Pages of Godlight Podcast

Episode 4: "Intimate Good: A Skeptical Christian Mystic in Conversation with Teresa of Avila" with Author Laurel Mathewson

In this episode of the Pages of Godlight Podcast, Christine Whitaker sits down with author Laurel Mathewson to discuss her thought-provoking book Intimate Good: A Skeptical Christian Mystic in Conversations with Teresa of Avila. Laurel shares her unique journey as a modern Christian wrestling with skepticism, doubt, and the mystic traditions of the faith, engaging in a spiritual dialogue with one of the Church’s great mystics, Teresa of Avila.
The conversation explores Laurel's personal reflections on prayer, intimacy with God, and the search for authentic spirituality in today’s world. Through the lens of Teresa’s writings, Laurel opens up about her struggle to reconcile doubt with faith and how these ancient teachings can still offer wisdom and transformation. Join us for a deep, insightful exploration of the intersection of mysticism, skepticism, and the pursuit of divine intimacy.
Tune in for an enriching discussion filled with wisdom, vulnerability, and spiritual discovery.

Episode 5: "A Pilgrim's Progress: An Illustrated Adventure for Kids" with Illustrator Phil A. Smouse

In this episode of the Pages of Godlight Podcast, Christine Whitaker sits down with award-winning illustrator Phil A. Smouse to discuss his vibrant and engaging adaptation of A Pilgrim's Progress: An Illustrated Adventure for Kids. This beloved classic by John Bunyan is re-imagined for a younger audience, complete with captivating illustrations that bring Christian's journey to life in a way that both educates and entertains.
Phil shares his creative process and inspiration behind transforming this timeless allegory into an accessible and visually appealing story for children. Join us as we explore how A Pilgrim’s Progress continues to inspire new generations, teaching kids valuable lessons about faith, perseverance, and hope through a fun and colorful adventure.
Tune in for an insightful and imaginative conversation about making classic Christian literature come alive for young readers!

Episode 3, Part 2: "I Didn’t Survive: Emerging Whole After Deception, Persecution, and Hidden Abuse" with Naghmeh Abedini and co-authored with Eugene Bach

In the continuation of Naghmeh Abedini’s gripping story, Pages of Godlight Podcast dives deeper into her journey of survival and transformation. Hosted by Christine Whitaker, Part 2 of I Didn’t Survive: Emerging Whole After Deception, Persecution, and Hidden Abuse explores the aftermath of Naghmeh’s public battle for her imprisoned husband and the personal revelations that followed. Naghmeh shares how she confronted the hidden abuse she endured and her path to rediscovering herself in the midst of global attention, personal betrayal, and spiritual struggle.
She co-authored this book with Eugene Bach, this episode delves into the difficult, yet liberating process of healing from toxic relationships and reclaiming a life of faith, dignity, and wholeness. Join us for an inspiring discussion on finding hope and freedom after darkness.
Tune in for Part 2 as the story unfolds with raw vulnerability and a message of courage and grace.

Episode 2, Part 1: "I Didn’t Survive: Emerging Whole After Deception, Persecution, and Hidden Abuse" with Naghmeh Abedini and co-authored with Eugene Bach

In this episode of the Pages of Godlight Podcast, Christine Whitaker of Whitaker House Publishing sits down with Naghmeh Abedini to discuss this powerful book, I Didn’t Survive: Emerging Whole After Deception, Persecution, and Hidden Abuse. Naghmeh courageously shares her personal journey through years of hidden abuse, deception, and spiritual persecution while being thrust into the international spotlight as she fought for the release of her imprisoned husband, Saeed. With raw honesty, Naghmeh reflects on the emotional and spiritual turmoil she endured and the transformative process of healing and wholeness that followed. This conversation dives deep into the themes of resilience, faith, and the path to restoration after profound betrayal. Don't miss this moving and insightful discussion on reclaiming identity, trust, and hope amidst unimaginable suffering.
Tune in for Part 1 of this gripping episode.  And follow along for the conclusion of this story in our next episode.

Episode 1, Intro: Why We Like to Read

Episode 1: The Beginning of Pages of GodLight – A Journey Through Words and Light
Welcome to the inaugural episode of the Pages of GodLight Podcast, where we dive into the magic of books and the brilliance of storytelling. Hosted by Christine Whitaker of Whitaker House Publishers, along with special guests Amy Bartlett and Chip MacGregor, this first episode is a heartwarming introduction to the podcast's mission: to uncover the sacred light within the pages of the books we love.
Christine, a lifelong book lover, shares her journey of how reading became more than just a hobby—it became a way to glimpse the divine, those “patches of GodLight” as C.S. Lewis described, where moments of truth and beauty break through. Alongside Amy and Chip, two industry veterans, Christine explores how their love for reading led them not just to a passion for stories, but into careers where they now bring books to life for readers worldwide.
In this rich, thoughtful conversation, you’ll hear about the books that first drew these publishing experts in, the power of words to illuminate the human experience, and how stories have the potential to be transformational. Together, they reflect on the moments in their reading journeys that stopped them in their tracks—the spots of brilliance that seemed speak directly to them.
In this episode, you’ll discover:
How Christine, Amy, and Chip found their passion for books and the publishing industry.
Their favorite reads that still inspire awe and wonder.
Personal stories of how literature creates moments of light in the darkest times.
What to expect from future episodes of Pages of GodLight.
If you're a lover of words, storytelling, and the magic that books can hold, this is an episode you won’t want to miss! Join us for a deep dive into the world of books, as we aim to uncover bright spots of wisdom, insight, and the divine light that shines through every carefully crafted story.
Tune in and let Pages of GodLight bring inner peace and inspiration to all levels of book enthusiasts.