The Clark Report...with John and Val Clark

John Clark

Have you ever looked around at the state of things to try to make sense of it all — but couldn’t? Maybe you’re just looking through the wrong lenses! At the Clark Report podcast, we seek to look at the world through biblical lenses. Culture. Finances. Marriage & family. Relationships. We believe the timeless truths in the Bible speak clearly to these issues and more. We're John & Val Clark. We're not pastors or ministers -- just committed Christians who love the Lord and love telling others about Him. We'll post a new episode each Wednesday!

  1. 5d ago

    Hope and Support in an Unplanned Pregnancy

    What happens when an unexpected pregnancy changes everything? In this episode of The Clark Report, John and Val Blanding Clark take an honest look at unplanned pregnancy, pregnancy resource centers, and the support available to women facing difficult decisions. We talk with Wendy Bonano, who oversees two faith-based pregnancy medical clinics in North Carolina. Wendy explains what these clinics actually do, why they exist, and how she and her staff respond to distorted claims and criticisms being made about pregnancy resource centers. But this episode is about much more than the controversy. We also meet Jordan, a former client of one of the centers, who shares her personal experience of facing an unplanned pregnancy and receiving support at the clinic. Jordan is now the mother of a sweet 4-year-old daughter—and her little girl joins us during the interview! Jordan puts the experience in perspective when she says: “It wasn’t just a pregnancy; it was a whole person.” We also discuss the importance of ongoing support after a child is born, the emotional impact of abortion, and the hope and healing that Jesus Christ offers to those who carry the pain of a past abortion. Gateway Women's Care: https://gatewaywomens.care [Note: The opinions expressed on this podcast by John and Val Clark are our own, and not necessarily those of our guests.] 👍 Watch, subscribe, and share this episode with someone who needs encouragement! CHAPTERS: 00:00 Understanding Unplanned Pregnancies 02:09 Fighting for Life -- a Passion 03:43 Setting the Record Straight 09:09 The Abortion Pill -- a New Challenge 11:32 Countering the Protestors 14:14 Care after Birth 15:50 Jordan's Story 18:46 Support Systems After Birth 21:51 Advice for Women Facing Unplanned Pregnancies 25:18 Healing and Hope After Abortion 25:51 "The Word in 7" | Luke 13:22-30 Music licensed through Soundstripe. Code: JUNPVWHAMMGW9IZE, RK3PQHGFJZUQ0O6D, 82SEMHDG9T7DV8L6, UXPKPNAQGFHXRWXE Scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. The ESV text may not be quoted in any publication made available to the public by a Creative Commons license. The ESV may not be translated in whole or in part into any other language.

  2. Sep 23

    Faith at Work: Choosing Integrity

    Can you really separate your Christian faith from the way you do business? In this episode of The Clark Report, John and Val talk with Peter Gourri, Executive Coach and Consultant, about what it means to live out your Christian faith at your business. Peter believes that “God is My CEO” shouldn't just be a slogan—it should shape the way we actually conduct business. He shares practical insights on bringing biblical principles into everyday decisions. Peter Gourri's website: https://www.petergourri.com/ CHAPTERS: 00:00 Introduction and guest overview 00:32 Faith and business: a unified principle 02:24 Separating faith and business: a misconception 03:16 Choosing integrity in business dealings 04:11 Treating everyone with dignity and respect 05:31 Extending grace in relationships 06:24 Understanding others' struggles and showing kindness 09:16 Pricing, serving honestly, and ethical profit 11:30 Living out faith through conduct 15:51 Demonstrating faith in everyday actions 19:26 Reflecting on God's final authority in business 19:36 'The Word in 7' | Luke 13:10-21 Note: The opinions expressed on this podcast by John and Val Clark are our own, and not necessarily those of our guests.] 👍 Watch, subscribe, and share this episode with someone who needs encouragement! Music licensed through Soundstripe.Code: AFTJAVGBEQRMSJCI, 5JNASOQ7JRTX1TLR, VTHIQ4PF7PMYP5PO Scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. The ESV text may not be quoted in any publication made available to the public by a Creative Commons license. The ESV may not be translated in whole or in part into any other language.

    Faith at Work: Choosing Integrity
  3. Sep 16

    He Protected 7 Presidents. Now He Serves Christ.

    Chris Simpson spent 24 years in the Secret Service, helping protect seven US presidents. Today, he is protecting and advancing something very different—the cause of the Gospel. Chris is President of Christian Business Men’s Connection (CBMC) International, an organization focused on evangelism and discipleship among business and professional leaders. In this episode of The Clark Report, Chris shares with John & Val his fascinating journey “from Secret Service to Sacred Service” and explains why the workplace can be one of the most important mission fields for Christians. CHAPTERS: 00:00 Intro, faith in the workplace 01:45 How CBMC began 03:15 Chris' personal journey 05:48 What to expect at a CBMC gathering 07:19 The wrong and right ways to share your faith 10:22 Repercussions 12:40 An international struggle 13:33 Loneliness at the top 15:00 Christian connection 17:21 'The Word in 7' | Luke 13:1-9 24:00 Final remarks and prayer [Note: The opinions expressed on this podcast by John and Val Clark are our own, and not necessarily those of our guests.] CBMC Website: CBMC.com 👍 Watch, subscribe, and share this episode with someone who needs encouragement! Music licensed through Soundstripe. Code: QNTH3ZXAYZN5ZF6S, FKEUO2IEOEQIMJFY, 9HUUFFNSALBX6G36 Scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. The ESV text may not be quoted in any publication made available to the public by a Creative Commons license. The ESV may not be translated in whole or in part into any other language.

