• Raising Expectations, March 30, 2026
    Mar 31 2026
    Raising Expectations with Pastor Joe Schofield, Dr. Paul Hall, Stefanie Thayer, Dr. Craig Thayer, Pastor Ron Greer Guest, Elizabeth Wong Ahlers and her plan for a Comeback California Friends, We are excited to have our dear friend Elizabeth Wong Ahlers with us again this week, as she continues “Comeback California” running for State Assembly District 40! Her values, wisdom, family and faith are game changers for every problem we face in the former Golden State- California! Her insights and ideas will encourage and strengthen everyone in all 50 states and around the world ,as we watch God at work in the coming months! Please consider supporting Elizabeth and her journey to help retake California at her website: https://elizabeth4assembly.com/ Pastor Joe Schofield hosts a deep-dive session of Raising Expectations, featuring California State Assembly candidate Elizabeth Wong Ahlers. The discussion explores the intersection of conservative governance, spiritual resilience, and the urgent need for "righteous leadership" to address California's systemic challenges. The "Raising Expectations" Mission and Team The program serves as a platform for conservative believers to discuss personal, professional, and corporate decisions through the lens of faith. Host Pastor Joe Schofield is supported by a diverse team, including Dr. Paul Hall, Dr. Craig and Stephanie Thayer, and Pastor Ron Greer. The team emphasizes "finding God in the ordinary" and producing "authentic hope" through trust in Christ, a theme echoed in the various books authored by the hosts, such as Saved and Legitimate Faith. Reclaiming the Golden State: The Ahlers Platform Elizabeth Wong Ahlers, a fifth-generation Californian and mother of six, is running for the State Assembly in District 40 (Santa Clarita area). Her campaign is built on the "Mama Bear" instinct—a response to what she describes as a failing educational system, sky-high gas prices, and exploding homelessness. She argues that the current "one-party rule" has led to unsafe streets and a mass exodus of businesses, and she advocates for a return to innovation, opportunity, and freedom. Political Integrity and "Fake Republicans" A significant portion of the dialogue focuses on the internal friction within the Republican party. Ahlers criticizes candidates who have recently switched from the Democratic party but do not uphold conservative platform values, such as standing for the national anthem. She specifically points to an incumbent who reportedly missed 2,000 opportunities to vote "no" on harmful legislation, choosing instead to remain off the record to avoid political fallout. Ahlers asserts that her refusal to compromise on issues like Proposition 1 (abortion) has made her a target for the establishment, but she remains committed to her "conscience". Spiritual Warfare and the "Armor of God" The participants frame the political landscape as a manifestation of a spiritual battle. Drawing from Ephesians 6 and the Book of Daniel, they discuss the "demon princes" and "spiritual armies" that influence geographical areas. Dr. Paul Hall and Ron Greer use military analogies—such as being "over the target" when facing heavy fire—to encourage Ahlers. They emphasize that the "Armor of God" only protects the front, signifying that believers must continue marching forward by faith rather than retreating. Marriage and Family as the Campaign's Foundation Ahlers highlights her 36-year marriage to her husband, Ron, as the "culmination of their giftedness." She describes Ron as her "medic"—the strength and common sense that stabilizes her amidst political gunfire. She insists that her campaign team must respect this hierarchy, as any political victory that undermines the foundational unit of marriage would be a hollow one. This "complementary giftedness" allows them to navigate the "wicked and dark" areas of culture together. The episode concludes with a call to action for believers to disengage from "quietism" and actively participate in the political process. By standing firm in their worldview and refusing to compromise on core principles, the speakers believe they can inspire a "great California comeback" led by righteous leaders who represent the people's rejoicings rather than their groanings.
