Gideon Part II- The Dwindled Army

Summary

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Podcast Summary: The Chosen People

Episode: Gideon Part II – The Dwindled Army
Host: Pray.com
Date: April 5, 2026

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Episode Overview

This episode continues the story of Gideon, the unlikely judge chosen by God to deliver Israel from the Midianite threat. The episode—titled "The Dwindled Army"—explores themes of faith, fear, and divine power as Gideon's large force is whittled down to just 300 men, emphasizing that victory is achieved not through human strength but through trust in God. With dramatic narration and vivid character performances, the podcast brings to life the tension, doubt, and ultimate courage found in this Old Testament tale.

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Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. The Prologue: Gideon's Reluctance and the Overwhelming Odds

• Setting the scene: Gideon nervously scouts the vast Midianite army, estimated at 135,000 strong, while he commands only 32,000 Israelites—most untrained farmers and shepherds.
  • "How could a man with no experience lead an army? What strategy could possibly succeed against a force so overwhelmingly superior?" (05:45)
• Gideon's fear and self-doubt are central, reflecting his status as a “professional coward.”
  • "Nobody in their right mind would send me to rescue anyone. If you were the Lord, you'd know that I'm somewhat of a professional coward." — Gideon (01:39)

2. Divine Intervention: The Whittling of the Army

• The Angel of the Lord appears, unexpectedly yet again, challenging Gideon's expectations.
  • "There are too many of them." — Angel of the Lord (06:54)
• Paradoxical command: God instructs Gideon there are too many Israelites, not too few. Winning with such numbers would lead to their pride, not God's glory.
  • "If they win, they would boast in their own strength, saying, 'Oh, our own hands have saved us.'" — Angel of the Lord (07:53)
• Gideon is told to allow all the fearful to go home. 22,000 leave, only 10,000 remain.
  • "You heard me. Go. Run for your lives if you want to live." — Gideon (10:13)
• Despite the loss, Gideon feels steadied, "the strange assurance of God's hand at work." (10:17-11:00)

3. The Second Cut: The Spring of Harod Test

• Even with 10,000, the Lord tells Gideon there are still too many.
  • "There are still too many, Gideon." — Angel of the Lord (12:41)
• Faith and self-awareness: Gideon begins to understand the real enemy is his own fear, not the Midianites.
  • "The one man I'm responsible for fighting is myself... this fear inside me." — Gideon (13:27)
• At the Lord's instruction, Gideon brings the men to the spring. Those who lap the water like dogs are chosen; only 300 remain.
  • "Ah, yes. What a fine band of mutts we have here. These are your men, Gideon. These 300 will defeat the Midianites." — Angel of the Lord (18:23)
• Gideon dismisses the rest, thanks them for getting this far, and prepares to lead the 300 chosen.

4. Divine Encouragement & Spreading Fear in the Enemy Camp

• With plans still unclear, the Lord leads Gideon at night to the edge of the enemy camp for reassurance.
• Gideon overhears a Midianite recounting a prophetic dream: a barley cake (a modest symbol) crushes a Midianite tent.
  • "I was crushed by a barley cake... this weak piece of bread, normally eaten by peasants, struck my tent so heavily that it made my tent lay flat." — Midianite Commander (22:19, 22:52)
• Another soldier interprets this as a sign of Israelite victory—specifically mentioning Gideon.
  • "This must be about Gideon. Haven't you heard? He's leading the people of Israel. He has the God of Israel on his side. We may be doomed tomorrow." — Angel of the Lord (23:10)
• Gideon feels emboldened, now seeing the enemy's fear.

5. The Plan and the Unconventional Battle

• Gideon arms each man with a trumpet, a torch, and a glass jar. The strategy is to multiply noise and light, creating the illusion of a vast army.
• At the signal, all 300 blow trumpets, break jars, and shout, "A sword for the Lord and for Gideon!" (26:56)
• The result: chaos among the Midianites. In panic and confusion—amplified by God—they turn on each other.
• Gideon sends messengers to surrounding cities to prepare for fleeing Midianites, initiating a broader assault.
• The battle is won with minimal Israelite casualties, fulfilling God’s promise.

