Tell Your Story Alaska

Akutan is a very diverse village most known for being the home of Trident Seafood Company's largest seafood plant in North America. Even more unique is the nearby volcano and an airstrip that's not even on the same island! Safe Harbor Church serves as a community center and hosts some of the most diverse people in the state of Alaska! Alakanuk sits on the mouth of the Yukon River with a surprising population of 747 for a very remote village. Alakanuk was reportedly founded by a Yupi'k Shaman long ago and is named after the confusing maze of waterways in the area.

Contact the show at tysalaska@gmail.com

TYSA Logo was created by Evan Van Kirk

Music was created by Isaac Bedingfield

Akiachak and Akiak happen to be neighbors and both of which I have flown into. They are located northeast of Bethel in the Yukon Delta region on the Kuskokuim River. These are ancient subsistence communities that are majority Native Alaskan still today. The Moravian Church and Russian Orthodox Church have had the most influence historically.

Contact the show at tysalaska@gmail.com

TYSA Logo was created by Evan Van Kirk

Music was created by Isaac Bedingfield

This week, I am starting a new series that profiles the villages of Alaska. I have a complete list of every village, all 267 of them (including major cities). The purpose is to get a quick glimpse into each village of Alaska so we can know their history, what churches are there, how to get there, and any insights to each village I can find so we can know how to better pray for our great state.

I will be going in alphabetical order. So we begin with Adak and Akhiok. Adak has a rich history in WWII way out on the Aleutian Island Chain, and Akhiok is the southernmost village on Kodiak Island that subsists on fishing. Let's dive in!

Contact the show at tysalaska@gmail.com

TYSA Logo was created by Evan Van Kirk

Music was created by Isaac Bedingfield

Way out in the middle of Lake Clark National Park & Preserve in Port Allsworth, Alaska is Tanalian Bible Camp. I spoke with Mark McGee, the executive director of the camp to discuss what the camp is all about, the history, purpose, and everything in between. The camp has been around since 1963 and has become a sanctuary for the 31 villages in the surrounding area. Mark has served at the camp since 2003, and he shares his heart for this little corner in the world.

To get involved at TBC contact Mark McGee at:

mark.mcgee@tanalianbiblecamp.org

Or check out the website at:

www.tanalianbiblecamp.org

Contact the show at tysalaska@gmail.com

TYSA Logo was created by Evan Van Kirk

Music was created by Isaac Bedingfield

Kingdom Air Corp has been training pilots in remote Alaska for 25 years. Recently, I had a chance to fly over to King's Ranch to share morning devotions and sit down with Dwayne King, founder, and Joe Gerwig, director of operations, to learn how Kingdom Air Corp came about. Both of these men are passionate about missions around the world and shared their hearts with me on this episode.

Contact the show at tysalaska@gmail.com

TYSA Logo was created by Evan Van Kirk

Music was created by Isaac Bedingfield

I've just returned from flying for Kokrine Hills Bible Camp in Central Alaska along the Yukon River. There's far too much to fit in one episode so I simply share some flying stories from the last month and talk about the legacy of this camp. Navigating around storms, making tough decisions, how to find a hole in the clouds, how to fix a runway, how the latest technology saved our skins, and how miserable it is to land a plane in thick smoke from forest fires.

Contact the show at tysalaska@gmail.com

TYSA Logo was created by Evan Van Kirk

Music was created by Isaac Bedingfield

Husband, father, pastor, pilot (Maule M7 and Cessna 206), mechanic, missionary with The Master's Mission, radio broadcaster at KIAM, influential member of the Airman's Association, and two-time winner of the Nenana beard competition: Adam White is a man with many talents and roles. I sat down with Adam at the KIAM radio station base in Nenana, AK to hear his story. He was on his way to serve in Ecuador with MAF at the same base as Nate Saint, but those plans were frustrated by some very irritating circumstances, and that lead him to Nenana, AK where he has been serving since 1995. Adam's story is a testimony to how to handle broken dreams and trusting in God's providential leading. We also discuss how his faith impacts the way he interacts with the FAA through the Airman's Association regarding aviation law. Buckle up! It's time to learn a few things from Adam White!

