Shows
"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""Ending Strong And Passing On The Batton."In this episode we will notice some key events in the lives of our characters in the final years of the 1950's. Thank You for interest in this project.Mark Imel
2025-07-2821 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series"Deb Imel's 50th Anniversary In The LordThis week our podcast will focus on a special time in my wife Deb's life as we remember her 50th anniversary in the Lord. We should always remember the day we were baptized and how God has helped us to live for and serve Him. So we hope you will find this podcast special because it is for Deb and I. Thank You for joining us today.
2024-03-3007 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""I'm Going To Marry That Girl!"In this episode Oscar Macintosh will be released from his thirty day solitary confinement in the prison camp. Oscar will have a determination to survive the war and go home to marry the Girl Minnie Wells that has written so many letters to him. Oscar will also face another life threatening situation that challenge him in more unexpected ways. Part of this chapter has been based on my old neighbor in Kansas that actually was a POW in the Korean War.
Mark Dale Imel
2024-03-1716 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""Even Stressful Times Can Have Joy."It has been said, “if you are worried, PRAY. If you have prayed, then why worry?
In the last episode Young Army Solider Oscar Macintosh is
adjusting to life as a Prisoner of War in the Korean War. Oscar and the people who love him are heart sick about his situation. But they realize that to live by faith, they must present their desires to God and then live by faith in believing that God will help them. In this episode titled, ”Even Stressful Times Can have Joy. We will notice how people like us can live by faith...
2024-02-2509 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""The Sound Of Wedding Bells And Newlywed Adjustments Part A."Welcome Back to the Podcast, “The Secret Of A Successful Life Series” In the last episode we noticed how Leo and Barbara Jean are now officially engaged to be married. Leo’s brother LeRoy has never dated a girl and with the war over he desires to meet a good Christian Girl to marry and raise a family. In the most unusual way this will start to happen in this chapter, titled, “The Sound Of Wedding Bells And newlywed Adjustments. Part A.”
The next episode will focus on the marriage preparations that Leo and Barbara Jean are making for thei...
2023-09-2423 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""Kiss Me Once And Kiss Me Twice And Kiss Me Once Again, It's Been A Long Time."Welcome back to the Secret Of A Successful Life Series Podcast. The last several episodes have focused on life situations on the war front of World War II and on the Home Front as well. In this episode titled: “Kiss Me Once and Kiss Me Twice And Kiss Me Once Again, It’s Been A Long Time.” Our Characters are meeting after the war and beginning life changing commitments.
We have noticed how Leo and Barbara Jean are now engaged and Jim and Mary have gotten married. In the coming episodes other characters in the novel will be making life...
2023-09-0921 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""Because I Love My Family Very Much And My God Even More, Part B."Welcome back to the Secret of A Successful Life Series Podcast. In the last episode we closed with the Macintosh Family being concerned that Harry might be in very real danger while serving on a Hospital Ship. In
this chapter we will notice an unexpected event that will shake their faith in this matter.
This chapter will bring the war situations to a close and a new section of the book will now focus on the Post War Years. The next chapter is titled, "Kiss Me Once And Kiss Me Twice And Kiss Me Once Again, It's Been A Lon...
2023-08-3118 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""Because I Love My Family Very Much And My God Even More. Part A"Welcome back to the Secret of A Successful Life Series
Podcast. Our last episode focused on the High School Freshman Oscar Macintosh being welcomed back to the High School after he was expelled. In the final months of World War II while the war was drawing to an end, there were many dangerous situations that the people in our story faced. In this episode titled, “Because I Love My Family Very Much And My God Even More! Part A” Oscar Benson will find himself in one of the most freighting situations of the war –The surprise battle of the Bulge. ...
2023-08-2713 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""Responding To The Enemy Part B"Welcome back to the Secret of A Successful Life Series Podcast. Our last episode focused on the High School Freshman Oscar Macintosh being expelled from school after he defended himself from a bully the school administration would not address. In the continuation of this
chapter titled, “Responding To The Enemy Part B” we will see how Oscar will be reinstated back into the school.
We leave this story with Young Oscar being welcomed back to the school and amends have been made from both sides. As an explanation of the coming book in the future we will notice how H...
2023-08-2021 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""Responding To The Enemy Part A"Welcome back to the Secret of A Successful Life Series Podcast. Our last chapter focused on the birth of Oscar and Virginia Benson’s little girl. In this episode our attention will focus on another Oscar, named Oscar Macintosh, who is a new High School Freshman.
Starting the school year the young teenager will discover several new
challenges. Life skills will be honed in this young man’s life that will shape him for the rest of his years. The episode is titled, “Responding To the Enemy part A.”
We leave this story with Young Oscar being expelled from H...
2023-08-1224 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""Do You Think The War Will Be Over By Christmas?"Welcome back to the Secret of a successful Series Podcast.
Our last episode focused on the Iowa families helping with the War Effort on the Home Front. In this current chapter Virginia Nelson will
have her baby two weeks early. With her husband off to the war overseas and her parents gone for the week, Virginia will have to rely on her sister-in-law Mary to get her to the Hospital. With unexpected vehicle complications Mary will use some strange resourcefulness to get the young mother to the hospital in the most unusual but effective way. The episode is title...
2023-08-0611 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""Helping The War Effort On The Home Front."Welcome back to the Secret of a successful Series Podcast.
In the last episode Mary Benson accepted an unusual marriage proposal from her special friend Jim Nelson who was serving in the South Pacific.
In this current chapter our attention will focus on the home area where family members will do what they can to support the war effort.
The episode is titled,‘ "Helping The War Effort ON The Home Front.”