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• On God choosing the weak:
  • "The very fact that God would use him was a testament to what he was wanting to accomplish. The Lord wanted all the glory over Midian." (08:20)
• Gideon’s realization:
  • "It isn't me marching to fight the Midianites. It's you. You're the one going to war against those hundred thirty five thousand soldiers." — Gideon (12:45)
• Angel of the Lord's wit:
  • "Perhaps it is you who should expect me. You pray, yet you're always surprised when I answer." (07:11)
  • "Ah, yes. What a fine band of mutts we have here." (18:23)
• Against all odds:
  • "Not by might nor by strength did he achieve victory, but by relying solely on the mighty power of God." — Narrator (29:40)
• Gideon’s pivotal encouragement:
  • "The Lord has given us, Gideon. Be brave, be strong, for God has already given us victory." (24:22)

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Timestamps for Major Segments

| Timestamp | Segment Description | |-----------|--------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 00:40 | Prologue: Israel’s oppression & Gideon’s reluctance | | 05:03 | Gideon scouts the Midianite camp, doubts his own ability | | 06:54 | Angel of the Lord appears: “There are too many” | | 09:28 | Gideon invites the fearful to leave | | 10:17 | Mass exodus: 22,000 Israelites depart | | 12:24 | Second encounter at the spring: “There are still too many” | | 16:06 | The water test: selecting the 300 | | 18:53 | Gideon dismisses the others, girds the 300 for battle | | 20:27 | Gideon spies on Midianite dream: prophetic assurance | | 24:09 | Gideon rallies his men, reveals God’s plan | | 26:11 | Trumpets blast: psychological warfare begins | | 27:00 | Midianite camp descends into chaos and defeat | | 28:41 | Aftermath: Gideon’s victory, pursuing the fleeing enemy |

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Tone & Storytelling Style

• The narrative is rich and immersive, blending dramatic retelling, internal monologue, and dialog between Gideon and the Angel of the Lord.
• Tone alternates between somber introspection (Gideon’s doubt and fear) and wry, gentle humor, especially in the Angel’s dialogue.
• The climax’s energy—marked by the cacophony of trumpets and crashing jars—viscerally conveys the confusion and awe of the scene.

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Conclusion

"Gideon Part II – The Dwindled Army" powerfully dramatizes the biblical account of Gideon’s impossible victory, underscoring themes of faith, humility, and divine might. Through vivid storytelling and relatable dialogue, the episode emphasizes that our weakness positions us for God's strength, echoing the enduring lessons of the Old Testament for modern listeners.

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Transcript

[Jana Kramer]

This is an iHeart podcast.

[Narrator / Gideon]

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[Narrator / Storyteller]

Before the breaker of chains came, the Lord would send lesser heroes fractured and broken images of the Deliverer to come. Over the southern hills, dark shapes emerged, a seething, writhing mass of swift and unrelenting Midianite marauders.

[Midianite Commander]

Keep planting, Israel. Raise your livestock. Press your grapes and harvest your grain. Tend to your orchards as you have always done. But know this. What you sow is ours. Refuse and we will kill you. Obey and perhaps we will leave you just enough to survive.

[Angel of the Lord]

The Lord is beside you and before you. Gideon, son of Joash.

[Narrator / Gideon]

Nobody in their right mind would send me rescue anyone. If you were the Lord, you'd know that I'm somewhat of a professional coward.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

That night as he lay in his tent, he thought of the heroes of old. Othniel, Ehud, Shamgar, Deborah. Their bravery felt like a distant legend, something unattainable. He was nothing like them. He was consumed by his weakness, crippled by his fear. But this, Gideon did not yet realize, was precisely why God had chosen him.

[Martha Stewart]

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[Narrator / Storyteller]

The ridge was cloaked in shadow, the final light of the sun slipping behind the mountains to cast a pale pink hue over the horizon. Gideon crouched at its edge, his eyes fixed on the valley below, where the Medianite camp sprawled like a nest of vipers. Countless torches dotted the landscape, their flickering light barely enough to define the horde swarming beneath him. The Medianites moved with purpose, their camp alive with the hum of a massive army preparing for slaughter.