Contact the show at tysalaska@gmail.com

TYSA Logo was created by Evan Van Kirk

Music was created by Isaac Bedingfield

I recently returned from flying for Kako Retreat Center located in remote Alaska Yukon Delta area. I briefly tell the history of Kako, talk about the challenges of the airstrip, the area, the unreliable forecasts in Alaska, and all about "Family Camp" at Kako! We stopped in at Port Allsworth, AK where Tanalian Bible Camp and Samaritans Purse have ministries. When we returned home some family visited and we had some fun on a glacier tour, flying my Maule to Rohn airstrip and Knik Glacier! This episode is offers a taste of what flying is like in Alaska and why we do it. Don’t miss the very end where the native band at Kako play "How Great Thou Art" in the Yupik language.

Contact the show at tysalaska@gmail.com

TYSA Logo was created by Evan Van Kirk

Music was created by Isaac Bedingfield

John grew up in Kotzebue and Kobuk facing childhood trauma's and the loss of many close to him to suicide. He himself attempted suicide several times as he drank and smoked to numb the pain brewing inside. When his daughter committed suicide he hit rock bottom and there seemed to be no way back. That is, until God plucked him out of himself while on a walk with a knife in hand with a suicidal plan. Everything changed. Today, John's life is about proclaiming the Kingdom of God throughout Alaska so his fellow man can enjoy the same joy that he has. John's plea for those in those low places like he was in is: "It's not time for you to go."

Contact the show at tysalaska@gmail.com

TYSA Logo was created by Evan Van Kirk

Music was created by Isaac Bedingfield

What attitude should a native christian have towards the injustices done in the past? How does one begin to heal from childhood wounds? What does biblical manhood look like for young native men? Daniel Esplin joins the show to discuss.

Daniel Esplin is the Director of Admissions at Indian Bible College in Flagstaff, AZ where he teaches a class on biblical manhood. He traveled up to Alaska to promote IBC as a good option for training native leaders. Daniel tells his story of his father leaving him as a young boy, losing family members to suicide, how he became a follower of Jesus Christ, and finding freedom in forgiveness.

The opening worship song was written and performed by Daniel Esplin in the Navajo language. We had a great discussion after we stopped recording about the beauty of the expression of worship in each culture and he agreed to perform this song he wrote. Enjoy.

Contact the show at tysalaska@gmail.com

TYSA Logo was created by Evan Van Kirk

Music was created by Isaac Bedingfield

The Baha'i faith is one of the most widely distributed faiths in the world and it is here in Alaska. I discuss what the Baha'i faith is, its presence in Alaska, the history of the faith, and its doctrines. One of the values of the faith is the "independent investigation of truth." So that's what I did. Here are my thoughts.

Contact the show at tysalaska@gmail.com

TYSA Logo was created by Evan Van Kirk

Music was created by Isaac Bedingfield

50% of missionaries quit before they reach 5 years on the field. 70% leave for preventable reasons. Why is that?

Are missionaries being properly prepared? Has the western church prepared missionaries for spiritual warfare? Are missionaries just arrogant people telling other people how wrong they are about everything? Why can't missionaries just get along?

Two veteran missionary couples join me to discuss the importance of dealing with our own story, understanding spiritual warfare, and why it's so hard to get along.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

The Unseen Realm by Michael Heiser

Steps to Freedom in Christ by Neil Anderson

Understanding the Wounded Heart by Marcus Warner

https://novo.org/sacohort (free online spiritual authority cohort)

Mending the Soul by Steven R Tracy

I Give you Authority by Charles Kraft

Waking the Dead by John Eldredge

Contact the show at tysalaska@gmail.com

TYSA Logo was created by Evan Van Kirk

Music was created by Isaac Bedingfield

In 1898, tens of thousands of people infected with gold fever rushed up to Skagway, Alaska to begin their journey to the Yukon Territory in search for quick riches and adventure. This influx of people changed Alaska and the Yukon Territory forever. We take a look at this interesting time of history and its impact today.