    He Protected 7 Presidents. Now He Serves Christ.
  4. Sep 9

    “I Was on Air Force One on 9/11” | Wanda Joell’s Story

    What was it like to be aboard Air Force One on September 11, 2001? As America marks the 25th anniversary of 9/11, we hear the remarkable first-person story of retired U.S. Air Force Senior Master Sgt. Wanda Joell, who made history as the first African-American woman named a permanent Presidential crew member aboard Air Force One. SMSgt. Joell served as a flight attendant on Air Force One under four US presidents—but one day stands apart from all the others: September 11, 2001. She was serving aboard the aircraft that day when the terrorist attacks struck the United States. Wanda shares her memories of that extraordinary flight, which ultimately lasted more than 15 hours, and recalls a personal moment when she spoke words of comfort to President George W. Bush. She tells us about her remarkable career, what it was like serving presidents aboard Air Force One, the historic significance of her role, and the faith that guided her throughout her life and career. PLUS-- in The Word in 7: Did Jesus come to bring peace...or division? A look at Luke 12:49-59. [Note: The opinions expressed on this podcast by John and Val Clark are our own, and not necessarily those of our guests.] 👍 Watch, subscribe, and share this episode with someone who needs encouragement! Wanda Joell's webpage: https://www.wandajoell.com/ CHAPTERS: 00:00 Meet Wanda Joell 03:26 Off to the Air Force! 05:50 Joining the Air Force One team 07:23 Serving under 4 presidents 08:27 Remembering 9/11 10:55 A word to the President 11:18 God's hand at work 11:52 Wanda Joell's legacy 13:38 The Word in 7 | Luke12:49-59 20:57 Prayer and final comments Music licensed through Soundstripe.Code: SQWVTEGHKI5NHXVL, MYNJ9WAERD45BGUB, T781CTLQGSLATFTC, ZP7Q7VT1CZRUVODF Scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. The ESV text may not be quoted in any publication made available to the public by a Creative Commons license. The ESV may not be translated in whole or in part into any other language.

    “I Was on Air Force One on 9/11” | Wanda Joell’s Story
  5. Sep 2

    Getting the Gospel to Impossible Places

    How do you take the good news of Jesus to people living in some of the most remote places on earth? In this episode of The Clark Report, John and Val Clark talk with Steve Russell, President of JAARS, a Christian organization that uses aviation, transportation, technology, and other practical means to help missionaries reach isolated communities around the world. For 78 years, JAARS has helped mission organizations overcome some extraordinary challenges—from mountainous regions and dense rainforests to places where roads simply don't exist. Aviation is a major part of that work, but JAARS is about much more than airplanes. Their mission includes helping meet the physical needs of remote communities while helping missionaries bring the hope of the Gospel and the Word of God. Steve shares the fascinating history of JAARS, what it takes to train pilots for this demanding work, the safety and logistical challenges involved, and why prayer, volunteers, and support from the Christian community are so important. It's a reminder that every believer can play a part in taking the Gospel to the ends of the earth -- whether we can go or not! JAARS website: JAARS.org CHAPTERS: 00:00 Introduction to JAARS and Its operations 02:12 The Legacy of Cam Townsend and Bible translation 05:51 Steve's personal journey: From military to ministry 10:03 The Role of Aviation in Mission Work 14:06 Challenges and triumphs in remote missions 18:03 The importance of community support and involvement 21:00 "The Word in 7" | Luke 12:35-48 28:02 Prayer and final thoughts Note: The opinions expressed on this podcast by John and Val Clark are our own, and not necessarily those of our guests.] 👍 Watch, subscribe, and share this episode with someone who needs encouragement! Music licensed through Soundstripe.Code: NTNVTKTKFXKZNAWV, XZRQQJWGGDJYDIIU, E2CROEXL2YYOQLVK Scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. The ESV text may not be quoted in any publication made available to the public by a Creative Commons license. The ESV may not be translated in whole or in part into any other language. #JAARS #Missions #BibleTranslation #ChristianMissions #TheClarkReport