In the next episode titled, “Do You Think The War Will Be Over By Christmas?” Virginia Benson is having her b...
2023-07-3010 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""Yes, Yes! And A Million times Yes!"Welcome back to the Secret of a successful Series Podcast.
In the last episode we noticed how Oscar and Virginia Benson have just learned that they will have a baby in a few months. While this is a
happy time, Oscar is scheduled to go overseas anytime. So, he will ask his parents about letting his sister Mary come to Tennessee to help Virginia. While Mary is practically engaged to Jim Nelson, her Dad will warn her to watch out for wolves who will try to harm her. Soon Mary will meet such a wolf and she will u...
2023-07-2322 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""Newlywed Adjustments."Welcome back to the Secret of a successful Series Podcast.
In the last episode, Oscar Benson and Virginia Freeman were married in Tennessee. While the two newlyweds are enjoying their new lives together, they will soon face an unexpected problem when their individual values will clash. It will take their individual love for Christ to make up and overcome the issue.
We left this episode with Oscar and Virginia being married for two months when they are surprised to learn that they will have a baby in a few months. Since Oscar will be shipping overse...
2023-07-1816 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""Dreaming About Life After the War."Welcome back to the Secret of a successful Series Podcast.
In the last episode, The Macintosh Family was pleasantly surprised to see an article in a major magazine about Harry’s work as a Chaplin in the South Pacific. In this chapter the focus will be on the plans the families are making for the present and future times for after the war. The chapter is titled, “Dreaming About Life After The War.”
In the next episode, Iowa farm girl Mary Benson will move to Tennessee to help her sister-in-law with the new baby. While there, she wi...
2023-07-1426 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""Fighting The Real Enemy At Home And In The Waters Of The Pacific."Welcome back to the Secret of a successful Series Podcast. In the last episode we noticed how young Oscar Macintosh repeated something he heard that should never have been said in the first place and many people were embarrassed because of it.
In this chapter titled, “Fighting The Real Enemy At Home And In The Waters of The Pacific,” we will notice how Chaplain harry Macintosh will help a young soldier find hope in life again.
In the next episode the chapter is titled, "Dreaming About Life After The War." The Benson family is about to change...
2023-07-0810 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""Mom, That Lady That Sat At The Table Too Long Is Coming to The Door!"Welcome back to the Secret of A Successful Life Series Podcast.
Children are very important in our lives. Sometimes children will
repeat things that their parents did not want them to hear in the first place or say things they misunderstood. In this episode Young Oscar Macintosh will overhear something that his mother also heard but did not want him to repeat. Yet in his excitement that was exactly what he did. The chapter is titled, “Mom, That Lady That Sat At The Table Too Long Is Coming to The Door!”
In the next chapter...
2023-07-0213 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""Sir I Have An Idea to Build Up the Morale of The Men."Welcome back to the Secret of A Successful Life Series Podcast. There are times in our lives when we must be along distance from loved ones and friends. Being reminded of the pleasures we enjoyed at home can be very helpful when one is homesick for the people that are important to them.
During World War II many young soldiers were thousands of miles away from home for the first time. Building up the morale of the troops was important.
In this chapter titled, “Sir I Have An Idea to build Up the Morale Of The Men.” Chaplin 2nd...
2023-06-2511 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""The Last Letter."Welcome back to the Secret of A Successful Life Series Podcast. Life is not always fair and there are times when people experience
unexpected tragedies. Yet with the Lord in our lives we are able to face all of the heartaches that come our way. In this episode titled, “The Last Letter,” an unexpected event will take place during World War II that will change the lives of several people.
During World War II our nation lost thousands of military personal. Yet God helped our country to survive and go on.
In the next episode titled, "Sir, I Have An Id...
2023-06-1006 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""Meeting The Battles Of Life Moment by Moment."
Welcome back to the Secret of A Successful Life Series
Podcast. A wise man once said, “you have to take the time to smell the roses.” Even in the busiest of times there are many
things to notice and observe. In this episode Army Corporal Oscar Benson will write home to tell his parents about the pretty spring flowers he has seen in Tennessee and his parents will read between the lines that their son has also noticed a beautiful Young woman who be mentioned in this novel in later chapters. The podcast is titled, “Meeting The Battles Of Life Momen...
2023-06-0907 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""Reinforcing A Belief About An Old Friend."Welcome back to the Secret of A Successful Life Series Podcast. Sometimes we just have a good feeling about
someone we know that eventually proves to be true. In this episode titled, "Reinforcing A Belief About An OldFriend." Some
new friends will begin to see Leo Macintosh in deeper and more respected ways than before.
The next episode is titled, “Meeting the battles Of Life Moment by Moment.” This chapter will focus on some of the events on the Homefront during World War II. We invite you to listen to this podcast.
2023-06-0410 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""Because God Answers Specific Prayers!"Welcome back to the Secret of A Successful Life Series Podcast. This weekend our Nation remembers our War Dead. In preparing for this chapter real
life experiences shared by our Dad Clarence Imel of people he knew in World War II have become the basis for this chapter titled, “Because God Answers Specific Prayers!”
This weekend may we each remember the great sacrifice that many people have made for our nations protection. The next chapter is titled, "Reinforcing A Belief About An Old Friend." We invite you to listen to this podcast.
2023-05-2323 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""They Just Kept Coming And Coming!"Welcome back to the Secret of A Successful Life Series Podcast. In the last episode we noticed how our characters started to rebuild their lives after Harry was fired for confronting an immoral Church Leader. After a few months out of the located ministry Harry has gone to War as a U.S. Army
Chaplin. In this episode two other family characters will be in the worst fight of their lives on Guadalcanal in the chapter titled, “They Just Kept Coming and Coming!” During this battle an unexpected lifechanging blessing is about to unfold.
