Fuel the Fire with Will Dawson

Will Dawson
  • 5.0 (4)
  • Christianity

Fuel the Fire with Will Dawson is where sports, culture, and faith collide. Each week, Will breaks down the biggest stories in sports, explores the moments shaping culture, and sits down with athletes and newsmakers for conversations through a faith-informed lens. For sponsorship or listener feedback, email us! cbnsports@cbn.org

Episodes

  1. 5d ago

    Guest: Sports Spectrum's Jason Romano: Trending NFL Topics, Leaving Dream Job at ESPN & Trusting God

    The podcast episode features a road trip announcement, guest introduction, and a discussion on faith, sports, and family. It also includes NFL headlines and predictions, an assessment of star quarterbacks, team performance, and predictions for NFC and AFC teams. The episode concludes with a focus on identity and faith in the face of adversity, along with athlete stories of overcoming challenges. The conversation covers the themes of identity in Christ and trust in God, the transition from ESPN to Sports Spectrum, and the impact of faith in sports. It explores the challenges of finding identity in Christ, trusting God's plan, and coping with disappointment. It also delves into the decision to leave ESPN, finding a new purpose, and trusting God's guidance. Additionally, it discusses the influence of faith in sports, the role of athletes in sharing their faith, and the impact of Sports Spectrum in this space. Takeaways Intersection of faith and sportsAssessment of NFL teams and star players Finding identity in Christ provides strength in coping with disappointment.Trusting God's guidance can lead to new opportunities and purpose.The influence of faith in sports has a significant impact on athletes and fans alike. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Road Trip Announcement01:01 Guest Introduction and Background02:27 Discussion on Faith, Sports, and Family03:26 NFL Headlines and Predictions05:18 Assessment of Aaron Donald and Matthew Stafford06:13 Impact of Star Quarterbacks on Team Success07:38 Rams as NFC Favorites and Seahawks' Performance08:06 NFC Team Predictions and Dallas Cowboys09:00 Expectations for Dallas Cowboys and NFC Teams10:19 AFC Team Predictions and Discussion11:15 Predictions for AFC Teams and Denver Broncos12:40 Discussion on Injured Quarterbacks and Team Performance13:07 Assessment of Odell Beckham Jr. and His Impact14:57 NFL Cut Down Day and Player Reactions20:14 Identity and Faith in the Face of Adversity21:13 Athlete Stories of Overcoming Adversity23:35 Identity in Christ and Trust in God27:20 Transition from ESPN to Sports Spectrum42:30 Impact of Faith in Sports

  2. Aug 25

    Guest: Outkick's Jon Root, WNBA Culture War, College Football, & NFL returns to NCAA

    The conversation covers a range of topics including college football, NFL preseason, player controversies, NCAA eligibility, and the WNBA's cultural impact. It delves into the controversy surrounding the definition of women's sports and the challenges faced by athletes and leagues in addressing this issue. The conversation covers a range of topics related to the WNBA, player safety, political activism, and cultural engagement. It delves into the challenges faced by players, the league's political stance, and the impact of cultural and political issues on the game. The conversation also explores the role of Christians in engaging with the culture and the importance of standing firm in truth with love. Takeaways College football and NFL preseason controversiesNCAA eligibility and the impact of NIL on college sportsThe cultural impact of the WNBA and the controversy surrounding women's sportsThe challenges faced by athletes and leagues in addressing the issue of transgender athletes in women's sports WNBA's political activism and its impact on player safetyThe role of Christians in engaging with the culture and standing firm in truth Chapters 00:00 College Football and NFL Preseason02:52 NCAA Eligibility and NIL Impact07:34 Controversy in Women's Sports21:13 Challenges Faced by Athletes and Leagues31:43 WNBA's Political Activism and Player Safety39:21 Cultural Impact and Engagement43:37 Defining Women's Sports and Spaces57:24 Engaging with the Culture as a Christian

  3. Aug 18

    Cleveland Guardians Parker Messick: The Miracle That Awakened His Faith

    Parker Mesick, a professional baseball player, shares his journey of faith and how it has shaped his career and life. His unwavering commitment to glorifying God and finding joy in his identity as a Christian is evident throughout the conversation. Takeaways Faith in Christ shapes identityAdversity strengthens faith Chapters 00:00 The Journey to the Big Leagues03:03 Faith in the Face of Adversity05:27 Identity Rooted in Christ09:16 Living Out Faith in Daily Life10:09 Responsibility and Hope for the Future