[Narrator / Gideon]

Why haven't they marched yet?

[Plant Killers Host]

Why the delay?

[Narrator / Storyteller]

He had tried to count them, tracing the clusters of tents and formations of soldiers. His rough estimate, 135,000, made his stomach churn. By comparison, his 32,000 Israelite warriors seemed pitiful, a child's stick held up against a stick. Yet Gideon had seen the Lord's hand at work. The signs were undeniable, the promises sure. The same God who had called him from the Winepress had assured him of victory. Even so, the doubts lingered. The sun dipped lower, the sky darkening to deep amber. Gideon sat cross legged, staring blankly at the horizon. How could a man with no experience lead an army? What strategy could possibly succeed against a force so overwhelmingly superior? The weight of command pressed down on him. He closed his eyes and drew a deep breath, the cool evening air filling his lungs. Then a voice shattered the stillness.

[Angel of the Lord]

There are too many of them.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

Startled, Gideon fell back and gave a high pitched squeal. He held his chest and caught his breath.

[Narrator / Gideon]

You're going to kill me before the battle begins. Why do you insist on sneaking up on me like that?

[Angel of the Lord]

Perhaps it is you who should expect me. You pray, yet you're always surprised when I answer.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

The Lord looked down at him and smiled. He helped Gideon back up onto his seat. He gestured to the vast Midianite army and said again, I think there are

[Angel of the Lord]

too many of them.

[Narrator / Gideon]

We agree on that. They outnumber us nearly five to one.

[Angel of the Lord]

I do not mean the Midianites. I mean the army of Israel. There are too many men in the ranks.

[Narrator / Gideon]

Wait, wait. What? Too many Israelites? Do you mean to tell me 32,000 soldiers, most of them farmers and shepherds, against a trained army of 135,000 is too many?

[Angel of the Lord]

Yes. The soldiers in your camp are too many for me to hand you over victory. If they win, they would boast in their own strength, saying, oh, our own hands have saved us.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

The angel of the Lord leaned over and pointed down at the Medianite army.

[Angel of the Lord]

They are a vast and terrible army, but I am the Lord. I alone shall have victory over them. And at the end of the battle, when Midian flees, I alone will get the glory.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

Gideon looked down at the ground. He understood what the Lord was saying. The very fact that God would use him was a testament to what he was wanting to accomplish. The Lord wanted all the glory over Median.

[Narrator / Gideon]

What shall you have me do then?

[Angel of the Lord]

Go before them and give them all a chance to leave. Gather them together and give permission for the fearful to leave. The battle could be gruesome, and the enemy is terrifying. No doubt many of them will flee.

[Narrator / Gideon]

I would if I had the option.

[Angel of the Lord]

You do?

[Narrator / Gideon]

Nope.

[Martha Stewart]

In too deep.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

At this point, the Lord gave a knowing smile and departed, leaving Gideon alone once more. Shaking his head, Gideon rose and began the trek back down the mountain to the Israelite camp. The sun had set fully by the time he arrived, torches casting long shadows across the sea of tents. At his command, his generals gathered the men at the base of the mountain the crowd swelled. Thousands of faces illuminated by firelight, their eyes fixed on their reluctant leader.

[Narrator / Gideon]

The Midianite army is vast. 135,000 trained soldiers wait for us on the other side of this mountain. This enemy doesn't wish to enslave us. They won't spare you to make you their servants. Their only desire is to tear you limb from limb. They want to bathe in a pool of our blood and dishonor our name. They want your legacy cut off forever. Whoever is fearful and trembling among you, whoever doubts and is afraid for their lives, leave now. There's still time for you to hurry away from this place. Leave Mount Gilead and save yourselves.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

The crowd stirred, unsure what to do with Gideon's orders.