In the next chapter ti...
2023-05-2121 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""Getting A New Sense Of Direction For Life."
Welcome back to the Secret of A Successful Life Series Podcast. In the last episode we noticed how our characters responded to the heart breaking news of Pearl Harbor and also how Harry and Clara’s family had been changed after he was suddenly fired for no fault of his own. This news will affect
the entire family but Harry will face the biggest challenges of his life. This episode is titled, “Getting A new Sense of Direction For Life.”
This chapter ends with Harry joining the Army with the hint that his ministr...
2023-05-1416 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""When Grieving hearts Respond To Pearl Harbor."Welcome back to the Secret of A Successful Life Series Podcast. In the last episode we noticed how our characters heard about the surprise
attack on Pearl harbor. In this chapter titled, “When Grieving Hearts Respond to Pearl harbor.” While there will be some expected reactions to this tragedy, there will be a couple of unexpected situations that will take place in this episode.
Harry and Clara’s Family will have to suddenly and unexpectedly have to move from their home and friends. The War is about to bring some major changes
that we will continue to notice in the...
2023-05-0712 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""Adjusting To New Locations And Customs."
Welcome back to the Secret of A Successful Life Series Podcast. Our lives are filled with many changes that God already knows where we will serve Him.
In this episode titled, “Adjusting to New Locations And customs,” Army Private Leo Macintosh has just been transferred to Western Texas with his good
friend Jim Nelson. The time is late 1941 and unknown to them their lives are about to change in many ways with many new challenges that they can only face with God’s help.
We leave this chapter with the day of Pearl harbor. Many lives were greatly changed...
2023-04-3016 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""Just 59 More Days And I Am Getting Out Of The Army And Getting Married!"
Welcome back to the Secret of A Successful Life Series Podcast. In our lives we look forward to special events. Many times we dream about what
that day will be like. Sometimes those events turn out much different than what we expected. In the current chapter titled, “Just 59 More Days And I'm Out Of The Army And Getting Married!" Army Private Leo Macintosh is counting the days until he is out of the army. But something will happen in August of 1941
that will affect those plans and eventually lead Leo to greater blessings than he ever dreamed of.
This e...
2023-04-2313 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""When Little Ears Hear Things The Preacher Shouldn't Say."Welcome back to the Secret of A Successful Life Series Podcast. During the Spring of the year the opportunity is available to see many young animals like baby calves, lambs and little kittens. In this episode titled, “When Little Ears Hear things the Preacher Shouldn’t Say,” Harry and Clara’s twin children will decide to baptize the kittens on a hot summer day. The event will become almost a near disaster in more ways than one.
The next chapter will focus on the changing conditions of the nation and many families in the summer of 1941. The...
2023-04-1510 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""A Fourth Of July To Fondly Remember."Welcome back to the Secret of A Successful Life Series Podcast. Many families and friends enjoy spending time together for special occasions. In
the current podcast titled, “A Fourth Of July To Fondly Remember,” two young couples will spend time with the family for this get together. One couple
is apparently heading for marriage in a few months and another couple is just starting to build a relationship that could head that way. The coming months of 1941 could change all of that. This chapter will reveal some direction of where the lives of those couples are headed in the coming mont...
2023-04-0813 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""Praying About Souls And Plowing To Raise A New Crop"
Welcome back to the Secret of A Successful Life Series Podcast. The Lord Jesus helps us with any situation
we face in life and because of this blessing it is important to visit with Him
about the concerns and desires that are on our hearts. In this chapter titled, “Praying About Souls And Plowing to Raise A new Crop,” Farmer
and Preacher David Benson will speak with the Lord about his concerns and desires while starting the 1941 farming season.
This chapter will bring many areas of this book to focus that will help us to glean an idea whe...
2023-04-0114 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series"Celebrating Christmas In Different Ways Part B
Welcome back to the Secret of A Successful Life Series Podcast. In the last episode we noticed how Texas
Soldier Jim Nelson enjoyed a special Christmas Visit at the home of his friend Leo’s extended family in Iowa. Lifelong
friendships have started to develop. In this continuation of chapter two we will learn about more of the
details concerning this important Christmas.
We leave this episode with Leo expressing a hint that revealed he still loved the Lord and wanted to be in Church. The next episode is titled:
"Praying About Souls And Plowing T...
2023-03-2429 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""Celebrating Christmas In New Ways Part A."
Welcome back to the Secret of A Successful Life Series Podcast. Many people have times when they move to a
new area and are around people they do not know. This can be for young people going away to College, or a new job or into the Military.
In the current podcast, a young Texas Soldier has been stationed hundreds of miles away from home in a strange place called Nebraska. Jim Nelson will spend Christmas with total strangers who like him love the Lord. That care for Lord will help the characters to devel...
2023-03-1731 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""At Least It Is Only Until Next October!"Welcome back to the Secret of A Successful Life Series Podcast. In 1940 America was still at peace and had no desire to become involved in a war thousands of miles away. Eventually that would change but to help prepare the country for that time, a draft act was passed where young men were drafted into the Military for one year of service. In this chapter titled: “At Least It’s Only Till Next October!” One of the young men in this series will be required to put his life on hold for the one year time. Important changes will develop for...
2023-03-1214 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series"An Update On The Status Of The Novel , "The Secret Of A Successful Life Series."In this episode I will share some of the background for the development of the third volume in this series titled, "Living Well In Difficult Times." This book in "The Secret Of A Successful Life Series," has focused on the years of the Great Depression of 1929 --1939. Also this podcast will make mention of the next book in this series, "Living Well In Freighting Times," which will focus on the years of 1940 -1950. All of the young men in this series will be called to fight in the second World War and young Oscar Macintosh will be in the Korea...
