Podcast Summary: "Christ With Coffee On Ice"
Episode: How Jesus Freaks Started
Release Date: December 13, 2024
Introduction and Life Updates
Ali Yost opens the episode with enthusiasm, inviting listeners to catch up on significant life changes since their last podcast. She shares that she and her best friend, Ashley Hetherington, have undergone substantial transitions, including relocating across the country and finally settling into their own home after a period of uncertainty. This segment is filled with emotional reflections on their journey of faith and reliance on the Lord.
"We are just living proof that he doesn't ever abandon us or leave us."
— Ali Yost [02:27]
Ashley echoes these sentiments, expressing deep gratitude and on the verge of tears as she recounts the faithfulness they've witnessed.
"Looking back on where we were at when we first recorded that initial podcast, like, we genuinely were so, like, dependent on the Lord."
— Ashley Hetherington [03:03]
The Birth of "Jesus Freaks"
The core of the episode delves into the inception of their new project, "Jesus Freaks", a reality show centered on living as Christians in contemporary society. Ashley recounts a pivotal moment at a conference in Nashville, where an idea sparked within her to create a show that portrays authentic Christian living amidst modern challenges.
"What would it look like if there was a show about living as a Christian in this day and age?"
— Ashley Hetherington [05:07]
Ali adds that the idea began to take shape as both of them felt a divine nudge, leading them to collaborate and pursue this vision together.
"You just have to trust the Lord and surrender it."
— Ali Yost [10:38]
Facing Challenges and Surrendering Control
As they embarked on bringing "Jesus Freaks" to life, Ali and Ashley encountered numerous obstacles, including securing a production team and convincing others of their vision. Despite initial enthusiasm from producers, gaps in understanding the show's unique concept led to repeated setbacks.
"People were understanding the concept, but they weren't fully understanding it."
— Ali Yost [11:30]
Feeling discouraged, they repeatedly surrendered their plans to the Lord, praying for guidance and clarity. This period of uncertainty tested their faith, but ultimately strengthened their reliance on divine direction.
"We kept praying and surrendering it over and over again."
— Ali Yost [13:38]
Divine Intervention and Reassessment
A breakthrough came unexpectedly through a prophetic word from a church member who had no prior knowledge of their project. This prophecy affirmed that God intended for Ali and Ashley to lead "Jesus Freaks," encouraging them to take risks and trust in His provision.
"He is so excited to pursue this project with his girls."
— Ashley Hetherington [20:04]
This revelation prompted them to reassess their approach, deciding to proceed without a traditional production house and instead rely on their own skills and God’s guidance. They began recording independently, embracing their roles as both creators and subjects of the show.
"All following Jesus as 20 somethings, navigating work, relationships, friendships, and singleness, and everything in between."
— Ashley Hetherington [31:09]
Launching "Jesus Freaks"
With renewed faith and determination, Ali and Ashley launched the trailer for "Jesus Freaks," setting the official release date for December 28th. They emphasized the importance of community, encouraging listeners to watch the show together and create memorable experiences centered around faith.
"Jesus Freaks is the name of the show, which Ashley fully got a download from the Lord."
— Ashley Hetherington [29:25]
The show aims to depict the genuine experiences of two women striving to live out their Christian faith in a modern, often challenging environment. By sharing their personal stories, they hope to inspire and encourage others to walk closely with Jesus.
"It encourages you to walk with Jesus in your everyday life."
— Ashley Hetherington [30:47]
Faith, Risk-Taking, and God's Faithfulness
Throughout the episode, Ali and Ashley discuss the themes of risk-taking in faith and the unwavering presence of God in their lives. They reflect on biblical lessons, such as Jonah’s journey, to illustrate the importance of trusting God’s plan despite uncertainties and fears.
"God is with us every step of the way... He is physically with us, carrying us."
— Ali Yost [35:05]
They stress that the true victory lies not in the outcomes but in maintaining a steadfast relationship with the Lord, irrespective of the challenges faced or the results achieved.
"The W is not the prosperity or maybe opportunities or things that could come from this. It's like, it's the fact that we still have our Lord and He's proud and he's saying, well done."
— Ali Yost [35:51]
Final Thoughts and Community Engagement
As they conclude, Ali and Ashley express their excitement and nervousness about the show's launch, highlighting the communal aspects they hope to foster among their audience. They encourage listeners to engage with "Jesus Freaks" on various social platforms, attend watch parties, and participate in the shared journey of faith.
"Let's collectively do it together as a family... Spread his love and kindness."
— Ali Yost [45:00]
They reaffirm their commitment to their mission, expressing gratitude for their supporters and the divine guidance that has brought them to this pivotal moment.
"Glad we can share that. We legit have no idea what's gonna happen after this, but we know that the Father is faithful."
— Ashley Hetherington [33:16]
Notable Quotes with Timestamps:
- "We are just living proof that he doesn't ever abandon us or leave us." — Ali Yost [02:27]
- "What would it look like if there was a show about living as a Christian in this day and age?" — Ashley Hetherington [05:07]
- "People were understanding the concept, but they weren't fully understanding it." — Ali Yost [11:30]
- "He is so excited to pursue this project with his girls." — Ashley Hetherington [20:04]
- "Jesus Freaks is the name of the show, which Ashley fully got a download from the Lord." — Ashley Hetherington [29:25]
- "God is with us every step of the way... He is physically with us, carrying us." — Ali Yost [35:05]
- "The W is not the prosperity or maybe opportunities or things that could come from this. It's like, it's the fact that we still have our Lord and He's proud and he's saying, well done." — Ali Yost [35:51]
Conclusion
In this heartfelt episode, Ali Yost and Ashley Hetherington share their inspiring journey of faith, collaboration, and perseverance in creating "Jesus Freaks." Their narrative underscores the importance of trusting in God's plan, embracing risks, and fostering a supportive community. As listeners prepare to watch their upcoming show, they are invited to join in this collective experience of living authentically with Christ amidst the complexities of modern life.