Why I Believe

Michelle Von Ruden
  • 5.0 (6)
  • Christianity
  • Updated Weekly

Why I Believe is a faith-centered podcast sharing real stories of transformation, modern miracles, and lived encounters with God. Through a blend of solo reflections and honest conversations with others whose lives have been changed, host Michelle Von Ruden creates a safe, welcoming space for curiosity, questions, and faith rediscovery. This podcast exists to bring people closer to God, whether you're just beginning your journey, rebuilding after distance, or seeking to strengthen your relationship with Him. Rooted in Matthew 5:16, Why I Believe shines light through authentic stories so God may be glorified, and hearts may be drawn closer to Him.

  1. 4d ago

    Faithful Friday #8: Resurrection and Life

    Welcome to Faithful Friday. This week, we're reflecting on John 11:25-26, where Jesus makes one of His most powerful declarations: "I am the resurrection and the life." These words were spoken to Martha in the midst of grief, disappointment, and loss. They serve as a reminder that Jesus brings hope into our darkest moments and new life into places that seem beyond repair. Sometimes we find ourselves facing situations that feel hopeless, a broken relationship, a lost dream, a season of burnout, uncertainty, fear, or pain. Yet Jesus invites us to trust that He is still at work, bringing life where we can only see endings. As you listen, consider this reflection question: What area of your life needs hope and resurrection today? After the Scripture reading, you'll have an opportunity to pause for personal prayer and reflection before returning to pray the Our Father together. Scripture: John 11:25-26 Reflection Question: What area of your life needs hope and resurrection today? This week, ask God to help you see where He is bringing new life, renewed hope, and fresh purpose. The same Savior who conquered death is still at work today. Thank you for joining me for Faithful Friday. Want to share your story? Michelle is currently accepting guest applications for Why I Believe. 👉 Apply here: https://www.michellevonruden.com/whyibelieve-apply Ready to take the next step? If you're feeling called to grow deeper in your faith, identity, or purpose, Michelle would be honored to walk alongside you. 👉 Book a conversation: Book Your Discovery Call with Michelle Von Ruden 👉 Learn more about coaching: Von Ruden Coaching and Consulting LLC- INDIVIDUALS Remember, you don't have to be perfect to be called. You don't have to have it all figured out to say yes. God will meet you right where you are.

  2. 6d ago

    Karen Robinson: Trusting God Through It All

    What does it really look like to trust God… through every season of life? In this episode of Why I Believe, I sit down with Karen Robinson to talk about faith, resilience, and what it means to keep showing up, even when life doesn't go as planned. Karen's story is one of perseverance. Through challenges, uncertainty, and moments that required deep trust, she has continued to lean into her faith and rely on God as her foundation. Not just in the big moments… but in the everyday decisions, struggles, and growth along the way. We talk about: What it means to truly trust God, not just say you do Navigating difficult seasons with faith Finding strength when life feels uncertain The role of perseverance in your faith journey How God shows up in both the big and small moments Karen's story is a reminder that faith isn't about having all the answers,  It's about continuing to trust… even when you don't. If you're walking through a season that feels heavy, uncertain, or unclear; this episode will meet you right where you are. You can reach Karen Robinson at Karen Lynn Robinson | LinkedIn Want to share your story? Michelle is currently accepting guest applications for Why I Believe. 👉 Apply here: https://www.michellevonruden.com/whyibelieve-apply Ready to take the next step? If you're feeling called to grow deeper in your faith, identity, or purpose, Michelle would be honored to walk alongside you. 👉 Book a conversation: Book Your Discovery Call with Michelle Von Ruden 👉 Learn more about coaching: Von Ruden Coaching and Consulting LLC- INDIVIDUALS Remember, you don't have to be perfect to be called. You don't have to have it all figured out to say yes. God will meet you right where you are.

