Podcast
CIA: Contagious Influencers of America
Hosted by Contagious, Inc. · EN
CIA: The Contagious Influencers of America Podcast. Meet the Gamechangers, the Influencers and those who are not afraid to show up with a shovel if that's what it takes to move a mountain. Go inside the minds of true American trailblazers who are making a difference by sharing their stories of personal triumph, overcoming obstacles, defeating fear, fighting addiction, and rejecting failure. Hosted by 9-time Emmy winner David Sams.
16episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Celebrating America's 250th Birthday with LEE GREENWOOD — The Story of God Bless The U.S.A.
5d ago00:37:02Tap to summarizeIs there anything more synonymous with patriotic pride than "God Bless The U.S.A."? As we celebrate Independence Day and the 250th birthday of our nation, we're bringing back this fan favorite — originally released on Veterans Day 2022 — because Lee Greenwood and this song belong on every American holiday playlist. Nine-time Emmy winner David Sams sits down with the Grammy award-winning artist to reflect on the song's remarkable 40-year journey — from being written in the back of a tour bus in 1983 to becoming the only song ever charted in the top five across all genres of music. Lee shares stories from nearly 300 days a year on the road, performing at two presidential inaugurations at the Lincoln Memorial, touring with Bob Hope on his final USO Christmas tour, and what it felt like to watch "God Bless The U.S.A." surge back to the top after 9/11 and the Gulf War. They also dig into Lee's nonprofit work with Helping a Hero — a Houston-based foundation that has built over 200 specially adapted homes for wounded warriors — and the story behind the limited edition "God Bless The U.S.A. Bible," a leather-bound King James Bible featuring Lee's handwritten chorus lyrics alongside the Constitution, Bill of Rights, Declaration of Independence, and Pledge of Allegiance. This Fourth of July Lee's message rings as true as ever: America is the greatest country on the planet — and faith, unity, and hope will always carry us through. #leegreenwood #godblessthesua #america250 #july4 #keepthefaith #davidsams #contagiousinfluencer
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She Buried a Hero — Now 'American Sniper' Widow TAYA KYLE Reminds America What We're Celebrating
2w ago00:41:10Tap to summarizeAs America celebrates her 250th birthday, there is no more fitting time to revisit this powerful conversation with one of the most courageous women connected to our nation's legacy of service and sacrifice. Taya Kyle was thrust into the national spotlight when her husband, Chris Kyle, became one of America's greatest war heroes — his story immortalized in the book and blockbuster film American Sniper. After Chris was tragically murdered at a shooting range in Texas, Taya chose to transform her grief into purpose, honoring his memory as a bestselling author, speaker, and champion for military families. In this timeless conversation with host David Sams, Taya opens up about turning fear into faith, tragedy into triumph, and suffering into strength — all while raising her children with the values of the warrior spirit Chris embodied. Her story is a living reminder of what American resilience truly looks like. As we mark 250 years of the American dream, Taya Kyle's journey reminds us that freedom has a cost — and that the families who bear that cost deserve our deepest gratitude and support. Learn more about Taya, her books "American Spirit," "American Wife" and her foundation, Taya and Chris Kyle Family – Service Marriage Strong, which serves military and first responder families at tackf.org.
