UNSHACKLED! Audio Dramas

Bill Akright followed a plan for his life until an accident nearly killed him. Then he met someone with a better plan. Invite others to hear this gripping dramatization, another true testimony coming soon on Unshackled!

On Memorial Day, we remember our ancestral roots. But what happens when roots are placed in shaky ground? Stay tuned as we bring you an original holiday special called “The Landmark,” coming soon, on Unshackled!

He ran away from home at age five and again at 25. But the second time Floyd Plumb found what he was searching for. Don’t miss the insight of this unusual, true testimony coming soon—another dramatization from Unshackled!

Anne Martin gave her heart to God when she was a little girl. But growing up in a home filled with abuse made her wonder if God had forgotten her. Would she ever be able to forgive her stepfather and experience peace and healing? Find out on the next Unshackled!

He was making three-thousand dollars a day dealing in drugs. Curtis Farrar thought he was at the top of the world. But soon, he found he was at the end of himself. Don't miss this compelling true story, on the next UNSHACKLED!

He stood before the council with nothing to gain… and everything to lose. They tried to silence his faith with stones—but his courage sparked a fire that couldn’t be put out. Hear the true story of Stephen the Martyr— and the friend whose fear turned into bold faith. Don’t miss this powerful episode all on the next Unshackled!

Chuck Chavis spent most of his teens and twenties in the community of criminals- both on the street, and behind bars. Will his running buddies be the end of him, or will he do it himself?. Don’t miss his true story on UNSHACKLED!

As a child, Thomas Graumann was put on a train to save his life. As a man, he was put on a mission to save other lives. Don’t miss the conclusion of his inspiring testimony, another true dramatization coming soon on Unshackled!

As a boy, he escaped World War Two when he traveled by train to a strange country and never saw his parents again. Don’t miss the remarkable story of Tom Graumann, how his life was saved ... another true dramatization coming soon from Unshackled!

What happens when the most guarded grave in Jerusalem is suddenly vacant? Authorities demand silence. Witnesses refuse. And one young woman discovers the truth can’t be sealed in stone. Find out about that truth on the next Unshackled!

Paul Gautschi was one of the victims of the Vietnam War who made it home. Pessimism and betrayal drove him away from his upbringing, and a devastating discovery would either make him… or break him. Don’t miss his true story on UNSHACKLED!

Sean is a struggling college student who spends more time betting on sports games than he does going to classes. Will his March Madness bets eliminate his debts, or will his bookie reveal his secrets? Find out what happens on the next Unshackled!   

When David Hicks left the Army as a sergeant, he had no idea that he would one day be a Major General. Don’t miss the conclusion of his remarkable testimony, another true dramatization coming soon on Unshackled!

How does a young black man succeed in today’s world? You’ll hear the answer in the first part of David Hicks two-part testimony, a man who became a two-star general and Chief Chaplain of the U.S. Army. Don’t miss this true dramatization coming soon on Unshackled!

Lawrence Durfee was fired up to be wealthy when he was set on fire for a different purpose. Don’t miss his compelling testimony, another true dramatization coming soon from the Classic files of Unshackled!

Already scarred, Phillis Dewitt entered the foster care system as a teenager, where she encountered even more sexual abuse. Will she ever escape her predators? Will she ever be freed from the secrets she keeps? Don’t miss this powerful story on the next Unshackled!

Why would a man go from toting a Bible to toting a gun? Clinton Goodwin will explain how he went to San Quentin for armed robbery. Don’t miss this true dramatization coming soon from the Classic files of “Unshackled!”

Rigo Dominguez was abandoned by his father, and he tries to numb that trauma with drugs and alcohol, which lands him in jail after jail. Will his felony convictions haunt him forever, or is there a path to forgiveness? Hear his true-life story on the next Unshackled!

Rigo Dominguez is abandoned by his biological father and struggles through life without a positive role model. His friends tell him that selling drugs is the only way to escape his Chicago neighborhood, while his mother suggests a different choice. Learn what path he chooses on the next Unshackled!

Ben Budde dreams of becoming a rock star, and when he joins a band, he quickly falls into a lifestyle full of temptations. What will save him from his depression and addiction? Find out the answer on the next Unshackled!  

A wealthy drug dealer gave up everything he’d earned to follow the Lord. That was easy compared to the real challenge – teasing and threats from his old friends. How did he stay strong when everyone wanted him to fall? Find out in Part two of the true story of Shawn McGill, soon, on Unshackled!

A man from a broken home vowed to do whatever it took to get rich. Friends envied his sports cars and party lifestyle, but what he really wanted was peace. After years of living lavishly, how could he settle down? Stay tuned for part one of the true story of Shawn McGill, soon, on Unshackled!

An Emergency Weather Alert is issued in this “New Year’s Eve at the Lighthouse” Classic. Come join us at our own Pacific Garden Mission on such a night and experience yourselves what occurs for our staff. Subzero temps, freezing people, a suicidal caller, and a woman out partying will all make their way through our doors to bring you this listener favorite, coming soon on UNSHACKLED!

It was Christmas all year ‘round for the Snows, who dedicated their lives to running the festive Christmas shop. But were the “magical” trappings of the season keeping them from an even greater miracle? Find out on this listener-favorite holiday classic, The Noel Boutique, coming soon on UNSHACKLED!

Holiday songs remind us that Christmas is the most wonderful time of the year. However, for some, it’s also the most challenging, as they grapple with unexpected news and make difficult decisions. Find out what one couple faced on the next Unshackled!

On the frozen fields of Flanders, 1914, war’s brutality silenced hope—until a single carol broke through. On Christmas Day, enemies became brothers, sharing songs and peace in No Man’s Land. But could this fragile truce withstand the dawn? Discover the miracle of courage, faith, and the light of hope all on the next Unshackled!

