Cia: Contagious Influencers Of America

Wink Martindale, the legendary radio and television icon, died in Rancho Mirage, California on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, at the age of 91. The king of game shows who was perhaps best known for hosting the beloved Tic-Tac-Dough and Gambit, had a remarkable 74-year career. He was surrounded by family and his beloved wife of 49 years, Sandra Martindale.   Wink was a longtime friend of CIA host and 9-time Emmy winner David Sams who sat down to interview him in 2019. We'd like to share this wonderful conversation between friends. Wink's legendary status as radio and TV host has taken him through many of the biggest phases of pop culture and he reveals his personal stories with Elvis Presley, Tony Bennett, Ed Sullivan and more. Hear from the iconic host of "Tic-Tac-Dough" and how the simplicity of a TV game show has power when applied to other areas of life. His influence has had a stunning ripple effect in Hollywood and beyond and his wife Sandy has been his anchor through the years.    Wink is survived by his w

The epic tale of David and Goliath has inspired generations—but what if you could experience it like never before? Award-winning filmmaker Jon Erwin (Jesus Revolution, I Can Only Imagine) is bringing this legendary story to life in House of David, a groundbreaking new TV series streaming worldwide on Prime Video starting February 27th. In this compelling podcast episode, nine-time Emmy winner David Sams sits down with his friend Jon for an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at his latest project, his journey through Hollywood, and his bold vision for The Wonder Project, an independent studio redefining faith-based entertainment. Discover how Jon is tackling the challenges of storytelling, inspiring global audiences, and collaborating with creatives to craft content that stands the test of time. Don’t miss this powerful conversation about passion, perseverance, and the future of Christian filmmaking.  #HouseofDavid #PrimeVideo #JonErwin #WonderProject #DavidSams #KeepTheFaith #ContagiousInfluencers

Where do you place your value? Demi-Leigh Tebow has learned her identity is much more than her Miss Universe crown. In this episode, nine-time Emmy winner David Sams chats with Demi about her book “A Crown That Lasts” and the inspiration behind it. Demi, who’s the wife of former NFL quarterback Tim Tebow, shares how her own experiences of failure and identity struggles led her to write the book. Demi emphasizes the importance of rooting one's identity in something more stable and trustworthy than life circumstances. She also discusses her passion for giving women a voice and fighting against human trafficking. In this interview, hear her personal journey of overcoming fear and finding strength in her faith. More information on her book “A Crown That Lasts” and her first children’s book is available at DemiTebow.com. #DemiTebow #ACrownThatLasts #MissUniverse #KeepTheFaith #ContagiousInfluencers #DavidSams

It was Einstein who said: "There are only two ways to live your life. One is as though nothing is a miracle. The other is as though everything is a miracle." In this engaging conversation, nine-time Emmy winner David Sams and New York Times bestselling author Pastor Mark Batterson explore the concept of miracles in contemporary life, discussing personal experiences, the importance of gratitude, and the role of faith. Batterson shares his journey of overcoming asthma, emphasizing that every breath is a miracle. They delve into the significance of recognizing everyday miracles, the theology of play, and the power of music as a form of worship. The discussion dives into his latest book "A Million Little Miracles: Rediscover the God who is bigger than big, closer than close, and gooder than good" and culminates in encouragement for those seeking miracles, highlighting the need to count blessings and rediscover the God of miracles.  #keepthefaith #markbatterson #amillionlittlemiracles #davidsams #contagiousinf

What better time than now to ignite your comeback with the original comeback coach, Tim Storey, life coach to the stars! In this special episode, nine-time Emmy winner David Sams catches up with his good friend to discuss personal growth, overcoming obstacles, and unlocking your hidden potential through the transformative power of mindset. Drawing from Tim’s book The Miracle Mentality, this inspiring conversation explores: Overcoming toxic thoughts and embracing positivity and purpose. Navigating challenges with therapy, coaching, and strong support systems. Making conscious decisions to unlock new opportunities and personal growth. The value of transparency, authenticity, and timing in achieving your goals. Practical tips for creating balance and deeper meaning in your life. Whether you're seeking a fresh start, facing challenges, or ready to elevate your life, this episode offers empowering insights and actionable guidance to help you make 2025 your best year yet. Tune in and let Tim Storey guide you to y