  4. Aug 11

    Steelers Chaplain Kent Chevalier, NFL Season Preview, & MLB World Series Predictions

    The episode features a discussion on the upcoming NFL season, predictions for the World Series, and interviews with MLB players about their faith and identity in Christ. The conversation also includes insights from athletes about their relationship with Jesus and the impact of faith on their lives and careers. Kent Chevalier, the chaplain for the Pittsburgh Steelers, shares his journey, experiences, and ministry in the NFL. He discusses the impact of faith, humility, and discipleship in the locker room, as well as the cultural shifts and challenges faced by professional athletes. Kent's book, 'Do It Afraid,' reflects his message of courage and purpose in the context of sports and faith. Takeaways NFL season predictions and World Series picksAthletes' faith and identity in Christ Ministry in the NFLImpact of Faith in the Locker Room Chapters 00:00 Introduction and NFL Season Preview02:18 Washington Commanders and Super Bowl Predictions05:06 AFC Contenders and Super Bowl Predictions08:20 World Series Predictions and MLB Player Interviews13:00 Interview with Drew Rasmussen20:17 Interview with Foster Griffin24:25 Interview with Parker Mesek54:27 Long-Term Ministry Goals

  5. Aug 4

    Guest: College Football Analyst David Pollack, Plus the WNBA's Virtue Signaling

    The conversation covers a range of topics including college football, WNBA, gender inclusion in sports, and the upcoming football season. It delves into the cultural and societal impact of these issues, as well as the changing landscape of college football and the competitive dynamics of various conferences. The conversation covers a wide range of topics, including college football, faith, personal growth, and family values. David Pollack shares insights on college football, his wife's battle with brain cancer, and the importance of faith and daily routines. Takeaways College football season is highly anticipated and brings excitement to sports fans.The conversation highlights the cultural and societal impact of gender inclusion in sports, as well as the changing landscape of college football and the competitive dynamics of various conferences. College football has evolved into big business, with teams investing in recruiting and coaching to build successful programs.Faith and daily routines play a crucial role in personal growth and resilience, especially in the face of adversity.

  6. Jul 28

    Sophie Cunningham's Courage, Pat Mcafee's Encounter, & Guest Sal Stewart

    The conversation covers the introduction of Sal Stewart, the biggest story in sports, Sophie Cunningham's rise to prominence, her controversial statements, support for Sophie Cunningham, speaking the truth and culture change, Pat McAfee's encounter with an evangelist, and reflections on Pat McAfee's encounter. The discussion delves into the intersection of sports, faith, and culture, highlighting the impact of athletes and media personalities on societal conversations about faith and truth. The conversation covers the themes of the Gospel message and evangelism, Sal Stewart's journey and faith, Sal Stewart's baseball career and faith, and a closing call to action. The discussion emphasizes the importance of sharing the gospel with truth and love, the role of faith in Sal Stewart's life and career, and the significance of faith in identity and motivation. Takeaways The intersection of sports, faith, and culture is a platform for athletes and media personalities to influence societal conversations about faith and truth.Speaking the truth and engaging in evangelism can lead to cultural change and impact individuals on a personal level. Sharing the gospel with truth and love is essentialFaith plays a significant role in Sal Stewart's life and career Chapters 00:00 Introducing Sal Stewart01:34 The Biggest Story in Sports03:28 Sophie Cunningham's Rise to Prominence05:25 Sophie Cunningham's Controversial Statements06:18 Support for Sophie Cunningham10:07 Speaking the Truth and Culture Change15:30 Pat McAfee's Encounter with Evangelist22:28 Reflections on Pat McAfee's Encounter24:23 The Gospel Message and Evangelism29:52 Sal Stewart's Journey and Faith38:33 Sal Stewart's Baseball Career and Faith47:29 Closing and Call to Action