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    56 mins
  • Raising Expectations, March 16, 2026
    Mar 17 2026
    Raising Expectations with Pastor Joe Schofield, Dr. Paul Hall, Stefanie Thayer, Dr. Craig Thayer, Pastor Ron Greer Guest, Dr Jim Robbins - Geopolitical Shifts and the Future of Iran Dear Friends, This week on Raising Expectations we have Dr. Jim Robbins joining us again: Join us for a special discussion with Dr. Jim Robbins of the Institute of World Politics in Washington DC. We will explore the issues and events surrounding the war with Iran, Washington politics, and the implications for the future under President Trump and his administration. Dr. Robbins, an outstanding historian and Dean of Academics at IWP, Senior Fellow in National Security Affairs at the American Foreign Policy Council, and former special assistant in the Office of the Secretary of Defense, will share his expertise and insights. Jim is a great man of Faith and has a God given ability to not only understand questions but to discern the heart of the person asking! I am often reminded of the sensitivity of C.S. Lewis with Dr. Robbins. Find out more about Dr. Jim work at his institute's website: www.iwp.edu In this episode of Raising Expectations, host Joe Schofield and his team sit down with historian and academic dean Jim Robbins to discuss the shifting landscape of Middle East diplomacy, the strategic use of energy markets, and the ongoing challenges to American national security. The conversation highlights the potential for a "new world" in the Middle East through regime pressure and economic leverage. Strategic Perspectives on the Middle East The discussion centers on four critical issues currently facing the administration in the Middle East: the ongoing conflict with Iran, the stabilization of oil markets, the pursuit of the Abraham Accords for regional normalization, and the long-term redevelopment of Gaza. Jim Robbins emphasizes that the primary goal is to return to a period where Iran acts as a strategic partner rather than an adversary, noting that before the 1979 revolution, Iran maintained strong ties with both the United States and Israel. The current strategy involves maintaining pressure to eventually defund regional proxies like Hezbollah and Hamas, which rely heavily on Iranian oil revenue. Economic Leverage and Global Security A significant portion of the dialogue focuses on the "drill, baby, drill" energy policy as a tool for national security. Robbins argues that lowering oil prices serves a dual purpose: it eases domestic inflation for American consumers and simultaneously cripples the Iranian economy. Historical data suggests that when oil prices drop toward $52 per barrel or lower, the Iranian regime loses its ability to fund its nuclear program and global terrorism. Furthermore, the participants discuss the internal "crisis of legitimacy" in Iran, where a younger, digital-native population increasingly rejects theocratic control in favor of Western-style freedoms and prosperity. Regarding domestic safety, the panel expresses concern over "lone actor" terrorist threats. Robbins notes that while the administration has been successful in targeting high-level leadership abroad—disrupting their ability to coordinate large-scale attacks—the presence of unvetted individuals within the U.S. remains a high-risk factor. The conversation also touches on a new "War on Fraud" initiative aimed at uncovering the destination of approximately $2 trillion in funds dispersed during the COVID-19 era. The episode concludes with a call for national resilience and strategic patience. By combining economic pressure through energy markets with a firm stance on border security and domestic oversight, the speakers envision a future where both American interests and Middle Eastern stability are significantly enhanced.
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    53 mins
  • Raising Expectations, March 9, 2026
    Mar 10 2026
    Raising Expectations with Pastor Joe Schofield, Dr. Paul Hall, Stefanie Thayer, Dr. Craig Thayer, Pastor Ron Greer Guest, Dr Sheila Schuller Coleman - Empowering the Next Generation and the Legacy of Faith Dear Friends, We are looking forward to having our friend Dr. Sheila Schuller Coleman back with us this week to, in her own words “share my current Divine assignment!” We will see how this call of God has produced a deep understanding and revealing of special resources on how we can help strengthen and grow the children in these dangerous days! You will not only hear her words but will also feel her heart and insights as you watch, listen and join us! In this episode of Raising Expectations, host Joe Schofield welcomes Dr. Sheila Coleman to discuss her transition from a legacy of ministry to a personal, divine mandate. The conversation centers on the "Heart of