Elijah Rising

Human trafficking happens closer to home than most people realize—often through those we trust most. Angela Williams shares her powerful testimony of surviving commercial sexual exploitation in Houston, from her first exposure at age 12 to her miraculous extraction eight years ago. Now an advocate working directly with law enforcement and at-risk youth, Angela offers raw insights into the realities of trafficking, the grooming process, and the hope that sustained her through her darkest moments. In this episode, we discuss the myths surrounding trafficking, the challenges survivors face when seeking help, and what communities can do to combat this crisis. Angela's story reveals how faith, determination, and the right resources can transform lives and break the chains of exploitation. Send us a text Support the show Learn more about Elijah Rising » Follow us on Instagram » Donate and Support Our Work »

Did you know that the average age of exposure to pornography is just nine years old? Join us as we dive deep into one of the most critical conversations facing families and faith communities today. Micah sits down with Phuong, Associate Director at Demand Disruption, to discuss how churches and parents can protect children from exploitation and break the cycle that fuels human trafficking demand. In this episode, Phuong shares her expertise on targeting the demand side of trafficking through education, prevention, and community empowerment. Learn practical tools for starting age-appropriate conversations with children, creating safe spaces for families to address these complex topics, and understanding the dangerous landscape kids face online today. About Our Guest: Phuong Marquez is the Associate Director at Demand Disruption, one of the few organizations dedicated to addressing the demand side of human trafficking. She works to enhance church partnerships and implement educational workshops that empower communities to combat exploitation through prevention and awareness. Resources Mentioned: Demand Disruption: demanddisruption.org For general questions: info@demanddisruption.org To reach Phuong directly: impact@demanddisruption.org Disruption University learning platform: https://disruptionu.demanddisruption.org/ Send us a text Support the show Learn more about Elijah Rising » Follow us on Instagram » Donate and Support Our Work »

What happens when God calls you into a completely new season of ministry after decades of faithful service? In this powerful episode, Micah sits down with Michelle Frank, co-founder of Safe Places for Women and author of "Leading After Loss," to explore the journey of navigating major life and ministry transitions. In this episode, you'll discover: How to discern when God is calling you into a new season The vital importance of processing change and transition well Why walking through difficult seasons with Jesus is essential for healthy leadership Practical steps to find mentors and champions in your ministry journey How season changes can position you for greater kingdom impact Whether you're walking through your own season of transition or simply want to build resilience for leadership changes ahead, Michelle's hard-won wisdom will encourage and equip you to lead with hope through any season. Michelle Frank has been in anti-trafficking ministry for nearly 20 years. She co-founded Safe Places for Women, which grew to serve survivors across multiple states. Now in a new season of ministry, she coaches and consults with ministry leaders nationwide through InPower Partnerships. Her book "Leading After Loss: How to Navigate Grief and Brave New Beginnings" is available on Amazon. Send us a text Support the show Learn more about Elijah Rising » Follow us on Instagram » Donate and Support Our Work »

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Dennis and Bobbie Mark, founders of Redeemed Ministries and true pioneers in the anti-trafficking movement. After 19 years of dedicated service, they share their journey from strip club outreach to opening one of Texas's first residential homes for sex trafficking survivors. Dennis and Bobbie discuss the evolution of trauma-informed care, the challenges of building programs without precedent, and how their work has influenced law enforcement approaches to supporting victims Their story reveals the heart behind the statistics and demonstrates how commitment to serving the most vulnerable can create lasting change. This episode offers valuable insights for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of anti-trafficking work and the power of restoration. Send us a text Support the show Learn more about Elijah Rising » Follow us on Instagram » Donate and Support Our Work »

Every organization working to combat human trafficking dreams of the day their services won't be needed. At Elijah Rising, we've spent 2024 moving closer to that vision through direct action, community support, and faith-based healing. Join hosts David and Micah as they share inspiring stories of transformation from their anti-trafficking work in Houston, including milestone achievements in survivor recovery, program expansion, and community impact. Learn how this frontline organization is planning an even bigger vision for 2025 to help more survivors find lasting freedom. Send us a text Support the show Learn more about Elijah Rising » Follow us on Instagram » Donate and Support Our Work »

In this episode, David and Dawn break down the recent P. Diddy trafficking allegations to explore a crucial but often misunderstood aspect of sex trafficking: coercion. Drawing from their extensive experience in anti-trafficking work, they discuss how traffickers use psychological manipulation, false promises of stardom, and drug-based coercion to exploit victims. Learn why many trafficking victims don't initially identify as such, and how cultural influences and power dynamics play a role in exploitation. This eye-opening conversation challenges common misconceptions about trafficking and provides valuable insights into recognizing the signs of coercion. Send us a text Support the show Learn more about Elijah Rising » Follow us on Instagram » Donate and Support Our Work »