Contact the show at tysalaska@gmail.com

TYSA Logo was created by Evan Van Kirk

Music was created by Isaac Bedingfield

The struggle with anxiety is so common and it's talked about so little. The endless, spinning, miserable thoughts that can't be shaken. The sleepless nights, the panic attacks, the crying out to God and hearing nothing but silence. If you have experienced that I hope my story gives you hope today.

Contact the show at tysalaska@gmail.com

TYSA Logo was created by Evan Van Kirk

Music was created by Isaac Bedingfield

Missionary Aviation Repair Center has been serving Alaska's missionary aviation's community since 1964. I flew to Soldotna, Alaska to have some work done on my Cherokee 6, and while I was there I sat down with the Executive Director, Peter Bastke to share a bit of his story, the history of MARC, and what they are up to today.

Check out their website: marcalaska.org

Contact the show at tysalaska@gmail.com

TYSA Logo was created by Evan Van Kirk

Music was created by Isaac Bedingfield

Does forgiveness mean the person who hurt me gets away with it? Do you crave justice, but see no hope of it happening? Do you find yourself imagining revenge to the person who hurt you? Does a video play over and over in your mind of how someone did injustice against you? Forgiveness might be the last thing you want to do. Forgiveness doesnt seem fair. Let's talk about that.

I break down misconceptions of forgiveness and explain what it really is. It might shock you.

Alaska desperately needs forgiveness. Here's why.

Contact the show at tysalaska@gmail.com

TYSA Logo was created by Evan Van Kirk

Music was created by Isaac Bedingfield

He is known as "The Eskimo Prophet." He is remembered for his many predictions that have come true including the coming of Christianity to Alaska. In this episode, I summarize the many testimonies given about him from native elders who either knew him when they were children or grew up hearing about him from their parents who knew him. Was Maniilaq a legitimate prophet? I explore this question and discuss his impact on modern native Alaskan culture.

Data source: alaskool.org

Contact the show at tysalaska@gmail.com

TYSA Logo was created by Evan Van Kirk

Music was created by Isaac Bedingfield

You won't believe some of Kurt's flying stories!

I traveled up to the homestead of Kurt and Lynnette Bedingfield to hear their story! They recount their faith journeys growing up with preacher fathers in Alaska. Kurt became a pilot game warden on Kodiak Island, Kotzebue, and Coldfoot on floats, skis, and wheels! Lynnette recounts what it was like to move again and again (hint: she loved it). Kurt shares just a few of his many unbelievable flying adventures while Lynnette recounts what it was like worrying about her hubby who didn't come when expected from his flights. Things changed after he was struck by lightening, but it never stopped him from flying! He started his own Part 135 flying business and he's still going strong!

Contact the show at tysalaska@gmail.com

TYSA Logo was created by Evan Van Kirk

I want to give a special thanks to Isaac Bedingfield for creating this new theme music for TYSA!

54.5% of families in Alaska are “non-intact families.” Absent fathers is a pandemic in Alaska. What is the role of a father? Why are fathers so important? What does the Bible mean by “wives submit to your husbands”? What does a family-centered life look like? How can we break generational sins so fathers don’t pass on their wounds to their children? What can be done if your family is already broken?

Aaron, from the episode “Aaron’s Story,” joins me to discuss these issues.

Contact the show at tysalaska@gmail.com

TYSA Logo was created by Evan Van Kirk

Music Credit:

Dragonquest by Alexander Nakarada | https://www.serpentsoundstudios.com

Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com

Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0)

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0d

Brian grew up as a missionary kid in Bolivia. Going out to play with the crocodiles led his parents to send him to boarding school on the other side of the country. Watching the airplanes back then put the flying bug in his soul and he became a missionary pilot in the Philippines and Bolivia. Brian tells his best stories including one where he helped deliver a baby in the back of a taxi cab, and it wasn't breathing. From building an airstrip into the side of a mountain to dealing with engine failures, Brian's lifelong experience in aviation has accumulated plenty of wisdom which he shares in this episode.