a Warrior" movement, an initiative dedicated to protecting children globally through prayer, reclaiming their identity in Christ, and providing tangible support to vulnerable communities. The Legacy of Faith and the Power of Divine Choice Dr. Sheila Coleman reflects on the humble beginnings of her father, the late pastor of the Crystal Cathedral, who rose from a poor farm in Iowa to reach 20 million people weekly. She emphasizes that God’s choice of her father—and His choice of every individual—is not based on education or platform, but on a "divine destiny" tailored for "such a time as this." This legacy serves as a foundation for her belief that no one should place limitations on what God can achieve through them, regardless of their age or perceived lack of influence. The "Heart of a Warrior" Mandate In June 2022, Dr. Coleman received what she describes as a "chicken vision," where the Lord assigned her to protect the "bride" (the church) under one wing and the "children of the world" under the other. This led to the rapid writing of The Heart of a Warrior: Delivering the Children of the World for Christ. The book addresses specific "attacks" on the next generation, including the alarming tripling of suicide rates among young teens and the loss of safety in schools and the womb. Her ministry now focuses on "covering" these children through a dedicated "Pentagon" of prayer warriors. Global Outreach and Tangible Miracles The ministry extends beyond prayer into practical action, such as the "Sheep Ministry" in Kenya. After being prompted by God to provide livestock to a poor village, Dr. Coleman partnered with Storm Shelter Ministries to provide sheep (costing $50 each) to widows and orphans, allowing them to become self-sufficient. Domestically, she shares the "miracle" of her own family—spontaneous triplets born healthy at 35 weeks despite medical risks—as a testament to God’s faithfulness and the power of declaring life over the unborn. Reclaiming Identity and Biblical Wisdom A core theme of Dr. Coleman’s recent work is the restoration of identity. Through her handbook, Claiming the Identity of Christ’s Children, she encourages parents and grandparents to speak blessings over children, teaching them to declare, "I am the beloved child of the Most High God." Furthermore, she addresses the current educational crisis and the rise of antisemitism on campuses, arguing that the world is suffering from a lack of "wisdom"—the application of knowledge through a godly lens. The episode concludes with a powerful reminder that "greater is He that is in you than he that is in the world." Dr. Sheila Coleman’s journey emphasizes that the most significant work often begins with a simple "yes" to a divine assignment, leading to a global impact that protects the most vulnerable and restores the identity of the next generation. Don't forget to check out our guest, Dr. Coleman's books! "The Heart of a Warrior: Delivering the Children of the World for Christ" "The Living Tree" "Unearthing the Lost Treasure: Wisdom" "Claiming The Identity of Christ’s Children: A Handbook for Families"
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    55 mins
  • Raising Expectations, March 2, 2026
    Mar 3 2026
    Raising Expectations with Pastor Joe Schofield, Dr. Paul Hall, Stefanie Thayer, Dr. Craig Thayer, Pastor Ron Greer Guest, Dr Sheila Schuller Coleman - Limitless Faith and the Possibility Thinking Friends, We are delighted to have Dr. Sheila Schuller Coleman as our guest to share her testimony and ministry! She is the first born child of Robert H. Schuller. As such, she had a front row seat to watching God move in her father’s life. She served as assistant producer of the Hour of Power and also as his senior editor for more than 12 of his manuscripts, including “Tough Times Never Last but Tough People Do”, and “The Be Happy Attitudes”. In addition, Sheila has 16 years of experience in education. She combines a love for children with a deep devotion to the church. Sheila holds a Doctorate in Education from UCI and has authored several books, including “Unearthing the Lost Treasure: Wisdom”, which features an endorsement by Dr. Ben Carson. And her latest, “Claiming the Identity of Christ’s Children. A Handbook for Families”. Today, she serves as the Founder and Lead Pastor of Hope Center of Christ in Orange, California. It is a house of prayer, the spiritual pentagon for the international prayer movement, Heart of a Warrior: Delivering the Children of the World for Christ. She actively partners with 15 ministries that are being an answer to the varied attacks on our children world-wide. This episode of Raising Expectations features an inspiring dialogue with Dr. Sheila Schuller Coleman, daughter of the legendary Dr. Robert H. Schuller. The conversation explores the miraculous journey of the Schuller ministry—from