After Yes

Hosted by Michael Thaler

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Apr 2025

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About the show

Friends and fellow travelers to Niger, Africa share their own stories of how saying yes to going on a LINK Mission has impacted the way they think about the world, their faith, and the way they live their lives today.

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45 recent

April 18, 20258 min

Malcolm Shealy: Stepping Out in Faith

In this episode of After Yes, host Michael Thaler talks with Malcolm Shealy, retired engineer-turned-teacher who decided to say yes to traveling to Niger after years of hesitation. Malcolm reflects on overcoming his fears, the surprises he encountered in Niger, and the profound impact of witnessing God’s work firsthand. From visiting schools supported by Effective Ministries to realizing the depth of joy in the midst of poverty, Malcolm’s story highlights the transformative power of stepping outside your comfort zone and trusting God."The only place we are truly safe is in the arms of the Lord." – Malcolm ShealyIn This Episode: Overcoming hesitation: How Malcolm’s friends persisted in encouraging him to join the mission trip, despite his initial reservations. The sensory experience of Niger: The profound difference between seeing photos of a place and experiencing its sights, sounds, and culture in person. The joy amidst poverty: Malcolm reflects on how the people of Niger exhibit deep joy despite their material hardships, challenging Western assumptions about happiness. Visiting Christian schools: A defining moment as Malcolm witnessed the powerful impact of Effective Ministries’ education initiatives, even attracting Muslim families. The importance of not letting fear rule: Malcolm shares how his experience in Niger taught him to lean on God rather than give in to fear.Are you ready to say yes to what God has placed on your heart? Learn more about mission opportunities in Niger by visiting https://www.effectiveministries.org/link-missions/.

April 16, 202512 min

Kimberly Lambert: A Family's Journey of Obedience

In this episode of After Yes, host Michael Thaler welcomes Kimberly Lambert, a wife and mother of three whose family said yes to missions in Niger. Kimberly shares how God placed Africa on her heart long before she even realized what it meant. From an unexpected meeting at a Serve Day event to taking three life-changing trips to Niger with her family, Kimberly reflects on how saying yes transformed their faith and deepened their trust in God's plans. Tune in to hear about her defining moments in Niger, the unexpected blessings of missions, and her encouragement to others who feel a nudge toward something bigger."If you feel a nudge, just be obedient. The blessing is waiting on the other side." – Kimberly LambertIn This Episode: The unexpected connection that led Kimberly and her family to Niger. God’s perfect timing in aligning her heart’s desire for missions with her family’s support. A defining moment while washing children's hands, realizing the profound privilege of serving together with her husband for Christ’s kingdom. The unexpected blessings of missions: How Kimberly was transformed more than she ever expected by the people of Niger. Encouragement to follow God’s call: Overcoming fear and doubt to experience the incredible blessings of obedience.Are you ready to say yes to what God has placed on your heart? Learn more about mission opportunities in Niger by visiting https://www.effectiveministries.org/link-missions/.

November 18, 2024Episode 4324 min

Hunter Nuckols: Breaking Down Walls in Niger

In this inspiring episode of After Yes, host Michael Thaler speaks with Hunter Nuckols, a high school teacher and father of four, who has traveled to Niger three times in the past year. Hunter shares his journey of breaking through personal and logistical barriers to say yes to mission work, the profound impact it’s had on his faith, and how the people of Niger have forever changed his perspective on life. Hunter reflects on moments of joy, resilience, and the importance of community, sharing how serving others has also transformed his own heart. Whether it’s feeding children in the desert or witnessing his wife and daughter embrace the mission field, Hunter’s story is a testament to the beauty of stepping into God’s calling. "If your heart at all is thinking, ‘I should,’ then God is talking to you. Don’t let those walls stop you." – Hunter Nuckols In This Episode: How Hunter’s first trip to Niger in July 2023 sparked a passion to keep returning. A pivotal moment watching his wife and daughter embrace the mission, including his wife’s baptism. The challenges and rewards of feeding children at Don Chendu, one of the most impactful stops on each trip. A joyful and transformative interaction with a shy child at the Cure Hospital, reminding Hunter of the power of connection. The faith and dedication of Niger’s local leaders, who continue to inspire Hunter’s own walk with God. How mission work in Niger has changed Hunter’s approach to his career as a teacher, fostering deeper connections with his students. Encouragement to overcome obstacles, break down walls, and trust God’s ability to pave the way. Call to Action:Take the first step to say your own yes. Learn more about mission opportunities and how you can make a difference by visiting https://www.effectiveministries.org/link-missions/.