[Narrator / Gideon]

You heard me. Go. Run for your lives if you want to live.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

The crowd shifted, uncertainty rippling through the ranks like a wave. Then, slowly at first, men began to pack their belongings. Groups of soldiers turned and walked away, their torches bobbing like fireflies in the distance. Gideon watched as 22,000 men departed, his heart sinking with every step they took. The once imposing force of 32,000 was reduced to a mere 10,000. He clenched his fists, fighting the urge to shout after them, to beg them to stay. Yet as he stood there, something unexpected stirred within him. The sight of the departing soldiers didn't crush him, it steadied him. In their absence, Gideon felt the strange assurance of God's hand at work. The dawn broke gently over the hills, the sky painted in hues of soft lavender and gold. Gideon rose from his restless sleep and made his way to the spring of hey Rod. The water shimmered like glass, undisturbed by the weight of the day to come. Gideon knelt at the stream, splashing the cool water over his face and down his neck. He drew a deep breath, marveling at the rare calm that had settled over him. For his entire short life, Gideon had been ruled by fear. Yet now, standing on the edge of a battle that could spell his death, he felt strangely at peace. The calm didn't come from his own strength or certainty, but from something greater, an assurance that the Lord himself was in command. As he dried his face, a familiar figure appeared beside the water. The angel of the Lord was seated on a rock, his gaze fixed on Gideon with quiet affection. Gideon's heart leaped in his chest and he clutched his tunic.

[Narrator / Gideon]

I will never get used to that for as long as I live. Which may not be very much longer.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

The Lord chuckled softly and gestured for Gideon to sit beside him. The two sat together in silence for a moment their reflections rippling faintly on the water's surface.

[Angel of the Lord]

There are still too many, Gideon.

[Narrator / Gideon]

I had a feeling you'd say that. I know there are too many. I remember you told me once that you would make it as though I were fighting just one man. I didn't believe you then. I couldn't see how such a thing would be possible, not against an army like this. But now. Now I. I think I understand. It isn't me marching to fight the Midianites. It's you. You're the one going to war against those hundred thirty five thousand soldiers.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

Gideon paused and looked at his reflection in the water.

[Narrator / Gideon]

The one man I'm responsible for fighting is myself, Guy. Need to wrestle with this, this fear

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[Narrator / Storyteller]

the Lord looked at Gideon as a proud father would. He placed a hand on his shoulder and gestured for him to look at the stream.

[Angel of the Lord]

Lead them here, Gideon. Have them march by the stream and take a drink from the water. When they arrive, I will show you how to separate the people.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

Gideon rose and went to the camp, his steps lighter than before. At his command, the army of Israel gathered and marched down to the stream beside the spring. The sun had fully risen now, casting long shadows across the hills. The water glimmered invitingly, its cool depths a promise of relief to the weary soldiers.

[Narrator / Gideon]

Drink. We don't know when we'll have another chance to refresh ourselves. Take what you need and then we'll press on towards the Midianites.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

The men eagerly set down their weapons and moved toward the stream. Gideon watched them closely, observing every movement. Most knelt on one knee, cupping water in their hands and lifting it cautiously to their lips, their eyes darting around nervously as if expecting an ambush. They kept one hand free, resting near their swords, ready to defend themselves at a moment's notice. But a smaller group approached the stream differently. These men dropped to all fours and lapped the water directly, their faces carefree and unguarded. Their lack of hesitation seemed almost foolish, yet there was an ease to their movements, a joy in their confidence. They weren't looking over their shoulders or gripping their weapons. They trusted fully in the moment. Gideon heard the voice of the Lord whispering to him, Separate them.

[Angel of the Lord]

Those who lap water like dogs shall stand alone. Those who cup the water in their hands shall be sent away.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

Following the Lord's instruction, Gideon divided the men. He gestured to the soldiers, who cupped the water to stand near the trailhead leading back to the main road. Those who lapped like dogs gathered near the clearing that overlooked the battlefield. When the sorting was complete, Gideon stood back and surveyed the two groups. Of the 10,000, only 300 remained. Gideon's breath caught in his throat as he turned to the angel of the Lord, his expression uncertain.