  7. Jul 21

    Soccer vs. Baseball, Why Caitlin Clark's Critics are Wrong & Guest Jesse Bradley

    The episode features a discussion on the World Cup, soccer's impact in the United States, and the intersection of sports and faith. It also highlights the ministry of Jesse Bradley, the chaplain for the Seattle Sounders, and the impact of soccer on spreading the message of Jesus. Takeaways Soccer's impact in the United States is growing, and the intersection of sports and faith is becoming more prominent.The ministry of Jesse Bradley and the impact of soccer on spreading the message of Jesus is significant. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and World Cup Recap19:11 Interview with Jesse Bradley and Impact of Soccer Ministry25:35 Soccer's Growth in the United States and the Role of Faith32:23 Victory Beyond the Cup Ministry and Impact of Soccer Outreach

  8. Jul 15

    Former MLB All-Star Paul Byrd Reveals the Truth About Identity, Fame, and Faith

    Former MLB All-Star pitcher Paul Byrd joins Fuel the Fire from MLB All-Star Week in Philadelphia for a powerful conversation about baseball, identity, and what truly matters in life. Drawing from his 14-year Major League career, Byrd opens up about the temptation athletes face to find their worth in success, fame, and the opinions of others. He shares how even Christians can unknowingly place their identity in accomplishments instead of a genuine relationship with Jesus Christ. Paul also recounts the heartbreaking and faith-shaping experience of nearly losing his wife after she went into septic shock. Her remarkable story offers a glimpse into eternity and serves as a reminder that our hope cannot rest in the temporary things of this world. Along the way, Byrd reflects on his years with the Phillies, Braves, and Mets, memorable moments from his playing career, the future of Major League Baseball, and the lessons God has taught him through both triumph and suffering. If you love baseball and want deeper conversations about faith, purpose, and the gospel, this episode is for you. Subscribe for more exclusive interviews with athletes and coaches who recognize that their purpose is bigger than sports.

  9. Jul 8

    How Faith Fueled Oklahoma State's #1 Transfer Class, & Guest Jacie Hoyt

    The conversation covers topics such as the World Cup loss, controversy surrounding President Trump's involvement, faith reflections, upcoming Major League Baseball All-Star Game, professing believers in Major League Baseball, Jacie Hoyt's approach to building a winning and Christ-centered culture, women's college basketball, Jacie Hoyt's experience as a mother and coach, impact of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) on college sports, navigating player transfers, and Jacie Hoyt's reflection on God's guidance and faithfulness. Takeaways World Cup impact and faith reflectionNavigating player transfers and trusting God's plan Chapters 00:00 Introducing Jacie Hoyt and the World Cup Loss10:30 Takeaways from the World Cup and Faith Reflection17:09 Chase Briscoe's Perspective on Winning27:17 Discussion on Women's College Basketball and Caitlin Clark32:52 Jacie Hoyt's Experience as a Mother and Coach38:04 Navigating Player Transfers and Trusting God's Plan

  10. Jun 30

    Misbehavin' Mascots, Caitlin Clark, & Guest John Bostock

    The episode covers a range of topics, including the World Cup, Pride Night in Major League Baseball, the impact of Christian athletes, and the King's Return movement. It also features an interview with former English footballer John Bostock, who discusses his spiritual journey and the player-led movement of faith at the World Cup. Takeaways World Cup impactPride Night in Major League BaseballChristian athletes and their impactThe King's Return movementInterview with John Bostock Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Church Potlucks06:12 Christian Athletes and Faith11:34 The King's Return Movement23:24 Interview with John Bostock36:21 Predictions for the World Cup

  11. Jun 23

    World Cup, Pride Night Controversy, & Guest Jesse Bradley

    Fuel the Fire podcast introduces its Christian sports show, discusses the USA's dominance in the World Cup, highlights Japanese fans' behavior, addresses the hypothetical USA vs. England matchup, and delves into controversies in Major League Baseball and the NBA Draft. The conversation also includes an interview with Jesse Bradley, a chaplain for the Seattle Sounders, discussing the World Cup and the evangelistic opportunity it presents. Chapters 00:00 Introducing Fuel the Fire 06:46 Hypothetical Matchup: USA vs. England 13:18 NBA Draft and Player's Faith 19:17 Interview with Jesse Bradley #christiansports #faithinsports #WorldCup2026 #PrideNight #Faith Night

  • 11 Episodes

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

Fuel the Fire with Will Dawson is where sports, culture, and faith collide. Each week, Will breaks down the biggest stories in sports, explores the moments shaping culture, and sits down with athletes and newsmakers for conversations through a faith-informed lens. For sponsorship or listener feedback, email us! cbnsports@cbn.org

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