  3. Jul 10

    Faithful Friday #7: The Good Shepherd

    Welcome to Faithful Friday. This week, we're reflecting on John 10:11-18, where Jesus declares, "I am the Good Shepherd." In a world filled with distractions, opinions, and constant noise, it can be difficult to recognize God's voice. Yet Jesus reminds us that He knows His sheep, cares for them deeply, and willingly laid down His life for them. The Good Shepherd doesn't abandon His flock when life gets difficult. He leads, protects, guides, and calls each of us by name. As you listen, consider this reflection question: Are you listening for the Shepherd's voice amid life's noise? After the Scripture reading, you'll have an opportunity to pause for personal prayer and reflection before returning to pray the Our Father together. Scripture: John 10:11-18 Reflection Question: Are you listening for the Shepherd's voice amid life's noise? This week, create space to slow down and listen. You may discover that God has been speaking all along, waiting for you to hear His voice above the noise. Thank you for joining me for Faithful Friday. Want to share your story? Michelle is currently accepting guest applications for Why I Believe. 👉 Apply here: https://www.michellevonruden.com/whyibelieve-apply Ready to take the next step? If you're feeling called to grow deeper in your faith, identity, or purpose, Michelle would be honored to walk alongside you. 👉 Book a conversation: Book Your Discovery Call with Michelle Von Ruden 👉 Learn more about coaching: Von Ruden Coaching and Consulting LLC- INDIVIDUALS Remember, you don't have to be perfect to be called. You don't have to have it all figured out to say yes. God will meet you right where you are.

  4. Jul 8

    Yannick Hicks: From Cameroon to Calling

    What does it look like to build your life on faith… in the middle of constant change? In this episode of Why I Believe, I sit down with Yannick Hicks, man of faith, immigrant, and lifelong learner, to talk about identity, perseverance, and what it means to trust God through every transition. Originally from Cameroon, Yannick moved to the United States as a teenager, stepping into a completely new culture, environment, and way of life. From culture shock and uncertainty… to navigating high school, education, and career… to building a life in a place that once felt unfamiliar. His journey hasn't been defined by one moment. It's been shaped by many. We talk about: Adjusting to a new country, culture, and identity The challenges of starting over and finding your place How faith became the foundation through every season Growing through discomfort, change, and uncertainty The importance of perspective, growth, and continuous learning Living with purpose and asking: "How can I make the world better?" Yannick's story is a reminder that faith isn't just something you turn to in difficult moments; It's something you build your life on. If you've ever felt out of place, faced a major transition, or wondered how to stay grounded through change—this episode will meet you right where you are. You can reach Yanick Hicks at Yanick Hicks, PharmD | LinkedIn Want to share your story? Michelle is currently accepting guest applications for Why I Believe. 👉 Apply here: https://www.michellevonruden.com/whyibelieve-apply Ready to take the next step? If you're feeling called to grow deeper in your faith, identity, or purpose, Michelle would be honored to walk alongside you. 👉 Book a conversation: Book Your Discovery Call with Michelle Von Ruden 👉 Learn more about coaching: Von Ruden Coaching and Consulting LLC- INDIVIDUALS Remember, you don't have to be perfect to be called. You don't have to have it all figured out to say yes. God will meet you right where you are.

  5. Jul 3

    Faithful Friday #6: Walking in the Light

    Welcome to Faithful Friday. This week, we're reflecting on John 8:12-20, where Jesus boldly declares: "I am the light of the world. He who follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." Life often presents us with decisions, uncertainties, and challenges that tempt us to rely solely on our own understanding. Yet Jesus offers something greater—a light that guides our steps, reveals truth, and leads us closer to God. As you listen, consider this reflection question: Are you walking in God's light or relying on your own understanding? After the Scripture reading, you'll have an opportunity to pause for personal prayer and reflection before returning to pray the Our Father together. Scripture: John 8:12-20 Reflection Question: Are you walking in God's light or relying on your own understanding? This week, pay attention to the areas of your life where God may be inviting you to trust Him more fully. Ask Him to illuminate your path and guide your next steps. Thank you for joining me for Faithful Friday. #FaithfulFriday #WhyIBelievePodcast #LightOfTheWorld #John8 #ChristianPodcast #FaithJourney #Prayer #ScriptureReflection #TrustGod

  6. Jul 1

    Elzie Flendard: Things Happen For Me, Not To Me

    What if your story doesn't have one defining moment… but a lifetime of quiet, consistent faith? In this episode of Why I Believe, I sit down with Elzie Flendard, podcaster, entrepreneur, husband, father, and man of faith, to talk about what it looks like to walk with God through every season of life. Elzie's story isn't built around a single dramatic turning point. Instead, it's a series of moments, big and small, where he's seen God's hand guiding him, providing for him, and carrying him through. From growing up without his father… to building a life and family at a young age… to navigating financial hardship, health scares, and uncertainty… One belief has stayed constant: Things don't happen to him… they happen for him. We talk about: Seeing God's hand in everyday life, not just major moments Faith without a dramatic "rock bottom" story Trusting God through financial struggles and uncertainty A powerful moment of provision when everything felt impossible A life-threatening health scare and divine intervention Why perseverance matters more than perfection Elzie's perspective is simple, but powerful: Life won't always make sense. It won't always be easy. But if you keep going… God is there in every step. If you've ever wondered if your story is "enough" or struggled to see God in the ordinary—this episode will shift your perspective. You can reach Elzie Flenard III at Elzie Flenard III | LinkedIn Want to share your story? Michelle is currently accepting guest applications for Why I Believe. 👉 Apply here: https://www.michellevonruden.com/whyibelieve-apply Ready to take the next step? If you're feeling called to grow deeper in your faith, identity, or purpose, Michelle would be honored to walk alongside you. 👉 Book a conversation: Book Your Discovery Call with Michelle Von Ruden 👉 Learn more about coaching: Von Ruden Coaching and Consulting LLC- INDIVIDUALS Remember, you don't have to be perfect to be called. You don't have to have it all figured out to say yes. God will meet you right where you are.

