# 240: CHONDA PIERCE shares her real and raw memoir of a painful past and how she emerged with an unshakeable faith

The conversations found in CIA: Contagious Influencers of America are not your typical interviews. Hosted by nine-time Emmy winner David Sams, this podcast digs into the raw, human stories behind the people shaping culture from a foundation of faith. Each episode is a deep exploration of personal history, focusing on how guests-from artists and musicians to spiritual leaders and everyday pioneers-navigated profound challenges. You’ll hear firsthand accounts of battling addiction, confronting fear, and turning perceived failures into fuel for a meaningful life. The dialogue naturally unfolds to reveal how spirituality and creativity intertwine, offering listeners more than just inspiration; it provides a blueprint for resilience. This isn't about surface-level success stories. It's about the gritty, often unseen work of moving mountains, whether that work happens on a stage, in a studio, or within the quiet corners of one's own journey. The podcast creates a space where vulnerability is strength, and where the lessons learned in overcoming obstacles resonate with anyone seeking to make a tangible difference in their own world. Tune in for authentic conversations that examine the heart of influence, where faith meets action and music underscores the message of hope.