Unshackled is the longest-running audio program ever produced, with nearly 4,000 true stories about people encountering God. Ever wonder why this audio drama has lasted so long when so many other radio dramas have faded into history? You’ll find out why on our 75th Anniversary Special on the next Unshackled! 

What really happened at the very first Thanksgiving? It wasn’t just corn and kindness — it was a battle of ideas about freedom, faith, and survival. This holiday, one family learns that history still speaks, as their own Thanksgiving table becomes the scene of conflict… and redemption. Join us for this special episode of Unshackled!

Rudy Peterson had a train run over his legs, but that was only the beginning of his remarkable story. Don’t miss the heartwarming testimony of how he helped others even so…another true dramatization coming soon from the Classic files of Unshackled!

During World War II, a steam engine barreled across the southern states carrying new cadets. Meanwhile, Greg and Keith ponder what deaths will come to them in the war. Is peace possible in the face of danger? Find out in this classic true story, The Troop Train, coming soon on UNSHACKLED!

Journey with Horatio and Anna Spafford through unthinkable tragedy — and discover the true story behind the beloved hymn “It Is Well With My Soul.” Don’t miss this powerful dramatization of loss, faith, and the peace that passes all understanding… on the next Unshackled! 

James Lebron Lockhart survived physical, mental, and sexual abuse only to become a slave to pornography and a warped view of women. What would it take for him to be satisfied with his life? Find out on the next Unshackled!

A young man spent his days playing guitar and riding a train back and forth, looking at scenery. He felt lost, but would he ever reach the destination he was aiming for? You’ll see as we bring you the true story of Joe O’Conner, soon, on Unshackled!

Raised in a family steeped in gambling and liquor, Frank Landrey learns card tricks at a young age — mastering how to spot the art of deception to win big. But would dabbling in the world of gambling and loan-sharking lead to a life-threatening situation? Find out in this true story of redemption, all on the next episode of Unshackled!

He was a drinking, fighting motorcyclist who carried a gun everywhere. Today he carries something entirely different. Don’t miss the remarkable story of the transformation of Marshall Brooks, another true testimony coming soon on Unshackled!

She was a homeless child that nobody wanted, neglected and abused, yet today Ashley Mariela Kovach has joy and purpose. Don’t miss her inspiring testimony, another true dramatization coming soon on “Unshackled!”

You've heard stories of people addicted to alcohol or drugs or porn. But what if you’re addicted to food? Do you see it as not that big-a-deal? Fred Kelley’s addiction to food proved to be a matter of life and death. Would he survive? Find out on the next Unshackled!

How does a widow with eight minor children survive when she’s suddenly all alone? And how will her faith in God shape the lives of future generations? You'll hear the answer in the classic true story of Jean Schneider on the next UNSHACKLED!

Placed in an institution at the age of 11, Paul Lapsley believed his dad’s promise to come back someday and get him. Would he ever be reunited with his father or would he be adopted by the ultimate Father? Find out in this compelling true story coming soon on UNSHACKLED!

Dub Fulton was consumed with feelings of vengeance at the neighbor who took his father’s life. But would exacting revenge end up digging two graves — one for himself? Find out in this compelling true story…all on the next Unshackled!

In this special Labor Day episode, follow the residents of an apartment building as they wrestle with pain, debt, and despair, searching for an answer to their weariness. Could the simple faith of a young girl’s song be the beginning of hope in the face of their heaviest burdens. Find out on the next Unshackled!

For fifteen years Barbara Caldwell wandered in darkness, a victim of manic depression. Don’t miss the remarkable story of her rescue and her singing and writing career…another true dramatization from Unshackled!

She married the prince she’d always dreamed about, but Kay Henderson didn’t know the “Prince of Peace,” and her marriage crumbled. Don’t miss the remarkable story of their restoration, another true dramatization coming soon on Unshackled!

Mahmoud and Jilla came to America from Tehran, leaving behind their language, culture, and families. Will a possibly fatal illness further compel them into turmoil...or worse? Don’t miss part 2 of their true story, coming soon on UNSHACKLED!

Mahmoud and Jilla came to America from Tehran, leaving behind their language, culture, and families. Would the culture shock save them or drive them further into a Godless existence? Don’t miss their true story on the next UNSHACKLED!

If you don’t know your family history, you could miss a great inheritance. Robert Brown learned of his riches when he met his real father. Don’t miss his true testimony…another dramatization coming soon on Unshackled!

Born with a heart defect, Tiffanie Kitts beat the odds from the first day of her life on earth. But as she continued facing tragedy, she lost hope and made a plan to end her life. See what gave her the strength to move on as we bring you the true story of Tiffanie Kitts, soon, on Unshackled!

An accident as a teenager left David Astwood off balance. Don’t miss the unusual story of how someone came alongside to steady him…another true dramatization coming soon on Unshackled!

While writing his magnum opus in a cabin out in the beautiful, remote wilderness, Doc encounters a couple of dangerous fugitives. Will he be able to convince them of what true freedom means before it’s too late? Find out in this special Fourth of July episode, all on the next Unshackled!

His life started off with great loss and turmoil. So, Edmond Smagge spent years desperately searching for peace – first at home and then aimlessly across the country. He would finally encounter a peace that passes all understanding....find out how in another true dramatization on the next Unshackled!

He grew up without his mother and never heard his father say, “I love you.” So Bob Phillips found solace in alcohol. Hear the inspiring testimony of how he went from drunkenness to new life…another true dramatization on Unshackled!

When her baby was born addicted to meth, Monica knew she needed to change dramatically for the sake of her daughter. Is such a transformation possible? Hear what happens when we bring you the true story of Monica McKeen, soon, on Unshackled!

