The At Risk Radio Podcast

Courage and Revival: Inside the Underground Church in Iran Amid Conflict

Naghmeh Panahi's Powerful Testimony

In this episode of At Risk Radio, hosts Mark Stafford and David Witt sit down with author and advocate Naghmeh Panahi to reveal what life is truly like right now for Christians inside Iran. As political conflict rages and daily realities include bomb shelters, fuel shortages, and soaring food costs, the underground Church is facing an emotional and spiritual storm. Naghmeh shares compelling firsthand accounts of fear and uncertainty, but also describes how the Gospel is spreading through house churches, fueled by bold faith and solidarity from believers around the world. International prayers and messages of encouragement are like a lifeline, bringing comfort and empowering Iranian Christians to keep sharing hope, even at great risk.

Despite persecution and extraordinary challenges, a remarkable revival is underway as Iranians turn to Christ in unprecedented numbers. The conversation highlights the difference between political headlines and the spiritual reality: God is moving powerfully among the Persecuted Church. Now, more than ever, Iranian believers need the Global Church to stand with them, not just in prayer, but in practical support. To play your part in encouraging and empowering these courageous Christians, consider donating to SOM International and helping bring hope to the Church at risk.

SOM International

When Prayer and Discipleship Transform Lives Across Continents

In this episode of At Risk Radio, hosts Mark Stafford and David Witt chat with Dan Russell, a Las Vegas men’s ministry leader with a powerful story of transformation and global impact. Dan opens up about his journey from a challenging season of personal crisis to wholehearted faith, describing how a simple email from an Indian pastor sparked a life-changing connection with the Persecuted Church in India. Dan also shares how the Lord worked a miracle in his son’s life during a time of rebellion, bringing him to restoration with God—a work accomplished when a pastor and his congregation in India prayed all night in response to Dan’s urgent request. 

The conversation explores practical lessons in Christian leadership, the power of unity among believers, and how men’s ministry can make a difference both locally and globally. Perfect for listeners interested in church leadership, discipleship, missions, and stories of faith under pressure, this episode underscores the ripple effect of following God’s call—even in “Sin City.” Explore what it means to be truly at risk for your faith and be inspired to see how God can use ordinary people to do extraordinary things.

Learn more about Spirit of Martyrdom International and give to Global Impact Projects at spiritofmartyrdom.com.

From Texas to North Africa: An Engineer’s Eye on Suffering, Service, and Spiritual Growth

In this episode of At Risk Radio, hosts Mark Stafford and David Witt chat with aerospace engineer and Eagles View Church volunteer Chuck Fielding to discuss his eye-opening journey across North Africa. Chuck shares candid stories from a grueling forty-hour road trip with fellow leaders, the personal lessons he learned as a Christian navigating a predominantly Muslim environment, and the powerful impact of encountering resilient local believers.

From testimonies of answered prayers on the road to reflections on faith, suffering, and cross-cultural friendship, this episode is packed with encouragement for anyone interested in Christian leadership, missions, and how the Gospel is making inroads in some of the world's most challenging places. Don’t miss these compelling firsthand accounts from the front lines of faith—perfect for listeners passionate about missions, discipleship, and the Global Church at risk.

Links mentioned in the episode:

Listen to other episodes: https://www.atriskradio.com

Learn more about SOM International: https://spiritofmartyrdom.com

Get David Witt’s book for free in the SOM bookstore: https://sombookstore.com/product/fearless-love/

Serving Leaders and Building Bridges: The Gospel in Action from Africa to Texas

In this episode of At Risk Radio, host Mark Stafford has a conversation with SOM International CEO David Witt and Randy Miller, Executive Pastor at Eagles View Church in North Fort Worth, to discuss powerful lessons from the Global Church and David and Randy’s recent visit to Northwest Africa. Randy shares engaging stories from a transformative forty-three-hour car journey with David, illuminating the challenges and deep faith of church leaders in persecuted regions. The conversation highlights the Discussion Discipleship Method (DDM), a practical, easily multipliable approach to discipleship used worldwide, including in the local church back in Texas. 

Listeners will also hear about Randy’s church’s bold vision to give more than half its resources outside its own walls, the impact of servant leadership demonstrated through a memorable foot washing, and how global missions are shaping local ministry. Eagles View is committed to funding church planting and discipleship in other places in the world, and SOM International is one of its greatest partners in doing that. This episode is packed with inspiration and actionable insight for church leaders, missions-minded believers, and anyone passionate about Christian leadership, discipleship, and serving the Global Persecuted Church.

Links mentioned in the episode:

Listen to other episodes: https://www.atriskradio.com

Learn more about SOM International: https://spiritofmartyrdom.com

Get David Witt’s book for free in the SOM bookstore: https://sombookstore.com

 

Mobilizing Churches for Missions: How Pastor Bart Howell Fuels Global Missions through Local Church Leadership

This week on At Rist Radio, hosts Mark Stafford and David Witt join Pastor Bart Howell to discuss impactful leadership and missions. Be inspired by Pastor Bart’s journey from a local Texan to a fervent advocate for global missions—including his transformation and dedication to leveraging church resources for worldwide impact, particularly within the Persecuted Church. This episode explores firsthand experiences from Pastor Bart's travels to India and North Africa. He also explains a strategy that empowers church members to live on mission and understand the vital role of support in global outreach. Pastor Bart encourages others to foster a church culture where every member sees themselves as part of the missions department.

