Episodes

  • 'Absolutely...Demonic': 'I Love Lucy Star' Descends Into Occult, Faces Satanic Torment Before Almost Ending It All

    'Absolutely...Demonic': 'I Love Lucy Star' Descends Into Occult, Faces Satanic Torment Before Almost Ending It All
    Nov 8 2024

    NEW SEASON OF "PLAYING WITH FIRE" BROUGHT TO YOU BY: Christian Solidarity International (CSI), a Christian human rights organization that advocates for and helps victims of religious persecution, enslavement, victimized children, and victims of natural disasters.


    Keith Thibodeaux had it all. He played "Little Ricky" on iconic TV show, "I Love Lucy" and spent his childhood with Lucille Ball, Desi Arnaz and their family. But something happened as he grew up. Pain, uncertainty, and frustration led him on a dangerous path into the occult. At one point, Thibodeaux was tormented by demonic voices and wanted to end it all.

    Then, Jesus stepped in. Here is Thibodeaux's powerful story.

    MORE INFORMATION:

    - Want to know more? Read Billy's book, "Playing With Fire: A Modern Investigation Into Demons, Exorcism, and Ghosts"
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    28 mins
  • Satanist, Witch and Psychic Embroiled in Darkness Abandons It All After Jesus Appears to Him: 'I Was in Shock'

    Satanist, Witch and Psychic Embroiled in Darkness Abandons It All After Jesus Appears to Him: 'I Was in Shock'
    Oct 31 2024
    NEW SEASON OF "PLAYING WITH FIRE" BROUGHT TO YOU BY: Christian Solidarity International (CSI), a Christian human rights organization that advocates for and helps victims of religious persecution, enslavement, victimized children, and victims of natural disasters. Riaan Swiegelaar was a practicing witch, psychic, and Satanist, living his life deeply embedded in the occult. Then, an earth-shattering encounter with Jesus changed everything. Swiegelaar's story went viral in 2022 after he left his post as a reverend with the South African Satanic Church (SASC), and became a Christian. The global attention wasn't something he was expecting."I didn't anticipate at the time that it's going to go that wide," he said, noting he was almost immediately "under scrutiny from around the world" as he navigated his newfound faith. "It has been an interesting two years, indeed."Since becoming a Christian, Swiegelaar sought deliverance, coped with the demonic, and is now helping others who are on a similar journey out of the grips of Satanism. But the process has been a long journey.*** NEW SEASON BROUGHT TO YOU BY: Christian Solidarity International (CSI), a Christian human rights organization that advocates for and helps victims of religious persecution, enslavement, victimized children, and victims of natural disasters. ***"After I had my encounter with Christ and after I was saved, I was fully involved with certain practices," he said. "I was still doing readings for people … because I thought, 'No, I'm sure it's OK.'"But Swiegelaar was soon convicted by the Holy Spirit and found himself going for more deliverance and finding freedom and healing from these practices.In an appearance on "Billy Hallowell's Playing With Fire" podcast, he explained how he rose up the ranks of Satanism, noting he had a background in theology and the occult and was practicing witchcraft and psychic mediumship when he came into the movement."A lot of people who join Satanism — and this was also my experience with members of that organization ... people join in it on different types of labels depending on their background and understanding," he said.As for Swiegelaar's experience as a Satanist, he said he "saw a lot of things happening" and was profoundly "deceived." "When I initially got involved in Satanism, I remember the first time I read the Satanic Bible … it appeals to people that are very wounded and broken … and feel like they are the odd ones out," he said. "It is written in that way for a reason. … You can define your own version of what divinity is."At first, Swiegelaar saw God as energy and Lucifer as a force in each human being, though that later changed as he began to experience a very different dynamic."I had a few encounters where I actually saw different faces of the enemy," he said. "It became extremely real."While many Satanists consider themselves to be atheists, he said there's often more to this story than meets the eye, as this idea that the devil doesn't exist is purportedly sometimes a tactic or even a misconception among new Satanic congregants."A lot of Satanists who initially get involved with Satanism from an atheistic point of view, most of them don't believe that the devil exists," he said, noting, though, that manifestations sometimes change so that people start to see these beliefs are, indeed, rooted in reality. "The time when ... things become very real with Satanic rituals and stuff, you're so deep into it that it's difficult to come out."With the "wool over" some people's eyes, Swiegelaar said it can feel impossible to get out or abandon Satanism, with the dynamics becoming "extremely destructive." Some, he said, are even pushed to the brink of suicide. He said part of his own job centered on trying to convince the public there is no devil. "[The] devil wants to deceive people to think there's no Satan," Swiegelaar said, noting this impacted his efforts to play into this dynamic. "That is part of that very agenda that I'm talking about. It is simply that. Unfortunately, there [are] some people in media who do know the truth, because they are Satanists themselves."One of the most deceptive and surprising elements of Satanism, he said, is that there's a stereotype or expectation of what Satanists should look like. But rather than appearing strange or fitting that dynamic, Swiegelaar said many Satanists are police, teachers, and others who would otherwise be seen as normal.Yet he said some of the activities within Satanism are far outside of the mainstream. From black masses to the observance of monthly minor practices, Swiegelaar said he was very involved in commemorating Satanism and even running these rituals. "In terms of animal sacrifices, yes, certainly that happens," he said. "I've been involved in that."Swiegelaar also had much to say about babies, Satanic ritual abuse, the drinking of blood, and other disturbing occurrences — practices he had purportedly witnessed or been involved ...
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    43 mins
  • Ex-Psychic Reveals Hidden Horrors of Halloween: Why Tarot, Ouija Boards, Occult Usher in True Danger

