A podcast by Union Gospel Mission Sacramento that brings you the inspiring stories of life on the other side of redemption. Hosted by Pastor Robert Briggs, Executive Director of the Mission, each episode offers a window into the real lives of those who’ve experienced homelessness, addiction, and deep brokenness — and the hope and transformation found in the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Through powerful personal testimonies, hear about God’s heart for the least, the last, and the lost.
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November 19, 202525 min
Serving with a Heart for Christ | Robert Briggs Interviews Marissa Johnson
Experience a heartfelt conversation on Voices from the Streets as Executive Director Pastor Robert Briggs sits down with Marissa Johnson, a dedicated member of the Union Gospel Mission Sacramento team.Marissa shares her story of growing up in Sacramento, coming to faith at a young age, navigating the challenges of college as a believer, and discovering her calling to serve in ministry. Listeners will hear how her journey through communications studies, various jobs, and volunteer service ultimately led her to the Mission where she now plays a key role in donor services, outreach, and social media communication.Together, Pastor Briggs and Marissa discuss the importance of faithful women in ministry, the value of serving with a humble heart, and the incredible work God continues to do through the mission’s programs, volunteers, and supporters. From behind-the-scenes ministry work to creative outreach efforts, this episode offers an inspiring look at the impact of faithful service and the strength God provides along the way.Tune in and be encouraged by Marissa’s testimony and the ongoing story of what the Lord is doing at Union Gospel Mission Sacramento.
November 18, 202525 min
Answering the Call | Robert Briggs Interviews Franci Haynes
In this powerful episode of Voices from the Streets, Executive Director Pastor Robert Briggs sits down with Union Gospel Mission receptionist—and much more—Franci Haynes. Born and raised in Sacramento, Franci opens up about her unique spiritual journey, from being raised in the Jehovah’s Witness organization to finding true freedom in Christ in her late twenties.Franci shares candidly about seasons of rebellion, deep loss, illness, and how God faithfully brought her back to Himself. Listeners will hear how the Lord led her—through unexpected doors—straight to Union Gospel Mission, where she now serves daily on the front lines of ministry.With a front-row seat to the transforming work happening in the lives of men in the New Life Program, Francie describes the incredible before-and-after moments she witnesses as hardened hearts soften under the gospel. She also reflects on the challenges and urgent needs facing women on the streets of Sacramento.This heartfelt conversation highlights God’s sovereignty, the beauty of redemption, and the vital role compassionate staff like Francie play in the mission’s ministry.Tune in and be encouraged by a testimony of hope, healing, and the life-changing power of Jesus Christ.
August 18, 202525 min
A Frontline Perspective | Robert Briggs Interviews Stephen Jarrett
In this episode of Voices from the Streets, Pastor Robert Briggs talks with Stephen Jarrett, Union Gospel Mission’s Director of Frontline Services. With 39 years of service, Stephen shares his powerful journey from a stable upbringing in New Jersey to a life derailed by addiction, homelessness, and despair and how God’s grace brought him to salvation through the Mission’s chapel ministry.Stephen reflects on his early days at the Mission in the mid-1980s, the transformation of its programs over the decades, and the unique challenges of serving on the front lines, where compassion, firmness, and wisdom are essential. Hear how his own experience on the streets shapes the way he ministers to those in need, and how his faith, family, and church keep him grounded.From handling late-night emergencies to mentoring men in recovery, Stephen’s story is a testament to God’s power to redeem and repurpose a life for His glory. This conversation will encourage you to see the hope that is possible for anyone willing to surrender to Christ.
August 12, 202525 min
From Prison to Purpose | Robert Briggs Interviews Danny Vanek
In this uplifting episode of Voices from the Streets, Pastor Robert Briggs welcomes Union Gospel Mission project manager, Danny Vanek, to share his remarkable story of transformation. Danny’s early years were marked by instability, addiction, and a long prison sentence that left him searching for a way forward. After his release, God led him to the Mission, where he found hope, healing, and a fresh start through the men’s recovery program.Hear how Danny’s journey was shaped by small but powerful moments: acts of kindness from strangers, a simple Scripture pamphlet, and the loving support of the Mission’s staff and volunteers that pointed him toward faith in Christ. Danny also reflects on the wide range of skills he developed over the years, from construction and IT to project management, and how God has woven them together for His purposes.Today, Danny plays a vital role at the Mission, overseeing major renovations to the chapel and dining room, ensuring technology and security run smoothly, and coordinating the car donation program that helps graduates step confidently into their new lives. His testimony is a powerful reminder that no matter your past, God can redeem your story and equip you to serve others. Whether you are facing hardship, working toward change, or looking for encouragement, Danny’s journey will inspire you to trust God’s timing, embrace perseverance, and believe in the hope of a transformed life.
