Amazing Greats

Host Ric Hansen. Produced by Klem Daniels

Interviews with well known actors, authors, artists, athletes, musicians, and business leaders. Authentic conversations about their lives, careers, and how their faith played an important part. Inspiring and uplifting stories of hope, transformation, and triumph. We dig deep for the powerful life stories from some very amazing guests...truly "souls on fire".

  1. A Legendary Voice, A Raw Story — Bonnie Keen on Faith That Endures

    DEC 17

    A Legendary Voice, A Raw Story — Bonnie Keen on Faith That Endures

    In this powerful episode of Amazing Greats, singer-songwriter, author, and original First Call member Bonnie Keen joins us for a raw and hope-soaked conversation about her extraordinary journey. For those who may not know, First Call was one of the most iconic vocal groups in Contemporary Christian Music during the ’80s and ’90s — known for their tight harmonies, innovative arrangements, and a sound that helped define an era. Bonnie pulls back the curtain on the highs of that celebrated career alongside the deep valleys of divorce, single motherhood, identity loss, and a years-long battle with depression that left her questioning everything she thought she knew. With honesty, humor, and a faith forged in the fire, she shares how God met her in the darkest places and slowly rebuilt her life, her confidence, and her calling. You’ll hear the untold stories behind her time with First Call, the life-changing moments that reshaped her spiritual walk, and the unexpected ways God used pain to strengthen her voice and her ministry. Whether you’ve followed Bonnie’s work for decades or are discovering her for the first time, this conversation will leave you inspired, encouraged, and deeply moved. It’s a reminder that God does some of His most amazing work in the rubble — and Bonnie Keen is living proof of that. "Amazing Greats" is a library of interviews with highly successful people who have amazing career and life stories and who share how God has impacted their journey. Hosted by broadcaster Ric Hansen & produced by Klem Daniels. Available on Apple, Spotify, iHeart, Google and our YouTube Channel. Please help us grow our audience by "liking", "subscribing and "Sharing". Thanks so much.

    34 min
  2. Faith, Injuries, and a Cinderella Season: Inside the heart of TCU Coach Jessie Craig

    NOV 19

    Faith, Injuries, and a Cinderella Season: Inside the heart of TCU Coach Jessie Craig

    The Coach's Calling Join us for an inspiring conversation with Jessie Craig, a phenomenal coach from the TCU Women's Basketball staff who helped steer the team to a historic "Cinderella" season. This episode goes beyond the court, charting Coach Craig's incredible 4,000-mile personal and professional journey from her homeschooled, Christian roots in Fairbanks, Alaska, to the high-stakes world of Division I basketball in Texas. Hear how a series of career-ending injuries became a pivotal moment, forcing her to rely on her faith and unexpectedly launching her coaching career—starting as a high school JV assistant at just 17. Her story is a testament to how God can turn setbacks into opportunities, shaping her into the faithful, driven leader she is today. Faith, Mentorship, and a Historic Season Coach Craig dives into the dramatic turnaround of the TCU team, including their first Big 12 championships and Sweet 16 appearance, highlighting how recruiting character and fostering a strong team culture are the core ingredients for success. Discover the profound influence of legendary coach Fred Crowell ("Papa Suave") and his mantra of "Relentless Pursuit of Excellence" on both her coaching style and her spiritual walk. Learn about the unique environment at TCU that allows Christian principles to integrate with elite athletics, and how her faith sustains her in the high-pressure world of collegiate sports. This is a story about trusting the process, patiently enduring affliction, and witnessing God's faithfulness at every turn of a remarkable career. "Amazing Greats" is a library of interviews with highly successful people who have amazing career and life stories and who share how God has impacted their journey. Hosted by broadcaster Ric Hansen & produced by Klem Daniels. Available on Apple, Spotify, iHeart, Google and our YouTube Channel. Please help us grow our audience by "liking", "subscribing and "Sharing". Thanks so much.

