Spotlight

Latest Episodes:

From Bible Study to Global Politics: The Crucial Role of Christians in Defending Israel (IFS #485) Jul 07, 2026

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In this episode of Illinois Family Spotlight, David E. Smith sits down with Pastor Jim Scudder Jr. to discuss his new book, The Spiritual War Against Israel, and the growing cultural and spiritual battle over Israel and the Jewish people.

Pastor Jim Scudder Jr. is the senior pastor of Quentin Road Baptist Church in Lake Zurich, Illinois, and the president of Dayspring Bible College and Seminary. He also hosts the In Grace television, radio, and podcast ministry, which features Bible teaching and apologetics content.… Continue Reading

The Black Robed Regiment: The Pastors Who Won The Revolutionary War (IFS #484) Jun 30, 2026

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Most Americans are unaware of the powerful role pastors and ministers played in securing our liberty during the American Revolution. In this episode of Spotlight, David Smith talks with Pastor Dan Fisher about the untold story of the Black Robe Regiment—patriot preachers who boldly preached biblical principles of governance and morality, often leading militias and sacrificing their safety for freedom. Their influence wasn’t just spiritual; it was revolutionary—literally.

Visit danfisherbrr.com for books, DVDs, and resources to learn more about the Black Robe Regiment and how you can stand firm against today’s cultural and political threats.… Continue Reading

The Truth About Informed Consent in Transgender Surgeries (IFS #483) Jun 23, 2026

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Most mental health care for gender-identity issues is leaving patients uninformed or misled—Camille Kiefel’s eye-opening journey exposes the dangerous gaps in informed consent when it matters most. After enduring a double mastectomy based on minimal guidance, Camille’s story reveals how medical and mental health professionals often prioritize affirmation over thorough exploration, risking irreversible harm.

In this powerful episode, Camille shares her personal experience with trauma, misdiagnosis, and a lack of transparency from providers who pushed her toward surgery without fully discussing the risks—including detransition and physical complications.… Continue Reading

Is Generation Z Stepping Away From Pride Month? (IFS #482) Jun 17, 2026

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In this episode, Spotlight host David Smith discuss how Pride Month has shifted over the past few years with Spotlight’s first Generation Z roundtable discussion. Alyssa Sonnenburg, Jenna Smith and IFI intern Noah Li breakdown how their generation sees the LGBTQ+ agenda and the identity crisis being met.

References:

Gallup Poll: U.S. Support for LGBTQ+ Remains Down from Peak

The Good Word Program: Noah & Jenna on WPEO

Point of View Radio: Alyssa on Next Generation Roundtable… Continue Reading

The Hidden Truth About Loving Your Body: Secular Denigration Vs. Christian Celebration With Nancy Pearcey(IFS #481) Jun 09, 2026

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Most culture wars are fought over the body — but what if we’ve been looking at it all wrong? Spotlight hosts David Smith and Alyssa Sonnenbrg listen as Professor Nancy Pearcy exposes the deep roots of the secular worldview that devalues the body, from transgenderism to abortion and environmentalism.

In this eye-opening episode, you’ll discover how the secular ethic views the body as insignificant and how this mindset fuels today’s most urgent debates about gender and identity.… Continue Reading

How Celebrating Fidelity Challenges the Culture of Divorce and Self-Interest (IFS #480) Jun 02, 2026

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Most Americans are drifting away from the very virtues that unify us—faith, family, and fidelity. In this episode of Spotlight, our host Alyssa Sonnenburg talks with Christopher Parr of Princeton University. Parr shares about the movement Fidelity Month, which aims to restore these timeless commitments at a critical cultural moment.… Continue Reading

Illinois is Swamped in Prayer: Interceding for Our State (IFS #479) May 28, 2026

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Now is the time for us – the body of Christ – to seek forgiveness and God’s wisdom and to chart a clear path forward in order that the fear of the Lord and the wisdom of God may once again shape and influence our government.” ~ Kathy Valente, IFI Director of Operations

In this episode, we hear from a prayer gathering in Springfield. Pastors Stan Pratt, Bob Vandenbausch, and Steve Peacock of our state exhort and pray for fellow Christians to call out for mercy as well.… Continue Reading

How UnSingling Is Changing the Future of Christian Dating (IFS #478) May 19, 2026

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In this episode, Rebecca Leland shares her mission of “un-singling” — creating intentional, Christ-centered spaces for Christian singles to meet, connect, and hopefully find their spouses. Join us as we explore how faith, community, and intentionality can transform the journey toward marriage. Apply for Unsingling by clicking here.

To follow Unsingling on Instagram, click here.

In this episode:

What is un-singling and why is it needed in the Christian community?
The impact of Christian singles events on fostering genuine relationships.

Why a Black Conservative Woman Is Challenging Illinois’ Political Status Quo (IFS #477) May 12, 2026

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Most grassroots candidates overlook the power of faith and boldness—Stephanie Trussell refuses to hold back. Running for Illinois State Representative, she shares how divine calling, unwavering faith, and connecting with her community are fueling her fight to restore Illinois’ values.

In a political landscape dominated by elitism and neglect, Stephanie reveals her heartfelt journey from a nomination as lieutenant governor candidate to knocking on doors in a deeply blue district. She talks about the importance of standing firm on pro-life and pro-family principles, and how she leverages her Christian beliefs to challenge entrenched liberal policies—from high taxes and unsafe cities to woke school mandates.… Continue Reading

Investigation Specialist Analyzes How Illinois is Taking Control Away From Parents (IFS #476) May 05, 2026

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In this conversation with our Investigation Specialist, Thomas Hampson, we dismantle the legislation pending in the IL General Assembly that aims to undermine your say as a parent when it comes to medicating your child’s “mental health” problems.

To follow Thomas Hampson’s work, click here.… Continue Reading

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