He's most recently known for his performance of "God Bless America" at the Butler, Pennsylvania Trump Rally, and now he'll be performing again this time as President Donald Trump is sworn in as the 47th President of the United States. Nine-time Emmy winner David Sams gets to sit down with international classical-crossover vocalist, Chris Macchio. In this engaging conversation, Chris shares his journey of connecting with President Trump through music, reflecting on the significance of his performances and the spiritual awakening that accompanied his musical career. He emphasizes the importance of gratitude and the role of art in reminding people of their dignity and humanity.  #ChrisMacchio #AmericasTenor #GodBlessAmerica #KeepTheFaith #ContagiousInfluencers #DavidSams #PresidentialInauguration

Regardless of how stressed and anxiety-ridden you entered 2025, it's possible to live joyfully and without worry. Radio host and podcaster Brant Hansen shares the message of taking Jesus seriously in all of life and in turn finding a sense of peace amongst the chaos. In this engaging conversation, nine-time Emmy winner David Sams chats with Brant about the themes of joy, anxiety, and trust in God. Brant emphasizes the importance of gratitude in overcoming anxiety and the impact of social media on mental health. Brant also highlights the significance of simplicity in faith and the need for community support in mental health management.  Learn more about affordable online therapy at: https://therapy.cc/ #BrantHansen #GodisGood #KeepTheFaith #DavidSams #contagiousinfluencers

Would you give up everything you've worked for your entire life in the name of justice? Maya Moore Irons is a two-time NCAA champion, two-time Olympic gold medalist, four-time WNBA champion, and WNBA MVP. But Maya put that all aside in 2019 to focus on exonerating her now husband, Jonathan Irons, from a 50-year prison sentence for a crime he didn't commit. Nine-time Emmy winner David Sams chats with both Maya and Jonathan about their story, detailed in their memoir: "Love & Justice: A Story of Triumph on Two Different Courts." In this conversation, Jonathan shares his journey of faith, resilience, and the transformative power of connection through prison ministry. They both discuss the importance of restorative justice, the impact of community, and the role of faith in overcoming adversity. Jonathan and Maya also reflect on their friendship, love, and the broader implications of injustice, calling for collective action and hope for a better future. To learn more about Maya and Jonathan's efforts, visit: w

Farewell to country music, guilt, and pain. Granger Smith now has newfound purpose. After 24 years touring as an award-winning, platinum-selling, country music singer-songwriter, Smith chose to leave the music business to pursue a future in ministry. Nine-time Emmy winner David Sams sits down with the now best-selling author, five years after the tragic loss of his son, River, to discuss finding purpose in the pain. Granger also talks about his children's book on grief called “Up Toward the Light” and the significance of his youngest son Maverick's name. Through his story, Granger inspires hope and shows that there is light on the other side of darkness. #GrangerSmith #YeeYee #KeepTheFaith #David Sams #ContagiousInfluencer #LikeARiver

Iconic Southern Rock brothers Donnie and Johnny Van Zant reunite as VAN ZANT to release their first ever Christian album sharing about their faith that has been a constant thread throughout their lives. Collectively they have sold over 50 million records, from Johnny’s work as the lead vocalist of Lynyrd Skynyrd to Donnie’s success with 38 Special, and older brother Ronnie's posthumous legacy with Skynyrd as a founding member, they share how they balance honoring the past with creating fresh sounds in their first ever Jesus record titled "Always Look Up." The duo casually sits down with nine-time Emmy winner David Sams and shares heart-felt stories about music, legacy, and the enduring power of family bonds. #vanzant #keepthefaith #alwayslookup #thereyouare #davidsams #contagiousinfluencer