Learn more about SOM International at https://spiritofmartyrdom.com.

Faith, Football, and Perseverance: John Abendschan on the Persecuted Church and Global Awareness

In this episode of At Risk Radio, hosts Mark Stafford and SOM CEO David Witt sit down with John Abendschan, an assistant athletic director and church elder, to explore the transformative power of faith and leadership amidst life's challenges. John shares his journey from a high school football coach in Texas to becoming deeply involved with SOM International, particularly focusing on his life-changing mission trip to India. Discover how his encounter with India's Persecuted Church reshaped his perspective, infusing his leadership with spiritual depth and global awareness. Additionally, John shares his personal struggle as he supports his wife through her battle with cancer, finding hope and strength in their shared faith. This episode is a heartfelt testament to the power of leadership, community, and unwavering belief in the face of adversity. 

Learn more about SOM International at www.spiritofmartyrdom.com. 

From Ashes to Advocacy: Naghmeh Abedini’s Path to Freedom, Hope, and Leadership

Naghmeh Abedini Panahi - Part 3

In this moving episode of At Risk Radio, hosts Mark Stafford and SOM International CEO David Witt chat with guest Naghmeh Abedini Panahi as she bravely recounts her journey through an abusive marriage while assuming a vital leadership role in the Persecuted Church within Iran. Naghmeh reveals how her husband’s imprisonment brought clarity and personal freedom, leading her to rediscover her identity in Christ amid immense personal loss. As she draws parallels to a phoenix rising from the ashes, Naghmeh’s story is one of transformation and resilience. The conversation goes into the challenges faced by the Underground Church amid Iran’s political turbulence, highlighting the remarkable spread of Christianity despite persecution. This episode offers listeners Naghmeh’s inspiring testimony of healing and renewal, along with nuanced perspectives on the ongoing plight and growth of believers in the Middle East. 

Learn more about Naghmeh and her book, I Didn't Survive.

 

Learn more or give to the work at SOM International: https://spiritofmartyrdom.com

From Fear to Faith: Naghmeh’s Courageous Stand in Iran’s Underground Church

Naghmeh Abedini Panahi - Part 2

In this powerful episode of At Risk Radio, hosts Mark Stafford and David Witt continue their conversation with Naghmeh Aberdini Panahi, a courageous Christian leader from Iran. Naghmeh shares her transformative journey of faith, marked by divine visions, evangelism, and the explosive growth of the Underground Church in Iran. Despite facing arrest, interrogation, and persecution, her unwavering belief enabled her to impact countless lives, including through advocacy at the United Nations. Her story highlights themes of perseverance, faith under persecution, and the dynamic power of the Gospel. Tune in to discover how Naghmeh’s inspiring testimony and faith have reached nearly a billion people, spreading hope to those persecuted for their beliefs.

Learn more about Naghmeh and her book, I Didn't Survive.

From Islam to Jesus: Naghmeh Abedini’s Journey of Faith Amid Iranian Persecution

Naghmeh Abedini Panahi - Part 1

Today, hosts Mark Stafford and SOM International CEO David Witt welcome special guest Naghmeh Abedini Panahi, a passionate advocate for the Persecuted Church in Iran and the Middle East. You’ll hear Naghmeh’s captivating story of faith and resilience as she shares her journey of finding Jesus amid the chaos of the Islamic Revolution and the Iran-Iraq War. Raised in a devout Muslim household, Naghmeh’s life took a transformative turn when she encountered Jesus Christ, leading to a lifelong mission to support the Underground Church. Gain insight into her mission work, her first experiences with the Amish Mennonites, and the inspiring power of faith and perseverance. Don’t miss this compelling episode highlighting leadership and resilience in the Christian community at risk. Learn more about Naghmeh Abedini Panahi and her book, I Didn't Survive.

 

Learn more or give to the work at SOM International: https://spiritofmartyrdom.com

Empowering Indigenous Missionaries: A CPA’s Perspective on Global Missions and Generosity

Join hosts Mark Stafford and SOM International CEO David Witt as they chat with Mary Brezeale, a dedicated CPA and passionate supporter of the SOM International mission. Mary shares her transformative journey of faith, from growing up in a nominal Christian family to embracing a leadership role in supporting the Global Persecuted Church. She discusses the crucial impact of giving, practical tips for maximizing charitable contributions, and the vital work of Indigenous missionaries within the 10/40 Window—the region between 10 and 40 degrees north of the equator. Learn about Mary’s heart for the unreached and why she believes supporting organizations like SOM International is a strategic way to further the Gospel’s reach to those who risk much for Jesus. Discover how you can make a difference in the Global Church by aligning your financial stewardship with eternal impact. Learn More.