What makes twin engine airplanes safer?

Are twin engine airplanes more economical?

How can pulling the mixture save a dying engine?

Is the impossible turn impossible?

What if you get disoriented in a box canyon?

Brian has some thoughts on these. Don't miss it!

Contact the show at tysalaska@gmail.com

TYSA Logo was created by Evan Van Kirk

Music Credit:

Dragonquest by Alexander Nakarada | https://www.serpentsoundstudios.com

Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com

Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0)

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0d

I have long wondered about this puzzling question and in this episode I take on the task of going through Scripture regarding this topic. Could we meet in heaven Native Americans who lived in 1000AD? Listen in to explore this question with me.

Further reading:

Is Jesus the Only Savior? by Ronald H Nash

Jesus, the Only Way to God: Must You Hear the Gospel to be Saved? by John Piper

Contact the show at tysalaska@gmail.com

TYSA Logo was created by Evan Van Kirk

Music Credit:

Dragonquest by Alexander Nakarada | https://www.serpentsoundstudios.com

Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com

Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0)

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0d

Being in the world of commercial fishing in Alaska produces exciting stories worth telling. Ellis recounts stories that involve a volcano, fishing nets ripping and snagging, catching a whale, sharks, and porpoises, deer hunting in bear country, and catching a record sized halibut with fresh salmon still in the belly. Ellis gives us a glimpse into the world of commercial fishing with his incredible adventures in the treacherous Alaskan waters.

Contact the show at tysalaska@gmail.com

TYSA Logo was created by Evan Van Kirk

Music Credit:

Dragonquest by Alexander Nakarada | https://www.serpentsoundstudios.com

Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com

Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0)

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0d

Ellis is a 3rd generation commercial fisherman in the Alaska waters, dog behavioral specialist, and inventor of several unique guitar effects pedal. Ellis' unique resume comes from a unique story. Growing up on the fishing boat with his father, it wasn't the risk, adventure, and excitement that defines who he is today. It's grace and forgiveness. Ellis recounts how God intervened in his father's life and his life which changed everything. His experience as a dog behavioral specialist has drawn out insight into the human condition that you may not have expected.

Check out Ellis' business at https://dadshoegazers.com and pick up a hand made guitar effects pedal.

Contact the show at tysalaska@gmail.com

TYSA Logo was created by Evan Van Kirk

Music Credit:

Dragonquest by Alexander Nakarada | https://www.serpentsoundstudios.com

Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com

Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0)

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0d

I dive into the weeds of take-off and landing techniques and describe how I consistently land my Maule M5 in 300 feet or less. I also discuss how landing a plane finally "clicked" for me so I could do it well consistently.

Keep in mind I am not a flight instructor and I recommend you consult with a licensed flight instructor before taking any advice from me.

Contact the show at tysalaska@gmail.com

TYSA Logo was created by Evan Van Kirk

Music Credit:

Dragonquest by Alexander Nakarada | https://www.serpentsoundstudios.com

Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com

Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0)

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0d

Sitting in a solitary prison cell, at rock bottom, the Holy Spirit says "Are you done?"

From that moment on, Ota's life changed directions. Listen to Ota recount how he hit rock bottom in that prison cell: a broken home growing up, to drugs and sex, juvenile detention, in and out of prison, joining a white supremacist prison gang, and facing a 490 year sentence for serious crimes. Ota's story is a great testament to the power of the gospel. Don't miss it!

"...a bruised reed he will not break, and a faintly burning wick he will not quench." Isaiah 42:3

If you resonated with Ota's story, he is open to connecting with you. Contact the show at tysalaska@gmail.com and I'll get you in touch with Ota.