    Ex-Psychic Reveals Hidden Horrors of Halloween: Why Tarot, Ouija Boards, Occult Usher in True Danger
    Oct 26 2024

    NEW SEASON OF "PLAYING WITH FIRE" BROUGHT TO YOU BY: Christian Solidarity International (CSI), a Christian human rights organization that advocates for and helps victims of religious persecution, enslavement, victimized children, and victims of natural disasters.


    In this riveting episode of "Billy Hallowell's Playing With Fire," ex-psychic Jenn Nizza dives deep into the darker side of Halloween with host Billy Hallowell, unpacking why this holiday — and its growing commercialism — raises serious concerns for her. Reflecting on her past as a former psychic medium, Nizza describes Halloween as a celebration of darkness, with decor that has "gotten bigger and better," yet feels "daunting" and troubling for its glorification of fear. She warns of the creeping normalization of occult symbols and practices, like tarot cards and Ouija boards, which are marketed as “just for fun” but carry serious spiritual implications.

    *** NEW SEASON BROUGHT TO YOU BY: Christian Solidarity International (CSI), a Christian human rights organization that advocates for and helps victims of religious persecution, enslavement, victimized children, and victims of natural disasters. ***

    Nizza doesn’t shy away from discussing how she believes divination tools are “gateways” into the demonic. "When you do devilish things, you get devilish outcomes," she warns, challenging the casual acceptance of these practices. Her experience is firsthand: as a former medium, she recounts terrifying moments when demons manifested, sometimes taking on familiar faces of the departed. She describes this dark, hidden realm as "the hook," revealing how the accuracy of spirit readings kept clients coming back — unknowingly stepping deeper into spiritual danger.

    Beyond Halloween’s trappings, Nizza points to a larger cultural shift: divination practices are becoming mainstream, not just in October but year-round. She reflects on the alarming increase in occult items sold in everyday stores, including “spell books” and other paraphernalia aimed at kids and adults alike. “This isn’t something to tinker with,” she says, cautioning listeners about the long-term impact of engaging with such items, especially the risk of inviting demonic oppression and even sleep paralysis into one’s life.