    35 min
  3. The Live Wire: Coach R-Jay Barsh on Faith, Adversity, and Basketball at Gonzaga

    NOV 4

    The Live Wire: Coach R-Jay Barsh on Faith, Adversity, and Basketball at Gonzaga

    When you meet Gonzaga University basketball coach R-Jay Barsh, one thing is clear—he’s a live wire for Jesus. In this inspiring episode of Amazing Greats, we dive deep into the journey of a man whose passion for the game is matched only by his passion for Christ. From his early days in High School and Tacoma Community College to leading college teams across the country and now coaching alongside legends at Gonzaga, R-Jay’s story is a powerful testimony of perseverance, calling, and faith in action. A devastating back injury ended his playing career and sent him searching for purpose beyond the scoreboard. That’s when God revealed a new game plan—coaching, mentoring, and ministering through basketball. Along the way, R-Jay was profoundly shaped by Fred Crowell, founder of NBC Basketball Camps, whose faith and mentorship sparked ripples that continue to change lives. R-Jay's story is another example of the ripple effect of one man, the late Fred Crowell. Fred’s own powerful journey is captured in Amazing Greats episode 10  and another “Fred ripple” can be heard in episode 78 with Indiana Pacers VP Ryan Carr. With his trademark energy and authenticity, Coach Barsh shares how adversity deepened his faith, how he lives out his calling on and off the court, and why every practice, huddle, and halftime can become a place of ministry. Whether you love basketball or just need a reminder of what it means to live on fire for God, this conversation will move and motivate you. "Amazing Greats" is a library of interviews with highly successful people who have amazing career and life stories and who share how God has impacted their journey. Hosted by broadcaster Ric Hansen & produced by Klem Daniels. Available on Apple, Spotify, iHeart, Google and our YouTube Channel. Please help us grow our audience by "liking", "subscribing and "Sharing". Thanks so much.

    43 min
  4. Faith on Wheels: Nuka Hart and the Mission of Mobility

    OCT 16

    Faith on Wheels: Nuka Hart and the Mission of Mobility

    When Nuka Hart answered God’s call to lead Free Wheelchair Mission, she stepped into a global movement that has transformed more than a million lives — one wheelchair at a time. As CEO, Nuka blends her deep faith with bold leadership to bring hope and mobility to people who might otherwise be forgotten. In this episode of Amazing Greats, Nuka shares her personal faith journey, the moments that confirmed her calling, and the powerful stories of transformation she’s witnessed in communities around the world. You’ll hear how simple acts of compassion can ripple across nations — and how God can use even the smallest “yes” to move mountains. It’s a story of vision, perseverance, and the incredible grace of God at work through ordinary people doing extraordinary things. Whether you’re a leader, a dreamer, or someone searching for purpose, Nuka’s story will remind you that faith in motion truly changes the world. PS I just bought my first wheelchair to provide mobility to someone who desperately needs it.  It was easy....for $100 you can to.  Just click here. "Amazing Greats" is a library of interviews with highly successful people who have amazing career and life stories and who share how God has impacted their journey. Hosted by broadcaster Ric Hansen & produced by Klem Daniels. Available on Apple, Spotify, iHeart, Google and our YouTube Channel. Please help us grow our audience by "liking", "subscribing and "Sharing". Thanks so much.

    49 min
  5. Indiana Pacers, NBA Dreams, and God’s Game Plan with Ryan Carr

    SEP 24

    Indiana Pacers, NBA Dreams, and God’s Game Plan with Ryan Carr

    Imagine not making your high school varsity basketball team, standing just 5’7”, and thinking your dream of making it in the game you love is unrealistic. That was Ryan Carr’s reality. But what seemed hopeless, was really the beginning of a bigger story—one that would take him from writing a bold letter to coaching legend Bobby Knight, to working side-by-side with Larry Bird, and eventually to his role as Senior Vice President of Player Personnel for the Indiana Pacers. Ryan’s path proves that when God has a plan, no obstacle is too great. Ryan was one of hundreds of amazing basketball (and life) success stories that came out of NBC basketball camps founded by Fred Crowell our guest on Episode #10 of Amazing Greats.  (if you haven't listened to it yet, you need to check it out.). Fred passed away of cancer in August of 2021. In this episode of Amazing Greats, Ryan Carr shares how God’s fingerprints have been all over his journey—not just in the surprising career breaks, but in the valleys as well. He opens up about the moment he gave his life to Christ at age 30, how faith carried him through personal loss and depression, and why he now sees every success as an opportunity to glorify God. With honesty, humility, and wisdom from years inside the NBA, Ryan’s story is one of perseverance, grace, and the transforming power of faith. If you’ve ever faced setbacks, wondered about your purpose, or questioned if God could really use your story, this conversation will inspire you to trust His game plan. "Amazing Greats" is a library of interviews with highly successful people who have amazing career and life stories and who share how God has impacted their journey. Hosted by broadcaster Ric Hansen & produced by Klem Daniels. Available on Apple, Spotify, iHeart, Google and our YouTube Channel. Please help us grow our audience by "liking", "subscribing and "Sharing". Thanks so much.