TYSA Logo was by Evan Van Kirk

Music Credit:

Dragonquest by Alexander Nakarada | https://www.serpentsoundstudios.com

Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com

Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0)

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0d

In this final episode of the series, Adam provides us with the history of the Salvation Army and the Lutheran Church in Alaska.

Adam beautifully wraps up his thoughts about the role of the church in Alaska's history. Was it a force for good or was it destructive?

Contact the show at tysalaska@gmail.com

TYSA Logo was by Evan Van Kirk

Music Credit:

Dragonquest by Alexander Nakarada | https://www.serpentsoundstudios.com

Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com

Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0)

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0d

We continue our series with the history of the Moravians and the Evangelical Covenant Church in Alaska.

Contact the show at tysalaska@gmail.com

TYSA Logo was by Evan Van Kirk

Music Credit:

Dragonquest by Alexander Nakarada | https://www.serpentsoundstudios.com

Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com

Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0)

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0d

We continue our series with the history of the Baptists and Friends (also known as the Quakers) in Alaska.

Contact the show at tysalaska@gmail.com

TYSA Logo was by Evan Van Kirk

Music Credit:

Dragonquest by Alexander Nakarada | https://www.serpentsoundstudios.com

Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com

Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0)

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0d

Adam and I continue this series with the history of the Anglicans and Presbyterians in Alaska. I have heard over and over that the church's goal was to colonize and remove the native culture that was here. The true history is not that simple. Adam brings clarity to these often cited versions of history.

Contact the show at tysalaska@gmail.com

TYSA Logo was by Evan Van Kirk

Music Credit:

Dragonquest by Alexander Nakarada | https://www.serpentsoundstudios.com

Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com

Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0)

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0d

Is the church responsible for the loss of language and culture of Alaska native people? Did the church come to colonize Alaska? This is the narrative I have often heard about the history of the church in Alaska. Pastor Adam London is an expert on this topic and explains the true story which is so much more interesting and rich than I had thought. This will be a five-part series starting with the Russian Orthodox and Catholic Churches.

Contact the show at tysalaska@gmail.com

TYSA logo was by Evan Van Kirk

Music Credit:

Dragonquest by Alexander Nakarada | https://www.serpentsoundstudios.com

Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com

Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0)

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0d

Chris Kopp is a pastor at the largest church in Alaska: Changepoint. He has spent most of his life in Alaska including over 12 years pastoring a church in the village of Galena, AK. He has become a voice Alaskans turn to for insight on how to do missions well in the Last Frontier State. Chris and I discuss the differences between churches on the road system and churches off the road system and the challenges the missionaries and churches of Alaska face today.

Contact the show at tysalaska@gmail.com

TYSA Logo was by Evan Van Kirk

Music Credit:

Dragonquest by Alexander Nakarada | https://www.serpentsoundstudios.com

Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com

Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0)

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0d

If you are interested in aviation and are not sure where to start, you should start with Av-Stem's Introduction to Aviation course. Grant and Barney Funk are a father-son team who developed this course that's perfect for young aviators. Av-Stem does not sponsor this podcast, I just see value in this course as I fly so many young people across Alaska who want to become pilots, and now I can point them to this course to get them started. The course interviews a Fish and Game pilot, a smoke jumper, and others so you can learn the many applications of aviation. Instructors have reported shock at how much knowledge their new students have because of this course!

Check out the website here: https://av-stem.com

TYSA logo was by Evan VanKirk

Music Credit:

Dragonquest by Alexander Nakarada | https://www.serpentsoundstudios.com

Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com

Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0)

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0d

Hayley is an accomplished pilot and a vital part of One Wilderness Ministries in McGrath, AK. She suffered the loss of her husband to ALS at only 35 years old only two months prior to this recording. She tells her story of growing up off grid in Idaho, being a part of the develpment of the Kodiak aircraft which is being used in missions around the world, and her training at Moody Aviation in Spokane, WA. She recounts what it was like to watch her husbands health deteriorate, how he passed away, and how she is grieving this terrible loss. What gets here through day to day? How does one grieve this unimaginable loss? How can she feel joy in the midst of this loss?