2023-03-1009 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""Where He Leads Me I Will Follow."Welcome back to the Secret of A Successful Life Series Podcast. There are important special memories that take place in our family’s lives. In this episode titled, "Where He Leads We Will Follow," we will notice some important special moments in the lives of the family members in the novel.
This chapter concludes the third volume of this series. The next episode will give the back ground for this volume and also the introduction to the next book in this series, titled, “Living Well In freighting times,’ which will describe the freighting times of the 1940’s when Wor...
2023-02-2833 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""Since Hell Is So Hot, Why do So Many People Act Like The Devil When It Is So Cold?Welcome back to the Secret of A successful Life Series Podcast. The cold weather of winter stresses people in different ways. Sometimes people use the long hours being inside to develop projects or research for future plans. Sometimes people can become easily upset with others. In this episode titled, “Since Hell is So Hot, Why Do So Many People Acts Like The Devil When It Is So Cold?”
We will notice how some of the Characters will stumble in the way they treat others. Whenever something like that happens, the Lord helps us to get back up and...
2023-02-2525 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""I'm Sick of the Cold Weather!"Welcome back to the Secret of A Successful Life Series,
The winter cold and snow can test the attitudes of everyone.
In this episode we will learn how the characters will face the terrible winter of 1936 when the severe cold and snowfall crippled parts of the Nation. This chapter is titled, “"I'm Sick Of The Cold Weather!"
Thank You for joining us for this podcast. In the next episode we will continue to notice how people coped with the terrible conditions of the 1936 winter. This chapter is titled, “Since Hell Is So Hot, Why...
2023-02-1925 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""A Christmas To Remember"Welcome back to the Secret of A Successful Life Series,
The time of late December when we celebrate the Lord’s Birth has long been a favorite time for many families. In this episode we will learn how the characters will have many special memories to cherish because of the UNEXPECTED actions of MANY PEOPLE WHO LOVE THE LORD.
In the next episode titled, "I'm Sick Of The Cold Weather!", we will reflect on the bitter cold felt in our Nation during the winter of 1936.
Recently Many parts of our nation have experienced bitt...
2023-02-1113 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""When Old Scores Have to Be Settled."Welcome back to the Secret of A Successful Life Series,
There are many milestones we meet in our walk of faith where we can look back and see how we have really grown in our lives with God.
In this episode Frank Benson, the Father of David Benson and recovering alcoholic has finally learned how to read. While looking at the Bible Frank will come under conviction that he must correct a terrible thing he did to his son years before. While God had already forgiven him, Frank feels that he must make things right...
2023-02-0419 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series"Getting to Know the CongregationThis episode will tell of an unexpected experience Harry and Clara will face in their new ministry. I hope you enjoy this.
2023-02-0110 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""Getting To Know The Congregation."Welcome back to the Secret of A Successful Life Series, In the last episode we noticed how Harry and Clara have made the move to a new Ministry and are busy getting to know the Congregation and Community. They have seen some wonderful things and some things that made them laugh and also be concerned. In this episode titled, “Getting to Know the Congregation,” this family will continue to settle into a new ministry that they will serve the Lord at for several years
In the next episode titled, “When Old Scores Are Settled,” the book will focus on...
2023-01-3110 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""A Time of New Beginnings."Welcome back to the Secret of A Successful Life Series, In the last episode we noticed how Harry and Clara have been invited to move to a bigger Church in Clara’s home state of Iowa. This move will make it possible for the family to spend much more time together then before.
This episode is titled, “A Time Of New Beginnings.” For the next several years the Macintosh Family will serve in the new congregation and face several situations as they continue to serve the Lord.
In the next episode title, “Getting To Know the Congr...
2023-01-2812 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""A Time Of New Beginnings"Welcome back to the Secret of A Successful Life Series, in the last episode we noticed how Harry and Clara have been invited to move to a bigger Church in Clara’s home state of Iowa. This move will make it possible for the family to spend much more time together then before.
This episode is titled, “A Time Of New Beginnings.” For the next several years the Macintosh Family will serve in the new congregation and face several situations as they continue to serve the Lord.
In the next episode title, “Getting To Know the Congrega...
2023-01-2812 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""Onward Christian Soldiers Part B"In the last podcast we concluded with Harry and Clara anxiously waiting to see if the Lord would move them to a new ministry closer to Clara’s family. They have survived the worst years of the Great Depression and remained faithful to the Lord.
In this episode we will finish the chapter, “Onward Christian Soldiers,” to learn just what the Lord is leading this couple to do.
Thank You for joining us for this podcast. In the next episode we will learn more of the exciting events in the Lives of Harry and Clara as the...
2023-01-2011 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""Onward Christian Soldiers Part A"There are many new beginnings or new chapters in our lives. Each new day holds great potential for what God can do in and through us. In the current episode of the Secret Of A Successful Life Series, Harry and Clara are seriously considering God’s will about making life changing plans concerning where they serve the Lord at.
They have lived through the roughest years of the depression. At this point they do not know where God will lead them. Just as we do not all the details that are before us, however the Lord does kn...
2023-01-1820 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series"Committing Future Goals Into God's HandsWelcome back to the Podcast, “The Secret Of A Successful Life Series.” We live in a time when we carry a phone and use it call people thousands of miles away, calling at any time we want to talk. In recent years Communication methods have really improved.
Yet, with all of the modern advances in technology, people continue to be very lonely. There is an important need for fellowship with other People. Even in Churches some people feel very lonely. Ben Merold used to tell how some Churches are friendly only to each other.