    Getting the Gospel to Impossible Places
  6. Aug 26

    Hidden Struggles of the 'Connected" Generation

    Today’s teens are more connected than ever—but many are also experiencing loneliness, identity struggles, relationship challenges, and a lack of purpose. In this episode of The Clark Report, we talk with youth empowerment expert James McLamb about the challenges facing teenagers today and how parents, grandparents, and our churches can help. Our teenagers don't just need more information. They need purpose, wise guidance, authentic relationships, and adults who are willing to listen. CHAPTERS 00:00 The Disconnect of Connection 04:12 Understanding Generation Youth 05:50 Identity Crisis in Teens 08:45 The Impact of Technology on Identity 11:24 Teaching Discernment in Relationships 12:48 Purpose vs. Busy-ness in Teen Lives 17:01 The Role of Parents in Teen Guidance 19:35 "The Word in 7" | Luke 12:13-34 James McLamb's "Generation Youth" coaching: https://www.generation-youth.com/ [Note: The opinions expressed on this podcast by John and Val Clark are our own, and not necessarily those of our guests.] 👍 Watch, subscribe, and share this episode with someone who needs encouragement! Music licensed through Soundstripe.Code: NTNVTKTKFXKZNAWV, XZRQQJWGGDJYDIIU, E2CROEXL2YYOQLVK Scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. The ESV text may not be quoted in any publication made available to the public by a Creative Commons license. The ESV may not be translated in whole or in part into any other language.

    Hidden Struggles of the 'Connected" Generation
  7. Aug 19

    Keeping the Faith -- on Campus

    Can you keep your faith when you go to college? For many Christian students, college brings exciting opportunities—but also new academic, social, and spiritual challenges. In this episode of The Clark Report, we sit down with two college students—one from Duke University and the other from UNC—to talk honestly about what it's like to follow Christ on a college campus. Both students discovered something that made a major difference in their faith: they found a community of other Christians. They share how Christian community has helped them: -Stay grounded in their faith amid academic and social pressures-Connect with other believers on campus -Grow spiritually through Christian fellowship -Navigate a culture that doesn't always share their beliefs -Make their faith an active part of their college experience Their message is especially important for Christian students heading to college—and for parents wondering how their kids will maintain their faith away from home. CONTACT INFO: Cru.org FCA.org [Note: The opinions expressed on this podcast by John and Val Clark are our own, and not necessarily those of our guests.] 👍 Watch, subscribe, and share this episode with someone who needs encouragement! CHAPTERS 00:00 The Importance of Christian Community 01:48 Cru at Duke University 07:28 FCA at UNC-Chapel Hill 16:22 The Word in 7 (Luke 12:1-12) 23:16 Final Thoughts and Prayer Music licensed through Soundstripe. Code: NTNVTKTKFXKZNAWV, XZRQQJWGGDJYDIIU, E2CROEXL2YYOQLVK Scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. The ESV text may not be quoted in any publication made available to the public by a Creative Commons license. The ESV may not be translated in whole or in part into any other language.

    Keeping the Faith -- on Campus
  8. Aug 12

    From Hollywood Rejection to God’s Calling | Cameron & BJ Arnett

    For actor Cameron Arnett, one difficult decision became the beginning of a remarkable journey of faith, love, marriage, and ministry. In this episode of The Clark Report, we sit down with Cameron and his wife BJ to hear the amazing story behind their relationship—and how putting God first has shaped both their marriage and their careers. They share what happened when Cameron turned down a big Hollywood opportunity because it conflicted with his Christian convictions. What followed was a series of unexpected circumstances that ultimately led to a 5-hour phone call and a marriage proposal. And BJ say it was more of an order than a proposal! The Arnetts talk about: ❤️ How God brought them together* 🎬 Cameron's decision to put faith ahead of a big Hollywood opportunity* 💍 Building a marriage around obedience to God* 🙏 Why faith must come before career, success, and even marriage* 🎥 Their experiences working in Christian films* 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 The challenges facing families today* ✝️ Why the church needs to return to the lordship of Jesus Christ* 🎬 Their upcoming film and ministry projects Their story is a powerful reminder that God's "no" can sometimes be the beginning of His greater "yes." 👍 Watch, subscribe, and share this episode with someone who needs encouragement to trust God's plan—even when the path doesn't make sense. CONTACT INFO: https://www.cameronarnett.com/christovercareer https://www.proverbs31management.com/ CHAPTERS 00:00 Hollywood's Rejection and God's Call 02:06 An Unusual Love Story 10:14 Overcoming Personal Struggles Together 14:58 Choosing Faith Over Career 19:42 The Power of Christian Film 22:57 Restoring Relationships Through Faith 25:22 Upcoming Projects and Future Plans 26:53 The Word in 7 | Luke 11:33-54 Music licensed through Soundstripe.Code: X1ZNYQQICFAIV5GT, 2HIIQVEKUK6SSA49, EOX8RGW95DCNLQJV [Note: The opinions expressed on this podcast by John and Val Clark are our own, and not necessarily those of our guests.] Scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. The ESV text may not be quoted in any publication made available to the public by a Creative Commons license. The ESV may not be translated in whole or in part into any other language.

    From Hollywood Rejection to God’s Calling | Cameron & BJ Arnett

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About

Have you ever looked around at the state of things to try to make sense of it all — but couldn’t? Maybe you’re just looking through the wrong lenses! At the Clark Report podcast, we seek to look at the world through biblical lenses. Culture. Finances. Marriage & family. Relationships. We believe the timeless truths in the Bible speak clearly to these issues and more. We're John & Val Clark. We're not pastors or ministers -- just committed Christians who love the Lord and love telling others about Him. We'll post a new episode each Wednesday!

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