TYSA logo was by Evan VanKirk

Music Credit:

Dragonquest by Alexander Nakarada | https://www.serpentsoundstudios.com

Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com

Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0)

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0d

One Wilderness Ministries is located in the remote interior village of McGrath, Alaska. It is a ministry of McGrath Community Church. I had a chance to sit down with Brad Sturm who shares his heart for the interior of Alaska.

Click here to check out the One Wildernesss website to learn more:

http://onewilderness.org

TYSA logo was by Evan VanKirk

Music Credit:

Dragonquest by Alexander Nakarada | https://www.serpentsoundstudios.com

Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com

Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0)

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0d

Merv's father was a WWII vet who had anger issues which provided him with a challenging childhood. He became a helicopter pilot in Vietnam and was shot at, shot down, and lost close friends. After the war, he started his own helicopter business flying over Mount Saint Helens as it was preparing to erupt, and he flew some big whigs around. He went though a divorce with a hard custody battle over his two kids and become one of the rare cases where the father wins custody. Listen to Merv tell his war stories, what PTSD was like for him, how he deals with survivors guilt, how faith played a role in his healing, other flying stories, divorce story, and about his life in Alaska today.

TYSA Logo was made by Evan Van Kirk

Music Credit:

Dragonquest by Alexander Nakarada | https://www.serpentsoundstudios.com

Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com

Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0)

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0d

You may have had Mormon missionaries knock on your door. A few weeks ago I got the knock and I engaged them for about an hour. This prompted me to look further into Mormonism than I had before as I promised these young, bright Mormon missionaries. Mormons make up 5% of Alaskans so I thought it was worth looking into it's doctrines and reasons they believe it's true. Was Joseph Smith a legitimate prophet and did he restore the church? I share my thoughts and hope to equip you to engage with Mormons.

Logo art by Evan Van Kirk

Music Credit:

Dragonquest by Alexander Nakarada | https://www.serpentsoundstudios.com

Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com

Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0)

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0d

Where there's a few hundred feet of flat ground, we can land a plane and camp. It's a real treat to find hidden gems of camping spots in Alaska. I talk about my first airplane overnight camping experience and some of the devotional thoughts I had during this little adventure.

Logo Credit: Evan Van Kirk

Music Credit:

Dragonquest by Alexander Nakarada | https://www.serpentsoundstudios.com

Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com

Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0)

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0d

I finally spilled the beans! If you are wise enough to learn from the mistakes from others you will want to learn from mine. I tell you my 5 worst flying decisions that I regret, but I learned from them and have become a better pilot for it.

You can watch the short video I made about landing on a remote airstrip on the Yukon River in a Cherokee 6 by checking out my Facebook page or clicking here:

https://www.facebook.com/163800423/videos/1930770690650339/

TYSA Logo Credit: Evan Van Kirk

Music Credit:

Dragonquest by Alexander Nakarada | https://www.serpentsoundstudios.com

Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com

Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0)

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0d

Deep in the wilds of Alaska lies Kokrine Hills Bible Camp sitting along the mighty Yukon River. Joey has been the director for 9 years and I had the chance to record his story while flying him from the camp to Nenana, AK. It was an emotional goodbye followed by a one hour flight back to civilization as Joey tells his story. Listen how he grew up in California, was almost kidnapped by the infamous Night Stalker, ended up living in the remote village of Buckland, AK, had to be airlifted out for medical issues, his battle with God over leaving Buckland and the tragic death of his brother, started his own media business back in California, and his desire to return to Buckland, AK.

Kokrine Hills Bible Camp: https://kokrinehills.org

Joey's Media Business: https://storylitfilm.com

Tell Your Story Alaska Logo Credit: Evan Van Kirk

Music Credit:

Dragonquest by Alexander Nakarada | https://www.serpentsoundstudios.com

Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com

Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0)

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0d

An ice dam caused the Yukon to to rise 35' and flooded Kokrine Hills Bible Camp. A week ago, I flew Darryl and his wife to camp to lead a team of 40 people from the Lower 48 to get the camp ready for the summer. Today, I picked them up and flew them home. During our flight through Rainy Pass we talk about what it took to transform a camp devastated by a flood to a camp ready for kids from across Alaska to come so they can hear the gospel.

