Ordinary People with Extraordinary Lives

Arlenys & Richard Buckelew

This podcast is dedicated to bringing the testimonies of believers and followers of Jesus Christ to a public platform where everyone is encouraged to join us and witness God’s glory in the lives of people from around the world.

  1. JAN 27

    S3:EP56 | Walking Through Loss Without Losing Faith | Emily Curtis

    Welcome back to Ordinary People with Extraordinary Lives!In this deeply moving episode, host Arlenys Buckelew sits down with Emily Curtis—wife, mother, author, and founder of Hope in the Mourning. Emily vulnerably shares her personal journey through loss, grief, and suffering, and how God transformed her pain into a ministry that now comforts and serves others. From spiritual struggles in childhood, to the heartbreak of losing loved ones, to the unexpected birth of a nonprofit after walking alongside a grieving friend—Emily’s honest testimony will encourage anyone navigating a difficult season. Together, Emily and Arlenys discuss the importance of biblical community, practical ways to support those who are grieving, and what it truly means to find lasting hope in Christ. 🔗 Explore Emily’s Ministry & Resources: • Hope in the Morning – Website: https://hopeinthemourning.org/• Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hope-in-the-mourning/id1807104162 • YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@HopeintheMourning • Book: https://a.co/d/bUK3NAn Follow us on Social Media:   Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ordinarypeoplepodcast/?sub_confirmation=1 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ordinarypeoplepodcast/ Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/ordinarypeoplewithextraordinarylives/  Twitter: https://twitter.com/ordinarywith   Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ordinarypeoplepod Website: http://ordinarypeoplewithextraordinarylives.org Find us on the BAR Network: B.A.R. Network - The Art Of Worship B.A.R. Network - The Art Of Worship https://theartofworship.net/bar/ Need help with audio? Reach out to Andrea Cline: https://andreaclineaudio.com To Support Our Podcast, visit the link below: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ordinarypeoplepodcast Want to share your testimony or have a question?   Please email us: podcast@ordinarypeoplewithextraordinarylives.com

    1h 13m
  2. 11/26/2025

    S3:EP55 | Cultivating a Grateful Heart in Every Season | Guest: Jenna Ellis

    Join host Arlenys Buckelew and special guest Jenna Ellis for a heartfelt Thanksgiving special of Ordinary People with Extraordinary Lives.  In this episode, they explore the true meaning of gratitude through a biblical lens— how faith, scripture, and thankfulness intersect in every season of life. Learn about the origins of Thanksgiving, practical ways to cultivate a grateful heart, and how to remain thankful through trials and hardship.  Jenna shares personal stories, family traditions, and scriptural truths that reveal how God uses gratitude to transform our hearts and anchor our faith. Whether you’re celebrating with family, walking through challenges, or simply seeking encouragement, this Christ-centered conversation will fill your heart with hope, joy, and biblical truth. 🙏 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more faith-based stories, testimonies, and biblical encouragement every week. Follow Jenna for more:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jennaellismedia/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JennaEllisEsq45 X: https://x.com/realJennaEllis Jenna Ellis in the Morning:  https://afr.net/podcasts/jenna-ellis-in-the-morning/ Follow us on Social Media:   Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ordinarypeoplepodcast/?sub_confirmation=1 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ordinarypeoplepodcast/ Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/ordinarypeoplewithextraordinarylives/  Twitter: https://twitter.com/ordinarywith   Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ordinarypeoplepod Website: http://ordinarypeoplewithextraordinarylives.org Find us on the BAR Network: B.A.R. Network - The Art Of Worship B.A.R. Network - The Art Of Worship https://theartofworship.net/bar/ Need help with audio? Reach out to Andrea Cline: https://andreaclineaudio.com        To Support Our Podcast, visit the link below: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ordinarypeoplepodcast Want to share your testimony or have a question?   Please email us: podcast@ordinarypeoplewithextraordinarylives.com

    31 min
  3. 10/21/2025

    S3:EP54 Only 1% Are Christian in Japan | Saki To Nihongo: A Heart for the Gospel

    In this episode, host Arlenys Buckelew sits down with Saki, founder of the Saki to Nihongo online ministry. Saki shares her remarkable journey — from growing up in rural Japan with no exposure to Christianity, to finding faith in Christ after moving to the United States.  Discover how her experiences shaped her heart for ministry, her unique approach to teaching Japanese with Christian content, and how God is using her story to encourage believers and seekers around the world. Whether you’re drawn to cross-cultural testimonies, learning Japanese, or simply needing encouragement in your faith, this episode will inspire you.  Saki also shares practical resources for missionaries, language learners, and anyone passionate about sharing the gospel in Japanese. To learn more about Saki: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@sakitonihongo eBook: https://sakitonihongo.aweb.page/p/7a8d6320-96b7-429f-801e-7528cead9aad?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAadep_kcGtAWy6eFd33uw3gWJtMBIV9jLoehWchF12GB2b8o8s0bWvbOwNs8uA_aem_DQcXBtqbbc2OXGnSzodfkg Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saki_to_nihongo?igsh=MXJwbDBrcTJkOG12dQ%3D%3D Follow us on Social Media:   Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ordinarypeoplepodcast/?sub_confirmation=1 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ordinarypeoplepodcast/ Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/ordinarypeoplewithextraordinarylives/   Twitter: https://twitter.com/ordinarywith    Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ordinarypeoplepod Website: http://ordinarypeoplewithextraordinarylives.org Find us on the BAR Network: B.A.R. Network - The Art Of Worship B.A.R. Network - The Art Of Worship https://theartofworship.net/bar/ Need help with audio? Reach out to Andrea Cline: https://andreaclineaudio.com        To Support Our Podcast, visit the link below: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ordinarypeoplepodcast Want to share your testimony or have a question?   Please email us: podcast@ordinarypeoplewithextraordinarylives.com