Rose Woodberry enjoyed a great job and hoped for a better life than her parents had. But the lure of parties and drugs tempts her to risk everything. Will she resist or give in to a life of addiction and loneliness? Find out what happens on the next Unshackled!

Peter Marshall is revered for his inspirational preaching and service as the United States Senate Chaplain. When asked to address the Naval Academy, he changes his prepared message at the last minute, not knowing how prophetic his sermon would be. Don’t miss this inspiring story on the next Unshackled!  

Julio Velasquez studied to be an agricultural scientist, and today he sows the imperishable seed, which for a time cost him the love of his family. Invite your friends to hear the unusual story of this man from Peru, another true dramatization from Unshackled!

He grew up without his father, but James Fickley had someone who stuck closer than a brother. Don’t miss this heartwarming story of God’s provision…another true dramatization coming soon on Unshackled! 

Part of the Navajo tribe, he was groomed to be a medicine man for his people.  But would his own reckless use of hallucinatory drugs be his downfall? Join us for this compelling story of Milt Shirleson, another true dramatization coming soon on Unshackled!

Emily’s struggle with anxiety and depression were eating away at her life. Her decisions turned darker and more desperate as time wore on…would she rescued from an almost certain demise? Find out in her compelling true story coming soon on the next UNSHACKLED!

Arrested on trumped-up charges, Paul appeals to the court to stand trial before the tyrannical Roman Emperor Nero himself. During the sailing voyage Paul encounters a man with whom he shares a much deeper connection than he could have imagined. Join us for this Easter classic, another compelling dramatization coming soon on “Unshackled!” 

Jeff Shelnutt is kidnapped by Muslim extremists and held for ransom. While the family prays for his release, the FBI works around the clock to negotiate his release. Don’t miss the exciting conclusion of this story on the next Unshackled!  

Jeff Shelnutt told his parents he was an atheist, but an encounter with a youth pastor convinced him to read the Bible. Don’t miss what happens next when he encounters Muslim extremists on the next Unshackled! 

Philip Foxwell was a gifted magician who entertained others until he learned of a more important purpose for his life. Don’t miss the conclusion of his remarkable testimony, coming soon on Unshackled!

Today they’re called Illusionists but Philip Foxwell was known as a magician as he traveled the U.S. performing sleight-of-hand tricks. Invite others to hear the first part of his unusual testimony, another true dramatization from Unshackled!

Abby spent her early years looking for love in many different people. Marriage to a fellow musician seemed like it was the beginning of something wonderful. Instead, it led to more loss and loneliness. Would she finally find the love she sought? Find out in Part 2 of Abby's powerful story, coming soon on Unshackled!

Abby Greenwald, came of age in America during the 1960s, when many of the young people were looking for peace and love. So why is everything she tries just bringing her more loneliness and depression? Listen to Part 1 of Abby’s story, another true dramatization on the next UNSHACKLED!

Harold Witmer joined the army to get an education, and ended up traveling the world, boldly sharing what he had learned in the book he read. Don’t miss the inspiring conclusion of his true testimony coming soon on Unshackled!

Being a daydreamer kept Harold Witmer from succeeding in school, and almost stood in the way of his succeeding at life. Invite others to hear the first of his two-part story, another true dramatization coming soon on Unshackled! 

Blythe Hardy experienced many years of addiction and one failed marriage after another. His life felt hopeless...until someone showed him unconditional love and forgiveness. Don’t miss the conclusion of this powerful story on the next UNSHACKLED!  

Blythe Hardy was abused as a young child, which led to years of addiction and hiding the shame of what happened to him. Just how far would these vices take him? Don’t miss this powerful story, on the next UNSHACKLED! 

Charlene Phillips was ridiculed by her Cherokee Indian family when she found the answer to her broken spirit. But one by one they agreed. Don’t miss the inspiring conclusion to her testimony…another true dramatization coming soon on Unshackled!

Hatred drove Charlene Phillips to fight with a fury until someone taught her to love. Don’t miss the first of this Cherokee Indian’s two-part testimony, another true dramatization coming soon on “Unshackled!”

Peter DeChat survived a horrible fire but endured years of painful surgeries. Doctors were sure he’d never regain his vision, but Peter trusted God to do the impossible. Don’t miss the conclusion of his powerful story on the next Unshackled!  

Peter DeChat worked hard at everything he did, including working out every day and becoming a successful entrepreneur. But when a plane crashes into his home, his life is instantly changed! Don’t miss this powerful true story on the next Unshackled!  

Close to New Year's Eve, Jennifer and her daughter Evie end up at the mission after an incident of domestic abuse drives them from their home. But it would be a very different kind of resolution on New Year's Eve that would deliver them to the ultimate safety. Find out what happens in this special holiday Classic on the next Unshackled!

A friendship develops at the Golden Years Retirement Community, where Philip learns that his new buddy Nick does not have a full grasp on reality. After an emergency event, Nick is faced with a critical choice…one of life or death. Find out what happens on the next Unshackled!

In their excitement to choose and cut down their own Christmas tree in the forested winter wonderland of Greenwood Farm, the Carnes family overlooked one important detail—a doozy of a winter storm. Would they be stranded without hope? Find out on the next Unshackled!

All he wanted at age seven was for someone to tell him how to be saved. Today George Eager does exactly that for millions of children. Don’t miss this heartwarming dramatization, another true testimony coming soon on Unshackled!

With Emily Lawson lacking confidence to make her own decisions, she’s led to join a cult. But it wasn’t all she thought it would be. Will she be freed from this deceptive and dangerous sect? Find out on her exciting true story coming soon on UNSHACKLED!

