What's the Story?

CROWD Church
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Christianity
  • Updated Semiweekly

We're excited to bring you the What's The Story Podcast, where we ask every day, inspiring people about their stories of faith, times of courage when life hasn't gone according to plan and what their 'One Thing' is. This is a place for you to hear real-life stories and be encouraged that you're not alone in this journey called life. We'll laugh, we'll cry and we'll hope together. What's The Story? is brought to you by Crowd Church, a place to explore the Christian faith and search out answers on how to live a meaningful life. So, whether you're exploring Christianity for the first time or you've been a follower of Jesus for many years, you're sure to be inspired by each story, so make sure you subscribe to What's The Story? Podcast today.

  1. May 17

    Why a Dying Pastor Calls These His Best Years

    Why a Dying Pastor Calls These His Best YearsTold he had two to three months to live in January, Allan Finnegan says these are the best years of his life — and means it. About this episodeAllan Finnegan is a Baptist minister from Liverpool, a stand-up comedian, and the author of I Didn’t Ask For Any Of This — Church, Comedy and Cancer (Broad Place Publishing, 2026). On the 20th of January this year, he was told he had two to three months left. He’s still here, still finishing things, and remarkably at peace. In this honest, often funny conversation Allan talks to Matt about the comedy course that quietly changed his preaching, the hour he spent crying in a Tesco’s car park because he’d realised he had no friends outside church, the night his old mates told him they thought he’d been dead for thirty years, and what he’s learning about finishing well now that the medicine has stopped working. Timestamps00:00 Welcome and Wednesday Night Finnegans01:23 The book — I Didn’t Ask For Any Of This03:30 How a preaching class led Allan to a stand-up comedy course06:20 Why comedy techniques make for better sermons10:58 Certainty kills faith — giving people permission to doubt13:24 “I started a podcast instead of a prayer meeting”14:30 Becoming the minister he never wanted to be17:43 Trying to engineer being sacked18:32 Crying in a Tesco’s car park in Litherland21:00 Walking back into a Bootle pub after thirty years away24:00 Why comedy saved his faith28:27 Comedy needed him less than he needed comedy32:50 Steve the nudist Baptist minister35:08 Britain’s Got Talent — the four yeses38:30 The Zoom semi-final disaster and the £9 Primark shoes42:18 “It’s only a freckle” — the cancer diagnosis50:00 Told he had two to three months on the 20th of January51:34 “I am truly in the hands of God now”52:38 The last sermon and the last comedy gig53:56 What Allan has learned about finishing well54:42 Philippians 1:6 as the verse that holds his life together1:00:00 Just keep turning up Key referencesPhilippians 1:6 — “He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion.” Allan’s anchor verse since he came to faith aged 16.Jonah — Allan reaches for Jonah’s story to make sense of his own. The hard work, he reckons, often needed to be done on the messenger as much as the message.I Didn’t Ask For Any Of This — Church, Comedy and Cancer by Allan Finnegan (Broad Place Publishing, 2026). Available on Amazon in Kindle and Audible. The audiobook intro is read by Allan; the rest is narrated by Christian comedian Andy Kind.Wednesday Night Finnegans — the podcast Allan ran with Tom Grant during and after lockdown. Tom has also been a guest on What’s The Story — listen to his episode here: crowd.church/whats-the-story/breaking-out-of-our-comfort-zone-being-part-of-an-eden-team-tom-grantComedy Trust Liverpool — where Allan did the six-week stand-up course (taught by Sam Avery and Brendan Reilly) that started everything.Britain’s Got Talent 2020 — Allan’s audition at the London Palladium got four yeses, with Simon Cowell calling it the best audition of the day. Quotes from the episode“Certainty kills faith. Faith has to exist in the doubts and the uncertainty.” — Matt Edmundson“I always thought I was kind of the worst Christian, and I was just putting this veneer on to hide so no one would get through and see that I was really rubbish at following Jesus.” — Allan Finnegan“I started a podcast instead of a prayer meeting. Still got no idea how I got away with that.” — Allan Finnegan“I am truly in the hands of God now. I’m not receiving any medication to make me better or keep me better. I am only receiving it for palliative care.” — Allan Finnegan“I think what I’m learning about finishing well is sticking in there. God will finish it. I just need to stick in there. Just stay. Don’t give up.” — Allan FinneganLinksCrowd Church — crowd.churchMore episodes of What’s The Story — crowd.church/whats-the-storyAllan’s book on Amazon — I Didn’t Ask For Any Of This — Church, Comedy and Cancer (Kindle and Audible)Broad Place Publishing — Allan’s publisher Crowd Church — a community for those who might not see the point of church.