Nollaig Shona Duit! Merry Christmas! We Are Messengers are celebrating this holiday season in an authentic Irish way. They have had 11 consecutive top 10 radio singles including the multi chart #1 hit song “Come What May” and the Gold certified “Maybe Its OK’. Now their new EP "Rejoice! A Celtic Christmas" is out, putting a Celtic spin on some of your favorite Christmas classics. Nine-time Emmy winner David Sams sits down with front-man Darren Mulligan at the homestead to talk about his band's new music and life as a "single minded Irish man." Hear what Christmas was like for Darren growing up in small-town Ireland, and why this Christmas is going to be one for the ages. This interview is full of raw and genuine thoughts that can reach out to broken people and remind them of the true goodness and joy of the season. More information about WE ARE MESSENGERS' latest music head to We Are Messengers | Official Website' #wearemessengers #keepthefaith #rejoice #celticchristmas #darrenmulligan #davidsams #contagiousi

It's the biggest Christmas celebration for this quadruple GRAMMY-winning Christian pop duo yet! For KING + COUNTRY is not only touring the month of December and releasing a new "Drummer Boy Christmas Live" album this week, but they are also taking their tour to the big screen offering a cinematic concert experience "A Drummer Boy Christmas Live" in theaters everywhere December 5-9th ONLY. Nine-time Emmy winner David Sams sits down with brothers Joel and Luke Smallbone for a heartfelt conversation about their festive projects and the deeper meaning of Christmas. From heartwarming tales of Christmas in Australia and their first white Christmas in the U.S. to inspiring stories of how others’ kindness brightened their toughest seasons, this interview dives into the spirit of the season. Don’t miss this powerful blend of music, memories, and holiday magic! More information about for KING + COUNTRY's latest music, movie, and tour head to https://www.forkingandcountry.com/ #keepthefaith #contagiousinfluencer #forkin

Silent night? Not with this band! The Trans-Siberian Orchestra’s music is a staple over the holiday season and you can experience it all during their 2024 winter tour. The Trans-Siberian Orchestra (TSO) is one of the world’s top touring artists of the past decade and has sold over 12 million albums. Nine-time Emmy winner David Sams chats with lead guitarist and musical director of TSO, Al Pitrelli. Al shares how the music we’ve all come to know and love was created, and the impact it’s had on generations of fans. TSO’s 2024 Winter Tour: “The Lost Christmas Eve” is kicking off and they are making stops all across the country until the end of December. You can purchase tickets now in your city at tsotickets.com #TransSiberianOrchestra Trans-Siberian Orchestra #TSOTime #TSO #ChristmasMusic #AlPitrelli #DavidSams #KeepTheFaith #ContagiousInfluencer

Hannah Kerr, a Curb recording artist and gifted songwriter with over 146 million career streams, is known for her chart-topping hit "Warrior." Yet, like many young adults today, she battles one of the most common challenges of our time: anxiety. In a heartfelt conversation with nine-time Emmy winner David Sams, Hannah opens up about her journey to conquer worry and self-doubt. Their discussion also dives into her latest musical work, her sophomore album As I Am, and gives an exciting preview of her upcoming Christmas single, "It Came Upon A Midnight Clear," set to release later this month. It’s an inspiring exchange full of vulnerability, faith, and hope. #keepthefaith #HannahKerr #AsIAm #ItCameUponAMidnightClear #contagiousinfluencer #davidsams #warrior

Silent night - hold on tight! Imagine this: "the worst kids in the history of the world" crashing your town's Christmas pageant? Would you turn them away, or show them the true spirit of Christmas? That's the heart of the new film, "The Best Christmas Pageant Ever," directed by Dallas Jenkins, the creator behind "The Chosen." In an interview with nine-time Emmy winner David Sams, Jenkins dives into his journey of adapting the beloved book for the big screen, aiming to create a Christmas classic that mixes laughter with the timeless story of the Nativity. He also opens up about his personal challenges as a filmmaker, reflecting on a past project that didn’t meet expectations, and how that experience shaped his perspective on success—reminding us that true success comes from glorifying God, not from meeting worldly standards. See "The Best Christmas Pageant Ever" in theaters on November 8th. Tickets available now at https://bestchristmaspageantever.movie/ #BestChristmasPageantEver #KeepTheFaith #DallasJenkins #