Elijah Rising was founded as a prayer meeting. In this episode we share how prayer was foundational to us becoming who we are today, but also how it has helped us continue in the mission to combat human trafficking. Send us a text Support the show Learn more about Elijah Rising » Follow us on Instagram » Donate and Support Our Work »

After adopting a daughter from China, Tom Broyles' life took a transformative turn from practicing law to pursuing mission work driven by faith and purpose. Discover how his legal expertise and faith uniquely prepared him for this impactful mission, blending professional skills with a heartfelt commitment to service. Listen as Tom shares the emotional and logistical steps they took to establish a safe home for minors, emphasizing the challenges and victories along the way. The psychological toll of working with trauma victims is a stark theme in this episode, as Tom delves into the concept of vicarious trauma and the importance of self-care.  From the harrowing realities of sex trafficking in Houston to the cultural shifts encountered upon returning to the U.S., the resilience required for such mission-driven work is evident.  Send us a text Support the Show. Learn more about Elijah Rising » Follow us on Instagram » Donate and Support Our Work »

Why do so many foster care systems fall short in providing adequate support for vulnerable children and families? Amber's firsthand experiences highlighted critical gaps within the foster care system, motivating her to establish the Riverside Project. Riverside Project focuses on collaborative system change and the mobilization of churches and communities to fill gaps in the foster care system. We also explore the complexities and potential of transitioning to a community-based foster care model. Amber emphasizes the benefits and challenges of fostering regional ownership and community collaboration. Whether through volunteering, praying, or responding to local needs, everyone has something valuable to offer. Learn more at https://riversideproject.org/ and don't forget to like, subscribe, and share. Send us a Text Message. Support the Show. Learn more about Elijah Rising » Follow us on Instagram » Donate and Support Our Work »

Teen trafficking is closer to home than you think, and it's happening in our schools. Join us as we unravel the shocking story of a Klein ISD teacher allegedly leading a network exploiting runaway teens for prostitution.  We break down the disturbing timeline revealing the tactics traffickers use to manipulate vulnerable youth. From street names to social media grooming, learn the red flags that can save lives. Our discussion highlights the critical role of education and awareness in fighting human trafficking, urging schools and communities to stay vigilant. Tune in to understand how you can make a difference and protect at-risk youth. Send us a Text Message. Join us at the Abolition Summit in Atlanta, GA on July 24-26. Register online at https://abolitionsummit.com Support the Show. Learn more about Elijah Rising » Follow us on Instagram » Donate and Support Our Work »

What is familial trafficking and how does Hands of Justice support survivors? In this episode, Carrie Harney with Hands of Justice tells us her personal story of being trafficked as a child. It took Carrie many years to realize what she had experienced was exploitation, and it was not until she attended a Hands of Justice event as an adult and heard their presentation that she was able to identify herself as a survivor of trafficking. Carrie now works as an Advocate for Hands of Justice and walks us through the many services they provide to survivors. Carrie discusses: Her own personal vulnerabilities that led to a trafficking situation The importance of economic empowerment for survivors and what Hands of Justice does to help them achieve that Beautiful stories of redemption that Hands of Justice has experienced with the women they serve Learn more at: https://www.handsofjustice.org/ Send us a Text Message. Join us at the Abolition Summit in Atlanta, GA on July 24-26. Register online at https://abolitionsummit.com Support the Show. Learn more about Elijah Rising » Follow us on Instagram » Donate and Support Our Work »

What if understanding the financial underpinnings of human trafficking could revolutionize the fight against it? Youngbee Dale is a researcher and anti-trafficking expert. We take a deep dive into the operational dynamics of global trafficking networks.  In our discussion, we explore the persistent challenges law enforcement faces, especially within illicit massage parlors, where shutting down one location often breeds many more opening. We also cover these topics: How traffickers use coercion and tactics to evade detection A call for more sophisticated investigative methods  The crucial role of public vigilance and the church Learn more about Youngbee's research online: https://www.dale-consulting.com/ Send us a Text Message. Support the Show. Learn more about Elijah Rising » Follow us on Instagram » Donate and Support Our Work »