A chance meeting at a grocery store gives Tom an opportunity to investigate and scrutinize the religion that has caused a wedge between he and his wife. Will his worst fears be realized, or will he be surprised by the truth? Find out in this special Thanksgiving Classic coming soon on Unshackled!

Charles Daymon suffered horrible abuse as a child. As an adult, he’s arrested for drug trafficking and faces a hundred-year prison sentence. Don’t miss this powerful story of how an encounter with a prison chaplain changed his life forever, on the next Unshackled!  

For years Holland Oates was a stonecutter and a drunk. Then he stumbled over a Stone the builders rejected, and he was never the same. Don’t miss this remarkable true testimony from the Classic files of Unshackled!

Joe Stump had a problem he couldn’t solve that drove him to despair. He found the answer in the most unlikely place as you’ll hear in this Classic true dramatization coming soon on Unshackled!

The truth may hurt, but denying the truth can hurt even more as Laura Swaringim learned when her husband left her for another woman. Don’t miss this relevant exploration of commitment, another true dramatization coming soon on Unshackled!

If you feel that you’re being tested to the limit of endurance, don’t miss the dramatic story of Louis Holguin who was tested repeatedly. Invite others to hear his true testimony coming soon on “Unshackled!”

With such a rough childhood, it was no surprise that Daniel’s life centered around just getting by — coping. In high school, the consequences caught up with him and landed him in jail. Will he make it out? Don’t miss his exciting true story coming soon on UNSHACKLED!

Cal and Marie Freeman were a happy couple. They took full advantage of the lifestyle the government provided. But almost overnight, their lives changed when they decided they didn’t want to take the life of their unborn daughter. Sound far-fetched? Listen to “The No-So-Great Reset Part 2,” coming soon on UNSHACKLED!

Cal and Marie Freeman are a happy couple. They don’t make waves, and they abide by the rules the one-world government has put in place for the betterment of people-kind. What does a good person do when the government expects you to kill your own child? Listen to The Not-So-Great Reset, coming soon on UNSHACKLED!

What kind of father would all-but-abandon his six motherless children? Virginia Sartin will give you the answer in her gripping testimony…another true dramatization coming soon on “Unshackled!”

As a child, Bill Livezey’s life was ransacked as he witnessed his father become a drug dealer and fugitive from the law. Bearing the same name, would he follow in his father’s footsteps? Find out in this exciting true story coming soon on UNSHACKLED!

Michael Buhrman received a 40-year sentence for a crime he planned but never committed. He reluctantly agrees to read his cellmate’s Bible, but only if his cellmate promises never to talk about God again. Don’t miss the compelling conclusion of Michael’s story, all on the next on Unshackled! 

Michael Buhrman was five years old when his father left. Michael numbs his rejection with alcohol and drugs, which eventually leads to an armed robbery. Don’t miss Part 1 of this powerful story and of just how far his rebellion would take him, all on the next Unshackled!

Donate here to UNSHACKLED's Office Renovation!: https://gofund.me/84156573 When Yolanda’s mother left the family for a married man, life was never the same. Without anyone caring if she was coming or going, Yolande believed what she did, didn’t matter. Expelled from college she embraced the partying life until she reached her end. What did she find there? Find out in her exciting true story coming soon on UNSHACKLED!

Donate here to UNSHACKLED's Office Renovation!: https://gofund.me/84156573 A Reverend honors a request from a poor family in the community, not expecting anything in return. But what he received would show him a blessing and kindness of supernatural proportions. Don’t miss Legh Richmond’s story of The Dairyman’s Daughter on the next UNSHACKLED!

Donate here to UNSHACKLED's Office Renovation!: https://gofund.me/84156573 A uneducated woman living in the slums and working in a mill hears the adventurous stories of a missionary and decides she too can venture out for God. In the foreign jungles of Africa, what would it take for her to stand for God against tribal gods and superstitious killings? Don’t miss Mary Slessor’s historic true story, right now on UNSHACKLED!

Donate here to UNSHACKLED's Office Renovation!: https://gofund.me/84156573 Hope’s journey to escape addiction and find a better life took her to frightening and dangerous situations. Would she find the strength to survive? Find out in Part 2 of the true story of Hope.

Growing up in a stepfamily, Hope searched for ways to fit in. But when her search led to overwhelming addictions, she was faced with an unexpected choice. Would her decision keep her from destroying her life? Find out in Part One of her true story, right now on Unshackled! Donate here to UNSHACKLED's Office Renovation!: https://gofund.me/84156573

Dwight Eisenhower was a General and the 34th President of the United States — the leader of the free world following World War 2. But like everyone he had doubts, doubts about his abilities and doubts about his spiritual condition. Will his friendship with a well-known evangelist deliver the assurance he needs? Don’t miss the true story we call, “Billy and Ike,” right now on UNSHACKLED!

Although his marriage was crashing on the rocks of selfishness, Charles Palmer kept rejecting the Lifeline thrown to him…until he himself almost sank. Don’t miss this true dramatization from the Classic files of Unshackled!

She grew up in poverty and had to quit school, but Jettie Evans dreamed of having a good home. Invite your friends to hear the story of how her dreams came true…another true dramatization from the Classic files of Unshackled!

What starts out for Ray and Mary Carney as an Independence Day vacation trip in a motor home…soon devolves into a scene of abduction and danger. Don’t miss this riveting holiday classic called “Hijack”...all on the next Unshackled!

Worth Ellis had a gambling problem until he took a chance on someone who once made him bitter and angry. Invite your friends to hear this moving true testimony, coming soon from the Classic files of Unshackled!

Daniel and Françoise Dossmann grew up in Paris and examined all the world's major faiths, hoping to find out which one was true. Don’t miss their powerful story and what they discovered on the next Unshackled! 