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No Dad is Too Far Gone: MISS KAY & KORIE ROBERTSON on Phil's Radical Redemption and Legacy
3w ago00:31:39Tap to summarizeThere's no story quite like a redemption story—and the truth is, no father is ever too far gone for a second chance. In honor of Father's Day, we are opening the archives for a special Encore presentation celebrating the legacy of a true family patriarch, Phil Robertson, who passed away last year. Long before the Robertsons encouraged millions on their hit TV show Duck Dynasty, there was a day when none of this looked remotely possible. The early years were marked by severe brokenness, but Phil's life became the ultimate testament to a fatherhood redeemed by grace. The matriarch of the family, Miss Kay Robertson, and her daughter-in-law, Korie, joined nine-time Emmy winner David Sams to share the raw, behind-the-scenes truth of Phil's radical transformation. If you loved their hit biographical feature film, The Blind, or if you are a dad looking to build a lasting spiritual legacy for your own family, this powerful archive conversation is exactly what you need to hear this Father's Day weekend. Plus, you can watch the new season of Duck Dynasty: The Revival on A&E. #keepthefaith #contagiousinfluencer #philrobertson #duckdynasty #misskay #korierobertson
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GRANGER SMITH: Fame, Faith & a Father's Grief - This One's for the Dads
4w ago00:28:59Tap to summarizeWhat do you do when the worst thing imaginable happens — and you're left questioning everything you thought you believed? This week we're bringing back one of our most powerful conversations ever, and it hits even harder now. Nine-time Emmy winner David Sams sat down with Granger Smith — award-winning, platinum-selling country music artist turned New York Times bestselling author and minister — five years after the tragic drowning death of his three-year-old son, River. In this raw, honest conversation, Granger opens up about the 10 minutes he performed CPR on his little boy, the guilt, the grief, and the moment he realized fame and music had quietly become more about him than about God. So he walked away from it all. He also shares the beautiful story behind his youngest son Maverick's name — and why without losing River, Maverick wouldn't be the miracle he is today. This encore comes at the perfect time: Granger's new book Poison in the Well: 11 Toxic Beliefs That Kept Me from the Living Water of Jesus drops September 8, 2026 — and it's already generating serious buzz. It digs into the doubts that hit after loss, asking the question: "What if everything I believe about my faith was actually built on shifting sand?" If Like a River wrecked you in the best way, this one goes even deeper. Whether you're in a dark season, questioning your faith, or just hungry for something real — this episode is for you. 🎧 Listen now. Then pre-order Poison in the Well at grangersmith.com.
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BEN FULLER: Sobriety, the Opry, & Prequel to the Ring
May 2000:51:35Tap to summarizeBefore the engagement and the sold-out shows, there was the struggle. In this Encore! episode of Contagious Influencers of America podcast, Ben Fuller gets incredibly raw with host David Sams about a season many of us know all too well: being single, staying sober, and searching for "the one." Recorded just before his recent engagement, this conversation is a time capsule of the faith it takes to wait for God's best. The Dating Game: Ben opens up about the difficulty of finding a real connection while staying 100% sober. The Opry Milestone: The behind-the-scenes story of his debut on the world's most famous stage. The Redemption: From a Vermont dairy farm and a cocaine addiction to a life of radical purpose. Hear the heart of the man before he found the ring.
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# 285: TIM STOREY says Detours Aren't the End — They're God's Road to Your Destiny
May 2000:41:36Tap to summarizeWhat if the detour isn't the end of the road—but the very path God uses to get you where you're meant to go? In this uplifting episode of Contagious Influencers of America, nine-time Emmy winner David Sams sits down with renowned author, speaker, and "Life Coach to the Stars," Tim Storey, for a powerful conversation about hope, hardship, purpose, and the beauty of becoming. From being raised in humble beginnings in Compton, California, to speaking in 83 countries, leading Hollywood Bible studies, mentoring celebrities, and landing on the cover of Success magazine, Tim shares the wisdom he's gained through decades of helping people navigate life's biggest questions—and hardest seasons. Tim opens up about: Why your mindset is yours to set every single day The power of his "Lead With Love" movement in a divided world How to stay aligned with your God-given assignment when life gets interrupted Why dreams require not just a plan—but the development of the person What detours, delays, and distractions can teach us about purpose The moving lessons he's learning from his 95-year-old mother and the gift of being fully present Why even success doesn't mean you "have it all together" How he built a life that welcomes people from every walk of life into what he calls a "daily town hall" This conversation is full of timeless encouragement, practical wisdom, and the kind of perspective that helps you breathe deeper, trust more, and keep moving forward—even when life doesn't go according to plan. If you've ever faced disappointment, uncertainty, or wondered whether your dream is still possible, this episode will remind you: God still works through detours, and your story isn't over. Listen now—and share with someone who needs a fresh dose of hope and purpose today. To learn more about Tim Storey, his events, podcast, and "Lead With Love" movement, visit TimStorey.com. #PodcastInterview #TimStorey #DavidSams #ContagiousInfluencersOfAmerica #LifeCoachToTheStars #LeadWithLove #MiracleMentality #FaithAndPurpose #HopeAndEncouragement #DreamAgain #KeepTheFaith
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# 284: TIM TIMMONS defies a 5-year cancer prognosis, and his story is told in "I CAN ONLY IMAGINE 2" in theaters Friday!