    1h 6m
  2. Value Beyond Status That Changes Everything

    04/15/2025

    Value Beyond Status That Changes Everything

    Episode SummaryIn this soul-stirring conversation, Laura Nicholson shares her remarkable journey of finding value beyond relationship status. As Director of Second2None School Support, worship leader, and soon-to-be adoptive mum, Laura opens up about navigating church hurt, embracing singleness, and discovering her unchanging worth in God. Contrary to what many church cultures imply, Laura demonstrates how a single life can be filled with purpose, community, and impact—proving that our value isn't determined by our status but by who we are in Christ. About Our GuestLaura Nicholson is the founder and director of Second to Non School Support, providing clerking services to over 150 schools across the northwest UK and beyond. Beyond her professional achievements, Laura is an accomplished worship leader and musician in her local church. She has experience as a foster carer and is currently in the process of becoming an adoptive parent. Laura's journey through performance Christianity to authentic faith offers wisdom for anyone struggling to find their place in church or society. Key TakeawaysYour value transcends status - "Knowing your value in God is crucial because that's the thing that will never change. Your feelings will come and go, but your value, where you put your trust, is crucial."Community heals - "Pray to God that he brings the right people to you at the right time. He doesn't want you on your own."Church culture needs balance - Laura challenges the family-centric nature of many churches: "It's not about what you don't have. It's looking at all the amazing things that are going well."Singleness has unique benefits - "My forties have been some of my best years so far. I'm the most steady and secure I've ever been."Faith empowers purpose - Laura's journey into fostering and adoption demonstrates how faith can empower significant life decisions regardless of relationship status. Join the ConversationHave you struggled with finding your value beyond relationship status or navigating church as a single person? We'd love to hear your thoughts and experiences. Connect with us: Website: crowd.churchInstagram: @crowdchurch Listen to More EpisodesNew episodes of What's The Story? are available every week. Subscribe to hear more stories of faith and courage from everyday people. What's The Story? is a podcast aimed at people who are curious about faith but don't see the point in church, sharing real stories of God moving in the lives of everyday people.

    35 min
  3. When Infertility Becomes a Doorway, Not a Dead End with Kim Patton

    03/04/2025

    When Infertility Becomes a Doorway, Not a Dead End with Kim Patton

    What if the door that seems permanently closed is actually leading somewhere beautiful? Kim Patton's decade-long infertility journey became the unexpected pathway to adopting two biological sisters and working with teenage girls in foster care. In this raw conversation with Anna Kettle, Kim shares how her anxious resistance to God's call transformed into purpose and peace. From struggling with health issues and career confusion to managing a household of toddlers and teenagers, Kim reveals how surrender and daily dependence on God can sustain us through seemingly impossible seasons. Her story proves that our most painful chapters can become doorways to a life more meaningful than we could have planned. --- What You'll LearnHow Kim's 10-year infertility journey led to adopting biological sisters and a ministry with teenage girlsPractical ways to manage anxiety and overwhelm while serving othersWhy "absolute dependence on God" is the key to surviving impossible seasonsHow to build a support system of prayer partners during difficult transitionsThe transformative power of seeing your life as a "living sacrifice" --- Main Links Kim Patton's website: kimpatton.comKim's book "Nothing Wasted: Struggling Well Through Difficult Seasons" on Amazon (both print and audiobook versions)Book Therapy Podcast (released bi-weekly) Ministry Links Waiting in Hope Infertility MinistryHer View From Home (publication Kim writes for) CROWD Church Links CROWD Church website: crowd.churchWhat's the Story Podcast website: whatsthestorypodcast.com Social Media Kim's InstagramCROWD Church's Instagram

