Press On

Restoring Trust – A Press On Interview with Dr. David Miller, Mike Zafirovski, and Tom Tropp

Enjoy listening to Mike lead a panel discussion about restoring trust at the sold-out inaugural Lakelight Institute Good Work Summit.  Panelists include Dr. David Miller (Director of Princeton Faith and Work Initiative), Mike Zafirovski (former President of Motorola) and Tom Tropp (Chief Ethics Officer at Gallagher).

Exodus Answers – Pastor Mike answers your sermon series questions

The Character Gap - a Press On interview with Dr. Christian Miller

Today Mike’s guest is American philosopher Christian Miller, PhD, an award-winning professor from Wake Forest University who recently authored The Character Gap, has authored numerous other books and articles, and is a regular contributor to publications including Forbes.  He is also director of The Honesty Project. Mike and Dr. Miller discuss his work and how our character shapes our lives.

Trueface Interview - A joint Press On and Trueface interview with Robby Angle

This week we are sharing with you a link to a podcast that Mike appeared on as a guest. In it, he talks about the importance of thinking well, particularly at this moment in history when we are allowing other voices to think for us. Mike argues for more “white space” as the volume and velocity of life is increasing every day. Mike also talks about some of his news rules including “less is more.”

Tim Keller – A Press On interview with Collin Hansen

On this week’s podcast, Mike’s guest is journalist, podcaster, and author Collin Hanson, who recently published a book on one of the 21st century’s most influential church leaders--Tim Keller.  Collin is vice president for content and editor in chief of The Gospel Coalition, as well as executive director of The Keller Center for Cultural Apologetics.  Listen to Mike and Collin go behind-the-scenes on the life of Tim Keller and also discuss our need for an even more intentional voice of reaso...

The Hope of Life After Death - A Press On interview with Dr. Jeff Brannon

This week’s Press On guest is Dr. Jeff Brannon, chair of the Biblical Studies Department at Belhaven University, and author of the recently published The Hope of Life After Death: A Biblical Theology of the Resurrection. Dr. Brannon and Mike discuss the hope of Christ’s resurrection, which changes everything.

The Dawning of Redemption – A Press On interview with Dr. Ian Vaillancourt

In today’s podcast, Mike talks with Ian Vaillancourt, a professor in Ontario and an award winning author about his most recent book, The Dawning of Redemption, which provides an accessible overview of the Pentateuch (the first five books of the Bible). Dr. Vaillancourt is particularly focused on the way the Bible is an unified work and the big themes are introduced early.

Conspiracy – A Press On interview with Jared Stacey

In this week’s podcast, Mike explores the rise of Conspiracy Theories.  What are they? Why are they growing and how do we deal with them. His guest is Jared Stacey, a PhD student in Theological Ethics at the University of Aberdeen in Scotland.

Everything is Not Fine – A Press On interview with Katie Schnack

In this week’s episode of The Press On Podcast, Mike talks with Katie Schnack, the author of Everything is Not Fine: Finding Strength When Life Gets Annoyingly Difficult (IVP: Sept. 2023).  Through lots of stories (and humor) Katie reflects on the struggles she and her husband face when their son is born with very serious – and life-long – medical challenges.

Written In Stone – A Press On interview with Dr. Philip Ryken

Dr. Phil Ryken is a theologian, an author and the President of Wheaton College. He received his BA from Wheaton College, a Master of Divinity (1 of only 2 degrees after which you will likely lose money) – from Westminster Theological Seminary and then did a PhD in historical theology at Oxford. He joined the pastoral staff at 10th Presbyterian church in Philly in 1995 and became the SP there in 2000 following the death of James Montgomery Boice in 2000. In February 2010 he became Wheaton’s e...

International Needs Ghana – A Press On interview with Cromwell Awadey

This week's Press On Podcast is an interview with Cromwell Awadey, the Executive Director for IN (International Needs) Ghana, and one of the more delightful and winsome leaders I’ve been around. Cromwell leads 30 IN staff in their Accra office, and another 115 in the field.  In this interview we talk about the challenges facing Ghana, his leadership style, and some of the remarkable things being done.

Conversations on the Middle East - A Press On interview with Gil Hoffmann

Gil Hoffmann is a prominent Israeli journalist, who, in 2022 was named one of the Top 100 people “positively influencing Jewish life.” He grew up in the Chicago area, graduated from Northwestern and then moved to Israel, where he became an Israeli citizen, served in the Israeli army, and then became the chief political correspondent for the Jerusalem Post. He is currently the executive director of Honest Reporting. 

Reconciliation – A Press On interview with Dr. Salim Munayer

In conjunction with his recent trip to Israel, Mike is re-interviewing several Middle Eastern leaders. In this podcast he speaks with Dr. Salim Munayer, who has spent the last 30 years working in reconciliation work.

B.L.E.S.S. - A Press On interview with Jon Ferguson

In today’s episode, Mike talks with Jon Ferguson, who along with his brother, has: 1) planted a thriving church; 2) launched a church-planting network that has led to the creation of thousands of churches around the world; 3) launched Exponential – a conference for churches that plan churches; and 4) has written several award winning books.  Mike and John spend most of their time talking about  B.L.E.S.S.: Five Everyday Ways to Love Your Neighbor and Change the World.