an obscure Iowa farm to a global television platform—emphasizing the transformative power of "limitless faith" and the resilience required to navigate life's "bumpy roads." The "Raising Expectations" Mission and Team The program, hosted by Pastor Joe Schofield and his wife Melba, serves as a platform for leaders of all backgrounds to address life's most pressing questions through the lens of faith. The "extended family" of co-hosts includes Dr. Paul Hall, a counselor and writer; Dr. Craig "Tank" Thayer, a trauma surgeon and author of Saved: Finding God in the Ordinary; and Pastor Ron Greer, who works with Man In The Mirror to mentor men. The team emphasizes that faith in Christ provides answers to life's two biggest questions: how to live with purpose and what happens after death. From Iowa Pastures to the Drive-In Church Dr. Sheila Schuller Coleman shares the humble origins of her father, who was raised on a "dead-end dirt road" in Iowa. Despite not being an athlete or having significant resources, he felt a divine calling at age five, famously practicing his sermons for the cows in the pasture. Upon moving to California to plant a church, he found no established congregation and adopted a missionary mindset, knocking on doors to ask neighbors what they needed. This led to the innovative "drive-in church" at a theater snack bar, where the motto was "Come as you are in the family car," allowing people who felt uncomfortable in traditional settings to hear the Gospel from their vehicles. The Theology of the Seed and Limitless Faith A core theme of the discussion is the "theology of the seed," based on Matthew 17:20. Sheila recounts her father’s belief that while anyone can count the seeds in an apple, only God can count the apples in one seed. This perspective encourages believers to look past their "lack"—whether in health, resources, or education—and focus on a "limitless God." Sheila illustrates this faith through a childhood memory of her father taking her out into a terrifying Iowa thunderstorm to show her "God’s power on display," teaching her that faith is a gift required for the tasks God assigns. Global Expansion and the "Hour of Power" The ministry’s reach expanded exponentially following a suggestion from Billy Graham to put the church service on television. Graham even loaned his production team to help launch the Hour of Power. The program eventually broke historical barriers, becoming the first religious program broadcast in the communist USSR on Channel One Russia after a meeting between Dr. Schuller and Mikhail Gorbachev. This global impact was rooted in the elder Schuller’s refusal to be deterred by critics; he famously stated that he didn't care what other pastors said about him because they were already saved—his focus remained entirely on the unsaved. Navigating Adversity and Maintaining Hope The dialogue concludes with profound advice on handling trials. Using the "potato" analogy, Sheila explains that just as big potatoes rise to the top of a wagon on a bumpy road, challenges forge character and tenacity in those who refuse to quit. She also shares her grandfather’s wisdom: "Never cut a dead tree down in the wintertime." This serves as a metaphor for not making irreversible decisions during seasons of despair, as life often remains ...
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    57 mins
  • Raising Expectations, February 23, 2026
    Feb 24 2026
    Raising Expectations with Pastor Joe Schofield, Dr. Paul Hall, Stefanie Thayer, Dr. Craig Thayer, Pastor Ron Greer Guest, Will Hobbs, The Faithfulness of God Friends, Join us this evening for an uplifting discussion with our dear friend, Pastor Will Hobbs, on 'Raising Expectations!' as he shares inspiring insights on 'The Faithfulness of God.' Amidst unfolding events in our nation and worldwide, let's stand firm in faith, trusting in God's unwavering presence, power, and faithfulness that shape our lives. His plans unfold with purpose, bringing glory to Him, guidance to us, and proof of His love. His presence will be felt, and encouragement will bring His peace that surpasses our understanding. John 14:27! Pastor Will and our ‘Raising Expectations’ team invite you to pray ahead, hear the facts, and ask God what your part is to be in His plans for your life and nation! This episode of Raising Expectations features a profound dialogue on the nature of divine faithfulness, exploring its manifestation through historical trials, global revivals, and personal resiliency. Host Joe Schofield and guest Pastor Will Hobbs, alongside a panel of co-hosts, examine how God’s consistent character provides a foundation for hope in a turbulent world. The Nature and Definition of Faithfulness The discussion defines God’s faithfulness not as a static concept, but as an active, consistent demonstration of His character and loyalty