The Kubik Report

Alan Farber: The Power of Second Chances

In this deeply personal episode of The Kubik Report, Victor Kubik sits down with his neighbor and friend, Alan Farber, for a candid conversation about failure, consequences, forgiveness, and the possibility of a second chance.
Alan's story is unlike most. After serving in the military and working in law enforcement, a devastating business collapse sent his life in an unexpected direction. What began as curiosity and an adrenaline-fueled impulse ultimately led to a series of bank robberies, a dramatic FBI arrest, and an eight-year federal prison sentence.
Alan describes the harsh realities of prison life, including 27 months in near-total isolation under Supermax conditions. He explains how prolonged isolation can breed bitterness and hopelessness—and why so many former inmates struggle to rebuild their lives after release.
Yet this conversation is not about crime. It is about restoration.
Alan shares how reconnecting with Becky, a lifelong family friend who later became his wife, gave him hope, purpose, and the strength to build a new life. He also discusses the enormous challenges of reentering society, especially the stigma of a felony conviction and the repeated loss of employment opportunities despite his qualifications.
Together, Victor and Alan explore what defines real success, why people deserve opportunities to change, and how compassion can transform lives. This moving conversation reminds us that while poor choices have serious consequences, they do not have to define a person's future. Hope, forgiveness, and genuine human connection can open the door to a completely new beginning.
 
Previous podcast with Alan Farber on June 5, 2026
 

With Mike Snyder: The Calm Before the Storm: What Today's World Events Really Mean

As world events seem to accelerate at an unprecedented pace, how should thoughtful Christians interpret the headlines without becoming consumed by fear? In this episode of The Kubik Report, Victor Kubik welcomes longtime friend, author, and geopolitical analyst Mike Snyder to discuss his thought-provoking article, "The Calm Before the Storm."
Drawing on decades of observing international affairs, Mike explains why today's global environment may appear relatively stable on the surface while profound geopolitical shifts are taking place beneath it. Together, Victor and Mike examine the changing relationship between the United States and Europe following the recent NATO summit, the ongoing war in Ukraine, the resilience of Russia despite staggering losses, and the unpredictable consequences of conflict in the Middle East.
The conversation also explores why so many Americans feel increasing uncertainty about the nation's future during the country's 250th anniversary year. Mike offers historical perspective while emphasizing that today's challenges are part of larger trends that Scripture anticipated centuries ago.
Rather than promoting sensationalism or alarmism, this discussion continually returns to biblical prophecy—especially the book of Daniel—and the assurance that God remains sovereign over the affairs of nations. Victor highlights how prophecy should inspire confidence rather than panic, reminding listeners that history is moving toward God's Kingdom according to His purpose.
This is an insightful conversation for anyone seeking to understand today's headlines through a biblical lens while maintaining hope, discernment, and spiritual balance. It is a timely reminder that although the world may appear increasingly uncertain, God's plan remains firmly on course.
See Mike Snyder's blog:
 
www.seekingtheway.net
 
 

Part 2 Thomas Jefferson: Genius, Contradictions, and the Burden of Liberty

As America marks its 250th anniversary, The Kubik Report continues its special series on the Founding Fathers with historian Greg Thomas. In this episode, Victor and Greg explore the remarkable achievements—and enduring controversies—surrounding Thomas Jefferson.
Jefferson penned the Declaration of Independence, championed religious liberty, guided the Louisiana Purchase, launched the Lewis and Clark Expedition, and founded the University of Virginia. His vision of limited government, individual liberty, and education helped shape the American experiment for generations.
Yet Jefferson's legacy remains deeply complicated. How could the author of "all men are created equal" also own enslaved people?
Greg Thomas examines Jefferson's unsuccessful attempts to promote gradual emancipation in Virginia, the crushing financial debt that ultimately prevented him from freeing most of those he enslaved, and his belief that the Declaration planted a moral principle that future generations would be compelled to fulfill. The discussion also explores why judging historical figures requires understanding the world in which they lived without excusing their failures.
Victor and Greg also address the long-debated Sally Hemings controversy, explaining what the 1998 DNA evidence actually established—and, just as importantly, what it did not conclusively prove.
This thoughtful conversation avoids simplistic conclusions while encouraging listeners to wrestle honestly with history. Jefferson emerges neither as a flawless hero nor merely a villain, but as a brilliant, imperfect leader whose ideas continue to influence the pursuit of liberty around the world.
Join us for another engaging conversation as we continue exploring the people and principles that shaped America at 250.

The Declaration of Independence at 250—and My Parents' Search for Freedom

I share one of the most personal stories of my life—the remarkable journey of my parents from war-torn Ukraine and Germany to freedom in the United States. As teenagers, they were taken from their homes during World War II and forced into slave labor in Nazi Germany. They survived relentless bombing, imprisonment, liberation by American forces, betrayal by Soviet authorities, and a daring escape into the British Zone before beginning a new life in a United Nations refugee camp.
I was born in that refugee camp in Germany, and later became a naturalized American citizen, an experience that forever shaped his understanding of freedom, gratitude, and identity. But this episode is more than a family history. It reveals profound spiritual parallels between physical refugees seeking a homeland and Christians called into the Kingdom of God.
Drawing on scriptures including Acts 14, Philippians 3, Ephesians 2, 1 Peter 2, and 1 Corinthians 1, I explore what it means to become citizens of another Kingdom. Just as immigrants need a sponsor, Christians have one in Jesus Christ. Just as refugees leave one nation behind, believers leave behind the values of this present world in anticipation of a far greater homeland.
This moving account reminds us that God's people are spiritual survivors—called together, strengthened through trials, and united by a common hope. It is a powerful reflection on history, faith, gratitude, and the extraordinary privilege of our heavenly citizenship.