Allen Hons would cause a deep rift when leaving the church he attended his entire life. But while his family and community were at odds with his decision, he was receiving great strength and affirmation from another source. Learn all about it in this exciting true story, coming soon on UNSHACKLED!

Growing up in an environment of violence, neglect and alcoholism, Misty tries to break the cycle of destruction in her own life. But attempt after attempt would show her how futile her efforts were. That is, until she discovered the power of true surrender. Don’t miss her exciting true story coming soon on UNSHACKLED!

John Stehr set his sights on being a high-class waiter and traveling the world. But a vital question would haunt him on his international travels. Don’t miss his inspiring testimony, another true dramatization from the Classic files of Unshackled!

Jack Ferguson chose a life of hardship and danger to share with others the Way that changed his life. Don’t miss the conclusion of his gripping testimony, another true dramatization from the Classic files of Unshackled!

What kind of teenager would burn his own picture out of the school yearbook? We’ll hear about that and other crises in the first part of the Classic true testimony of Jack Ferguson, coming soon on Unshackled!

Trey Dawson struggled for decades with drug addiction and was incarcerated in dozens of jails across the country. But an encounter with dogs in prison would change his life forever. Don’t miss Part Two of this powerful true story on the next Unshackled!

Trey grew up in a troubled home where his parents divorced when he was young. By eighth grade he was experimenting with drugs, acting out at school, and bouncing from one juvenile detention to another. Eventually his drug addiction lands him in the hospital with a near fatal heart infection. While serving a four-year prison sentence he begins to face the reality of the choice he’s made.

Can The Sinner’s Prayer save you? You’ll hear the story of three people who parroted the Sinner’s Prayer and even regularly attended church, but never truly repented. What they discovered surprised them and everyone around them. You’ll hear their true-life stories on the next UNSHACKLED!

Sophie grew up terrified of death and of God because of three deaths in her immediate family. Don’t miss the unique testimony of how her fears were banished…another true dramatization from the Classic files of Unshackled!

George Petrella lived a fantastical Walter Mitty kind of life. But would his thought life become so out of control that it threatened his very existence? Find out on the next UNSHACKLED!

A man struggling to find life’s worth, a hillside retreat, and the holy power of the resurrection story, all collide in our Easter Classic, “Retreat at Ajalon.” Don’t miss hearing how Christ poured out his love as he gave up his life. And the glorious power in which he was raised from the grave, conquering death. This listener favorite is coming soon on UNSHACKLED!

Growing up in a toxic childhood environment, certainly contributed to the rogue nature of Carl Black. Even as a child all the authorities were familiar with his violent antics. Would he carry that wretched behavior into his adult life? Find out in this classic true testimony coming soon on Unshackled!

Juan Riesco was a successful entrepreneur, with a popular restaurant and clothing line, until protestors forced him out of business. Don’t miss this powerful story about standing up for what’s right, on the next Unshackled!

Juan Riesco was a successful entrepreneur, with a popular restaurant and clothing line, until social media disagreed with his values. Don’t miss this powerful story about standing up for what’s right, right now on Unshackled! 

Father’s abuse drives Fred to rebel, and he’s put in a home for troubled boys until his dad commits suicide. He graduates to drug dealing, is arrested but lies and is treated lightly. Has good job but loses it because of cocaine habit. Crack addiction makes him unstable, and he faces death or prison. He’s arrested, but a friend’s pastor explains salvation. Fred goes home and prays. He goes to Christian rehab, then serves two years in prison. Now married and in a church ministry for drug addicts.

A brutal alcoholic father and being molested at age ten set the stage for Billy’s life of conflict. He sells his body to men on the street, uses drugs and has a girlfriend on heroin. In and out of prison, they marry but neglect their son. Both are unfaithful and split. Billy climbs to top of bridge but is coaxed down. Nine times he goes to prison. A pastor friend gets him into Christian rehab and he’s clean but diagnosed HIV. After falling from grace, he returns to his wife and cares for her as she dies from cancer. Then he serves as a counselor at the rehab.

Robert’s aunt and uncle raise him but they are alcoholics like his father and mother. He goes to church, learns to pray, tries to achieve in school. Graduates and works, marries sweetheart, but begins using drugs. Downward spiral drags his wife into drug use, neglecting children. Robert tries rehab, fails, goes to jail. They end up in rescue mission. He tries rehab again and wife dies of drug complications. Robert goes back to drugs, then goes to church and receives Christ. Now working and in ministry to drug addicts.

Dave has traumatic childhood. His adoptive mother dies when he’s four. His dad takes him to bars, leaves him alone or gives him to strangers. But Dave receives Christ when he’s seven and loves his dad. When he’s put in a children’s home, his aunt and uncle take him to Florida where he is discipled and grows in faith. They adopt him, and he goes to college. Dad is saved, gets cancer and dies. Dave marries and for the first time in his life has a relative when his son is born. His wife dies of cancer but he’s still in ministry.

His parents divorce when he’s young, and Victor grows up shy and uncertain. He nearly drowns at fourteen. He and a friend are caught stealing food and shot by police with mystery gun. After surgery he can’t walk for months. He finishes high school with awards for his paintings but is too shy to accept them. He gets a job and learns his boss is his real father, confusing him. Girlfriend’s cruel behavior after daughter is born drives him to a pastor friend who leads him to Christ. He gets custody of daughter when girlfriend dies, raises her in the Lord.

With cerebral palsy, Debbie’s life is hard. Parents fight and dad takes Debbie gambling. A school bus driver molests Debbie and she has temper tantrums. Grandmother is bad influence, smoking and entertaining men. At 15 Debbie goes to church and receives Christ. She quits going gambling with dad. Her test scores are so high, she goes to college but parents won’t support a Christian education, so she works her way through as janitor, then works with the disabled.