Feb 1700:25:59Tap to summarizeWhat do you do when doctors give you five years to live… and you're still here more than twenty years later? In this moving episode of Contagious Influencers of America, nine-time Emmy winner David Sams interviews singer-songwriter and worship leader Tim Timmons. Diagnosed with incurable cancer in 2001 and given just five years, Tim's story deepened into one of profound faith, surrender, and hope. Now, over two decades later, his journey is portrayed by Milo Ventimiglia (Gilmore Girls, This is Us) in "I Can Only Imagine 2," tied to MercyMe's iconic song that has impacted millions "Even If." Tim shares openly about: Living with cancer while embracing both grief and hope Shifting from "working for God" to simply joining Jesus His daily grounding practice (the X he writes on his wrist each morning) Co-writing "Even If" with MercyMe's Bart Millard Watching his life and pain depicted on the big screen The heart of his new book, Waking Up Again: A Journey of Grief and Gratitude This isn't about pretending life is easy—it's about waking up again to presence, purpose, and a faith that holds joy and sorrow together. If you're facing uncertainty, loss, or a heavy season, this conversation will meet you with real hope. I Can Only Imagine 2 opens in theaters this Friday! "Waking Up Again" is available now wherever books are sold. Listen today—and share with someone who needs encouragement. Click here for tickets: I Can Only Imagine 2 | Only In Theaters February 20 #PodcastInterview #FaithAndHope #WakingUpAgain #ICanOnlyImagine2 #EvenIf #GriefAndGratitude #TimTimmons #MercyMe #DavidSams #KeepTheFaith
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# 283: COLTON DIXON From Anxiety to Authenticity and How AI Is Impacting Music
Dec 500:27:58Tap to summarizeWhat happens when a hitmaker hits a breaking point? In this revealing episode of Contagious Influencers of America, nine-time Emmy winner David Sams sits down with Gold-certified, award-winning singer-songwriter Colton Dixon—an artist who has spent his career using music to connect hearts, lift spirits, and offer hope. With nearly 1 billion streams, multiple #1 Billboard debuts, and songs that have broken records and inspired books, Colton has seen the power of music to bring people together. And yet, he approaches his craft with deep humility, treating music as a universal language that carries both beauty and responsibility. His mission? To write truth, reflect hope in darkness, and leave people better than he found them. In this conversation, Colton opens up about the moment that inspired his new single "The Love I Have For You," a song shaped by the life-changing experience of fatherhood. He shares how juggling twins, marriage, and a booming career led to a season of anxiety—one he refused to let define his identity. Colton discusses how Romans 8 reframed his perspective, why he chooses to speak hope over fear, and the surprising lessons his five-year-old girls teach him every day. David and Colton also dive into the wave of revival sweeping across college campuses, the healing power of forgiveness—highlighted by a recent high-profile example that moved him—and the importance of guarding our digital habits in a distracted world. Colton even weighs in on whether AI has a meaningful place in the creative process. They wrap up with the story behind his Christmas single "Home for Christmas" and what "home" really means to someone who spends much of life on the road. Along the way, you'll hear how his reverence for the art of songwriting, his commitment to integrity, and his desire to use music for good continue to shape his life as an artist. You can listen to Colton's holiday single Home For Christmas, now streaming on the Christmas Wish Channel and KeepTheFaith Radio. Stay until the end for a heartfelt message of hope for anyone struggling through the holidays—and learn how you can join the Christmas Wish movement to help families with gas, groceries, and the basics that bring real joy. 🎄 Christmas Wish: Share the Wonder of God's Love Christmas is a time for wishes… and through KeepTheFaith Charities' "Christmas Wish", we're helping families in need experience the hope and love of Jesus. ❤️ If you or someone you know could use a little extra hope this season or you would like to make a year-end tax-deductible donation, visit KeepTheFaithCharities.org and be part of the miracle. Don't forget to download the Christmas Wish Channel App on your phone today! Android Phones: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details ... Apple phones: https://apps.apple.com/.../the-christmas.../id6754641654 #ColtonDixon, #TheLoveIHaveForYou, #HomeForChristmas, #ContagiousInfluencers, #DavidSams, #ChristianMusic, #ChristianArtist, #WorshipMusic, #FaithBased, #Inspiration, #Testimony, #ChristianPodcast, #AmericanIdolAlum, #Fatherhood, #FaithJourney, #ChristianSongs, #NewChristianMusic, #Revival, #Hope, #AnxietyHelp, #Forgiveness, #MusicInterview, #ChristianInfluencer, #KeepTheFaith
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# 282: MARQ JAMES of Medi-Share on Cutting Costs, Finding Hope: A Faith-Filled Approach to Today's Healthcare Crisis