Want to love your neighbor, but also stand firm in your convictions? Stephen Arterburn says both are achievable, even in today's social climate. Stephen is the founder and chairman of New Life Ministries and host of the syndicated Christian counseling talk show "New Life Live!" He's also a speaker, bestselling author with more than 15 million books in print, and co-creator of the "Life Recovery Bible." In this conversation​ with nine-time Emmy winner David Sams, you'll hear real-life stories from Stephen that will provoke deep thought. More from Stephen can also be found on the Hope For The Heart Channel at KeepTheFaith.com. https://newlife.com #NewLifeLive #KeepTheFaith #StephenArterburn #contagiousinfluencer #davidsams

If you were left with no power, no food, and water intruding on your home, who would you turn to for help? Convoy of Hope is a global, faith-based, nonprofit organization that delivers emergency relief to communities affected by disasters like the Hurricanes Milton and Helene that have hit the Southeast. KeepTheFaith Charities is partnering with Convoy of Hope and other “boots on the ground” organizations to provide necessary relief. Nine-time Emmy winner David Sams sits down with Hal Donaldson, the founder of Convoy of Hope and author of "What Really Matters", as he shares his journey of finding purpose and not losing oneself in that purpose. Hal emphasizes the importance of hope, compassion, and relying on God in serving others. To donate now to the cause, go to KeepTheFaith.com. You can make a difference! #ConvoyOfHope #HalDonaldson #HurricaneHelene #HurricaneMilton #KeepTheFaith #ContagiousInfluencer #DavidSams #whatreallymatters

He stood for the rights of every American by taking a knee. Actor Eric Close (Nashville, Without A Trace) is starring in the movie “Average Joe” that’s based off the true story of coach Joe Kennedy. Coach Kennedy, a Marine, was fired as a high school football coach for praying after football games. He decided to fight for religious freedom and freedom of speech taking his case all the way to the Supreme Court. You can see the story yourself in theaters for a limited time on October 11th. Nine-time Emmy winner David Sams discusses this latest role with Eric Close. Eric shares his journey into directing and the mentors who have supported him along the way. He also opens up about his long-lasting marriage and the importance of faith in his relationship. More information is at: https://averagejoemovie.com/ #averagejoemovie #firstamendment #prayingcoach #keepthefaith #contagiousinfluencer #davidsams #ericclose

Joe Kennedy wants you to stand up, or kneel down rather, for what you believe in! Joe was a high school football coach who was under fire for taking a knee in prayer after games. Eventually he was fired, launching a seven-year legal battle for religious freedom that went to the Supreme Court. Nine-time Emmy winner David Sams sits down with Joe to hear his life story first-hand before the major motion picture, "Average Joe," hits theaters nationwide. Hear the compelling personal account of Joe's troubled youth, years in the Marine Corps, and his testimony that led him to finding God, and his wife. The unwavering true story "Average Joe" is exclusively in theaters starting October 11th. More information is at: https://averagejoemovie.com/ #averagejoemovie #firstamendment #prayingcoach #keepthefaith #contagiousinfluencer #davidsams

There’s no better time than now for a message of spreading kindness! Nine-time Emmy winner David Sams speaks with CEO Kevin Downes and President and COO Brandon Gregory from Kingdom Story Company about their upcoming film “White Bird,” the importance of kindness, and the unique approach they take in creating faith-based films. They discuss the challenges of filmmaking, the significance of prayer and community, and the journey of finding self-worth in God. The conversation highlights the power of storytelling in cinema and the impact it can have on audiences. “White Bird” stars Academy Award® winner Helen Mirren and is the next chapter of the 2017 movie “Wonder.” See “White Bird” exclusively in theaters starting October 4th. Be brave. Choose kindness. Tickets and information now at: https://whitebird.movie/ #BeBraveChooseKind #WhiteBirdMovie #KeepTheFaith #KingdomStoryCompany #KevinDownes #BrandonGregory #ContagiousInfluencer #David Sams