Cedarville Stories

Cedarville University
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  • CHRISTIANITY
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Cedarville Stories

Cedarville Stories podcast shares the stories of individuals who have been impacted from their experiences at Cedarville University, all for God's glory. Each week you’ll hear unique stories of how Cedarville’s mission of transforming lives through excellent education and intentional discipleship in submission to biblical authority is being lived out in the lives of faculty, staff, students, alumni, and friends of the University. Listen in each Wednesday and be blessed by some of the amazing ways God is working in and through the lives of the Cedarville family.

  1. 5H AGO

    S12:E17 | A Place to Call Home: The Golson Sisters

    A Place To Call Home Bryn, Reyna, and Erin Golson have always known that “home” isn’t just a spot on a map — it’s where your family is and where your roots grow deep even when planted in foreign soil. The three sisters grew up hand-in-hand in the small town of Knysna on the southern coast of South Africa. As missionary kids, they learned early that family is more than just important — it’s everything. Hear their story of finding home through family and faith on this week’s episode of the Cedarville Stories podcast. The sisters’ parents moved to South Africa from Florida to launch a Christian radio station, only to have the door close before it could even open. But in true Golson fashion, they didn’t quit — they found new ways to serve. Through church planting, teaching, and simple, Christlike friendship, the Golsons poured out love in a land far from their American beginnings. The girls soaked up the warmth of the South African culture, learning to slow down, listen, and love their neighbors well. Years later, returning to the United States was jarring. Grocery stores felt like massive shopping malls, and everything moved too fast. But when everything else felt unfamiliar, the sisters had each other, and they had Cedarville University. With family friends on the faculty and a strong community of fellow missionary and third culture kids, Cedarville felt like a soft landing place. Its unwavering commitment to God and His Word made it a natural choice for the Golsons. Though they miss the ocean air of Knysna, their parents, and the life they once knew, the sisters have found peace. In the laughter of shared stories, leaning on each other through the hard days, and growing deeper in their faith, they’ve found something beautiful: a new kind of home. And for the sisters, Cedarville isn’t just a stop along the way — it’s part of their story. It’s home. https://share.transistor.fm/s/76ce734c https://youtu.be/P1zpfSf9mRw

    46 min

  2. APR 16

    S12:E16 | God Restores the Soul: Susan Troth

    God Restores the Soul: Susan Troth Susan Troth never imagined that the trials of life would lead her to a podium at the United Nations. Yet, in March 2025, she found herself standing before the 69th session of the Commission on the Status of Women, sharing her journey of faith, healing, and hope with women from all over the world. Susan shares her story of struggle, resilience, and surrender on this week’s episode of the Cedarville Stories podcast. From facing infertility and childlessness to becoming a widow at 54, Susan has known deep sorrow. Financial hardships, ministry stress, and even a near-death experience have tested her in ways that seemed unbearable. Yet through every trial, she has found herself drawn closer to God. "So blessed by God, I feel spoiled," she often says, not out of pride, but with a heart full of gratitude for the blessings that came amid her struggles. As an associate professor of worship at Cedarville University, Susan had spent years teaching others to worship God. But it wasn’t until she walked through her own dark moments that she truly understood what it meant to surrender to God's will. Her bestselling book, “Stressed to Splessed,” shares her faith-based journey to find healing and new horizons. Susan's commitment to service — spanning over 4,000 volunteer hours in grief counseling, music teaching, missions, and disaster relief — earned her a Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award. But her greatest passion is mentoring women, showing them that even in their toughest times, God can be trusted. Her message is simple but powerful: Through surrender to God’s will, healing and hope are possible. Tune in and be inspired by Susan’s journey of faith and resilience. https://share.transistor.fm/s/952909df https://youtu.be/RDb_GpBHwuc

