Broadcasting from the heart of Chicago — a city often marked by crime and violence — this podcast brings you powerful testimonies of transformation, healing, and hope. Each episode features real-life stories from individuals raised in some of Chicago’s toughest neighborhoods and also from throughout the country: former gang members, drug dealers, incarcerated individuals, and those impacted by violence—both victims and perpetrators. We also welcome voices from law enforcement, police officers, and military veterans who share their experiences from the front lines, offering insight, perspective, and a deep commitment to service. At the core of every conversation is a message of redemption through faith, the power of community, and the journey toward healing deep trauma. These are stories of resilience, purpose, and perseverance—lives that have moved from "Darkness to Light" and "From Wrong to Strong." Tune in to be challenged, uplifted, and reminded of the power of God's grace to change any life.
I have some exciting news! The podcast previously known as 'Wrong to Strong Chicago' is announcing a rebranding to 'From Wrong to Strong' effective July 7th, 2025. This change reflects the podcast's broader mission and growing audience beyond Chicago. Despite the name change, the podcast's commitment to sharing stories of redemption and transformation remains unchanged. The team is also working on a ne...
Ann Calvillo shares a two-minute devotional inspired by Revelation 2, where she reflects on how the Lord has been speaking to her heart. The scripture highlights both the strengths and the shortcoming of the Church of Ephesus, particularly their abandonment of their first love, Christ. Ann emphasizes the importance of not just performing good works but also maintaining a heartfelt relationship with Jesus. She calls for self-examina...
In this episode of 'Wrong to Strong Chicago,' host Omar Calvillo interviews Jim Kirkland, the Executive Director of Christian Chaplains and Coaching. Jim shares his personal journey, including a transformative encounter with the Holy Spirit at a men's retreat and his initial reluctance to engage in prison ministry, which eventually became a significant part of his calling. Jim discusses his experience meeting and min...
Arturo Gamino from "Wrong to Strong" delivers a two-minute devotional discussing whether it is easier to live as a Christian or as a non-believer. He references various scriptures such as Matthew 11:28-30, Proverbs 16:25, Galatians 6:8, and Galatians 5:22-23 to illustrate that choosing to live in submission to God leads to a simpler, more peaceful life despite challenges. Arturo emphasizes that a Christian life, guided by...
In this episode of the Wrong to Strong two Minute Devotional, Omar Calvillo wishes all fathers a happy Father's Day and congratulates recent graduates, including his own son. Omar reflects on the importance of fathers encouraging, comforting, and urging their children to live lives worthy of God. He shares a passage from 1 Thessalonians 2:11-12, emphasizing that fathers should help their children surpass them by fostering a cl...
Welcome back to the "Wrong To Strong" 2-Minute Devotionals. On this episode Dionne Garcia, shares a two-minute devotional on the importance of faith, drawing from Genesis 22 where Abraham's faith is tested when God commands him to sacrifice his son. She reflects on how this story demonstrates trusting in God, recalling an experience while she was incarcerated where she learned to put her faith in God rather than in ...
In this episode, Omar Calvillo welcomes Gilbert Morales and Ronnie Carrasquillo to discuss the launch of their new podcast and non-profit organization, "Unshackled Building Bridges." Gilbert and Ronnie share their personal journeys through trauma, incarceration, and eventual redemption. The episode covers their vision for helping individuals and families affected by violence and incarceration, as well as their determinati...
Welcome back to the "Wrong To Strong" 2-Minute Devotionals. This week our own Julio Mercado reflects on Romans 8:28, emphasizing God works all things together for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose. He highlights that this includes all life experiences, not just the good ones. Julio encourages listeners that even in difficult and uncertain times, God is actively working in their lives f...
In this episode of Wrong to Strong, host Omar Calvillo interviews Michael Crosby, who shares his remarkable journey from a troubled childhood marked by parental imprisonment, addiction, and personal struggles with substance abuse to a transformative relationship with Jesus Christ. Raised amidst chaos and addiction in Indiana, Michael's life spirals into drug addiction and crime until a series of divine interventions lead him t...
Welcome to the "Wrong To Strong" 2-Minute Devotional. This week Wrong To Strong's own Cisco Terrazas leads us in a devotional emphasizing God's closeness to the brokenhearted and His power to heal past traumas. He recounts two testimonies of individuals who, despite their changed circumstances as adults, still carry emotional wounds from their youth. Cisco encourages people to recognize how God uses their curren...
Welcome back to the "Wrong To Strong" 2-Minute Devotionals. Today Jorge shares a message from the Bible, quoting Mark 1:15 and Ezekiel 33:9, urging listeners to repent, turn away from their sins, and accept Jesus as their Savior. Jorge recounts a dream where the Lord spoke to him, emphasizing the need for repentance and to believe in Jesus' sacrifice. He concludes by affirming the urgency of his message and the impor...