My contact: tysalaska@gmail.com

Logo Art by Evan Van Kirk

Music Credit:

Dragonquest by Alexander Nakarada | https://www.serpentsoundstudios.com

Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com

Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0)

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0d

Ever wonder what Alaskan GA pilots worry about regarding safety? I recently attended a safety conference at Soldotna airport at the MARC hangar. They brought in speakers from AOPA, Moody Aviation, Alaska Airman's Association, Dynamic Defense Solutions, and MARC staff. I was taking notes the entire time, and here I share with you everything I learned at this valuable safety conference.

Contact me at tysalaska@gmail.com

Logo art credit: Evan Van Kirk

Music Credit:

Dragonquest by Alexander Nakarada | https://www.serpentsoundstudios.com

Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com

Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0)

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0d

My flight down to the Kenai yesterday had a couple of close calls. A few fighter jets flew right in front of my nose and on my final approach to land I was face to face with an aircraft taking off. I discuss what happened and what can be learned.

Contact me at tysalaska@gmail.com

Logo designed by Evan Van Kirk.

Music Credit:

Dragonquest by Alexander Nakarada | https://www.serpentsoundstudios.com

Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com

Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0)

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0d

We are exploring this historical question by seeing what science can tell us about the history of Native Americans. This will give us insight on who Native Americans are today. So we are not holding back! We focus on carbon dating and genetics to answer the question of when Native Americans migrated to the Americas. The answer may not be what you expect! Buckle up because this episode gets nerdy!

Sources:

https://www.thoughtco.com/blackwater-draw-hunting-in-new-mexico-170385

https://www.newmexico.org/blog/post/the-story-of-the-clovis-people/

https://answersingenesis.org/geology/carbon-14/radiocarbon-dating/

https://www.ox.ac.uk/news/2020-07-22-earliest-americans-arrived-new-world-30000-years-ago

https://www.smithsonianmag.com/science-nature/how-humans-came-to-americas-180973739/

https://www.nps.gov/bela/learn/historyculture/other-migration-theories.htm

https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/the-first-americans/

http://www.dnai.org/teacherguide/pdf/reference_romanovs.pdf

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4381518/

https://genome.cshlp.org/content/suppl/2015/02/18/gr.186684.114.DC1/Supplemental_Text.pdf

See YouTube “Nathaniel Jeanson The New History of the Human Race”

Book: “Traced: Human DNA’s Big Surprise” by Nathaniel Jeanson

Book: “History and Mythology of the Aztecs: The Codex Chimalpopoca”

PDF Doc: “Pedro Sarmiento de Gamboa: History of the Incas”

Book: “The Red Record: The Wallum Olum: The Oldest Native North American History"

Music Credit:

Dragonquest by Alexander Nakarada | https://www.serpentsoundstudios.com

Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com

Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0)

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0d

7 years in Mexico living among the Tarahumara people was a significant time in our lives before we moved to Alaska. Missional work has a dark side and we share about it all. There was trauma, death, and relational strife. Billy felt inadequate and Erika felt a constant need to "justify our existence." We did some extreme outdoor adventures, learned two languages, lived in remote villages among tribal people, interacted with the cartels, flew our little plane around, and struggled the whole time. If you are going into missions, are on the mission field, or were on the field, we hope you find this insightful.

Contact me at tysalaska@gmail.com

Music Credit:

Dragonquest by Alexander Nakarada | https://www.serpentsoundstudios.com

Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com

Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0)

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0d

Jeff and I talk about the summer of 2022 when wildfires raged across the state of Alaska, and we had to fly through it. A wildfire broke out just 3 miles east of the remotely located Kokrine Hills Bible Camp. There were 100 souls at camp, and one 6 passenger airplane. Smoke Jumpers arrived to help. Find out how we got everyone out safely, and what we learned along the way.

