Interviews Raleigh Sadler Interviews Raleigh Sadler

Ep. 142: Abdu Murray on navigating identity in the age of AI.

Is our dependence on artificial intelligence a good thing?

In this episode of MercyCast, I sit down with Abdu Murray, the author of “Fake ID,” for an honest conversation about faith, technology, and what really makes us who we are. We dig deep into the intersection of artificial intelligence, identity, and Christianity—topics that are shaping how we see ourselves and each other in a rapidly changing world.

Abdu shares his journey from Islam to Christianity, revealing how deeply personal and relational the path to faith can be. Together, we examine how the Imago Dei—the image of God—grounds our identity and purpose, even as artificial intelligence and technology push the boundaries of creativity and relationships. Abdu’s insights challenge us to consider the dangers of over-reliance on AI, emphasizing the irreplaceable value of genuine human connection and compassion.

Read More
Interviews Raleigh Sadler Interviews Raleigh Sadler

Ep. 141: Elizabeth Cole on finding hope as a solo-parent.

How do you come to terms with the fact that what you thought your life was gonna look like is not what it looks like?

Elizabeth Cole, VP of Solo Parent, a leading nonprofit supporting single parents, stops by to discuss the real-life challenges and journeys of solo parenting. We discuss how single parents navigate life after divorce, the importance of building a strong support network for solo parents, and why vulnerability and authentic community are essential for healing. Elizabeth shares powerful insights on practicing self-compassion, overcoming shame and guilt, and understanding your past to foster personal growth. Throughout our conversation, we highlight how encouragement and practical support can make a world of difference for single moms and dads facing life’s toughest moments.

Read More
Interviews Raleigh Sadler Interviews Raleigh Sadler

Ep. 140: Will Acuff on Spirit-Led Self Awareness.

Sanctification is returning to your true self as God’s Beloved.

Hey friends, Raleigh here. We all know that we want to change things about ourselves. Maybe we want to shed a few pounds, or learn a new language. You are probably making your resolutions right now. For this New Year’s Eve, I had the honor of sitting down with Will Acuff, author of the new book, No Elevator to Everest: Shift from Survive to Thrive through Spirit-led Self Awareness, for an important conversation about becoming self-aware. Will opened up about his profound journey of self-discovery—one marked by deep connection, honest reflection, and a powerful return to his roots.

We talked about what it means to truly meet yourself, even in the hardest places; when life cracks you open. Will described what it was like to touch the unconditional love of God—a moment so utterly transformative that it reshaped how he viewed himself and the world around him. It wasn’t just a mountaintop experience; he knew he was coming home to a hard context. Yet, in that vulnerability, he found the strength to return to himself.

This episode is about the power of connection, the necessity of returning to our roots, and the way unconditional love can pivot our entire lives. Will’s journey is deeply personal, but I think you’ll find something of yourself in his story.

Read More
Interviews Raleigh Sadler Interviews Raleigh Sadler

Ep. 139: Ken Isaacs on showing compassion when it is hard.

Is it possible to be impartial when caring for people on both sides of a conflict?

In this episode of the MercyCast, I sit down with Ken Isaacs, Vice President of Samaritan’s Purse and author of “Running to the Fire: Helping in Jesus’ Name.” Together, we dive deep into how Christian compassion, faith, and practical love can make a real difference in some of the world’s most challenging conflict zones.

One of the most powerful moments from our conversation was hearing Ken share about his firsthand experiences, including a story where an ISIS member questioned why anyone would show them kindness. It reminded me how transformative acts of compassion can be—even in the darkest situations.

If you’re passionate about Justice, Mercy, humanitarian stories, or want to learn how faith and practical love can make a difference in a divided world, this episode is for you. Give it a listen—I know you’ll be inspired by Ken’s incredible journey and the stories we share.

Read More
Interviews Raleigh Sadler Interviews Raleigh Sadler

Ep. 137: Jen Thompson on compassion, vulnerability, and controversial holidays.

This week, Jen Thompson is back! We tackle history, Halloween, identity, the joys of f’uncle hood, real friendship, boundaries, masks, vulnerability, awkwardness and the reality of Grace.

We discuss the challenges of being honest and open in a world that often values superficial interactions. We reflect on the difference between perfectionism and godliness, emphasizing the freedom that comes from understanding one's identity in Christ. So many topics with one truth driving them all. Grace frees you to be truly human. Tune in.