[Angel of the Lord]

Ah, yes. What a fine band of mutts we have here. These are your men, Gideon. These 300 will defeat the Midianites Gideon

[Narrator / Storyteller]

looked at the 300 men. They stood tall, their faces alight with eagerness and determination. Though vastly outnumbered, they carried themselves with the confidence of those who knew their purpose. Gideon then turned to the men who had been sent to the trailhead. He addressed them with respect and gratitude.

[Narrator / Gideon]

You have shown courage in making it this far, but I release you from fighting. Go home. Pray to the Lord for our deliverance. You may be called upon at another time.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

The 9,700 nodded, and with heavy steps, they began the journey back to their homes. Gideon watched them until they disappeared from view, then turned back to his 300. He took a deep breath, steadying himself, and unsheathed his sword.

[Narrator / Gideon]

It is time to fight.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

The 300 yelled, and the sound echoed through the canyons. The Medianites would learn to fear the army of Gideon. The night was still, the stars scattered across the sky like shards of broken glass. Gideon lay awake in his tent, his mind churning. The battle loomed, yet no clear plan had emerged. He had ideas and fragments of strategy, but nothing concrete. The enormity of the task before him gnawed at his resolve. How could he devise a tactic against an enemy so vast when he himself had no experience in war? As he stared at the tent ceiling, lost in thought, a familiar voice called to him from outside.

[Angel of the Lord]

Gideon. Gideon.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

He sat up quickly, heart pounding, and poked his head out of the tent. The angel of the Lord stood in the moonlight.

[Angel of the Lord]

Come. Follow me.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

Without another word, the angel turned and disappeared into the dark. Gideon grabbed his sword and the torch, strapping the blade to his side as he hurried to follow. He climbed the jagged cliff overlooking the Medianite camp, stumbling more than once as he tried to keep pace. The angel moved with effortless grace while Gideon struggled on the uneven terrain. When they reached the summit, the camp stretched out below them, sprawling like a black tide. Torches dotted the valley, revealing the sheer scale of the enemy. Camels were tethered in endless rows, weapons glinting faintly in the firelight. The sight was oppressive, a physical weight pressing down on Gideon's chest.

[Martha Stewart]

Why am I here?

[Angel of the Lord]

Go down there and listen. Your hands will be strengthened.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

Gideon did as he was told. He handed his torch to the Lord and began his descent. He kept low and made sure to remain behind as many large stones as possible. He made it to the bottom of the hill and crept forward to get a closer look. They lay along the valley like locusts in abundance. There were just as many camels as there were men, and their weapons outnumbered the grains of sand on the seashore. It was a grim Sight to behold on the night before his battle, Gideon wondered if the Lord was playing a game with him, trying to weaken his courage before fighting. Gideon frowned and shook his head. I shouldn't be here. As he turned to leave, something caught his ear. The sound of a Medianite soldier telling his comrades about a dream. Gideon stopped an inched closer. He crouched in the brush and listened to the conversation.

[Narrator / Gideon]

I was crushed by a barley cake.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

The man shouted, waving his hands emphatically. The others laughed, but he shook his head and shouted.

[Midianite Commander]

It sounds absurd, but it was a

[Narrator / Gideon]

large cake of barley and it tumbled down the hill and fell right on top of my tent.

[Midianite Commander]

Could you not have come up with a more insignificant piece of food?

[Narrator / Gideon]

I can't help what I dreamed. It was terrifying and strange.

[Midianite Commander]

This weak piece of bread, normally eaten

[Narrator / Gideon]

by peasants, struck my tent so heavily that it made my tent lay flat.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

The others laughed, but one of the men remained silent and shook his head.

[Angel of the Lord]

I wouldn't laugh if I were you. I think this dream means something.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

The others turned and listened.

[Angel of the Lord]

A measly piece of bread coming from the hills and flattening our camp. This must be about Gideon. Haven't you heard? He's leading the people of Israel. He has the God of Israel on his side. We may be doomed tomorrow.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

It may be true. The sword of Gideon is to be greatly feared. There are rumors that his God speaks to him. What do you think he says? They shrugged and mumbled amongst themselves. Gideon could not help but smile.