Israel – 100+ Episode #81

Few countries are as old, confusing or as important as Israel. In today’s podcast, Mike goes to 30,000 feet to look down on the history of Israel from Abraham through the present.

Men's Forum – A Press On interview with Jason Brown

Receive – a Press On interview with Jeff Kemp

In this episode of the podcast I have a chance to talk with Jeff Kemp about men, friendship and his new book, Receive. Jeff, who had an 11 NFL career and who has had lots of experience around politics (his Dad, who also played in the NFL, later served as a congressman and as Secretary of HUD).  You can access a PDF of Jeff’s second book, Men Huddle QuickStart Playbook.

Israel and Judaism – a Press On interview with Roy Schwarcz

In today’s podcast I have a chance to talk with Roy Schwarcz, who was raised Jewish in New York City before becoming a Christian in the early 70s. Roy, who has both undergraduate and graduate degrees in Jewish Studies, not only talks about Israel and Judaism, he answers a bunch of my questions about both.

Where the Truth Resides Pt. 2 - An interview with David Moore - 100+ with Pastor Mike Woodruff

This 100+ podcast is a discussion with author, speaker and podcaster David Moore about the key books and notable theologians of the 20th century.  Listen to a conversation about why we should read and where truth resides. Hear a list of the most influential 20th century people.

Ordering Your Private World – A Press On Interview with Gordon McDonald

Over the last fifty years, Gordon MacDonald has: served as a pastor, written a dozen best-selling books – most notably Ordering Your Private World – and served as a trustee or senior leader at a variety of organizations, including Christianity Today, World Vision, Intervarsity and Denver Seminary. I’ve had the privilege of knowing Gordon for thirty years, have had him speak in a variety of venues – including at Christ Church - and have called him for advice (or encouragement) from time to ti...

Jewish Cartoons – A Press On Interview with Jordan "Gorf" Gorfinkel

In today’s episode, Mike talks with Jordan “Gorf” Gorfinkel about the Koren Tanakh Graphic Novel – his recently released work on the book of Esther. Gorf, a practicing Jew who previously managed the Batman franchise for DC Comics, and who also has a daily comic strip called Jewish Cartoons – has just signed a contract with Koren to turn the Hebrew Scriptures into 24 graphic novels. The Esther edition, which is designed for all ages, features the Hebrew Scriptures on page, and uses the Englis...

Jewish Cartoon – A Press On Interview with Jordan "Gorf" Gorfinkel

In today’s episode, Mike talks with Jordan “Gorf” Gorfinkel about the Koren Tanakh Graphic Novel – his recently released work on the book of Esther. Gorf, a practicing Jew who previously managed the Batman franchise for DC Comics, and who also has a daily comic strip called Jewish Cartoon – has just signed a contract with Koren to turn the Hebrew Scriptures into 24 graphic novels. The Esther edition, which is designed for all ages, features the Hebrew Scriptures on page, and uses the English...

Evangelical Awakenings at American Colleges –a Press On interview with Dr. Michael Gleason

Today Michael Gleason joins Mike Woodruff on the Press On podcast to discuss the revival at Asbury College. Dr. Gleason, who earned both Masters of Divinity and Doctorate of Ministry degrees from Ashland Theological Seminary, and who has held a variety of ministry roles within the church and at various universities, is the author of both: When God Walked on Campus: A Brief History of Evangelical Awakenings at American Colleges and Universities and When God Walked Among Nations: The Leaders a...

Can We Trust the Gospels? –a Press On interview with Dr. Peter Williams

The Press On Podcast with Mike Woodruff welcomes Peter Williams. Peter has an M.A., M.Phil and a PhD from the University of Cambridge.  Before becoming the Principal of Tyndale House at Cambridge, he served as a lecturer in New Testament at the University of Aberdeen and a faculty member in Oriental Studies at Cambridge. Dr. Williams has served or is serving in a variety of academic settings, such as:  Chair of the International Greek New Testament Project and a member of the Translation Com...

Working with the Church in Russia & Ukraine – A Press On interview with Dr. Evan Hunter

Dr. Evan Hunter joins Mike Woodruff on Press On to talk about his ongoing work among church leaders in Russia and Ukraine, including his recent visits there. Evan – who previously served on staff at Christ Church – is a vice president of ScholarLeaders, a globally known organization that encourages and equips theological leaders around the world. He is also the executive editor of InSights Journal for Global Theological Education.

Bullies and Saints – A Press On interview with Dr. John Dickson

Today’s guest is Dr. John Dickson, an engaging author, international speaker and the founding Director of the Centre for Public Christianity (2007-17). John, who has a PhD in Ancient History, who has published over 20 books and produced several television documentaries, and who has taught at around the world, including at Oxford, recently joined the faculty at Wheaton College.  In this conversation we focus on his book, Bullies and Saints, which explores the best and worst in church history ...