Read More
Interviews Raleigh Sadler Interviews Raleigh Sadler

Ep. 136: Katie Koplin on duality and the Christian life.

In this most recent conversation, Raleigh Sadler and Katie explore themes of compassion, vulnerability, and the complexities of faith. They reflect on their experiences at a recent conference, discuss living in a decommissioned church, and delve into the sacredness of space and community. The dialogue touches on the dichotomy of pain and beauty, the importance of law and gospel, and the idea that redemption is more valuable than perfection. They emphasize the role of emotions in faith and encourage listeners to embrace both their struggles and their hope in Christ.

Read More
Interviews Raleigh Sadler Interviews Raleigh Sadler

Ep. 135: Mark Moore on wisdom and self discovery.

In this episode of MercyCast, Raleigh Sadler and Mark Moore explore the practical application of faith through wisdom, critique, and mercy. They discuss the importance of living out one's faith authentically, the role of critique in personal growth, and the influence of fatherhood on emotional health. The conversation emphasizes the revolutionary concept of God as a personal Father and the distinction between wisdom and mere information. Ultimately, they encourage listeners to seek wisdom through community and scripture, highlighting that true wisdom leads to better living and stronger relationships.

Read More
Interviews Raleigh Sadler Interviews Raleigh Sadler

Ep. 134: Cally Logan on embracing your story.

In this episode of the Mercy Cast, I’m joined by Cally Logan—a school teacher, senior writer for Crosswalk, and the author of 'The Wallflower that Bloomed.' Cally shares her powerful journey that began at just 19 when she confronted severe health issues, endured multiple misdiagnoses, and traveled to the prestigious Mayo Clinic.

Despite navigating these overwhelming challenges, Cally found strength and companionship through her faith, which ultimately led her to redefine her purpose and identity. In our conversation, we tackle the importance of vulnerability, the critical role of faith in overcoming adversity, and the way our shared stories can help others feel less alone.

Read More
Interviews Raleigh Sadler Interviews Raleigh Sadler

Ep. 133: Becky Keife on reframing anxiety.

Uncertainty is definitely not my favorite part of life.

In this episode of MercyCast, I had the joy of sitting down with the insightful and compassionate Becky Keife, author of  A Verse A Day For The Anxious Soul, a hundred Days of Peace for the Calm You Crave, to talk about something that touches so many of us—anxiety. Whether it’s the tightness in your chest before a big decision, or a relentless mental loop that keeps you up at night, anxiety shows up in all kinds of ways. And yet, it’s something we often try to face alone.

But what if we didn’t have to?

Read More
Interviews Raleigh Sadler Interviews Raleigh Sadler

Ep. 132: Mikhail Andersson on art, tattoos, and the stories we tell.

Art imitates life. However, art is most often born from the places that we fear the most.

In this episode of MercyCast, I had the honor of sitting down with the very talented tattoo artist and owner of First Class NYC, Mikhail Andersson. From the first moment we started talking, it was clear this wasn’t just a conversation about ink or murals—it was about the stories we carry, the pain we try to process, and the beauty we’re capable of creating in the midst of it all.

Read More
Interviews Raleigh Sadler Interviews Raleigh Sadler

Ep. 131: Naghmeh Panahi on Christian Celebrity culture and grace in ordinary life.

Does life always have to be “bigger and better” for it to have value?

No, there is a certain miracle found only in the mundane. In this powerful episode of MercyCast, host Raleigh Sadler sits down with Naghmeh Panahi to explore the deep intersections of compassion, vulnerability, and celebrity culture within the Christian community. Together, they unpack how our identity can become distorted by status and recognition, and why embracing grace in ordinary life is vital for spiritual health.

Through stories of suffering, healing, and the transformative nature of God’s love, Raleigh and Naghmeh reflect on the call to serve the least of these, the strength found in authentic community, and the importance of being grateful even in seasons of brokenness. The conversation is a raw, grace-filled reminder that contentment and deep spiritual growth often come from choosing humility over platform, presence and performance.

Read More
Interviews Raleigh Sadler Interviews Raleigh Sadler

Ep. 130: Amanda Hope Haley on faith, scripture, and archaeology.

Have you ever questioned a belief that you've held for a long time?

In this episode of MercyCast, I sit down with Amanda Hope Haley—Harvard-trained archaeologist and author of Stones Still Speak—to talk about something that has the potential to challenge our faith: the way we understand scripture. Together, we explore the importance of context in interpreting the Bible and the often-overlooked role of biblical archaeology in revealing the world behind the words.