    46 min
  4. Overcoming Life's Challenges Even When it Hurts

    12/10/2024

    Overcoming Life's Challenges Even When it Hurts

    Join Sadaf Beynon on "What's the Story?" as she explore tales of faith and resilience with guest Tamala Anderson, an inspiring author and founder of Pursuing Christ Ministries. Discover Tamala's journey through personal trials and her unwavering faith that led to a transformative ministry. Subscribe for more uplifting stories and visit Crowd Church for a digital sanctuary to explore the Christian faith. --- Timestamps: 0:00 Intro 1:41 Introduction of Tamala Anderson 4:22 Tamala's Background and Faith Journey 7:07 Facing Unexpected Challenges 11:31 Navigating Early Days of Single Parenthood 16:09 Impact on Children and Family Dynamics 21:33 Health Challenges and Miraculous Recovery 28:42 Transformation Through Faith 34:01 Tamala's Ministry and Writing 38:56 Key Message and Encouragement 41:42 Conclusion and Farewell --- Key Takeaways: 1. Embrace Faith During Hardships: Tamala emphasises the importance of seeking a deeper connection with God during life's challenges. She shares how her faith was transformed through personal trials, highlighting that turning to God can provide strength and guidance when facing adversity. 2. The Power of Forgiveness: Tamala discusses the significance of forgiveness, even when deeply hurt. She acknowledges the difficulty of forgiving those who have wronged us but stresses that it is essential for healing and moving forward. This process often requires divine assistance, as it can be beyond human capability alone. 3. God's Faithfulness and Our Role: Tamala underscores that while God is always present and faithful, individuals must actively seek Him. She points out that God asks us to take steps towards Him through prayer, waiting, and being still. This active pursuit allows us to experience His presence and guidance more profoundly.

    43 min
  5. Faith, Fatherhood, and Godly Masculinity

    12/03/2024

    Faith, Fatherhood, and Godly Masculinity

    Join host Matt Edmundson on "What's the Story?" as he explores faith and courage with guest Jonathan Lewis, founder of Fathers for Fathers. Discover insights into healthy masculinity, the power of faith, and the journey of overcoming life's challenges. Subscribe for more inspiring stories and visit Crowd Church for a digital sanctuary to explore the Christian faith. --- Timestamps: 0:00 Intro 5:31 Political Climate 11:47 Eternal Perspective 18:54 Trust in God 26:48 Masculine Expectations 35:06 Personal Struggles 43:53 Joy in Trials 50:26 Godly Masculinity --- Key Takeaways: 1. Seek Peace Beyond Material Wealth: Jonathan emphasises the importance of finding peace that transcends material possessions and financial security. He suggests that true peace comes from a deeper spiritual understanding and relationship with God, rather than relying solely on tangible assets. 2. Embrace Humility and Character Building: He highlights humility as a key characteristic of a godly man. Jonathan shares that going through life's challenges with a humble spirit can refine one's character, leading to personal growth and a deeper connection with God. 3. Trust in God's Plan Amidst Life's Trials: Jonathan advises trusting in God's plan, even when life presents significant challenges. He shares personal experiences of hardship and how maintaining faith and trust in God can lead to personal peace and eventual positive outcomes, even if they are not immediately apparent.

    56 min
  6. Cross-Cultural Faith

    11/19/2024

    Cross-Cultural Faith

    Join host Sadaf Beynon on "What's the Story?" as she explores the inspiring journey of Thomas Abbott, a missionary kid turned global traveller, who shares his experiences of faith, family, and cultural transitions. Discover how Thomas's upbringing in Pakistan and his work in China shaped his worldview and spiritual convictions. Don't forget to subscribe for more compelling stories and visit Crowd Church for a digital space to explore faith. --- Timestamps: 0:00 Intro 6:04 Thomas Abbot's Global Journey 13:59 Experiencing Faith in Pakistan 23:32 Baptism in China 32:18 Returning to the UK 37:59 Meeting Rachel 47:23 Belief in Six-Day Creation 55:29 Authority of Scripture 1:03:53 Church Leadership 1:11:27 Jesus Manifesto --- Key Takeaways: 1. Embrace Your Unique Path: Thomas highlights the importance of recognising and embracing one's unique journey, especially when it involves cultural and faith-based differences. Growing up in diverse environments, he learned to be comfortable with being different and saw it as a purposeful part of his life.  2. Live with Integrity and Faith: Thomas credits his parents for living a life of integrity and faith, which deeply influenced his own beliefs. He emphasises the significance of not just talking about faith but living it out authentically.  3. Understand the Urgency of Mission: Through his belief in a literal six-day creation, Thomas developed a sense of urgency about living a life on mission. He suggests that understanding the world through a biblical lens can instil a sense of immediacy in fulfilling one's purpose and sharing the gospel.