  7. Jun 26

    Faithful Friday #5: The Bread of Life

    Welcome to Faithful Friday. This week, we're reflecting on John 6:35-40, where Jesus declares, "I am the bread of life." In a world filled with distractions and endless demands on our attention, it's easy to feed our minds and hearts with things that leave us empty. Jesus offers something different. He offers Himself, the only One who can truly satisfy the deepest hunger of our souls. As you listen, consider this reflection question: What am I feeding my soul with each day? After the Scripture reading, you'll have an opportunity to pause for personal prayer and reflection before returning to pray the Our Father together. Scripture: John 6:35-40 Reflection Question: What am I feeding my soul with each day? This week, pay attention to what you're consuming, not just physically, but mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. Ask God to help you hunger more for His presence than for anything this world has to offer. Thank you for joining me for Faithful Friday. Want to share your story? Michelle is currently accepting guest applications for Why I Believe. 👉 Apply here: https://www.michellevonruden.com/whyibelieve-apply Ready to take the next step? If you're feeling called to grow deeper in your faith, identity, or purpose, Michelle would be honored to walk alongside you. 👉 Book a conversation: Book Your Discovery Call with Michelle Von Ruden 👉 Learn more about coaching: Von Ruden Coaching and Consulting LLC- INDIVIDUALS Remember, you don't have to be perfect to be called. You don't have to have it all figured out to say yes. God will meet you right where you are.

  8. Jun 24

    Lia Allen: The Moment I Almost Gave Up

    What if your life changed… in a single moment you almost didn't survive? In this episode of Why I Believe, I sit down with Lia Allen, relationship marketing strategist, entrepreneur, and woman of faith, to share a story of hitting rock bottom and finding redemption on the other side. From the outside, Lia's life looked successful. She was a business owner. A leader in her community. Someone others looked up to. But behind the scenes… She was struggling with addiction, emptiness, and a life that felt completely out of control. Until one moment changed everything. Driving down the road with a plan to end her life… something stopped her. That moment became the beginning of a journey that would lead her to healing, faith, and freedom. We talk about: Hitting rock bottom and choosing to ask for help Addiction, shame, and the pressure to "have it all together" The moment she truly accepted Jesus Freedom from alcohol and drugs, and what that looked like Learning to surrender daily (even when it's hard) Walking through loss, hardship, and life's challenges with faith Lia also shares powerful moments of provision and answered prayers, reminders that even in the hardest seasons, God is present. Her story is raw, honest, and deeply hopeful. It's a reminder that no matter how dark things feel… no matter how far you think you've gone… You are not alone. And your story isn't over. You can reach Lia Allen at Lia Allen | LinkedIn Want to share your story? Michelle is currently accepting guest applications for Why I Believe. 👉 Apply here: https://www.michellevonruden.com/whyibelieve-apply Ready to take the next step? If you're feeling called to grow deeper in your faith, identity, or purpose, Michelle would be honored to walk alongside you. 👉 Book a conversation: Book Your Discovery Call with Michelle Von Ruden 👉 Learn more about coaching: Von Ruden Coaching and Consulting LLC- INDIVIDUALS Remember, you don't have to be perfect to be called. You don't have to have it all figured out to say yes. God will meet you right where you are.

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5
out of 5
6 Ratings

About

Why I Believe is a faith-centered podcast sharing real stories of transformation, modern miracles, and lived encounters with God. Through a blend of solo reflections and honest conversations with others whose lives have been changed, host Michelle Von Ruden creates a safe, welcoming space for curiosity, questions, and faith rediscovery. This podcast exists to bring people closer to God, whether you're just beginning your journey, rebuilding after distance, or seeking to strengthen your relationship with Him. Rooted in Matthew 5:16, Why I Believe shines light through authentic stories so God may be glorified, and hearts may be drawn closer to Him.

Information

  • Creator
    Michelle Von Ruden
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    34
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026
  • Show Website
    Why I Believe