Christ's Ascension - a Press On interview with Dr. Chris Ganski

Today on the Press On Podcast Mike interviews Chris Ganski, a pastor-theologian and founder of City Reformed Church in Milwaukee.  Chris holds a MDiv from Princeton Theological Seminary, a PhD in theology from Marquette University and has taught theology at Yale University.  Today Mike and Chris discussed the doctrine of Christ’s ascension.

Where the Truth Resides - An interview with David Moore - 100+ with Pastor Mike Woodruff

This 100+ podcast is a discussion with author, speaker and podcaster David Moore about the key books and notable theologians of the 19th century.  Listen to a conversation about why we should read and where truth resides. Hear a list of the most influential 19th century people, including theologians Friedrich Schleiermacher, Charles Hodge, B.B. Warfield, and Abraham Kuyper. And learn why you should add Emily Dickinson's poetry, Abraham Lincoln’s speeches, Nathaniel Hawthorne and Victor Hugo’...

Done With That – a Press On interview with Bob Merritt

Faith and Politics – An Interview with Dr. Vince Bacote

Ambiguous Loss: Losing a Child to Suicide – Press On with Mike Woodruff

Mike Woodruff sits down with Judy and Harold who lost their son Andrew to suicide less than 2 years ago. This difficult conversation shines a light on the  struggle of mental health and it's effect on faith and family.

Hermeneutics: The Science of Interpretation - An Interview with Dr. Jeannine Brown

The Formation of the Canon - An Interview with Dr. Dana Harris

Rings of Power: A Pastor's Take on J.R.R. Tolkien - A podcast with Pastor Mike Woodruff

Authority and the Bible - An interview with D.A. Carson

Untrustworthy - An interview with Bonnie Kristian

Life and Leadership Lessons from the Corner Office - An Interview with 3 CEOs

100+ Episode 78: The Reality of Modernity

21 Days to Childlike Prayer - An interview with Jed Coppenger

We the Fallen People - An interview with Robert Tracy McKenzie

Legalized Weed and the Church

Today, Pastor Mike is interviewing Andy Duran. Andy is the executive director of L.E.A.D. (Linking Efforts Against Drugs). Together, they discuss the world of legalized recreational marijuana and how it has changed, grown, and even surprised here in Illinois. To check out Pastor Mike's sermon on marijuana, click the link below. https://youtu.be/7NlFwHnHSrI

What is Fundamentalism: Episode #77

100+ is an overview of 100 of the most important people events and ideas of the last 2000 years. This is a survey of the forces and factors that have shaped today's world, western civilization, the Christian faith and you. In today's lecture we will be focusing on fundamentalism, a many faceted term and movement. We will consider it mostly as the early 20th century movement that emerges as a push back against modernity, but we will also note that it expands in a number of different directio...

The Holy Spirit Movement that Changed the World: Episode #76

In today's episode, Pastor Mike Woodruff will be focusing on the Pentecostal and Charismatic Renewal Movements, which, from their humble beginnings in Kansas and California, took the world by storm during the 20th century. 100+ is an overview of 100 of the most important people events and ideas of the last 2000 years. This is a survey of the forces and factors that have shaped today's world, western civilization, the Christian faith and you. This series of lectures is based on the idea that...

The "Wow!" Factor: Exploring the Exponential Changes of the 20th Century - Episode #75 of 100+

100+ is an overview of 100 of the most important people events and ideas of the last 2000 years. This is a survey of the forces and factors that have shaped today's world, western civilization, the Christian faith and you. This series of lectures is based on the idea that if we step back to the early Greeks and Romans and trace how their intersection with the Jews and Christians unfolded through the Middle Ages, Renaissance, Reformation and Enlightenment, modernity and post modernity will no...

100+ Israel Interviews - Part 2 Dr. Salim Munayer

Pastor Mike Woodruff is back with another special episode of 100+. Here he interviews Dr. Salim Munayer while in Israel on a spiritual pilgrimage. Salim is the second of three interviews Pastor Mike did while there, so stay tuned for part three coming next week. 100+ is an overview of 100 of the most important people events and ideas of the last 2000 years. This is a survey of the forces and factors that have shaped today's world, western civilization, the Christian faith and you. This seri...

100+ Israel Interviews - Part 1 Rev. Dr. Yohanna Katanacho

Pastor Mike Woodruff is back with another special episode of 100+. Here he interviews Rev. Dr. Yohanna Katanacho while in Israel on a spiritual pilgrimage. Yohanna is the first of three interviews Pastor Mike did while there, so stay tuned for parts two and three. 100+ is an overview of 100 of the most important people events and ideas of the last 2000 years. This is a survey of the forces and factors that have shaped today's world, western civilization, the Christian faith and you. This se...

100+ 3 Different Perspectives on Israel & Judaism - Interview with Roy Schwarcz

100+ 3 Different Perspectives on Israel & Judaism - Interview with Roy Schwarcz

The Rise of Western Missions in the 19th Century - The Great Century of Protestant Missions

Sigmund Freud and the Social, Sexual, and Marital Dynamics