[Narrator / Gideon]

They're afraid of me.

[Angel of the Lord]

No, they're afraid of me.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

Gideon wasn't startled this time by the Lord's quick appearance. The angel of the Lord stood behind Gideon. Gideon looked over his shoulder and nodded to him. He scaled the mountain before sunrise. He reached the peak as the sun crested the valley. Gideon drew a deep and powerful breath and raised his hands high in the air. He walked down with pride and shouted

[Narrator / Gideon]

to the men, arise. Arise, men of Israel.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

The men awoke and came to him. Gideon was beaming with encouragement. He was a new man, invigorated for the battle ahead.

[Narrator / Gideon]

The Lord has given us, Gideon. Be brave, be strong, for God has already given us victory.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

Now that he had heard the Midianite's dream, Gideon knew exactly what the plan was. He was going to use the weapon he knew best. Fear. The cold of night slithered in like a venomous serpent above the valley. Gideon and his 300 men moved with deliberate precision, their breaths forming pale clouds in the frigid air. Each man held a torch, a trumpet, and a glass jar. Strange tools for battle. But tools with a purpose. Gideon had a plan, one as unconventional as the God who had chosen him. The men were divided into three companies, each positioned on a different ridge overlooking the Medianite camp. From above, the glow of their torches seemed to set the mountains ablaze, the light splintering and multiplying as it refracted off the jars. What appeared to be a sea of flames hemmed in the enemy on every side, an illusion of numbers that concealed the small but. But resolute force. Gideon stood at the highest point, his torch raised against the night. The wind howled around him, tugging at his cloak and threatening to extinguish the flame. He looked down at the sprawling enemy camp, a hive of tense camels and armed men stretching as far as the eye could see. His heart pounded, but he steadied himself, gripping the horn in his hand.

[Narrator / Gideon]

Time to conquer that fear.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

Gideon drew a deep breath, raised his torch high in the air, and blew his trumpet. The single sound reverberated across the canyon. Sleeping Medianites came out of their tents to see flames surrounding the valley. Then, as if the trumpets of the angels armies were descending from heaven. All 300 men blew their trumpets. The collective sound shook the earth. Then they threw their glass jars onto the valley below. The crashing was terrifying, and the trumpets were deafening. The Medianites couldn't see how many men were above them. They guessed it was hundreds of thousands, judging by the sound. Then, all at once, the men began

[Narrator / Gideon]

to shout for the Lord and for Gideon.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

Their chanting bellowed downward.

[Narrator / Gideon]

For the Lord and for Gideon. A sword for the Lord and Gideon.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

The sound of the trumpets, the cries of the soldiers and the crash of the jars combined into a symphony of terror. The Midianite camels, spooked by the noise and light, stampeded through the camp, toppling tents and trampling soldiers. Fires broke out as overturned torches set cloth ablaze. Adding to the pandemonium. The Israelites descended toward the edges of the camp, their trumpets still blaring. The Medianites, convinced they were under siege by a massive force, panicked, blinded by fear and the smoke from the fires, they turned their swords on one. The valley descended into chaos as allies became enemies, striking out in confusion and desperation. The Lord moved among them, sowing terror and confusion. What began as panic became slaughter as the Medianites turned on themselves. The sounds of clashing steel, frantic cries and dying men filled the air, mingling with the unrelenting blast of the Israelites. Those who survived fled, scrambling for the hills or chasing after their frenzied camels.

[Narrator / Gideon]

This is our chance. Send word to the surrounding cities to be ready. The Midianites are coming, scared and confused. Command them to be ready and strike when they arrive.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

The messengers nodded and left on horseback to send his commands. Gideon looked back at his 300 soldiers and smiled.