Read More
Interviews Raleigh Sadler Interviews Raleigh Sadler

Ep. 129: Kelsey Bowie on finding freedom in vulnerability.

In this heartfelt episode of the Mercycast, I sit down with Kelsey Bowie to explore the profound impact of faith and community in navigating life's toughest challenges. Kelsey was one of the first interns for Let My People Go and has become a good friend. She shares personal stories and reflections, which lead us to discuss how embracing vulnerability and leaning on a supportive community can lead to healing and growth.

Read More
Interviews Raleigh Sadler Interviews Raleigh Sadler

Ep. 127: Morgan Gleeson on leading and learning.

In this episode of Mercycast, host Raleigh Sadler speaks with Morgan Gleeson, Assistant Executive Director of Pillars of Hope, an anti-trafficking nonprofit. They discuss Morgan's journey from intern to her current role, the importance of direct services in supporting trafficking survivors, and the emotional toll of working in this field. They also delve into the definition of human trafficking, the misconceptions surrounding it, and how individuals can educate themselves and take action to support those affected by trafficking.

Read More
Interviews Raleigh Sadler Interviews Raleigh Sadler

Ep. 128: Joshua Porter on dying to yourself.

In this episode of the Mercy Cast, host Raleigh Sadler explores the profound themes of death, change, and spiritual transformation. Joined by Joshua Porter, former frontman of the punk rock band Showbread and author of 'How to Die: Chaos, Mortality, and the Scandal of Christian Discipleship,' they discuss how life is a series of deaths that lead to transformation and the inevitable changes one must face. They delve into the idea of accepting suffering and loss as pathways to experiencing the love of God and becoming who we are meant to be. This compelling conversation highlights the importance of time, patience, and the presence of God in transforming our lives.

Read More
Interviews Raleigh Sadler Interviews Raleigh Sadler

Ep. 126: Alexander John Shaia on slowing down.

Join me on the Mercy Cast as I reconnect with Alexander John Shaia, founder of Quadratos and author of "Heart and Mind" and "Returning from Camino." In this episode, we explore the transformative power of pilgrimage, the art of slowing down, and the wisdom found in embracing life's seasons. Discover how the journey home can be as enlightening as the journey itself, and why the Camino is more than just a path—it's a way of life. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about finding meaning in the present moment and the beauty of returning home changed.

Read More
Interviews Raleigh Sadler Interviews Raleigh Sadler

Ep. 125: Joe Thorn on the Gospel and personal growth.

In this episode of the Mercy Cast, host Raleigh Sadler welcomes back his good friend Joe Thorn, pastor of Redeemer Fellowship and author of several books. Raleigh and Joe engage in a candid and humorous discussion about friendships, gospel living, and addressing life’s struggles. They delve into the importance of gospel-centered relationships, the significance of reflecting on scripture, and the detrimental effects of sin, including pornography. Throughout their banter, they emphasize the unchanging love and grace of Jesus Christ for everyone, encouraging listeners to face their realities with the truth of the gospel.

Read More
Interviews Raleigh Sadler Interviews Raleigh Sadler

Ep. 124: Tyler Gresham on when you don’t know what to say.

Hey friends, it’s Raleigh Sadler. In this episode of MercyCast, I sit down with my good friend Tyler Gresham, Administrative pastor to students at Fairhaven Baptist in Demopolis, Al,  to talk about something we all encounter but often don’t know how to handle—suffering, especially in the face of unimaginable loss. Tyler opens up about the heartbreaking journey of losing his daughter, Tessa, to a terminal birth defect, and what it looked like to walk through that adversity with honesty, trust, and a deep longing for healing.

Together, we unpack how compassion—as well-intentioned as it is—can sometimes feel like salt in a wound when we’re not careful with our words. We talk about how simply listening—really listening—can communicate more love than any advice ever could.

Read More
Interviews Raleigh Sadler Interviews Raleigh Sadler

Ep. 123: Will Parker Anderson on calling, creativity, and community.

In this episode of MercyCast, I sit down with my good friend Will Parker Anderson to talk about something close to both of our hearts: creativity, calling, and the deep need we all have for community.

We explore how our passions can point us toward our purpose, but also how hard it can be to stay true to that purpose in a world full of pressure and noise. Will shares what he’s learned as a writer and editor—and more than that, as a person committed to loving others well through creativity.

Read More