August 4, 202525 min
Faith, Finances, and the Future of UGM | Robert Briggs Interviews Scott Holman
In this episode of Voices from the Streets, Pastor Robert Briggs sits down with Scott Holman, Deputy Director of Union Gospel Mission Sacramento. Scott shares how the Lord saved him while he was in jail in 2010 and gave him a hunger for Scripture and the things of God. That transformation led to a deep involvement in ministry and a long career at UGM, where he has served since 2012. Robert and Scott talk candidly about the behind-the-scenes work of running the Mission, the financial stewardship required to keep it moving, and the prayerful vision for the future—including better healthcare, expanded transitional housing, and outreach to women in crisis. It’s a conversation about calling, faithfulness, and the ongoing work of Christ through UGM.
July 28, 202525 min
Grocery Store to Gospel Work | Robert Briggs Interviews Joe King
In this powerful episode of Voices from the Streets, Executive Director Pastor Robert Briggs sits down with long-time friend and fellow pastor, Joe King, to reflect on Joe’s journey from the streets of South Sacramento to full-time gospel ministry at Union Gospel Mission. Once a dedicated grocery worker for nearly four decades, Joe now serves as a chaplain, pouring his heart into teaching, counseling, and discipling the men in UGM’s 10-month New Life Program. Hear how God used family, faithful churches, and even a Billy Graham crusade to bring Joe to saving faith, and how He continues to use Joe today to bring hope and healing to men in crisis. It’s a story of redemption, calling, and perseverance in the face of brokenness. Don’t miss this encouraging testimony of a man faithfully serving the least, the last, and the lost for the Gospel in the name of Jesus Christ.🔗 Visit ugmsac.org to learn more, support the mission, or plan a visit.
July 21, 202524 min
The Calling to Serve | Robert Briggs Interviews Angela Stetsenko and Rebekah Lathrop (Part 2)
This week on Voices from the Street, Pastor Robert Briggs continues his conversation with Angie and Rebekah, two dedicated young women faithfully serving at Union Gospel Mission. In Part 1, we heard their testimonies of salvation and church involvement. In Part 2, we focus on how God led them to UGM and how their hearts are being shaped through the work they do.From Surrender to ServiceAngie shared how she left her job after being forced to work Sundays, choosing instead to prioritize her church life at City Bible Church. Within two weeks, the Lord opened the door for her to join UGM through a providential meeting with Development Director, Eileen Trussell. She now serves as Public Relations Manager, coordinating volunteer and church communication.Rebekah, who previously worked in nonprofit marketing, spent a year pursuing freelance work before sensing a call to return to people-centered ministry. A friend invited her to help with worship at the Women’s Clothes Closet. That visit led to a divine connection with Eileen and, soon after, Pastor Briggs. She now serves as Marketing Manager, telling the stories of UGM through writing, design, and media outreach.First Impressions of the MissionBoth women reflected on how their initial expectations of UGM were far surpassed by the depth of ministry happening daily. Angie was especially moved by witnessing a Men's New Life Program graduation early in her time at the Mission, seeing firsthand the life transformation made possible through the Gospel. Rebekah remarked on the sobering contrast of outward brokenness and inner spiritual need—and the beauty of seeing God bring light into dark places.The Weight of Women’s MinistryThe conversation also turned to the challenges facing women on Sacramento’s streets. Both women acknowledged the overwhelming need for Gospel-centered care and recovery for women. While UGM currently offers clothing, showers, meals, and Bible studies for women, the lack of long-term, Christ-centered housing and recovery programs in Sacramento remains a major concern. “We have what can truly change lives—the Gospel,” Rebekah noted.What They Do at UGMAs part of the Development team, Angie and Rebekah help connect donors, volunteers, and churches to the ongoing work of the Mission. Angie handles communication with over 60 churches and countless volunteers. Rebecca oversees marketing, social media, storytelling, and future branding efforts. Together, they help ensure that others can see the powerful ways God is at work—even if they never step foot on the campus.Pastor Briggs' Closing WordsPastor Briggs expressed deep gratitude for these two women and others like them who serve not out of convenience, but conviction. “You’re not Christians by convenience,” he said, “you’re Christians by conviction.” Their presence, faithfulness, and love for the Lord continue to bless the Mission and encourage everyone around them.If you'd like to see the work happening at UGM for yourself, tours are available on Wednesdays at 2:00 PM. Visit ugmsac.com or call 916-447-3268 for more information.
