In this deeply personal episode of the Plain Values Podcast, John Moody joins Marlin to share his remarkable story of redemption, resilience, and resistance. John grew up in Youngstown, Ohio during the devastating collapse of the Rust Belt. His family was shattered by divorce, alcoholism, and hardship. As a latchkey kid, life was chaotic. When his mother was diagnosed with cancer during his junior year of high school, everything changed. A dedicated guidance counselor, Mrs. Leone, saw potential in John and fought tirelessly to get him accepted into the University Scholars program at Youngstown State University… even when the program initially rejected him due to his family situation. Her quiet advocacy changed the course of his life. While in seminary, John faced a life-threatening health crisis with severe duodenal ulcers. Doctors proposed strong medication and potentially removing parts of his digestive system. Instead, John began questioning the conventional approach and turned to real, clean food. Within a year, he fully healed, an experience that opened his eyes to the power of how food is grown and prepared. In 2006, John and his wife Jessica started a local food buying club to help families access nutrient-dense, farm-fresh food. What began as a simple effort grew into a thriving community resource. In 2011, their club became the first in the country to be raided by the state health department over raw milk. They received cease and desist and quarantine orders. Rather than backing down, John rallied over 130 families. Together, they stood firm on their rights and ultimately prevailed, a powerful testimony of community courage and peaceful resistance. John and Jessica have been married for 21 years and have six children. John emphasizes that the real difference in his life isn’t his own strength, but “Christ in me.” He speaks passionately about stewardship, food freedom, and the need for Christians to thoughtfully engage when government overreach threatens the ability of families to care for one another. This episode is full of hard-won wisdom, redemption, and a clear call to live faithfully and courageously in uncertain times. John’s story reminds us that one person (supported by community and anchored in Christ) can make a real difference. Whether you care about real food, parental rights, or standing firm in faith, you won’t want to miss this conversation. Learn more about Josh Troyer at https://www.youtube.com/@gospelhavenchurch Learn more about Plain Values at https://plainvalues.com