November 4, 202413 min

Trish Hogan: Embracing the Unexpected Journey

In this heartfelt episode of After Yes, host Michael Thaler welcomes Trish Hogan, a compassionate mother and life coach from New York, to share her experiences of saying "yes" to a mission trip to Niger. From forming deep bonds with fellow team members to witnessing life-changing moments, Trish reflects on how this journey revitalized her faith and reshaped her view of the world. Listen in as Trish shares stories of joy, connection, and the profound beauty of trusting God’s plan. "Take a leap of faith, say yes, and it might exceed your wildest dreams." – Trish Hogan In This Episode: Trish’s spontaneous decision to join the mission trip after a simple invitation from Lee Hatcher. The surprising tranquility and sense of peace experienced immediately upon arriving in Niger. A defining moment on the rooftop where Trish’s nephew William shared heartfelt words, deepening their bond. The impact of her roommate Tasha’s unreserved faith and how it encouraged Trish to embrace a more open-hearted approach to worship. How witnessing the dedication of local leaders, Edwar and Em, sparked a renewed passion for faith and community in Trish’s life. The lasting impression left by the joy and innocence of the children in Niger, and how their interactions moved Trish’s heart. If you're inspired to say your own "yes" and see where God leads you, you can explore opportunities to support or join missions through the following link: https://www.effectiveministries.org/link-missions/.

October 21, 202415 min

Anita Cantrell: Worship, Missions, & Saying Yes to God's Plan

In this episode of After Yes, host Michael Thaler interviews Anita Cantrell, a worship leader with a heart for missions. Anita shares how God unexpectedly opened the door for her to join a mission trip to Niger, combining her love for music with her passion for ministry. Listen as she recalls transformative moments of worship with the local church and reflects on how stepping out in faith deepened her relationship with God. This conversation will inspire you to trust in God’s perfect timing and say yes to His plans for your life. "If you make yourself available, anything is possible." – Anita Cantrell In This Episode: The unexpected opportunity of combining her passion for music and missions. The overwhelming contrast between the poverty in Niger and the vibrant faith and joy of its people. A powerful worship moment when local believers, eager to praise, began singing, filling the room with the undeniable presence of God. The unreserved, joyful worship of the Nigerian church. Trusting God's timing and what He has put on your heart. Are you ready to say yes to what God has placed on your heart? Explore mission opportunities and find out how you can get involved in Niger by visiting https://www.effectiveministries.org/link-missions/

October 7, 202414 min

Alison Creger: Finding Purpose Beyond Comfort Zones

In this episode, Alison Creger, a retired social worker originally from the Northeast, shares her inspiring journey of saying yes to mission work in Niger. Alison talks about how her professional experiences prepared her heart for missions and how a persistent sense of calling finally led her to take a leap of faith. From a deep desire to serve alongside her family to discovering that God’s plan was uniquely for her, Alison’s story highlights the importance of faith over fear and trusting the Holy Spirit’s guidance even when the path seems unclear. "If I allowed myself to be afraid, I would never have gone. So instead, I placed my faith in Jesus, and He paved the way from that point forward." In This Episode: Alison’s unique path to Niger, which started with an invitation for her sons and husband—and how she ultimately decided it was her turn to say yes. The surprising attitude of the people of Niger, who despite poverty and hardships, remain humble and joyful. A defining moment of seeing Muslim women participate in the team’s Bible stories and later choosing to accept Jesus as their Savior. The impact of stepping out in faith and embracing the motto “faith over fear,” both in Niger and in Alison’s everyday life. A powerful quote on how missing God’s opportunities can lead to regret and the encouragement to take God-ordained risks. Learn more about LINK Missions and see upcoming mission opportunities.

September 16, 20247 min

Grace Hogan: The Joy of Saying Yes to Missions

In this episode, Grace Hogan, an English teacher from Chester, shares her life-changing experience of saying yes to missions in Niger. Grace reflects on how the people of Niger and the time she spent there strengthened her faith and gave her a new perspective on life. From interacting with children at a local hospital to sharing meaningful moments on rooftops, Grace's journey is a powerful reminder of the transformation that comes from stepping out in faith. Her story offers encouragement to those considering their own next steps in serving others and trusting God. "I feel that I'm stronger in faith. I'm a different person from going through that experience, and I just think I'm forever changed." ~ Grace Hogan In This Episode: Grace's spontaneous decision to say yes to Niger, inspired by her family and mission debriefs. The powerful impact of interacting with the joyful people of Niger, especially the children at the hospital. Rooftop reflections that connected Grace with others on the team and deepened her faith. How a simple memento from her trip serves as a daily reminder of the transformation that took place during her time in Niger. The lasting impact of the mission trip on Grace's perspective on life, faith, and her role as a teacher. Learn more about LINK Missions and see upcoming mission opportunities.