In this...
2023-01-1317 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""The Joy In Sharing What God Has Put On Our Hearts."Welcome back to the Podcast, “The Secret Of A Successful Life Series.” In the recent days the nation has experienced several winter storms and spring seems to be a long way off. Sometimes during the cold winter days people have made plans for their spring and summer gardens and other activities. In this episode we will notice how on a winter Sunday Anna will give a challenge to the Congregation about their mission giving and the gardens they raised. The chapter is titled, “The Joy In Sharing What God Has Put On Our Hearts.”
2023-01-0509 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""Now That We Can Trust The Banks Again."Welcome back to the Podcast, “The Secret Of A Successful Life Series.” In recent years One of the blessings many Christians have enjoyed is to personally help people they know go on mission trips or to support missionaries they have grown to personally know. We call that Direct Mission Support.
While giving money directly to the missions or missionaries is a very good way to support mission work, that has not always been the way that Mission Work has been supported in the Christian Churches.
Years ago, Missionary Society’s received the mission money from Congre...
2022-12-3009 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""And The Gates Of Hell Shall Not Prevail Over The Church"Welcome back to the Podcast, “The Secret Of A Successful Life Series.” How can a person face unexpected hardships? In the new episode titled, “And The Gates Of hell Shall Not Prevail Over the Church.” We will learn how the Cedar Grove Christian Church has been hit with AN UNEXPECTED STRUGGLE when the Church home for the Minister burned. The unexpected question will come up concerning who really owned the Church Property and in this case the fire insurance Check. The congregation who had paid all of the expenses for the building or the Denomination that wanted to claim the insura...
2022-12-2319 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""Will This Be The Last Wedding?"Welcome back to the Podcast, “The Secret Of A Successful Life Series.” In the last episode we learned about how Christians could reach out to proud friends to help them in very difficult times. This podcast will focus on some of the unexpected major problems some Churches were facing in the Great Depression.
The episode is titled, “Will This Be The last Wedding?”
The next episode will continue with the troubling situation the Cedar Grove Christian Church has fallen into. It is titled, “And The Gates Of hell Shall Not Prevail Over the Church.”
We invite yo...
2022-12-2123 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""Being Gentle As A Dove And Shrew As A Serpent."Welcome back to the Podcast, “The Secret Of A Successful Life Series.”
--In the last episode we learned about Harry and Clara being blessed with twin children, a girl and boy. Grandmother Macintosh also announced her engagement to Professor Green and Julie Ann shared the unexpected news that Walter and her were expecting another child. Life has certainly had many surprises for the family in this series. This episode titled, “Being Gentle As A Dove And Shrewd As A Serpent” Will focus on how people tried to help struggling families in the worst days of the Great Depressio...
2022-12-1713 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""Now We Know"Welcome back to the Podcast, “The Secret Of A Successful Life Series.”
The last explained how one of the most difficult Church Members in the church Harry and Clara served at, made a major change in her life by apologizing to Clara for hurting her. This was the Lord’s gentle leading to help that woman prepare to meet Him with her unexpected sudden death. After Dorothy died, Harry and Clara will start to enjoy an time of less stress in the heart of the Great Depression. This episode is titled, “Now We Know.”
Thank you for jo...
2022-12-1013 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""Unexpected Blessings."Welcome back to the Podcast, “The Secret Of A Successful Life Series.”
--In the last episode we learned how Harry and Clara had learned the exciting news that they will have a baby. In this podcast we will notice the events of this great arrival that will bring many unexpected but appreciated surprises to the lives of this family.
Thank you for joining us for this podcast.
The next episode will focus on the hardships the families and the Church are facing with the Great Depression. Because of the great pride that many peopl...
2022-12-1020 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""Now We Know"Welcome back to the Podcast, “The Secret Of A Successful Life Series.”
The last explained how one of the most difficult Church Members in the church Harry and Clara served at, made a major change in her life by apologizing to Clara for hurting her. This was the Lord’s gentle leading to help that woman prepare to meet Him with her unexpected sudden death. After Dorothy died, Harry and Clara will start to enjoy an time of less stress in the heart of the Great Depression. This episode is titled, “Now We Know.”
Thank you for jo...
2022-12-0313 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""Even Cold Hearts Can Warm Up."Welcome back to the Podcast, “The Secret Of A Successful Life Series.”
Even in the most difficult of times, followers of Christ can still meet together for fellowship and encouragement. IN this episode we will see how Clara Macintosh will open their home for a special ladies evening for food and study.
While they expect one woman to be very difficult to get along with, everyone will be surprised at the unexpected developments that will take place because of Clara’s little Dog –Skippy. This chapter is titled, “Even Cold Hearts Can Warm Up.”
Thank you...
2022-11-3007 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""Trying Hard Not to Smell Like Fish."Welcome back to the Podcast, “The Secret Of A Successful Life Series.” We have heard about the terrible struggles people had during the great depression. That problem did more than affect the stock market. Entire families were affected in many ways, with physical and mental struggles. Whenever someone has a struggle it is so important to have Godly people who show a real love and concern for what they are experiencing.
In this episode we will notice how the Walter Macintosh family will have to make a move to Iowa after Walter’s job at the factory ended...
2022-11-2613 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""Do You Think We Could Come Live With You?"Welcome back to the Podcast, “The Secret Of A Successful Life Series.”
Our Parents and older friends lived through the difficult years of the Depression. Some called those tough years, “The dirty 30’s.” Many People lost their farms, their jobs and faced terrible times. The Great Depression affected most people in our nation. In this episode we will notice how some other family members in this series will face an unexpected job loss and wonder what they will do. This chapter is titled, “Do You think We Could Come Live With You?”
