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ABOUT WORDS OF LIFE
Words of Life is a weekly 15-minute podcast from The Salvation Army featuring testimonies, Bible teaching, and conversations about faith. Hosted by Bernie Dake you can listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.
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BACK TO SCHOOL- Roundtable
As another school year begins, many families are experiencing a mix of excitement, nerves, and uncertainty. How can parents help their children navigate the challenges of a new year while staying grounded in their faith?
In this special Words of Life panel discussion, we're joined by parents, a veteran high school teacher, and a licensed mental health counselor who share practical encouragement for every stage of the school journey.
Our panel includes Heather Hanton, Melissa Powell, Daynes Crouch and Matt Crouch. Together, they discuss what children and parents are really feeling, how students have changed over the years, and simple ways families can intentionally prepare their hearts for the year ahead.
Whether your child is entering elementary school, middle school, high school, or preparing for graduation, this conversation offers biblical encouragement and practical advice to help your family thrive.
Our Guests
Daynes Crouch
Daynes Crouch is a licensed mental health counselor specializing in children, adolescents, play therapy, and trauma-informed care. A former Salvation Army youth ministry leader and the daughter of Salvation Army officers, she combines professional counseling expertise with years of ministry experience to help families thrive.
Matt Crouch
Matt Crouch is a veteran high school math teacher with more than 16 years of experience in public education. Currently teaching in Charlotte, North Carolina, he is passionate about helping students succeed and offers practical insights for parents navigating today's educational landscape.
Heather Hanton
Heather Hanton is a wife, mother of two teenagers, and former preschool teacher. Drawing from both her classroom experience and years of parenting, she shares practical, faith-based encouragement to help parents support their children's success in school.
Melissa Powell
Melissa Powell serves as the Territorial Children's Ministry Coordinator for The Salvation Army's USA Southern Territory, overseeing ministry initiatives for children from birth through fifth grade. A wife and mother of three school-aged children, she is passionate about helping kids grow in their faith and equipping parents to navigate every stage of childhood.
WORDS OF LIFE ARCHIVE
WORDS OF LIFE HOSTS
Bernie Dake
Bernie is a lifelong Salvationist and serves as the Territorial Director of Communications for The Salvation Army’s USA Southern Territory.
Chris Benjamin
Chris has been the Director of Production and Operations of Soundcast for nearly a decade. Prior to joining The Salvation Army as an employee he was a full time worship leader for a large church. He brings his passion for audio storytelling and sharing the gospel to this network of podcasts.
ABOUT WORDS OF LIFE
WORDS OF LIFE is a worldwide program of hope from The Salvation Army. It’s a 15-minute show with inspiring conversation, interviews and testimonies and in-depth Bible studies. The show is available on your favorite podcast store and you may even hear us on your local radio station.