    33 min

  3. APR 9

    S12:E15 | From Curiosity to Foreign Affairs: Payton Arbuthnot

    From Curiosity to a Career in Foreign Affairs Payton Arbuthnot’s story began in Springfield, Colorado, where she found herself captivated by the news often as a curious young girl. It wasn’t just the stories — it was the fact that through the news, she could know what was happening all over the world. She’d sit by the radio, her small fingers tracing the words in her schoolbooks as the voices from the news anchors painted a bigger picture of life beyond her small town. What really grabbed her attention, though, was the presence of strong women in politics. Former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, the Iron Lady herself, became a particular hero. Payton admired how Thatcher stood her ground in a man’s world. “If Margaret can do it,” she thought, “I can do it too.” That’s when Payton knew she was going to lead with integrity in a world where prominent female voices were still few and far between. In high school, Payton’s interest grew into a passion, and by the time she was looking at colleges, Cedarville University in Ohio called her name. The school’s commitment to faith and its strong political science program, with an opportunity for a semester in Washington D.C., seemed like the perfect fit. She packed her bags, said goodbye to her family, and made the long trek eastward, her heart set on the path ahead. At Cedarville, Payton thrived. She connected with people and grew closer to God. By the fall of 2023, Payton found herself in D.C., interning at the U.S. Department of State. The work wasn’t glamorous, but she took every opportunity to learn, serving with a heart of excellence. Now, with graduation approaching quickly, Payton’s eyes are set on the Rangel Fellowship Program, which could open doors to a life of service in embassies and consulates around the world. But she knows this is just one step in the journey. Payton is confident that God is guiding her, and she’s ready for whatever comes next. Hear more of Payton’s journey of growth and faith on this week’s episode of the Cedarville Stories podcast. https://share.transistor.fm/s/f7514447 https://youtu.be/Z4X3q4kkGIk

    31 min

  4. APR 2

    S12:E14 | Ohio Rep. Ty Mathews

    Legislating From a Perspective of Faith and Youth Imagine being the youngest face in the room as you try to find your footing among seasoned legislators. That is the struggle Ty Mathews, one of the youngest legislators at the Ohio Statehouse, has had to face as he follows his faith in Jesus and forges a clear path for his constituents in the 83rd District. In this episode of the Cedarville Stories podcast, freshman representative Ty Mathews shares his journey to the Ohio Statehouse, where he’s still getting his feet wet in his third month on the job. Ty’s story begins at Cedarville University, where he balanced ROTC training with political and biblical studies, learning to lead with both discipline and faith. At Cedarville, Ty was introduced to a worldview that combined leadership with purpose, an experience that still shapes how he approaches his work today. He credits his time there for grounding him in Christian values that continue to guide his decisions in the Statehouse. Now, as one of the youngest members of the Ohio legislature, Ty is already working hard to make a difference. In the podcast, he shares his main priority — the Ohio Defense Initiative — which aims to bring high-tech defense companies to Ohio, tapping into the state’s strategic military assets like Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. His plan is to create high-paying jobs and foster innovation in areas like cybersecurity and drone technology. Through it all, Ty remains grounded in his faith, finding strength in the values he developed at Cedarville. His story is a testament to the power of youthful ambition, faith, and determination. Even though he’s early in his political career, Ty is already showing that age doesn’t determine impact — purpose does. https://share.transistor.fm/s/c3aade88 https://youtu.be/h31q8O0_DWI