Terri has good family but marries into a cult. When they move to be near his family, she gets depressed. When her husband leaves, she becomes manic and is put on lithium. She reads self-help books but becomes suicidal. Husband returns but they bicker. She goes off her meds and becomes psychotic, calls police. Family has her committed, then she does therapy for a year. Her daughter leaves the false church and is born-again, witnesses to Terri. She receives Christ at a Christian church.

Raised by strict grandparents, Rebecca rebels as a teenager, lying and stealing. With a car and a job, she is popular with peers; but she gets raped and then starts using drugs. She becomes promiscuous and a drunk. She marries an unfaithful man, has numerous DUIs and finally leaves him. Her life is a revolving door of men. Co-workers witness and she goes to church. Then she marries a man who goes to prison. She finally gives her life to Christ and changes. Now raising her daughter in the Lord.

Abandoned by her mother at age one, Judie is raised by Italian grandparents. Abusive grandmother terrifies her. She marries abusive man and they drift apart as children grow up. She has numerous affairs but guilt plagues her & she lives on tranquilizers. She leaves her husband for another man and gets her children but is still unhappy. Her aunt leads her to Christ, then her husband is saved. They take care of her grandmother before she dies. Both now in ministry to troubled boys.

Illness causes Jeff to be held back in school and he suffers ridicule. Then the grandfather he loves dies. Family moves to the South where his accents brings Jeff ridicule. As a teenager, he drinks, smokes pot, works for uncle. Parents kick him out for drunkenness and irresponsibility. A friend witness about Christ, and Jeff takes a job on power lines, working with believers. He goes to church and prays for salvation in his grandfather’s cornfield. Wife and he now missionaries in Bulgaria.

Jack grows up in Christian family but he resorts to mockery and profanity in high school. He has religion but not Christ. At his job a drunken mechanic gets saved and changes dramatically. Jack is impressed but offended when the man confronts him. He leaves that job, marries and does well. They serve in church. A speaker offends Jack, and he asks God for answers, starts reading the Bible, convicted. He struggles, confesses to church board and the church holds revival. Jack and his wife receive Christ as Savior. Becomes pastor serving 34 years before death.

Sam’s dad is saved and imposes restrictions on children who rebel. Sam and brother are out of control, drinking, stealing. Father gives up. Sam & brother beat a friend for stealing their musical equipment and they go to jail for six months. His Christian sister constantly witnesses to him. He marries but frequent moves and failed business ventures prepare his heart when they live with sister, go to church and receive Christ. Now in ministry.

Are you widely respected? Do you live a clean life? Do you enjoy considerable success? Are you considered to be at the top of your game in whatever field of endeavor you are in? Soon you will meet a man who was all that and more. He was a champion in the fine art of fisticuffs until he realized that entering the battle for the souls of men would be the greatest victory of all.

Because both his parents die when he is a small child, Roger is raised in foster homes, some good, some bad. He nearly dies of pneumonia at ten. Fears death. Brother is killed when both are teenagers, adding to his despair. Joins the Air National Guard, but is medically discharged after nervous breakdown. Finds his sister who was adopted as baby. Ends up in rescue mission where woman demonstrates the love of Jesus in ministry. Roger is saved, brother, too. He marries Nadine and they serve the Lord in children’s ministry for 35 years.

Being in military family leaves Julie insecure. Drinking gives her confidence and she becomes alcoholic in high school. Graduates, goes to beauty school. Meets Rich and they move to Florida to sell cocaine. They steal and work part-time to survive. Julie gets pregnant twice, aborts both because she can’t stop drinking. Guilt makes her drink more. Prays for salvation but doesn’t surrender will. Rich gets saved while she’s in rehab and they follow Christ together.

Rich replaces church with parties when he’s in high school. Drug addiction leads to aimless life. He works but moves often, feels lonely. First marriage lasts only three weeks. Discovery of brother’s homosexuality leaves questioning all beliefs. Lives with Julie but cocaine addiction devours their life. She has two abortions then goes into rehab. Rich is so desolate he cries out to God, watches TV evangelist, prays for salvation. Witnesses to gay brother who dies of AIDS.

Mike grows up believing in salvation by works. Works and studies for degrees, then marries. Very responsible but success leaves him empty inside. Wife finds Christ and Mike finds a girlfriend. Wife prays but doesn’t condemn. Boss invites Mike to men’s prayer breakfast where he’s convicted of sin. Prays with wife for salvation. Now a pastor.

Rebecca is intelligent and goes to college at seventeen. Father gets saved, but she’s disinterested. Several men take advantage of her in college, then her boyfriend abandons her when she gets pregnant. He is killed in an accident. Rebecca takes daughter to church and gives her life to Christ. Then she is led astray by cult church and loses touch with reality. Diagnosed schizophrenic, she gets therapy and medication. Now a writer and speaker.

Bill is New York City policeman who works hard, drinks harder. His son is estranged by Bill’s harsh treatment. Wife gets saved and Bill fights her church-going and prayers. Bills health fails and sister invites evangelist to visit. Bill goes to service and receives Christ. As he retires, he goes to Bible school, but still can’t relate to his son. Bills pastors churches and teaches Bible school. Asks son’s forgiveness but dies before reconciliation.

David’s family is poor and godless, hard-drinkers and fighters. Mother gets saved but David won’t listen. At seventeen he is shot in stomach. The next year he is shot in shoulder. Christians witness in hospital but he won’t listen. Drunken dad fires shotgun in David’s face, blinding him. Filled with bitterness, he turns to drugs, almost overdoses, cries out to God. He goes to church with Mother, gives his life to Christ. Told to forgive his dad, he backslides, nearly dies in car crash and recommits life to the Lord. Forgives his father.