    1h 15m
  4. 09/23/2025

    S3:EP53 Why Charlie Kirk’s Murder Is More Than Political Violence | Jenna Ellis

    In this special episode, host Arlenys Buckelew is joined by her friend Jenna Ellis for an honest and heartfelt conversation in the aftermath of the murder of Charlie Kirk. Together, they wrestle with the critical and timely question:“How do we respond biblically as the days grow evil?” Drawing from Scripture, personal testimonies, and the legacy of Charlie Kirk, Arlenys and Jenna explore the Christian response to suffering, justice, forgiveness, and boldness in proclaiming the gospel in an increasingly hostile world. This episode offers biblical encouragement, gospel-centered wisdom, and hope for believers navigating dark times—while reflecting on the eternal importance of living out our faith with courage, conviction, and compassion. Follow Jenna for more:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jennaellismedia/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JennaEllisEsq45 X: https://x.com/realJennaEllis Jenna Ellis in the Morning:  https://afr.net/podcasts/jenna-ellis-in-the-morning/ If God, Why Evil? Honoring the Life & Legacy of My Friend Charlie Kirk, a tribute by Dr. Frank Turek: https://youtu.be/O4tSLx70A5g?si=Ksd3Bh8YOczAG3ab Follow us on Social Media:   Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ordinarypeoplepodcast/?sub_confirmation=1 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ordinarypeoplepodcast/ Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/ordinarypeoplewithextraordinarylives/  Twitter: https://twitter.com/ordinarywith   Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ordinarypeoplepod Website: http://ordinarypeoplewithextraordinarylives.org Find us on the BAR Network: B.A.R. Network - The Art Of Worship B.A.R. Network - The Art Of Worship https://theartofworship.net/bar/ Need help with audio? Reach out to Andrea Cline: https://andreaclineaudio.com        To Support Our Podcast, visit the link below: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ordinarypeoplepodcast Want to share your testimony or have a question?   Please email us: podcast@ordinarypeoplewithextraordinarylives.com

    57 min
  5. 09/02/2025

    S3:EP52 | He Woke Up Speaking in Tongues… Then Met Christ | Curtis Field

    In this moving episode, Pastor Curtis Field shares his story of redemption—growing up in a broken home, battling addiction, and being swept into the Pentecostal movement before truly coming to know Christ. Curtis opens up about his dramatic conversion, his marriage and family, and the miraculous journey of his daughter Tiana’s ongoing health struggles. Through it all, God’s grace, prayer, and the love of the church sustained him. Listeners will be encouraged by Curtis’s testimony of God’s faithfulness, the hope found in Christ, and practical wisdom for anyone walking through hardship. Follow us on Social Media:   Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ordinarypeoplepodcast/?sub_confirmation=1 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ordinarypeoplepodcast/ Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/ordinarypeoplewithextraordinarylives/  Twitter: https://twitter.com/ordinarywith   Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ordinarypeoplepod Website: http://ordinarypeoplewithextraordinarylives.org Find us on the BAR Network: B.A.R. Network - The Art Of Worship B.A.R. Network - The Art Of Worship https://theartofworship.net/bar/ Need help with audio? Reach out to Andrea Cline: https://andreaclineaudio.com        To Support Our Podcast, visit the link below: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ordinarypeoplepodcast Want to share your testimony or have a question?   Please email us: podcast@ordinarypeoplewithextraordinarylives.com

    1h 49m
  6. 06/24/2025

    S3:EP51 | Ex-Criminal. Now a Street Evangelist | Justin Harvey

    Justin Harvey's journey from criminal to Christ will BLOW YOUR MIND! 🔥 Listen to how one man went from tracking criminals to becoming a servant of Christ. This is NOT just another story - this is a RADICAL transformation that proves NO ONE is beyond God's grace! KEY MOMENTS: Tracked criminals for law enforcementFaced 10 years in prisonMiraculous encounter on train tracksComplete life transformation💥 PROOF that God can RESTORE any life! 👉 SUBSCRIBE never to miss our upcoming testimonies! Want to support Justin's ministry? 🌐 Website: luke1517.com 🤝 One Life Support Agency: just1.us SHARE this video - someone needs to hear this TODAY! 🙏 Follow us on Social Media:   Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ordinarypeoplepodcast/?sub_confirmation=1 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ordinarypeoplepodcast/ Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/ordinarypeoplewithextraordinarylives/  Twitter: https://twitter.com/ordinarywith   Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ordinarypeoplepod Website: http://ordinarypeoplewithextraordinarylives.com/  Find us on the BAR Network: B.A.R. Network - The Art Of Worship B.A.R. Network - The Art Of Worship https://theartofworship.net/bar/ Need help with audio? Reach out to Andrea Cline: https://andreaclineaudio.com To Support Our Podcast, visit the link below: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ordinarypeoplepodcast Want to share your testimony or have a question?   Please email us: podcast@ordinarypeoplewithextraordinarylives.com