    MORE INFORMATION:

    - Want to know more? Read Billy's book, "Playing With Fire: A Modern Investigation Into Demons, Exorcism, and Ghosts"
    - Follow Billy on Facebook
    - Follow Billy on Twitter
    - Follow Billy on Instagram
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    15 mins
  • 'Deliverance from Evil': Confronting Spiritual Oppression — Judith MacNutt’s Journey

    'Deliverance from Evil': Confronting Spiritual Oppression — Judith MacNutt’s Journey
    Oct 16 2024

    NEW SEASON OF "PLAYING WITH FIRE" BROUGHT TO YOU BY: Christian Solidarity International (CSI), a Christian human rights organization that advocates for and helps victims of religious persecution, enslavement, victimized children, and victims of natural disasters.


    In this gripping episode of "Billy Hallowell's Playing With Fire" podcast, Judith MacNutt joins host Billy Hallowell to take listeners on a powerful journey through her life, ministry, and extraordinary encounters with spiritual warfare. The conversation opens with Judith’s deeply personal testimony of faith and how the seeds were planted for her own ministry of healing and deliverance.

    From her experiences working in psychiatric hospitals to grappling with a young man's tragic suicide, Judith shares the stunning moments that left her questioning. These experiences pushed her to seek deeper spiritual answers, leading her to study scripture and embrace a calling to deliverance ministry. She discusses her gradual but profound realization that psychology alone couldn’t heal the soul. For many, true freedom requires confronting the unseen, spiritual forces that plague them.

    She delves into stories of oppression and possession, recounting real-life battles against demonic forces that refuse to release their grip. This episode isn’t just theory; it’s an invitation. As Judith discusses the prayers and processes used at her ministry, listeners are urged to consider their own spiritual health. Whether it’s unrepentant sin, generational trauma, or the effects of the occult, Judith shows how seemingly small acts can open doors for the demonic, creating a lasting impact.

    Judith also shares insights from her latest book, Deliverance from Evil Spirits: A Guide to Freedom from the Demonic Realm.

    *** NEW SEASON BROUGHT TO YOU BY: Christian Solidarity International (CSI), a Christian human rights organization that advocates for and helps victims of religious persecution, enslavement, victimized children, and victims of natural disaster. ***
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    30 mins
  • FLASHBACK: Demon-Possessed Woman Dropped Herself Out of a Two-Story Window – but That's Hardly the End of Her Wild Story

    FLASHBACK: Demon-Possessed Woman Dropped Herself Out of a Two-Story Window – but That's Hardly the End of Her Wild Story
    Oct 12 2024

    NEW SEASON OF "PLAYING WITH FIRE" BROUGHT TO YOU BY: Christian Solidarity International (CSI), a Christian human rights organization that advocates for and helps victims of religious persecution, enslavement, victimized children, and victims of natural disasters.


    *** This is a flashback episode from season one of "Playing With Fire." A new episode drops on Sunday, October 13!

    Amy Stamatis was a healthy nurse, wife and mother – until one day something bizarre unfolded. "I told my husband I think I’m having a nervous breakdown," she told The Playing With Fire Podcast.

    But as the days wore on, she realized something far more diabolical was unfolding. Overtaken by sudden suicidal inclinations, Amy dropped herself out of a two-story window and nearly died. But it was a stranger who, under a prompting from God, helped heal her.

    This is Amy's story.

    For more on this topic, be sure to read Billy Hallowell's book, "Playing with Fire: A Modern Investigation into Demons, Exorcism, and Ghosts."

    *** NEW SEASON BROUGHT TO YOU BY: Christian Solidarity International (CSI), a Christian human rights organization that advocates for and helps victims of religious persecution, enslavement, victimized children, and victims of natural disaster. ***
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    22 mins
  • SEASON PREMIERE: 'Demonic Influence': What Are Generational Curses and What Does It Mean to 'Cast Demons Out?' Mike Signorelli Explains

    SEASON PREMIERE: 'Demonic Influence': What Are Generational Curses and What Does It Mean to 'Cast Demons Out?' Mike Signorelli Explains
    Oct 4 2024

    NEW SEASON OF "PLAYING WITH FIRE" BROUGHT TO YOU BY: Christian Solidarity International (CSI), a Christian human rights organization that advocates for and helps victims of religious persecution, enslavement, victimized children, and victims of natural disasters.