Check out Jeff's ministry at SoaringForChrist.org

You can contact me at tysalaska@gmail.com

Music Credit:

Dragonquest by Alexander Nakarada | https://www.serpentsoundstudios.com

Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com

Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0)

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0d

WARNING: We discuss themes in this episode that are not suitable for children. I recommend waiting until your little ones are out of earshot before pushing play.

Aaron was wounded by the church, his father, and himself. He became the man he detested growing up which we termed "generational sins." How do you break generational sins? Marriage, fatherhood, combat in Iraq, respect, success, drinking, jail time, and porn didn't heal his wounds. What did? Aaron share's parts of his story most people would be too afraid to share. He brings to light things that for most of us, are left in darkness out of fear. If you are battling something alone, this episode is for you.

If you have a story, contact me at tysalaska@gmail.com

Music Credit:

Dragonquest by Alexander Nakarada | https://www.serpentsoundstudios.com

Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com

Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0)

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0d

I sit down with my friend Roger who tells his story of rejection, struggle with bitterness from the worst childhood wounds imaginable, a broken marriage, a plane crash that burned 60% of his body, and his greatest battle of all: himself. How does one heal from years of built up bitterness? (Hint: it's the gospel). Roger is from the Athabaskan tribe, born and raised in Alaska, directs Kokrine Hills Bible Camp on the Yukon River in central Alaska, and is an all around good friend.

Contact me at tysalaska@gmail.com if you want to tell your story.

Music Credit:

Dragonquest by Alexander Nakarada | https://www.serpentsoundstudios.com

Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com

Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0)

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0d

A Chicagoland suburban kid ends up with a missionary kid from Mexico, and now living in Alaska. My wife and I tell our story up to the time we moved to Mexico together. How we went from Mexico to Alaska is another story. For now, listen how I navigated doubt about the Christian worldview, and how my wife grew up among native people in remote tribes in Mexico.

If you have an Alaskan story or just want to reach out to me, contact me at tysalaska@gmail.com 

Music Credit:

Dragonquest by Alexander Nakarada | https://www.serpentsoundstudios.com

Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com

Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0)

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0d

Not a list of technical jargon. Rebuilding my Maule M5 235C was a story that involved incredible generosity of others, the excellent work of regular people with local businesses, the murder of most of my brain cells in paint fumes, conversations about faith, truth, and freedom, and somehow crypto currency was involved.

I mention some businesses and I recommend them. Links:

Advanced Powder Coating in Wasilla, AK: (no website)

Carbon Concepts: http://www.carbonconceptsak.com

Sport Aircraft Seats: https://sportaircraftseats.com

I used several other local businesses for various needs in this project, but didn't mention them in this episode. It's difficult to summarize nearly two years of work in one short episode.

Music Credit:

Dragonquest by Alexander Nakarada | https://www.serpentsoundstudios.com

Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com

Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0)

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0d

Who were the first explorers of Alaska? Who first set eyes on its shores? It's wrapped up in mystery, but we'll talk about it. We also cover the first colonization of Alaska by Europeans...it wasn't pretty. 

I am looking for gospel related testimonies in Alaska. If you want your story told contact me at tysalaska@gmail.com

Music Credit:

Dragonquest by Alexander Nakarada | https://www.serpentsoundstudios.com

Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com

Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0)

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0d

Real Alaskan stories from the perspective of an missionary bush pilot. We will tell stories of how the gospel is impacting everyday Alaskans. We are also going to talk aviation, maintenance, history, theology, and all things Alaska.

Tell Your Story Alaska podcast is starting out with a fun episode about the top ten coolest facts about Alaska. Who were the first explorers? How big is Alaska exactly? Volcanoes, Tsunamis, mountains, earthquakes, glaciers, animals and more!

Contact me at tysalaska@gmail.com.

Music Credit:

Dragonquest by Alexander Nakarada | https://www.serpentsoundstudios.com

Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com

Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0)

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0d