    1h 14m
  7. From Anger and Infidelity to a Life Transformed by Grace

    11/12/2024

    From Anger and Infidelity to a Life Transformed by Grace

    Join Matt Edmundson on "What's the Story?" as he explores tales of faith and courage with guest Steven Pemberton. Discover Steven's journey from an angry youth to a devoted Christian, husband, and father, and how his faith transformed his life and family. Subscribe for more inspiring stories and visit whatsthestorypodcast.com for show notes and updates. --- Timestamps: 0:00 Intro 3:58 Steven's Early Faith Journey 7:04 Clarification on Being "Saved" 10:15 Teenage Years and Faith Challenges 14:24 Leaving the Church 18:34 Forgiveness and Personal Growth 23:10 Church's Decision on Marriage 27:25 Anger and Personal Development 30:42 Marriage Challenges and Overcoming Infidelity 33:04 Returning to Church and Renewed Faith 36:53 Impact on Family and Community 41:23 Surviving Infidelity in Marriage 47:51 Lessons from Adversity 51:12 Outro --- Key Takeaways: 1. Embrace Forgiveness: Steven highlights the importance of forgiveness, not just as a religious concept but as a practical tool for personal well-being. He shares how holding onto anger and resentment can manifest physically and emotionally, and how releasing these feelings through forgiveness can lead to a healthier, more peaceful life. 2. Value Community and Relationships: Steven discusses his journey from being isolated and angry to valuing community and relationships. He emphasises the significance of surrounding oneself with community because "that's where God does his best work". 3. Trust in God During Adversity: Steven's story illustrates the power of faith in overcoming life's challenges. He shares how trusting in God during difficult times, such as marital struggles and career changes, has led to personal and spiritual growth. His experience underscores how faith and God's grace can provide strength, direction, and the means to endure when facing adversity.

    52 min
  8. Empowering Men Through Faith

    07/16/2024

    Empowering Men Through Faith

    Here’s a summary of this week’s story:Welcome to this weeks episode of "What's the Story," in this episode host Matt Edmundson interviews Jonathan Lewis, President of Eastport Financial Group Incorporated, author of "Deep Water" and "More Than Money," and founder of Fathers for Fathers. Jonathan shares his faith journey, struggles, and the transformative power of Christianity in his life. Key Takeaways: The Transformative Power of Faith: Jonathan's faith journey highlights the significant transformation that true convictional Christianity can bring to a person's life. At 34, he experienced a pivotal moment of surrender to Christ, which profoundly impacted his approach to life, business, and relationships. His story emphasizes the importance of trusting in God's plan and letting go of personal idols to experience genuine spiritual growth.The Importance of Forgiveness: Forgiveness plays a central role in Jonathan's narrative. His decision to forgive his ex-wife and seek her forgiveness, despite the pain and difficulty, led to a profound sense of freedom and healing. This act of forgiveness not only improved his personal well-being but also demonstrated the power of following Christ's commands in bringing about reconciliation and personal peace.Supporting and Empowering Men: Jonathan's initiative, Fathers for Fathers, addresses the critical issue of male despair and suicide, particularly among those estranged from their children or struggling with personal failures. The organization aims to support men through various means, including mentorship, immersive studies, and practical guidance. Jonathan's call to action for men to rise above victimhood and villainy, embrace their God-given identity, and take actionable steps toward personal and spiritual growth is a powerful message of hope and empowerment. If this episode connected and you would like to find out more join us for our weekly Crowd Church livestream every Sunday at 6pm. God Bless.

    52 min
See All (68)

About

We're excited to bring you the What's The Story Podcast, where we ask every day, inspiring people about their stories of faith, times of courage when life hasn't gone according to plan and what their 'One Thing' is. This is a place for you to hear real-life stories and be encouraged that you're not alone in this journey called life. We'll laugh, we'll cry and we'll hope together. What's The Story? is brought to you by Crowd Church, a place to explore the Christian faith and search out answers on how to live a meaningful life. So, whether you're exploring Christianity for the first time or you've been a follower of Jesus for many years, you're sure to be inspired by each story, so make sure you subscribe to What's The Story? Podcast today.

Information

  • Channel
    CROWD Church
  • Creator
    CROWD Church
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    68
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 CROWD Church
  • Show Website
    What's the Story?

More From CROWD Church

You Might Also Like