Thank You for joining us for...
2022-11-2015 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""Maybe She Does Smoke A Pipe!"Welcome back to the Podcast, “The Secret Of A Successful Life Series.”
In the last episode we noticed how Clara, the young Minister’s wife heard about a sinful side of one of the leading women in the Church they served when the Granddaughter told her that her Grandmother smoked a pipe. While that was an overheard expression that the little child misunderstood. The events of this chapter will make Clara wonder if the old woman actually did smoke a pipe. This episode is titled, “Maybe She Does Smoke A Pipe!”
Thank You for joining us for thi...
2022-11-1217 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""Clara Did You Know My Grandma Smokes A Pipe?"Welcome back to the Podcast, “The Secret Of A Successful Life Series.”
It has been well said that children often say things that their parents should never have said in the first place. In this episode Clara will visit in a Church members home where a young child will reveal an embarrassing comment that was said. This chapter is titled,
“Clara Did You Know My Grandma Smokes A Pipe?”
Thank You for joining us for this podcast. We invite you to listen to the next episode in this series where after a clash at a Chr...
2022-11-0605 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""Have You Heard The News?"Welcome back to the Podcast, “The Secret Of A Successful Life Series.”
In the last podcast we noticed how the Great Stock Market Crash of 1929 has just taken place. David was able to stop Grandpa Ralph from taking his life because he was ashamed that he had lost most of Clara’s trust fund in the stock market.
In this episode titled, “Have You Heard The news?”, we will notice the reaction Clara and Harry have to the news about the great crash and their reaction to Grandpa Ralph’s letter of apology.
Thank you fo...
2022-10-3104 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""Ralph Don't Do It!"Welcome back to the Podcast, “The Secret Of A Successful Life Series.”
The last podcast told about Harry and Clara getting married and Harry’s ordination service into the Ministry both services were held at the Cedar Grove Christian Church in Southern Iowa. Clara and Harry received a new car from Grandpa Ralph and Grandma Beulah for a wedding present.
Grandpa Ralph explained to the couple about how Clara’s trust fund was making a great return in the stock market and they were set for life financially. Clara expressed how she was not comfortable with hav...
2022-10-2913 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""Financially You Are Set For Life."In the last podcast we concluded the second volume in the series titled, “The Far Reaching Effects Of A Successful Life.” In that volume we noticed the years of 1917-1926. David Benson has come home from the war where he helped his future brother in law Walter Macintosh to the Lord. Eventually Walter would help David meet his sister Anna who latter married David.
We left the last podcast with young Clara Jones and Walter’s brother Harry developing a love for each other and were planning to go to Bible School together.
This leads us to...
2022-10-2318 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series"Introduction to Volume Three in The Secret of A Successful Life Series." 'Living Well In Difficult Times."In the last podcast we concluded the second volume in the series titled, “The Far Reaching Effects Of A Successful Life.” In that volume we noticed the years of 1917-1926. David Benson has come home from the war where he helped his future brother in law Walter Macintosh to the Lord. Eventually Walter would help David meet his sister Anna who latter married David.
We left the last podcast with young Clara Jones and Walter’s brother Harry developing a love for each other and were planning to go to Bible School together.
This leads us to...
2022-10-1503 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""Honey, I will meet You In Cincinnati."Welcome back to the Podcast, “The Secret Of A Successful Life Series.” (Chapter 17)
The last episode revealed the teenage desires of young Clara Jones. While she wanted to go to Bible School, she had strong feelings for Harry Macintosh who at that time was not a Christian.
Her sister-in-law Anna taught her to commit that issue to prayer and if Jesus wanted those two together He would work a way for that to happen.
In this podcast we will see how an unusual conversation and then event on the farm will speak very loud...
2022-10-0520 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""Planning For The Future."Welcome back to the Podcast, “The Secret Of A Successful Life Series.” (Chapter 16)
In our last episode David and Anna returned from their wedding trip and started to adjust to married life as newlyweds on the farm. They made the Lord’s Church a priority for their lives and committed to spending time together.
In this chapter we will jump ahead a couple years and notice how David and Anna are being a good influence on a young woman we know as “Clara.” Anna will offer many important areas of advice for Clara that will help to di...
2022-10-0215 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""The Honeymoon That Does Not Have To End."Welcome back to the Podcast, “The Secret Of A Successful Life Series.” (Chapter 15)
In our last episode David and Anna were married in Chicago. After a honey moon trip they will be returning to their new home on the farm in Iowa. A lifetime of adventures are beginning and in this episode there will be several important events that will set the pace for their lives together.
The title of this chapter is, “The Honey Moon That Does Not have To End.”
Thank you for joining us for the podcast, “The Secret of a Successf...
2022-09-2523 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""Cooling Days And Warming Hearts."Welcome back to the Podcast, “The Secret Of A Successful Life Series.”
In our last episode at the end of Anna’s visit to see David we heard about their future intentions at the Train Depot when they said goodbye.
In this podcast we will learn of how those plans will become a reality.
The title of this chapter is, “Cooling Days and Warming Hearts.”
Thank your for joining us for the podcast, “The Secret of a Successful Life Series.” We leave today with David and Anna Benson starting their married life together...
2022-09-1709 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""For The Record Sir, I Am David Benson's Girl!" Part BOur last podcast session shared the first part of the chapter about Anna Macintosh and her families trip to see David in Iowa. In this episode we will continue to see growing developments in the courtship of David and Anna.
This is the continuation of the chapter, “For the Record Sir, I’m David Benson’s Girl!”