In this emotional and transformative episode, Julio Mercado from New Life Community Church in Cicero shares his astonishing life story—from a tumultuous life of gang violence and near-death experiences to finding salvation through Jesus Christ. This testimonial was recorded at a "Radical Time Out" meeting which is hosted by "Koinonia House National Ministries" in Wheaton, IL.
Julio's journey is a testament t...
Thanks for joining in for another episode of the "Wrong To Strong" 2-Minute Devotionals. This week Michael Crosby, currently a student from The Moody Bible Institute reflects on Romans 8:1, which states, "There is now therefore no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus." Michael shares a personal story about feeling burdened with shame and guilt when he first came to the Lord but explains how this verse ...
Embracing Forgiveness:
In this episode of the Wrong to Strong Two Minute Devotional, Jimmy Sutherland Jr. discusses the importance of forgiveness as commanded in Mark 11:25. He emphasizes that forgiveness is essential for healing our own hearts, not just for the benefit of others. Jimmy leads a heartfelt prayer asking for God's help in releasing any unforgiveness and turning our wounds into testimonies. Join us in th...
In this powerful episode of Wrong to Strong Chicago, host Omar Calvillo welcomes Scott Morgan to share his incredible story of transformation. Raised in the tough streets of Chicago and enduring a turbulent life filled with addiction, violence, and incarceration, Scott's journey to finding faith and redemption is nothing short of inspiring. From the traumas of childhood abuse and the struggles with substance abuse to his event...
Welcome to the "Wrong To Strong" 2-Minute Devotionals. This week one of our very own, Cisco Terrazas shares personal reflections on Romans 12:6-8, discussing the diverse gifts and roles everyone has according to God's grace. Cisco emphasizes the importance of recognizing and valuing our individual contributions to God's service, despite occasional self-doubt. He encourages consistent communication with God throu...
Join Shawn Rae & Nicole Rae in this two-minute devotional as we reflect on the resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. We discuss the significance of the resurrection, affirming Jesus' divinity, and its confirmation of Him as the way, the truth, and the life. Through reading Matthew 28:17-20, we are reminded of our mission to share the gospel and make disciples of all nations. This episode encourages you to fulf...
From Prison to Purpose: Ben Endress' Journey to Supporting Ex-Offenders
This is part 5 of a 5 part interview series highlighting the amazing work that is happening in Kewanee, Illinois, in regards to prison ministry and re-entry initiatives.
In this episode of 'Wrong to Strong,' host Omar Calvillo converses with Ben Endress, a successful business owner, and Ronnie Carrasquillo about their impactful priso...
Enduring Hardship as Soldiers of Christ | 2 Minute Devotional
Join Nico in this episode of the Wrong to Strong Two Minute Devotional as he delves into 2 Timothy 2:3-4. Nico discusses the importance of enduring hardship and focusing on the kingdom of heaven as soldiers and ambassadors of Jesus Christ. Learn how to set aside self-centered concerns and live for the mission and will of our King, Jesus Christ.
In this powerful episode of 'Wrong to Strong Chicago,' host Omar Calvillo speaks with Paul Bosanko, who shares his incredible journey from a turbulent childhood and life of crime to finding redemption through faith in Jesus Christ. Paul's story begins with his challenging upbringing in South Chicago, marked by severe physical abuse and subsequent entanglement in gang life. After spending over three decades in prison,...
United States of Kennedy is a podcast about our cultural fascination with the Kennedy dynasty. Every week, hosts Lyra Smith and George Civeris go into one aspect of the Kennedy story.
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com
The Clay Travis and Buck Sexton Show. Clay Travis and Buck Sexton tackle the biggest stories in news, politics and current events with intelligence and humor. From the border crisis, to the madness of cancel culture and far-left missteps, Clay and Buck guide listeners through the latest headlines and hot topics with fun and entertaining conversations and opinions.
Does hearing about a true crime case always leave you scouring the internet for the truth behind the story? Dive into your next mystery with Crime Junkie. Every Monday, join your host Ashley Flowers as she unravels all the details of infamous and underreported true crime cases with her best friend Brit Prawat. From cold cases to missing persons and heroes in our community who seek justice, Crime Junkie is your destination for theories and stories you won’t hear anywhere else. Whether you're a seasoned true crime enthusiast or new to the genre, you'll find yourself on the edge of your seat awaiting a new episode every Monday. If you can never get enough true crime... Congratulations, you’ve found your people. Follow to join a community of Crime Junkies! Crime Junkie is presented by audiochuck Media Company.