September 1, 202411 min

Savannah Harper: Trusting God's Plan Through Missions

In this episode, Savannah Harper, a 17-year-old senior at Hanover High School, shares her inspiring journey of saying yes to mission trips in Niger. With plans to pursue a career in social work, Savannah reflects on how these experiences have shaped her faith and direction in life. From her early desire to serve in Niger, inspired by her family's mission work, to the transformative moments she's encountered on her trips, Savannah's story is a testament to the power of trust in God's plan. Her experiences reveal how stepping out in faith, even in the face of uncertainty, can lead to profound personal and spiritual growth. "No matter what, just trust in God and you don't have to have all the answers right now." In This Episode: Savannah’s early inspiration to join mission trips, stemming from her family’s involvement. The surprising comfort she found in Niger despite previous anxieties about traveling. How a particularly stressful year led to a powerful moment of connection with God during her mission trip. The impact of Niger on Savannah's understanding of faith and reliance on God in difficult times. The influence of her mission experiences on her decision to pursue a career in social work. Learn more about LINK Missions and see upcoming mission opportunities.

August 20, 202425 min

Amy Williams: Transformational Stories from Medical Missions

In the episode, Amy Williams, the Medical Missions Directer at Effective Ministries, shares her transformative journey of saying yes to missions, particularly her impactful experiences in Niger. Amy's deep-rooted faith and her willingness to step out of her comfort zone offer invaluable insights into personal growth through service and the rewards of overcoming fear in spiritual journeys. Her recount of initiating cataract surgery missions in Niger showcases the profound impact of medical missions in Africa, emphasizing the life-changing outcomes and the reinforcement of faith that comes through service. Amy's story underscores the power of saying yes to God's calling and the ripple effect it can have on one's faith, perspective, and life. Her message resonates with individuals seeking spiritual growth through service and missions, highlighting the potential for increased faith and personal transformation through service and saying yes. By tuning in to this episode, listeners can gain a deeper understanding of the impact of saying yes to mission trips, the benefits of medical missions in Africa, and the profound personal growth realized through faith and service. "Enjoy the journey. Relax. He's got you. He's got this whatever it is you're going through. He's got your answer, he's got your provision, he's got your peace of mind. He's got your healing if you need it. Enjoy the journey. Relax. He's a big dad with big arms and he just wants you to enjoy the journey with him driving the car. He's got you." - Amy Williams In this Episode: Embracing the power of saying yes to mission trips can transform your faith and life in unexpected ways. Serving in Niger provides eye-opening experiences and a chance to make a meaningful impact in a vibrant community. Discover personal growth through faith and service, unlocking new levels of fulfillment and purpose. Overcoming fear in spiritual journeys leads to incredible breakthroughs and a deepening of your spiritual connection. Explore the immense benefits of participating in medical missions in Africa, where you can make a tangible impact on healthcare in underserved communities. Learn more about LINK Missions and see upcoming mission opportunities⁠

August 5, 202417 min

Justine Walton: The Power of Saying Yes

Justine Walton, a 25-year-old history teacher, shares her transformative journey of saying yes to God's call and volunteering in Niger. Introduced to the opportunity through her connection with the host's family, Justine's genuine yes led her to Niger, where she was deeply impacted by the warmth and generosity of the Nigerien people. Her experience reshaped her perspective on daily complaints and taking things for granted, ultimately empowering her to seek re-baptism in Niger and find a church community back home. Justine's emphasis on the importance of saying yes to God and overcoming fear to pursue spiritual growth offers valuable insights for individuals seeking deeper faith and personal growth. Her journey is a compelling reminder of the life-changing opportunities that can arise from embracing faith and community connections. By listening to this episode, you'll gain a firsthand perspective on the impact of mission trips on faith, the power of building community connections, and the significance of overcoming fear to pursue spiritual growth. Every part of my body wanted to come back. Every single part of me was like, I'm coming back here. Like, I just fell in love with Niger and the people there. - Justine Walton Embrace life-changing opportunities by saying yes to God's call. Gain valuable insights from volunteering experiences in Niger. Discover the profound impact of mission trips on your faith journey. Learn effective strategies for building strong community connections within church groups. Overcome fear and take meaningful steps towards spiritual growth. Learn more about LINK Missions and see upcoming mission opportunities⁠