    35 min

  5. MAR 26

    S12:E13 | Faith on the U.S. Border

    Faith, Service, and the Reality of Border Security Patrol Agent in Charge Jodi (Quint) Williams and Deputy Patrol Agent in Charge Jerami Cheatwood's roles with the United States Border Patrol are more than a job; they’re a calling. Each day presents a fresh set of challenges, unexpected situations, and moments that test their resolve, but through it all, one unwavering constant remains: their commitment to protecting the border while holding fast to their faith and integrity. Jerami Cheatwood reflects on his early days as a new agent thrust into the high-pressure world of border security. “I was just chasing groups, processing people, and letting them go,” he recalls. But as time passed, he began to see the bigger picture. He noticed patterns. He saw loopholes being exploited, shifting policies, and an increasingly complex environment where law enforcement and human lives collided. This job wasn’t just about upholding the law; it was about navigating an ever-changing landscape with national security at stake and real people caught in the middle. But as the job evolved, so too did the perception of those who serve on the front lines. Not long ago, border agents often faced indifference or even hostility from the public. Today, though, Jerami is seeing something different. “People step up now. They tell us, ‘We’re praying for you.’ That didn’t happen as much before.” In a profession where the isolation can sometimes feel overwhelming, those words mean everything. They remind agents that they are seen, their sacrifices are acknowledged, and that faith still plays a crucial role in their mission. Navigating the politics surrounding border security is a delicate balancing act. While the issue is politically charged, both Cheatwood and Williams keep their eyes firmly on their mission, setting aside the debate to focus on the work that truly matters. “When I’m in uniform, I have to stay professional,” Cheatwood says. “It’s not about politics — it’s about doing our job.” But their story isn’t just about policy or procedure; it’s about resilience, faith, and an unshakable sense of duty. Whether processing individuals, engaging with local communities, or simply enjoying a quiet dinner with family, the weight of their responsibility is never far from their minds. Yet, amidst the challenges, they carry hope. They believe what they do truly matters and that they are exactly where they are meant to be. For a deeper look into the lives of these two Cedarville graduates and those who serve on the front lines of border security, tune in to this powerful episode of the Cedarville Stories podcast. https://share.transistor.fm/s/ccd44a2e https://youtu.be/okw1Z0nXJFc

    27 min

  6. MAR 19

    S12:E12 | Border Patrol From Maine to California

    A Cedarville Connection Across the Borderlands Jodi (Quint) Williams and Jerami Cheatwood walked the same halls at Cedarville University in the 1990s, but their paths never crossed — not until years later, in one of the most unexpected places. These two Cedarville alums met not in Ohio, but in Washington, D.C., as two U.S. Border Patrol agents serving on opposite ends of the country. They first met in 2017 during a briefing for a major Border Patrol operation during Police Week. When Jodi introduced herself as a Cedarville alum, Jerami was stunned — what were the chances? He had never met another Cedarville graduate in the Border Patrol, let alone one who had risen through the ranks as quickly as Jodi. After the meeting, he made his way over to introduce himself, and their shared Cedarville roots instantly connected them. Though their careers led them in different directions, their mission remains the same. Jodi serves as the Patrol Agent in Charge in Houlton, Maine, overseeing security operations along the northern border’s vast, rugged terrain. Meanwhile, Jerami works on the frontlines in Southern California, tackling the challenges of illegal crossings, human trafficking, and cartel activity. From the snow-covered landscapes of the north to the sweltering deserts of the south, both Jodi and Jerami serve with dedication and perseverance to protect communities and uphold the law. Their story is a reminder of how Cedarville alumni are making an impact in extraordinary ways. Though separated by miles, Jodi and Jerami share a common bond — a passion for service, a commitment to integrity, and the foundation of faith instilled in them at Cedarville. Tune in to this week’s Cedarville Stories podcast to hear their incredible journey of courage, leadership, and the unbreakable connection they discovered along the way. https://share.transistor.fm/s/d78ba277 https://youtu.be/RMLA_ybCjoc