Born in Zimbabwe, Stephen’s mother abandons him and his two younger siblings when he is seven. Aunt lets him sleep in chicken coop. He forages in garbage cans for food. Completely illiterate, he tries to hang himself at fourteen but is rescued. Joins revolutionary gang bombing churches and banks. Tries to bomb a tent revival, gets saved instead. Part One ends with Stephen being discipled by a white missionary.

Stephen learns not only the Bible but manners and hygiene. He becomes an evangelist, menaced by the revolutionaries he once followed. He marries and has five children, learns to preach in English, overcomes inferiority complex. Mother comes to revival; he leads her to Christ and overcomes bitterness toward her. Eventually finds his father and leads him to repentance. Stephen now a world-wide evangelist.

Rebellious streak begins at age twelve and includes smoking pot, breaking rules and resisting authority. Drug use leads to job losses. During one drug party, a guy reads the Bible. Jim is drawn to the gospel but hates to give up drugs. Goes to a rock concert where singer blasphemes God. Horrified, Jim asks God to save him right there. Quits drugs and later witnesses to the same rock group. Now an evangelist.

A nightingale cannot sing a note, until it first hears the song of another nightingale. A tiny template planted in the brain of the little bird must be triggered by its hearing the notes sung by another nightingale, not those of a robin, or lark or bluebird, only the nightingales song. Perhaps there is a “template” implanted in us, which will be activated by hearing the word of God. This is what happened to the man whose story you will hear on Unshackled.

Family health problems, including Dad’s epilepsy and retarded brothers, leave Bill ashamed and confused. He blames God. Near drowning at age twelve. Classmates’ taunts lead him to rebellion, drinking and drug use. He deals drugs, drops out of football. Caring coach helps Bill return and succeed. But Bill hates everyone including himself. His dad keeps reaching out to him. Watching TV evangelist, Bill receives Christ and his life is transformed. Now pastors a church.

Ralph grows up longing to help his single mom, who struggles to provide for the family. He takes odd jobs, starts drinking, quits school, gets in trouble. He marries at seventeen. Drawn into organized crime, Ralph is confronted by a hitman but dissuades him. He’s nearly killed in an accident, but lives to serve his time in prison. During second time in prison, no one visits except evangelist, who gives him a Bible. Ralph reads and believes. Marriage healed; he now runs a rescue mission.

Nadine endures abandonment by her mother and an abusive father who raises them on a farm. She and sister do all the farm work and go to school. Her health breaks down. A school friend invites her to church where she learns God loves her. She goes to Bible college. Sisters profess faith in Christ, but father dies without repentance. Nadine and husband, Roger, serve the Lord in children’s ministries.

Although family is poor, Howard is born with musical talent and he helps support family by playing the piano in burlesque theatres in Chicago. Wine, women and son lead him astray, to the horror of his Christian parents. He marries Ruth, a chaste Christian, but can’t give up the old life. He visits Pacific Garden Mission often for coffee but resists the gospel until his wife issues ultimatum. He goes to PGM and receives Christ as Savior, rejects old life and plays music for Lord thereafter.

Willie becomes addicted to pornography at fourteen, cocaine at twenty-two. Alcohol leads him to violence and blackouts. He’s arrested but slips by with fines. He lives with a woman, decides to marry and wants his dad to be best man. His dad is dying of cancer, and Willie sees his dad accept Christ before he dies. Willie’s drug addiction grows so bad, his wife issues ultimatum. He goes to see brother, is discipled by Christian, prays for salvation at work.

Bill stays out of trouble growing up, works at being a good boy until he’s a teenager and challenges the pastor. College and career leave him feeling empty, so he decides to walk across America. Besieged by witnesses of Christ everywhere he goes, he reaches Denver and stops for nine months to work, then walks to Seattle, reading the Bible. Proud and self-reliant, he doesn’t realize he’s a sinner until he lies to Canadian customs. Then he prays a sincere prayer of repentance and is born-again. Now walks with the Lord as a pastor.

“Polly”’s mother is born-again, so he grows up in church knowing about Jesus. His dad is a drunkard, but Polly hates the taste of alcohol until he joins the Navy. Afterward, he drinks too much, even after he marries. While drunk, a stranger offers him a ride and shoots Polly, who nearly dies. Wife receives Christ, Polly is left nearly blind. His drinking worsens until family takes him to state hospital for rehab. There he cries out to God and is gloriously saved.

Richard grows up in poverty without God. Two brothers have muscular dystrophy. Joins army after graduation and goes to fight in Korea. Christian buddy influences him but back home he begins drinking hard after father’s death. Head-on collision while drunk nearly kills a boy. He joins Air Force, falls in love with woman who loves the Lord. Goes to church with her and is saved. Richard gets muscular dystrophy later but continues to serve God.

In spite of a God-fearing, loving family, James is a rebellious teenager who lies, vandalizes and drinks. When a friend accidentally shoots him below the eye, James fears death but is too proud to pray. He survives and carries on as before. God and his parents help him through crises, but James is ungrateful and bitter. Unable to bear his sin, he cries out to God, then talks with a pastor who leads him to Christ and a changed life.

His father dies when Ron is ten. Then Ron gets rheumatic fever and spends a year in a convalescent home. Family disintegrates as Mom drinks and kids turn to drugs and crime. Many confrontations with police, ever trapped, scared and risking death, Ron goes to prison at age 25. Hears gospel message and wants to change, but goes back to drugs and crime when he’s released. Sister takes him to church where he is saved. Now serves in prison ministry.

Drunken abusive father puts Steve’s mother in mental hospital. Living with Grandpa introduces him to love and fear of God but is short-lived. Poverty and fear are Steve’s lot in life. He runs away at thirteen. Sleeping here and there, he stays in school. Friends take him to revival one night and he wants salvation but is too ashamed. A friend leads him to Christ in the parking lot. His friend’s family adopt Steve. Now married with nine children.