July 14, 202525 min
Stories of Grace | Robert Briggs Interviews Angela Stetsenko and Rebekah Lathrop (Part 1)
In this special episode of Voices from the Street, Pastor Robert Briggs sits down with two remarkable young women serving at Union Gospel Mission: Angela Stetsenko and Rebekah Lathrop. For the first time, Pastor Briggs welcomes two staff members into the studio at once to share their unique stories of faith, calling, and service.Angela, originally from Ukraine, and Rebekah, a Sacramento native, open up about their childhoods, their experiences in the church, and the deeply personal journeys that led them to saving faith in Jesus Christ. From Slavic altar calls to riverside baptisms, their testimonies reveal the mysterious, sovereign work of God in drawing people to Himself—often in unexpected ways.Tune in to hear how these two women came to embrace the gospel, the churches that helped shape them, and how the Lord led them to serve at the Union Gospel Mission. It’s a conversation full of honesty, encouragement, and a powerful reminder of how God uses ordinary lives for extraordinary kingdom work.🔗 For more about Union Gospel Mission Sacramento, visit ugmsac.com 📞 Or call us at 916-427-3268
June 30, 202525 min
Wandering, Wounded, Redeemed | Robert Briggs Interviews Cliff West
In this powerful and deeply moving episode of Voices from the Street, Pastor Robert Briggs sits down with Cliff West, a staff member at the Sacramento Union Gospel Mission, to share the remarkable story of his life — a testimony of brokenness, survival, and ultimately, redemption through Christ.Cliff opens up about his childhood marked by poverty, abuse, and instability, growing up in the Inland Empire of Southern California. From being a ward of the state and cycling through foster care, to struggling with addiction, incarceration, homelessness, and personal loss, Cliff's journey is a raw and honest account of life on the margins.But this isn’t just a story of hardship — it’s a story of hope. Cliff recounts how God met him in his darkest hour, leading him to the doors of the Union Gospel Mission, where he encountered the gospel of Jesus Christ for the first time. Through the mission’s program, biblical counseling, and the support of a faith-filled community, Cliff experienced a radical transformation and found true purpose and peace in Christ.Join us as we witness the grace of God at work in one man’s life — from the streets to salvation. You won’t want to miss this incredible testimony.
June 23, 202525 min
From Grief to Grace | Robert Briggs Interviews Matthew Biro
Join us on Voices from the Street, the inspiring radio ministry of the Sacramento Union Gospel Mission. In this special episode, Executive Director and pastor Robert Briggs welcomes staff member Matt Biro to reflect on faith, transformation, and service.Matt shares his journey—from a comfortable California childhood, through deep loss and addiction, to a life reclaimed by the gospel. Hear how grief claimed both his parents within weeks, driving him into a spiral of alcoholism and despair. At his lowest, Matt found hope and purpose through God’s grace at the Union Gospel Mission, where discipleship, community, and the opportunity to serve others set him on a new path.Together, Pastor Briggs and Matt explore:The impact of grief and the struggle with addictionHow encountering Christ at a crisis point sparked life-changing transformationThe importance of discipleship, church fellowship, and the discipline of repentanceA life now devoted to serving at UGM—using his talents in finance, IT, HR, and mentorship to give backThis deeply personal testimony shines a light on God’s restorative power and the mission’s commitment to reaching the least, the last, and the lost in Sacramento. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation that offers hope, healing, and the transformative love of Christ.
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