WHY WOULD ANYONE DO THIS? — Ryan Elijah on Leaving Success, Answering God’s Call, and Running Toward the Fire

By Krystal Parker · Host, “STOP” Podcast · President, U.S. Christian Chamber of Commerce

Why would a successful, Emmy-winning television news anchor walk away from a thriving career, leave behind financial security, and voluntarily step into one of the toughest and most scrutinized arenas in America? Ryan Elijah did exactly that.

In this fascinating episode, Krystal sits down with Ryan Elijah for a candid conversation about calling, courage, and what happens when God asks you to leave what’s comfortable for something much bigger than yourself.

For years, Ryan built a respected career in television, interviewing everyone from local leaders to members of Congress and even the President of the United States. On paper, he had everything many people strive for — a successful career, a beautiful family, and a platform with influence.

Then God called him somewhere unexpected: politics. Not because it was easy, but because Ryan believed it was where he was supposed to serve.

The “Weakness” Ryan Wears as a Badge of Honor

One of the most surprising moments in this conversation comes when Ryan shares what critics say is his greatest weakness: he wasn’t tough enough on the people he interviewed on the news. After years as a journalist, Ryan had built a reputation for treating people with dignity — even those he disagreed with. In today’s political climate, some see kindness as a weakness. Ryan sees it differently.

Character matters.

The conversation also turns to what it’s like to place your family in the public eye, endure criticism, and remain grounded when your motives are questioned. Ryan shares how faith, prayer, and a clear sense of calling have become his anchor through every challenge.

When you know who called you, you don’t have to fear the opinions of everyone else.

Today, Ryan continues to serve Central Florida with a heart for faith, family, and community. Whether listeners agree with his politics or not, his story is a powerful reminder that following God’s call often requires courage, sacrifice, and a willingness to trust Him with the outcome.

This conversation is thoughtful, authentic, and refreshingly honest — because sometimes the greatest act of faith is leaving a life you love to pursue the one God has prepared for you.

U.S. Christian Chamber News

The headlines are moving fast. We help you stay informed. Each week, Watchmen Weekly curates top faith, culture, business, and freedom headlines for the U.S. Christian Chamber community — bringing important stories and key takeaways together in one place.

This week: Drew Brees shares his faith on one of football’s biggest stages, plus important developments involving religious freedom and the sanctity of life. Stay informed. Stay discerning. Stay engaged. Read Watchmen Weekly each week in U.S. Christian Chamber News.

Your Next Connection Could Change Your Business

The U.S. Christian Chamber calendar is filled with opportunities to learn, connect, and grow with Christian business leaders across the country. Whether you’re joining online or in person, there’s something for everyone — and organizers can’t wait to see you there.

Sunday Reflection: We Make Plans, God Establishes the Path

As business leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals, we spend countless hours planning, building, and preparing. Planning is wise — but our greatest confidence isn’t in our strategy. It’s in the One who directs our steps.

As a new week begins, the U.S. Christian Chamber encourages leaders to pause before the calendar fills, the meetings begin, and the decisions pile up: invite God into every conversation, every opportunity, and every challenge. Trust Him with the outcome, and faithfully take the next step He places before you.

#SundayReflection #FaithAtWork #ChristianBusiness #Leadership #MarketplaceMinistry #USChristianChamber #ThisIsHowWeChamber

This Week in U.S. Christian Chamber News

Read the full story in this week’s U.S. Christian Chamber News, featuring a guest article by Jim: myemail.constantcontact.com — Guest Article by Jim

Advancing the Kingdom through the marketplace. One relationship at a time.

#USChristianChamber #KingdomBusiness #ChristianBusiness #FaithAtWork #KingdomImpact #BusinessAsMission #ThisIsHowWeChamber

U.S. Christian Chamber of Commerce · Community Photos

Krystal Parker

Krystal Parker is a former executive for a Fortune 200 publicly traded oil and gas company, with over 25 years of experience in organizational management leading hundreds of employees to deliver J.D. Power award-winning customer service to more than 2.1 million customers across the U.S. A former college dropout, Parker advanced her education at Harvard Business School for senior executive leaders, focusing on innovation, globalization, and leadership diversity. She holds an undergraduate degree in psychology and a master’s in marketing. A certified DISC behavioral specialist, trainer, speaker, and coach, Parker founded the boutique consulting firm Intent & Impact to help companies increase profit, reduce turnover, and enhance employee engagement. A best-selling author and professor, she teaches graduate and undergraduate courses, and serves as President of the U.S. Christian Chamber of Commerce and a member of the MVI Board of Directors and the Central Florida Christian Chamber Board of Directors. Krystal considers herself a marketplace missionary with a strategic focus on citywide transformation, committed to seeing faith in action in the marketplace. She is a wife and mother, and a devoted follower of Jesus Christ.