[Narrator / Gideon]

This is the victory the Lord has provided. Let us go and take hold of it.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

The men cheered and lifted their swords high in the air. Gideon drew his sword and ran in front. They charged the camp and overwhelmed the remaining Medianites. Gideon rushed in and struck one of the Medianites on the leg. He turned back and finished him off with a stab to the side. Two more came after him, but the smoke smouldered in front of them before they could get him. The Lord was moving before him, providing an opportunity for Gideon to strike. He took advantage of every open window. He struck down the two soldiers and continued with his men. Commanders were killed, princes were captured and cities were reclaimed, all because a weakling was brave enough to listen to the Lord. Gideon, the weakest son in the weakest clan of the weakest tribe, was the new judge of Israel. Not by might nor by strength did he achieve victory, but by relying solely on the mighty power of God. This prey.com production is only made possible by our dedicated team of creative talents. Steve Catena, Max Bard, Zach Shellevaga and Ben Gammon are the executive producers of the Chosen People. Narrated by Paul Coltofianu. Characters are voiced by Jonathan Cotton, Aaron Salvato, Sarah Seltz, Mike Reagan, Stephen Ringwald, Sylvia zaradoc, Thomas Copeland Jr. Rosanna Pilcher and Mitch Leschinsky. Music by Andrew Morgan Smith. Written by Aaron Salvato, Bree Rosalie and Chris Baig. You can hear more prey.com productions on the prey.com app available on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. If you enjoyed the chosen people, please rate and leave a review.

[Plant Killers Host]

On this episode of Plant Killers, we'll explore one nation's most notorious fruit and vegetable killer. Bad Dirt. What makes bad dirt so bad? The answer? The ingredients. But fear not, true crime enthusiasts, this story has a happy ending. Miracle Gro Organic raised bed in garden soil. It's made with quality organic ingredients from upcycled green waste like compost and aged bark. Unlike the other guys who can't say the same, looks like bad dirt's murdering days are over thanks to Miracle Gro. Join us next time on Plant Killers.

[Martha Stewart]

This is Martha Stewart from the Martha Stewart Podcast. Ever wonder how to make hosting look effortless? Here's a secret Getting ahead of the mess with new Reynolds Kitchens Countertop prep paper Just lightly Wet the counter beforehand so the paper grips and stays in place. Then lay down the Reynolds Kitchens countertop prep paper so drips and spills stay on the paper, not all over your kitchen counter. You can roll out dough, prep a party spread or cook alongside family. When you're done, cleanup is as simple as lifting the paper and revealing that clean counter underneath. Effortless. You can use it for cooking and baking, prep and even crafting, especially when you need extra working space. Because when the mess is already handled, you can focus on what matters the food, the people and the moment. It may look effortless, but now you know it's Reynolds Kitchens countertop prep paper. Take a tip from me. Wet it, set it, prep it. Done. Make it easy. Make it with Reynolds Kitchens countertop prep paper, available now in the Reynolds Wrap

[Coldwater Creek / Cindy Crawford]

aisle in Walmart, you know what quality feels like. You can see it in the way a fabric moves, recognize it in a flawless fit, and appreciate it in the details that make our styles unique. It's the standard Coldwater Creek has honored for over 40 years, derived from a rich Mountain west heritage and designed for today in styles that are distinct. Distinctively Coldwater Creek For a wardrobe you can count on season after season, visit coldwatercreek.com, shop new arrivals and save 15% on purchases. $75 or more with code iHeart. Wait, everything on this IHOP value menu is just six bucks?

[Narrator / Gideon]

I told you it was amazing. A huge plate of pancakes, bacon and eggs is just six bucks.

[Coldwater Creek / Cindy Crawford]

Wow.

[Narrator / Gideon]

There's also French toast, a ham and

[Angel of the Lord]

cheese omelette, and oh, they got a

[Narrator / Gideon]

BLT and fries now.

[Coldwater Creek / Cindy Crawford]

Okay, we're coming here every day.

[Jana Kramer]

Day.

[Narrator / Gideon]

You don't have to tell me twice.

[Coldwater Creek / Cindy Crawford]

Feast for just six bucks with the IHOP value menu. $7 in some locations. Available every day for a limited time at participating restaurants in the U.S. hours may vary. No substitutions. Not valid. With other discounts or promotions, prices may vary.

[Midianite Commander]

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[Jana Kramer]

This is an Iheart podcast.

[Coldwater Creek / Cindy Crawford]

Guaranteed human.