    *** NEW SEASON BROUGHT TO YOU BY: Christian Solidarity International (CSI), a Christian human rights organization that advocates for and helps victims of religious persecution, enslavement, victimized children, and victims of natural disaster. ***

    Welcome to the brand-new season of Playing with Fire, kicking things off with a deep dive into a topic many Christians rarely hear about: generational curses. Our guest today is Pastor Mike Signorelli, who’s here to talk about his powerful new book, Inherit Your Freedom. In this episode, we get into what generational curses are, the battle over the concept, why so many churches avoid the subject, and how these spiritual battles could be shaping your life without you even knowing it.

    Mike takes a unique approach, drawing parallels between the biological inheritance we all understand—like heart conditions or musical talent—and spiritual inheritances like addiction or broken relationships. He explains how science, specifically epigenetics, now backs up what the Bible has taught all along. The curses passed down from one generation to the next may hold the keys to unlocking your hidden purpose. As Mike says, “If I can help you uncover the curses, I can reveal the hidden purpose.”

    We also dig into deliverance, a topic that also sparks debate. What’s the balance between medical issues and spiritual warfare? Are addictions and even mental health issues linked to demonic influence in some cases? Mike, who pastors a large, multi-state church, shares real-life examples of people finding freedom by tackling both the spiritual and practical aspects of their struggles.

    Mike’s book isn’t just about casting out demons—it’s about a complete transformation. From healing relationships to breaking free from cycles of addiction, Inherit Your Freedom offers diagnostic tools and practical steps for rebuilding your life after spiritual strongholds have been torn down. And Mike is there with you every step of the way, even offering video guides that go along with each chapter.

    If you’ve ever wondered how your family’s past might be affecting your present, or if you’re looking for real, lasting freedom from patterns you just can’t seem to break, this episode—and Mike’s book—are for you. Check out Inherit Your Freedom, available October 22nd, and join us for an unforgettable conversation.

    MORE INFORMATION:

    - Want to know more? Read Billy's book, "Playing With Fire: A Modern Investigation Into Demons, Exorcism, and Ghosts"
    - Follow Billy on Facebook
    - Follow Billy on Twitter
    - Follow Billy on Instagram
    Show more Show less
    27 mins
  • TRAILER: Generational Curses, Deliverance, and True Evil: A Preview of Season 3 of Playing With Fire

    TRAILER: Generational Curses, Deliverance, and True Evil: A Preview of Season 3 of Playing With Fire
    Oct 3 2024

    Evil is real. On the third season of "Playing With Fire," we're continuing our exploration of evil, healing, and truth. From the debate over generational curses to the practice of deliverance, we'll welcome familiar faces and new voices who will help us better understand spiritual warfare.


    Each week on season three of the show, you'll experience sit-down interviews with pastors, authors, and Christian thinkers that will get you pondering the ins and outs of the unseen realm. Plus, revisit the powerful stories we journeyed through in season one.


    For more on upcoming episodes of "Playing With Fire," subscribe to Billy Hallowell's Substack. New episodes begin October 4, 2024.
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    1 min
  • SEASON FINALE: 'We're Inviting the Demonic In': Lisa Bevere on Satan, Culture, the Battle Over Gender and More

    SEASON FINALE: 'We're Inviting the Demonic In': Lisa Bevere on Satan, Culture, the Battle Over Gender and More
    Sep 20 2024

    Author and speaker Lisa Bevere says, "Everything about our culture is demonically undermining our origin, and the enemy always wants to unmake the children of God." She joins "Billy Hallowell's Playing With Fire" to discuss her new book, "Fight for Female" and to explore the spiritual implications of the times in which we live.

    "We're inviting the demonic in through television, through music, through what we are rebelling against," Bevere proclaims. Listen to this fascinating season finale of "Playing With Fire."

    *** NEW SEASON PREMIERES OCTOBER 4 ***

    MORE INFORMATION:

    - Want to know more? Read Billy's book, "Playing With Fire: A Modern Investigation Into Demons, Exorcism, and Ghosts"
    - Follow Billy on Facebook
    - Follow Billy on Twitter
    - Follow Billy on Instagram
    Show more Show less
    27 mins