    1h 13m
  7. 04/08/2025

    S3:EP50 | Redeemed from a Life of Crime | Chuck Holmes

    In this episode, we hear the incredible testimony of Chuck Holmes - a former convicted felon who found redemption through a personal encounter with Jesus Christ.  After a life of crime, drug addiction, and incarceration, Chuck experienced a dramatic transformation that led him to dedicate his life to prison ministry.  Hear how God's grace reached into the darkest corners of Chuck's life and changed him from the inside out. Learn how he now uses his past to minister to those still trapped in the cycle of sin and despair, sharing the hope of the gospel.  Chuck's story powerfully reminds us that no one is beyond the reach of God's saving power. Be encouraged by his journey from darkness to light and inspired to share the life-changing message of Christ with those who need it most. To learn more about or to support Chuck’s ministry, go to:https://mnpm.org/ Follow Chuck on Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/chuck.holmes.58 Follow us on Social Media:   Subscribe to our YouTube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/@ordinarypeoplepodcast/?sub_confirmation=1 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ordinarypeoplepodcast/ Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/ordinarypeoplewithextraordinarylives/  Twitter: https://twitter.com/ordinarywith   Tiktok:https://www.tiktok.com/@ordinarypeoplepod Website: http://ordinarypeoplewithextraordinarylives.com/  Find us on the BAR Network: B.A.R. Network - The Art Of Worship B.A.R. Network - The Art Of Worship https://theartofworship.net/bar/ Need help with audio? Reach out to Andrea Cline: https://andreaclineaudio.com To Support Our Podcast, visit the link below: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ordinarypeoplepodcast Want to share your testimony or have a question?   Please email us:podcast@ordinarypeoplewithextraordinarylives.com

    1h 21m
  8. 03/18/2025

    S3:EP49 | 📖 Godly Ever After – Faith, Friendship & Trusting God | Author Brooke Bartz

    Join host Arlenys Buckelew as she sits down with author Brooke Bartz to discuss her Christian teen fiction series, Godly Ever After! 📖✨ In this episode, Brooke shares the heart behind her books—a faith-filled, relatable series for teenage girls navigating friendship, school, and trusting God through life’s challenges. Inspired by her own experiences, Brooke created a story that helps young women understand their worth in Christ. 📢 Exciting News! The second book in the series is set to release in April 2025 and will continue Fiona’s journey through high school, introducing new characters and deeper spiritual growth. 💡 If you're looking for encouraging, Christ-centered fiction for young women, this episode is for you! 🔔 Stay tuned & subscribe for updates! Follow Brooke:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/godly_ever_after/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justbrookebartz/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100010118640077 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/526836121526587 Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/-/author/B07Y27JZ81?pd_rd_w=zAyi8&content-id=amzn1.sym.adf77e3d-184d-47e6-b862-bdb111cd3378%3Aamzn1.sym.adf77e3d-184d-47e6-b862-bdb111cd3378&pf_rd_p=adf77e3d-184d-47e6-b862-bdb111cd3378&pf_rd_r=19TT7XPPHT54MN9S3SP2&pd_rd_wg=8biuF&pd_rd_r=41e149cc-8858-4f70-9523-f25a8497a6ae&ref_=ast_author_oits_d_h 📅 The G3 National Conference is back! Join us September 11–13, 2025, for three days of powerful biblical teaching featuring Paul Washer, James White, Justin Peters, H.B. Charles, James Coates, Darrell Harrison, Virgil Walker, and more! 🎟️ Register now at g3min.org/faith and use code G3OPWEL for 20% off! Follow us on Social Media:   Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ordinarypeoplepodcast/?sub_confirmation=1 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ordinarypeoplepodcast/ Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/ordinarypeoplewithextraordinarylives/  Twitter: https://twitter.com/ordinarywith   Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ordinarypeoplepod Website: http://ordinarypeoplewithextraordinarylives.com/  Find us on the BAR Network: B.A.R. Network - The Art Of Worship B.A.R. Network - The Art Of Worship https://theartofworship.net/bar/ Need help with audio? Reach out to Andrea Cline: https://andreaclineaudio.com        To Support Our Podcast, visit the link below: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ordinarypeoplepodcast Want to share your testimony or have a question?   Please email us: podcast@ordinarypeoplewithextraordinarylives.com

    27 min
5
out of 5
41 Ratings

About

This podcast is dedicated to bringing the testimonies of believers and followers of Jesus Christ to a public platform where everyone is encouraged to join us and witness God’s glory in the lives of people from around the world.

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