How is 3in1 Mechanical Ministries filling the gap of transportation for overcomers of trafficking? In our work with women in Restorative Care, we have found that once they complete our program and have jobs and housing, we always still have the missing piece of transportation. In order to help our graduates be set up for success, they need a reliable way to get to and from work. Otherwise, they immediately find themselves in a vulnerable situation again. That’s where 3in1 Mechanical ministries comes in. Ross Peters, their Founder and CEO, shares with us how his lifelong love of cars transformed into a nonprofit that gives away cars to people in need. Ross also discusses: The lack of transportation-related nonprofits not just in Houston, but all of the United States The importance of providing reliable vehicles and follow-up care for clients The amazing ways God opened doors to create this new nonprofit and some of the success stories they’ve seen Support the Show. Learn more about Elijah Rising » Follow us on Instagram » Donate and Support Our Work »

What does recovery and restoration look like after addiction and trafficking? This is the third and final episode in this series with Jessica Gobble, Elijah Rising’s Recovery Specialist. In this episode, Jessica talks about the deep shame embedded in people who have experienced addiction and trafficking, as well as the hope and restoration available to them. Jessica also explains: Recovery is not linear; relapse is often part of recovery There is so much shame deeply embedded in people who have experienced trafficking and addiction, but we want them to experience complete freedom from shame Full restoration comes from Jesus “Addiction is cunning, baffling, and powerful. But there is One that holds all power.” -Alcoholics Anonymous Support the Show. Learn more about Elijah Rising » Follow us on Instagram » Donate and Support Our Work »

What new drug trends are we seeing and why are they so concerning? This is the second episode in our series with Jessica Gobble, Elijah Rising’s Recovery Specialist. In this episode, Jessica goes over the most popular types of drugs right now and why they are so dangerous, specifically to young people.  In this episode, Jessica sheds light on: The persistent surge of fentanyl and its devastating impact. The largest resurgence of stimulants since the 1980's. Why so many deadly drugs are currently legal. Uncover the intricate web of addiction and trafficking, where profit margins drive the exploitation of vulnerable individuals. Support the show Learn more about Elijah Rising » Follow us on Instagram » Donate and Support Our Work »

Why and how do we address recovery in Elijah Rising Restorative Care? In this episode, Jessica Gobble, Elijah Rising’s Recovery Specialist, explains how addiction feeds trafficking and trafficking feeds addiction.  Traffickers have learned that they are able to make more profit off of an exploited individual when they exploit them in multiple ways.  For instance, if a trafficker coerces a woman into transporting drugs across the border, distributing them, and then engaging in prostitution, they generate more profit compared to solely exploiting them for sex. This overlap between addiction and trafficking is prevalent for numerous reasons.  Jessica also discusses: The distinction between forced and voluntary drug use, and their distinct impacts on individuals. The significance of medical detox and its role in the recovery process. The importance of empowering individuals to direct their own healing journey and providing support as allies. Support the showLearn more about Elijah Rising » Follow us on Instagram » Donate and Support Our Work »

We're joined by special guest Frankie Mazzapica, pastor at the Celebration Church in The Woodlands, Texas, and a longtime partner with Elijah Rising. Frankie brings profound insights on prayer from his  new book, Ignite Your Life: 14 Things that Happen When You Pray. Frankie shares how prayer has drastically altered his life and its effect on others. Don't miss this episode, it has a ton of great insight for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of prayer's impact on everyday life. Ignite Your Life: 14 Things That Happen When You Pray » Support the showLearn more about Elijah Rising » Follow us on Instagram » Donate and Support Our Work »

Check out this bonus episode where we share the story about an Elijah Rising presentation that went horribly wrong! Our Executive Director, Micah Gamboa, experienced cardiac arrest during her presentation at Celebration Church of The Woodlands. Amazingly, God worked a miracle, and Micah was able to recover in just a few days with no lasting effects. Hear the story from Pastor Frankie Mazzapica on what it was like to walk through this experience, and the amazing testimonies of how God is using this testimony to bring healing to others! Support the showLearn more about Elijah Rising » Follow us on Instagram » Donate and Support Our Work »

We created this series of bonus episodes where we share some of the crazy stories we experience in ministry. In this episode we share the story about one of our volunteers stepping into a full-time role in anti-trafficking and the resistance he had to overcome to step into his role! Support the showLearn more about Elijah Rising » Follow us on Instagram » Donate and Support Our Work »

We sat down with Joe Madison of Dean Disruption to look into the future of exploitation. Everyone is aware of the growing use and fast growing advancement of artificial intelligence. There is no doubt that technology will impact commercial sexual exploitation in a major way. In this episode we look at the role of technology in increasing demand for sex trafficking and how we can look into the future to prepare how we can protect our homes from the coming wave of perversion through technology. Support the showLearn more about Elijah Rising » Follow us on Instagram » Donate and Support Our Work »