2022-09-1122 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""For The Record Sir, I Am David Benson's Girl!" Part AWelcome back to the Podcast, “The Secret Of A Successful Life Series.” (Chapter 13 A)
In our last episode we heard how the friendship of David Benson and Anna Macintosh has moved to a new and exciting level.
In this podcast we will learn of more developments and the plans that David is making to impress the woman he wants to spend much more time with.
Just where will this changing friendship go?
The title of this chapter is, “For the Record Sir, I’m David Benson’s Girl!”
We leave this p...
2022-09-0425 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""I Think We Are In Love!"Welcome back to the Podcast, “The Secret Of A Successful Life Series.” (chapter 12)
In this series we have noticed how David Benson grew up in an unfortunate situation. Because his Dad was the area drunk and his aunt was the community prostitute most people in the rural neighborhood had little to do with David and his family. Clara Jones and her parents befriended David and later won him to the Lord. While serving in the Army David helped a difficult soldier come to the Lord and the two became best of friends.
Both soldiers have help...
2022-08-2823 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""Everyone Deserves A Second Chance."The Life Jesus offers us is filled with opportunities to enjoy the blessings He offers us. In this chapter, “Everyone Deserves A Second Chance,” we will notice how an unexpected conversation helped Julie Ann decide to give here husband Walter a second chance in their marriage and we will also notice how someone else will suddenly realize that David Benson deserved a second chance also.
At this time it appears that Walter and Julie Ann are working out the major issues of their marriage. We ended this episode with David Benson taking Ralph’s advice to write the yo...
2022-08-2130 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""When Johnny Comes Marching Home Again."Welcome back to the Podcast, “The Secret Of A Successful Life Series.”
In our last episode we noticed how David Benson and his new Christian Friend Walter Macintosh are preparing to come home from World War I.
In this chapter titled, “When Johnny Comes Marching Home Again,” Walter Macintosh is faced with a major dilemma.
While the Lord has completely forgiven him of all his sins, how should Walter approach his wife Julie Ann? Since she is not a believer in the Lord, will she forgive Walter for his immorality in France?
We can...
2022-08-1416 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""Grandpa, What's A Sargent?"
The Bible tells us in Psalm 37:4 “Delight yourself in the LORD, and He will give you the desires of your heart.”
Many times the Lord gives us much more than the desires of our hearts. In this episode we will notice while David Benson is preparing to come home from the Army, the Lord has some great blessings in store for him. There will be other major blessings in the coming chapters, but this chapter titled, “Grandpa, What’s A Sargent?” will reveal an unexpected blessing David received because he put the Lord’s work first in...
2022-08-0709 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""O, Lord God No!"In the last episode we noticed how Walter felt so bad about his immorality that he wanted to be killed by the enemy so his wife cold receive the life insurance money. David literally knocked him out and then set him straight when Walter came too. While the two soldiers spoke very frankly about the issues they faced, David was able to lead Walter tot he Lord. In this episode we will hear about an unexpected struggle that both soldiers will face. Today's chapt4er is titled, "Oh, Lord God No!
2022-07-2708 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""When Guys Have To Duke It Out."Sometimes closes friendships are severely strained because of the sinful actions of one or both friends. In the last episode we noticed how David and his Company of Soldiers were given a forty-eight hour pass to visit Paris during World War One. While they had been warned to stay away from the Prostitutes many of the men including David's good friend mac strayed away to be with the immoral women.
Although David did all he could to keep mac from forsaking his marriage vows, Mac sternly rejected David's friendship. In this episode we will learn how David and...
2022-07-2420 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""One Step forward And Two Steps Back."In our day to day lives, Every Christian needs good encouragement to remain faithful to Christ. In our day to day lives, Every Christian needs good encouragement to remain faithful to Christ .
2022-07-1709 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""The Difference Between Good And Bad Girls."While young David Benson is trying to live a Godly life while serving in the Army in France, he is confronted with many sinful situations that he wants to avoid. He will find much encouragement from his good friends back home Oscar, Mary and Clara Jones.
2022-07-1511 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""Stories Soldiers Tell."Every Christian has times when they are surrounded by people and circumstances that are not comfortable to be in. We wonder how we can be a strong believer in the Lord during times like that. In this episode we will hear about young David Benson who is serving as a Soldier of World War One where he was in terrible conditions. Conditions that related to fighting the enemy but those of bad conversations and unhealthy living conditions. This podcast will share how David Benson found strength from the Lord just as we can find the same strength for our live...
2022-07-0909 min
"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""Developing Friendships With Two Legged Rats" and "Rats, Coutees And growing Friendships."In the last episode we learned about a difficult man David Benson was told to work with while in the Army. In this podcast we will notice how David will go the extra mile to develop a lasting friendship with "Mac." Sometimes the most difficult people we meet can become our closet friends. Will this be the case for David with the Soldier named Mac?
2022-07-0312 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""Maybe Your Not A Dumb Country Hick After All"In this episode the second volume of this series will begin. While young Clara will be mentioned from time to time, other characters will be introduced who will eventually become part of Clara's life in unexpected ways.
2022-06-2609 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series"Special Interview With Dr. Rick Cherok from Ozark Christian CollegeIn the last episode we concluded the first volume of "The Secret Of A Successful Life Series." So before we start the second volume in the next podcast I wanted to interview Dr. Rick Cherok from Ozark Christian College. Dr. Cherok teaches in the field of Church History. In the first volume there are some hints to the Spiritual Conditions of the American Churches in the era of 1900-1920. Some of the friends who read the manuscripts for this novel were surprised to learn about some of the actions that were going on in the American Church of that time...