A teenager during the sixties, Larry becomes rebellious, breaking rules, stealing and doing drugs. Small crimes become bigger and he lands in Florida prison for burglary. Out again, he lives on the streets, eating at rescue missions. Another crime puts him in Georgia prison, and he tries to rehabilitate himself. Strangers visit, sharing Jesus and send their pastor who explains salvation. Larry cries out to God and grows in faith through Bible study. Now married with grown children and in ministry.

An Australian, perceived injustice leads Tom into hatred of authority that focuses on police. Drinking releases his rage. Marriage doesn’t quell his violence. He sets fire to police cars. Arrested, he’s treated at psychiatric hospital. One arson attempts burns him badly and he is confined to a hospital for the criminally insane. Wife stands by him. He escapes, is captured and then an inmate begins reading the Bible to Tom. Released, he is discipled and born again. Now in ministry.

What does it mean to be a man? Al’s father is a man’s man who works hard and drinks harder. Al hates his father for getting drunk and beating Mother; yet he loves his father who stands up for Al when he gets in trouble. At age seventeen Al intervenes and hits his dad for beating Al’s mother. When Al’s sister invites him to church, he goes out of curiosity and responds to the gospel. Now a pastor, he sees that man is someone who follows the Lord and keeps His commandments.

Rough childhood leaves Diane hungering for love. She meets Greg and wants to quit school, but her dad persuades her to graduate. Diane and Greg marry, but he doesn’t give up drugs. Friends find Christ, and Diane goes to church but Greg refuses. When Diane gets pregnant, he insists she get an abortion. Their marriage fails as her love turns to hate. Then she is saved. First part ends when a friend and she meet for Bible study at home, which Greg hates.

His parents’ divorce convinces Greg that children break up marriages. Raised by his unloving father, drugs become his mother. Greg hungers for love and find it in Diane. After their marriage, he spends all their money on drugs and insists she abort their baby, turning her against him. He hears the gospel driving home, and marvels that Diane is suddenly more loving. She is saved. Greg overhears the gospel as Diane and friend have Bible study, and he prays for salvation. Unable to have children, they adopted a baby girl. Now serve as missionaries in New Zealand.

In high school Henry falls in love with Lois, who loves the Lord while his family mistrusts church and Christians. They marry and he tries church for a while, but the world is more important. As a truck driver, he’s gone a lot, suffers illness, wife urges him to trust in the Lord. He refuses. Children grow up and marriage falls apart. Henry tries suicide, talks divorce. At a truck stop, a man invites Henry to gospel service and gives him a tract. Henry reads, prays and gives his life to Christ. Marriage restored, he’s now in ministry to truckers.

Bill’s explosive temper results from older brothers who bully him. He quits church in high school and starts drinking. Marries sweetheart, but drinking and jealousy erode their marriage. Puffed with pride, he opens karate school and soaks up public attention, neglecting his wife. He writes and travels but is losing his wife. A client leads his wife to Christ, but after a blowup, she asks Bill to leave, then tells him to invite Jesus into his heart. He does, and their marriage is healed. They now run a Christian ministry.

Having grown up in a Christian home, Tyler thinks he’s okay with God in spite of being addicted to pornography and drinking. Then he slips into drugs, including cocaine. He dates a girl who loves the Lord and who finally breaks up with him because he is lost and won’t turn to Christ. A friend tells Tyler to talk with his pastor, who leads him to Christ. After he shakes his addictions, his girlfriend and he marry. He leads his siblings to the Lord and today serves in evangelism at his church.

Christina’s schizophrenia begins manifesting as a teenager. She has never known her father. Feeling unaccepted by her family, she attempts suicide. Alienated from all social life, she tries psychiatry but withdraws into fantasy world. Reading the Bible, she senses that Jesus is the key, but paranoia sends her to psychiatric hospital where she again tries suicide. Medication and a Christian doctor restore her to normalcy. She hears the gospel on radio, calls the pastor who leads her to Christ. Now married and writing Christian books.

Not expected to live at birth, Mary Jane is slow to walk and talk and diagnosed with cerebral palsy. Her parents pray and don’t give up, but teach her patiently. She even learns to ride a bike and does well in school; but she hates being thought of as mentally retarded. Active in church, she wants to be a missionary to China. In Bible school she commits her life to Christ. Not allowed to be a missionary, Mary Jane gets a job but sinks into self-pity for a time. Part I ends as she is about to meet her husband.

Mary Jane marries Bud, who also has cerebral palsy, and helps him in his printing business. She miscarries twice, so they adopt a son. Then she gives birth to a daughter. Both want to be missionaries but can’t. Bud retires as printer and dies of cancer. Mary Jane begins ministry teaching the church to reach out to the handicapped. Today she travels and teaches around the world, including China!

Growing up in a godly home, Doris becomes responsible for family at age thirteen when her mother dies. Dad sends her to college, but Doris longs for fun. She marries an unsaved man against her father’s wishes. Husband’s drinking and gambling strain the marriage. Doris gives her life to Christ, and remains in a difficult and loveless marriage for 62 years for her children’s sake. Her children know the Lord because of her faithfulness.

Born in Nazi Germany, Fred and his family are trapped in the Russian zone when the war ends, while Dad is in the West zone. Drab life with not future, atheism surround him. Mother leads escape across border to meet Fred’s father. Restless Fred goes to Canada at nineteen, works but has no peace in his heart. Searches philosophies and nature to no end. Hears street preacher in Canada, convicted by Bible verses, goes to gospel meetings. Struggles but prays for salvation. Now an evangelist in Canada.