for a better future? World renowned evangelist and motivational speaker, Nick Vujicic, was born without arms or legs and is here to offer a dose of reality, but more importantly fill you up with empowerment to take action. Nine-time Emmy winner, David Sams, sit…
  continue reading
 
New year, new you? If you’re finding yourself unexpectedly starting a new chapter in life, Brandi Wilson is here to offer words of wisdom from her own life experience. Brandi is a certified personal and executive coach, but before all of that she was a pastor’s wife at one of the largest congregations in Tennessee. That is until her husband of 20 y…
  continue reading
 
It’s time to cuddle up next to the fire with a warm cup of hot cocoa this holiday season and listen to one of the sweetest and most soothing voices to come onto our podcast. Bestselling author and sought-after Bible teacher and speaker, Lisa Harper, is sitting down with nine-time Emmy winner David Sams to talk about her new devotional “Jesus.” It’s…
  continue reading
 
Julie Chen Moonves is always telling the house guests on Big Brother to “expect the unexpected,” but when real life threw Julie a major curveball in 2018, only God was able to pull her through it. The longtime CBS game host and former moderator of “The Talk” shares her transformative spiritual awakening in her audio memoir called “But First, God.” …
  continue reading
 
It’s almost time to say goodbye to 2023 and hello to a new year, but not without a moment of reflection. Nine-time Emmy winner and host, David Sams, sits down with Amercian Idol finalist and recording artist Colton Dixon who’s had a big year to say the least. Colton was one of the topmost played Christian artists in 2023 with his No. 1 hit “Build A…
  continue reading
 
‘Tis the season! “America’s pastor,” Max Lucado, is joining nine-time Emmy winner David Sams on the Contagious Influencers of America podcast to help get you in the Christmas spirit. As always, Max brings his poetic storytelling to the table sharing about Jesus being born and his own personal overcomer story that inspired his latest best seller boo…
  continue reading
 
How does it feel to always be the bad guy? Neal McDonough has an idea. The actor has played some of the biggest villains in TV shows like “Desperate Housewives,” “Suits,” and “Yellowstone.” In fact, he’s filmed over 50 death scenes in his career! Now the veteran actor, known also for his appearance in “Band of Brothers,” is taking on portraying the…
  continue reading
 
You may not normally describe a Christian film as a “dystopian drama” and “sci-fi thriller,” but the new movie from Angel Studios is exactly that, giving a fresh take on a redemptive story. Nine-time Emmy winner David Sams visits with starring actor Kristoffer Polaha ("Wonder Woman 1984", "Jurassic World Dominion") and producer Ken Carpenter of the…
  continue reading
 
Loading …

Quick Reference Guide

Listen to this show while you explore
Play