to His Word. Participants emphasize that while human circumstances are volatile—likened to withering grass and fading flowers—the Word of God remains an immutable anchor. Faith is described as a "verb" that requires demonstration, such as the repentance shown by the thief on the cross, which invites grace and mercy. This divine consistency ensures that God always delivers on His promises, whether they are unconditional expressions of love or conditional covenants requiring human obedience. Historical and Global Evidence of Divine Providence The panel shares extraordinary accounts of providence, notably the story of Edward Halbert, a WWII POW. After being aided by a Nazi guard who provided a knife for an emergency medical procedure in a camp, Halbert miraculously reunited with the same man—who had become a chiropractor in Houston—decades later. Furthermore, the discussion highlights a massive spiritual revival currently occurring in Iran. Despite severe persecution and Sharia law, an underground church movement, bolstered by Chinese believers, has reportedly seen millions of converts in recent years, demonstrating that spiritual growth often flourishes in the most restrictive environments. Resiliency and the Power of Testimony Drawing parallels to Victor Frankl’s Man’s Search for Meaning, the speakers discuss the "resiliency of humanity" as a reflection of being made in God's image. They argue that personal testimonies of overcoming hardship are the most effective tools for ministry, as they provide tangible proof of God’s presence to a "hurting and dying world." The act of worship is also recontextualized as a "fight position"—a spiritual strategy where glorifying God precedes the battle, as seen in the biblical accounts of Joshua and Exodus. The episode concludes with a powerful reminder that God’s faithfulness is multi-generational and transcends global crises. By recognizing the consistency of His character and the power of personal testimony, believers are encouraged to act as "salt and light," offering a message of hope and reconciliation to those navigating the complexities of modern life.
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    54 mins
  • Raising Expectations, February 16, 2026
    Feb 17 2026
    Raising Expectations with Pastor Joe Schofield, Dr. Paul Hall, Stefanie Thayer, Dr. Craig Thayer, Pastor Ron Greer Guest, Denice Gary-Pandol former California US Senatorial candidate Friends, Clearly one of the most knowledgeable and wise leaders in California , United States and world politics today is our dear friend and former California Senatorial Candidate Denice Gary-Pandol! She will talk about and we will discuss the California gubernatorial race,the issues facing the candidates! In addition, she will talk about the Middle East and issues concerning our Godly heritage! As we all know, it is our nation’s 250th anniversary! Denice is continually requested to be on our show, to share her deep insights that touch all our lives today! The Team! Pastor Joe Schofield, Dr. Paul Hall, Stefanie Thayer, Dr. Craig Thayer, Pastor Ron Greer.
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    54 mins
  • Raising Expectations, February 9, 2026
    Feb 9 2026
    Guests, Elizabeth And Ron Ahlers, A Run For California Assembly Dirstrict 40
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    56 mins
  • Raising Expectations, February 2, 2026
    Feb 3 2026
    Raising Expectations with Pastor Joe Schofield, Dr. Paul Hall, Stefanie Thayer, Dr. Craig Thayer, Pastor Ron Greer Guest, Frank Roberson with the “Black Rhino Protection Agency” Friends, We are so glad to have our dear friend and special part of our family back with us this week! Founder and CEO of Black Rhino Group, Protective Services, Counterintelligence Threat and Protective intelligence specialists, Frank Roberson is the best in this field! What is the danger we are seeing with the mobs of people actually rioting in the streets and disrupting the lives of the vast majority of citizens living in Minneapolis , Minnesota? Statistics show that 2% of the people are causing the dangerous problems for 98% of the people living there! Anarchy attempting to close life down. What does that mean for citizens and families in manufactured danger zones and situations? “Situational Awareness” is critically important today! We will discuss these and other topics your family needs to understand ? Lives could depend upon it and in the least case stress and worries could be relieved! Hear Frank share insights and give wisdom for us to learn and impart clarity that we might better understand the dangers inherent in the battle between good and evil all around us today. The Team! Pastor Joe Schofield, Dr. Paul Hall, Stefanie Thayer, Dr. Craig Thayer, Pastor Ron Greer.
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    54 mins