    53 min
  6. Trapped in the Fire: A cinematographer's Divine Encounter at Mount St. Helens

    AUG 13

    Trapped in the Fire: A cinematographer's Divine Encounter at Mount St. Helens

    In this gripping episode of Amazing Greats, we sit down with renowned cinematographer and documentarian Michael Lienau, whose life was forever changed by the eruption of Mount St. Helens, May 18 1980. At just 20 years old, Michael found himself trapped at ground zero with a small film crew during the volcano’s second major blast—an ordeal that turned into a four-day fight for survival. From melted boots and eerie silence to blinding ash and divine visions, Michael recounts the harrowing experience that not only tested his physical endurance but also transformed his spiritual life. His powerful encounter with Jesus in the midst of catastrophe set him on a new path—one rooted in faith, purpose, and storytelling. Michael shares how this life-defining moment led to a long career producing faith-centered documentaries, launching ministries, and raising a family of nine with his wife and creative partner, Sherry. From the volcanic landscapes of Hawaii to the streets of Tacoma, Michael’s journey is marked by a passion for truth, reconciliation, and the supernatural power of God. Don’t miss this unforgettable conversation about divine rescue, creative calling, and a legacy built on listening to God’s voice—even in the darkest moments. "Amazing Greats" is a library of interviews with highly successful people who have amazing career and life stories and who share how God has impacted their journey. Hosted by broadcaster Ric Hansen & produced by Klem Daniels. Available on Apple, Spotify, iHeart, Google and our YouTube Channel. Please help us grow our audience by "liking", "subscribing and "Sharing". Thanks so much.

    52 min
  7. Guided by God.  The healing hands of Dr. Robert Kayal

    12/17/2024

    Guided by God. The healing hands of Dr. Robert Kayal

    The operating room is his happy place.  Doing God's healing work with the audio backdrop of Contemporary Christian music and an occasional Bible quiz with his surgical staff.  Dr. Robert Kayal has build a "one stop" orthopedic care empire.  The 20 Kayal Orthopedic Centers in New Jersey and New York were born out of  his love of God, love of people, gifted hands, and an innate desire to "fix things".  It was Dr. Kayal's pastor, who helped to ignite his life long career in medicine by encouraging him to use his God given gifts as his mission field.  Doing what he does to glorify God.  It is on that foundation that he has built his practice.  His staff of over 100 health care professionals are blessed with the deep rooted culture of Christianity at his clinics.   In his recent book, "Mastering the Business of Medicine & the Doctor-Patient Relationship" Dr. Kayal articulates his 7 C's philosophy and shares that with us in this episode as well.  Everyone has a unique faith journey...and you'll hear how Dr. Kayal's was as, thoughtful, intense and mindful as his journey to become a surgeon.   Enjoy the amazing, God--centered career path of this inspiring guest on this episode of Amazing Greats.  "Amazing Greats" is a library of interviews with highly successful people who have amazing career and life stories and who share how God has impacted their journey. Hosted by broadcaster Ric Hansen & produced by Klem Daniels. Available on Apple, Spotify, iHeart, Google and our YouTube Channel. Please help us grow our audience by "liking", "subscribing and "Sharing". Thanks so much.

    51 min

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
6 Ratings

About

Interviews with well known actors, authors, artists, athletes, musicians, and business leaders. Authentic conversations about their lives, careers, and how their faith played an important part. Inspiring and uplifting stories of hope, transformation, and triumph. We dig deep for the powerful life stories from some very amazing guests...truly "souls on fire".