Dec 200:40:07Tap to summarizeWhat if the rising cost of health insurance isn't your only option and you could save hundreds every month with an alternative? In this powerful and timely episode, nine-time Emmy winner David Sams sits down with longtime friend of KeepTheFaith, Marq James, Chief Marketing Officer of Medi-Share—the Christian healthcare-sharing community that's been helping families cover their medical costs for more than 30 years. With the rising cost of health insurance dominating headlines, Marq breaks down why so many Americans are anxious, confused, and overwhelmed—and how the Medi-Share community is offering a Christ-centered alternative that can save families hundreds of dollars a month. He explains the difference between traditional insurance and healthcare sharing, how members support one another in prayer and financial burdens, and why thousands of people (including those 65+ on Medicare) are switching. Marq also opens up about his deeply personal battle with long COVID—how it affected his mind, memory, and identity, and how God used that season to reshape his heart, deepen his faith, and restore his calling to "be light" in a world craving hope and clarity. From the power of prayer to the reality of rising medical costs, this conversation brings wisdom, encouragement, and practical options for anyone struggling with today's healthcare landscape. Episode Highlights: • Why healthcare costs are skyrocketing—and what families can actually do about it • How Medi-Share's Christ-centered model works (and how it's different from insurance) • What Medi-Share offers for people 65+ on Medicare • The early-church inspiration behind healthcare sharing • Marq's raw and inspiring journey through long COVID • A closing prayer for anyone feeling anxious or overwhelmed CALL 833-32BIBLE AND GET A QUOTE TODAY! Or visit medishare.com/keepthefaith CALL BEFORE DECEMBER 15 AND GET $100 APPLICATION FEE WAIVED! #ContagiousInfluencers, #Podcast, #ChristianPodcast, #FaithBased, #MediShare, #HealthcareSharing, #ChristianCommunity, #KeepTheFaith, #MedicalCosts, #HealthcareAlternatives, #ChristianInspiration, #FaithAndHealth, #HopeAndHealing, #LongCovidStory, #EncouragementPodcast, #DavidSams
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# 281: TASHA LAYTON on Finding God's Light in the Valley, Her New Album and Christmas Music Too!
Nov 2100:40:33Tap to summarizeWhat if the darkest valley of your life became the very place God met you face-to-face? In this powerful and deeply personal episode of Contagious Influencers of America, chart-topping Christian artist Tasha Layton pulls back the curtain on the pain, healing, faith, and redemption that shaped her journey—from a suicide attempt and seasons of doubt to becoming one of today's most influential voices in Christian music. Before she toured the world with Katy Perry, appeared on American Idol, and topped the Christian charts with hits like How Far, Look What You've Done, and Worship Through It, Tasha walked through valleys she never imagined she'd survive. Today, she joins host nine-time Emmy winner David Sams to share the real stories behind her brand-new album Life in Me, including the raw and hope-filled anthem Meet Me in the Valley, as well as her joyful new holiday single Christmas All Year Long, now streaming on the Christmas Wish Channel and KeepTheFaith Radio. In this conversation, Tasha opens up about: · The emotional roots of Meet Me in the Valley and how God met her in her darkest moments · How childhood wounds shaped her identity—and the breakthrough that helped her heal · Why Scripture, spiritual discipline, and community are essential in seasons of grief or fear · The story behind her playful Christmas single and her family's festive traditions · Her leap of faith from college professor to full-time recording artist · The redemptive patterns she sees now that she could never understand in the moment If you're walking through heartbreak, battling doubt, or searching for encouragement this season, Tasha's testimony will remind you that you are never too far gone, and God meets you even in the valley. This is an episode full of faith, honesty, laughter, and life-changing perspective. Stay until the end for a heartfelt message of hope for anyone struggling through the holidays—and learn how you can join the Christmas Wish movement to help families with gas, groceries, and the basics that bring real joy. Subscribe now to Contagious Influencers of America for more inspiring conversations with artists, leaders, and world changers. 🎄 Christmas Wish: Share the Wonder of God's Love Christmas is a time for wishes… and sometimes, that wish is for a little more peace. Through KeepTheFaith Charities' "Christmas Wish", we're helping families in need experience the hope and love of Jesus—whether that means groceries on the table, a bike for a child, or comfort for someone who's struggling. ❤️ If you or someone you know could use a little extra hope this season, submit your Christmas Wish at KeepTheFaithCharities.org and be part of the miracle. Don't forget to download the Christmas Wish Channel App on your phone today! Android Phones: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details ... Apple phones: https://apps.apple.com/.../the-christmas.../id6754641654
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