    30 min

  7. MAR 12

    S12:E11 | A Heart for Giving: Connie Jenkins

    A Heart for Giving: Connie Jenkins’ Mission to Equip the Next Generation for Christ Connie Jenkins wears many hats — devoted follower of Christ, champion of women’s ministry, wife, mother, philanthropist, deer hunter, and trustee at Cedarville University. But above all, she is a woman on a mission to make a lasting impact for God’s Kingdom. Connie’s unwavering dedication to Christian education and her well-earned title as Cedarville’s 2024 Honorary Alumna of the Year is celebrated on this episode of the Cedarville Stories podcast. Though Connie officially joined the University’s Board of Trustees in 2021, her love for Cedarville started long before. Her connection to the University began 20 years ago when she first met Joy White, Cedarville’s first lady, at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. That meeting left an impression, and years later, Joy and her husband, Cedarville President Dr. Thomas White, knew Connie would be the perfect addition to the board — someone whose passion for discipleship aligned with the heart of the University. But Connie’s impact extends far beyond Cedarville. She and her husband, Bill, found success in the financial markets of Louisville, Kentucky — a blessing they never took for granted. Instead of holding onto their wealth, they embraced a calling to give it away for God’s glory. Their generosity has helped build churches, equip Christian leaders, and expand ministries that spread the Gospel. Their giving journey began after 9/11, when Connie felt a deep conviction to do more for Christ. That calling led them to support their local church’s expansion, and from there, they sought out even greater Kingdom-building opportunities. The Jenkins’ legacy now includes the Jenkins Center for the Christian Understanding of Islam at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, the Spurgeon Center and Library at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, and the Scharnberg Business and Communication Center at Cedarville. Through their generosity, they have helped equip students, train pastors, and strengthen Christian education, all with the goal of shining the light of Christ to the nations. Join us on this inspiring episode as Connie shares her heart for giving, her love for Cedarville, and the deep joy that comes from faithful obedience to God’s call. https://share.transistor.fm/s/6009ea34 https://youtu.be/JIteUz_lDH8

    26 min

  8. MAR 5

    S12:E10 | Writing With Excellence

    Writing With Excellence for God’s Glory Words have power — power to inform, inspire, and glorify God. For three Cedarville University students and alumni, the journey into journalism and public relations has been about more than just telling stories. It’s about writing with excellence, integrity, and purpose for God’s glory. Sarah Mummert and Ben Konuch, two seniors preparing to graduate, and Kathryn Sill, a 2016 graduate who now serves as the communication manager for neurosurgery at Stanford University School of Medicine, began their journey as writers in the Cedarville’s public relations office. Their experiences highlight how storytelling is not just a skill but a calling. Ben grew up in the Philippines before settling in Cleveland, Ohio. While he always loved creative writing, he didn’t expect to find his true passion in journalism — communicating real stories that impact lives. Sarah’s curiosity once led her to dream of space exploration, but stepping into Cedarville’s public relations office brought a different kind of challenge. Could she learn to communicate complex stories with clarity and emotion? Kathryn remembers similar uncertainties. But through internships and her time in the public relations department, she saw God shaping her into the professional communicator she was meant to be. Each of these students came to understand that great writing isn’t just about stringing words together — it’s about capturing truth, crafting compelling narratives, and honoring God through excellence. Whether reporting news, sharing research, or telling personal stories, the goal remains the same: to reflect Christ through the written word. For Kathryn, that means using her platform at Stanford to share groundbreaking medical stories with accuracy and compassion. For Ben and Sarah, it means being diligent, persistent, and always seeking the deeper story behind the headlines. On this episode of the Cedarville Stories podcast, hear how Kathryn, Ben, and Sarah have been prepared spiritually, emotionally, and intellectually through their professional training at Cedarville. Each of them is grateful for the on-campus jobs and internships that equip students with real-world experience, allowing them to enter the field with confidence and a sense of purpose. From hesitant beginnings to skilled communicators, Sarah, Ben, and Kathryn’s stories remind us that writing isn’t just a career — it’s a calling. And when done with excellence, it can be a powerful tool for God’s glory. https://share.transistor.fm/s/39541cf0 https://youtu.be/yX1WpMdJe1M

    39 min
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4.8
out of 5
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About

Cedarville Stories podcast shares the stories of individuals who have been impacted from their experiences at Cedarville University, all for God's glory. Each week you’ll hear unique stories of how Cedarville’s mission of transforming lives through excellent education and intentional discipleship in submission to biblical authority is being lived out in the lives of faculty, staff, students, alumni, and friends of the University. Listen in each Wednesday and be blessed by some of the amazing ways God is working in and through the lives of the Cedarville family.

Information

  • Creator
    Cedarville University
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2025
  • Episodes
    292
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Cedarville University 2019

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