2022-06-1718 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series"Goodbye is not ForeverIn the last episode we learned about the sudden unexpected deaths of young Clara's Parents. In this episode, Clara will share the changes that developed after that tragedy and way anyone can have a successful life. the Episode is titled, "Goodbye Is Not Forever."
2022-06-1212 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series"Unexpected Changes And The Phone Call No One Wants To ReceiveWith the approaching end of the first World War, unexpected changes are taking place around the world. This turmoil will attack the home area that young Clara is growing up in. Before the end of the episode there will be two very unexpected events take place that no one was prepared to experience.
2022-06-0517 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""Over There, Our Boys Are Going Over There."In April of 1917 The United States officially entered the first World War. This war brought many changes to our nation. In this podcast titled, "Over There, Our Boys Are Going over there," we will notice how the World War affected the lives of Clara and her parents. With all of the changes brought by the war, there will still be many opportunities to serve Christ.
2022-05-3009 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""Rising War Clouds And Brewing Church Fights."In this episode we will notice events that were taking place in our Nation in 1917, both in the Nation and in the Churches.
2022-05-2907 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""Let's Plan The Fall Kickoff."In the last episode we learned about a new character in the series named, "David Benson." The Oscar Jones family has taken the time to befriend David when most people in the area avoid him and his family. Will God be able to make a difference in that young man's life? This episode is titled, "Let's Plan The Fall Kickoff."
2022-05-2214 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""It Takes More Than Being Friendly To One Another."The Lord Jesus wants us to represent Him to the world; the entire world. In this chapter we will learn about a new character named, David Benson." David is a teenage boy that comes from a family that is avoided by most of the area people. Oscar, Mary and Clara will see the need to reach out to him for Christ; will their efforts be successful? Today we will hear the episode, "It Takes More Than Being Friendly To One Another."
2022-05-1516 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series"Welcome To The Community and More Involvement In The Church.It is exciting to see the genuine growth that a new Believer in Jesus has. In this episode we will notice some important developments in the life of Oscar Jones that affected many other people.
2022-05-0722 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series"Watching How A New Christian Can Glow for Christ.In this episode we will notice how Oscar Jones is rapidly growing in his Christian Walk. Oscar has new ideas to promote God's Kingdom that will bless many people. Oscar will soon be involved in life changing activities that were becoming answers to many prayers.
2022-05-0120 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""After The Corn Is Picked, There I Something I Would Like To Do."The life of a new Christian is both exciting and a new adventure. In this episode we will learn how Oscar Jones has faced some new challenges that trouble him and also about a desire he has for a future project to help others.
2022-04-2417 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""Do You Know What A Testimony Is?"Soon after a person comes to the Lord, many new believers have started to tell others about their new faith in God and the hope they have in life. In this episode Oscar Jones will start to tell more people about his life with God. This episode can help any believer to boldly step out and tell others what they believe about Jesus.
2022-04-2105 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""Now I Belong to Jesus!"When someone gives their life to Christ there is much rejoicing in heaven and on earth. In this episode the new life Oscar Jones has begun in Christ will really start to take off in amazing ways. This episode will share some of the reasons Oscar decided to come to the Lord.
2022-04-1611 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series"New Life And It Is Amazing What Can Take Place!With the coming of Spring, there are many welcome changes after a hard winter. Good changes can take place even in the lives of hard hearted people. In recent episodes there have been rays of hope that maybe someday Oscar Jones just might soften his heart to the Lord. Will he ever make that step? This episode will give more evidence of what is going on in the heart of Oscar Jones.
2022-04-1324 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""Buggy Visits And Developing Friendships"The Lord gives us creative ideas for the important things we are to do. In this episode Grandpa Ralph is given an idea of how to help his Son In Law Oscar Jones spend some more time with the new Preacher John Matthews.
2022-04-1106 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""Reverend Would You Like To Stay For Dinner?"Even when our lives look very challenging, God is able to open new doors that we never dreamed were possible. In this episode we will notice an unexpected change of events that show how God works in the situations we face in life. I hope you enjoy this.
2022-04-0514 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""Have You Got Anyone Else That Could Preach For Us?"In the last episode a promising ministry student flatly turned down the offer to preach at the Cedar Grove Christian Church. This crushing blow was even felt by Oscar Jones who normally never expressed any care about the Church he grew up near. In this episode a second choice ministry student will be asked to look at the Rural Congregation. Would this be the Minister that would come to that Church and eventually make a difference in the life of Oscar Jones?
2022-04-0310 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series"A Time Of New Beginnings And A Ray Of HopeIn the last podcast we noticed how Oscar Jones lost his remaining parent and reacted to his grief in different ways, including leaving the Church out of his life. In this episode we will see how Oscar has matured and a romance has developed between him and Mary Hunt. While Oscar will dearly love his young bride, the question remains, "will he ever soften his heart to follow the Lord?"
2022-04-0119 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series"Living With A Cold Heart While Walking In The Valley Of Death.In the last episode we learned about the tragic death of Oscar Jones Father. The young teenage boy soon found out that he was faced with paying for a loan he was sure his Dad had paid in full. During this difficult time Oscar Jones continues to develop into a leader that will affect many people in the years to come. This podcast will show some of the developments that helped to shape his young life.
2022-03-2820 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series"Introduction and chapters one and two of the novel, "The Secret Of A Successful Life Series."This episode will introduce the background for this novel and proceed into the first two chapters. I hope you enjoy this.
2022-03-2613 min"The Secret Of A Successful Life Series""I Think I Have Stayed To Long With Grieving Families And I Apologize For That."I was about to start this pod cast to read my novel, "The Secret Of A Successful Life Series," when my Dad died. So for this first episode I will share some observations I noticed concerning the time after Dad died.
2022-03-2606 min