With Greg Thomas: Jefferson at 250: The Man Behind the Declaration

Thomas Jefferson was more than the principal author of the Declaration of Independence. He was an inventor, architect, political philosopher, educator, and America's third president. His ideas helped define the nation's understanding of liberty, government, and individual rights.
In this episode, Greg Thomas and Victor Kubik  examine Jefferson's extraordinary life—from his upbringing in colonial Virginia to his lasting impact on American democracy.
In this episode:
Jefferson's early years and education in Virginia
His inventive personality and lifelong intellectual curiosity
Why Jefferson believed rights come from God—not government
Writing the Declaration of Independence
The struggle for religious liberty in Virginia
Ending government support of an established church
Jefferson's unconventional style as president
The Louisiana Purchase and doubling the size of the United States
The Lewis and Clark Expedition and America's westward vision
The Embargo Act and Jefferson's greatest presidential setback
Founding the University of Virginia
Why Jefferson placed a library—not a chapel—at the center of the university
The remarkable coincidence of Jefferson and John Adams both dying on July 4, 1826

With Mark Kellner: The Supreme Court's Big Day: What Four Landmark Decisions Mean

The U.S. Supreme Court issued four major decisions affecting immigration, asylum, gun rights, and federal regulatory authority. In this episode of The Kubik Report, Victor Kubik is joined by veteran journalist Mark Kellner to unpack what the Court actually decided—and why these rulings matter.
The discussion begins with the Court's decision allowing the Trump administration to terminate Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for hundreds of thousands of Haitian immigrants and thousands of Syrians. Mark explains the legal reasoning behind the Court's decision, the sharp disagreement among the justices, and the humanitarian concerns raised by lawmakers.
The conversation also explores the Court's ruling on asylum seekers waiting in Mexico, clarifying how statutory language shaped the outcome and what it means for future border policy.
Victor and Mark then examine the Second Amendment case involving Hawaii's restrictions on firearms carried onto private property, followed by the Court's ruling that federal pesticide regulations preempt certain state lawsuits involving Monsanto's Roundup herbicide.
Throughout the discussion, they explore larger constitutional themes including executive authority, judicial review, federalism, statutory interpretation, and the balance between compassion and the rule of law.
Rather than focusing on politics, this episode seeks to help listeners better understand how the Supreme Court reaches its decisions and why constitutional interpretation continues to shape American public life.
 

With Tina Kuo Graham: What Antisemitism Really Is - The World's Oldest Hatred and its Spiritual Roots

In this compelling episode of The Kubik Report, I welcome back Tina Graham for a thoughtful discussion about the historical, spiritual, and prophetic dimensions of antisemitism. Drawing from Scripture, history, and current events, Tina explains why Christians should be concerned about the rise of antisemitism around the world while recognizing that the Bible foretold many of these developments.
The conversation explores God's covenant relationship with Israel, the spiritual forces behind antisemitism, and how hostility toward the Jewish people has evolved over the centuries—from religious persecution to racial prejudice and modern anti-Israel movements. Tina traces these themes through biblical accounts including the Exodus, David and Goliath, Esther, and Haman's plot against the Jews, connecting ancient events to today's geopolitical tensions.
I share personal reflections from growing up among Jewish friends and neighbors in Minnesota and discusses how misunderstanding, envy, and prejudice have often fueled hostility toward Jewish communities. Together they examine the historical origins of the name "Palestine," the significance of Jerusalem in biblical prophecy, and the remarkable rebirth of Israel as a nation in 1948.
Whether you are interested in history, current events, biblical prophecy, or the Middle East, this episode offers valuable insight into one of the world's oldest and most persistent forms of hatred.
Topics discussed:
What antisemitism really is
The biblical roots of antisemitism
Spiritual warfare and God's covenant with Israel
Historical persecution of the Jewish people
Israel's rebirth in 1948 and its prophetic significance
Jerusalem's central role in God's plan
Ancient conflicts and modern Middle East tensions
The historical origins of the term "Palestine"
Lessons Christians can learn from current events
Guest: Tina Graham, Director of Operations, Eastgate Ministries International
Subscribe to The Kubik Report for thoughtful conversations on faith, history, culture, and the events shaping our world today.

Dr. Roy Fouch: Biblical Perspective on Today's Sexual Revolution.

Light of Hope Helpline
https://www.ucg.org/light-of-hope
888 241-6211
 
Society is experiencing profound changes in how it views sexuality, marriage, gender identity, and personal relationships. These developments have created confusion for many Christians seeking to remain faithful to biblical teachings while responding with compassion to those facing difficult personal struggles.
In this episode of The Kubik Report, Victor Kubik speaks with Dr. Roy Fouch, a licensed professional clinical counselor, psychologist, and Director of Mental Health at the Hamilton County Justice Center in Ohio. Drawing from decades of counseling experience, Dr. Fouch examines the cultural shifts often described as the "new sexual revolution" and discusses their impact on individuals, families, and communities.
Topics include pornography addiction, same-sex attraction, homosexuality, transgender identity, the influence of modern culture, and the importance of understanding God's purpose for human sexuality. Dr. Fouch explains the difference between temptation and behavior, discusses factors that can contribute to identity struggles, and offers practical guidance for those seeking help.
A major focus of the conversation is hope. No matter how deeply a person may struggle, God's grace, forgiveness, and transforming power remain available. Dr. Fouch emphasizes the need for Christians to uphold biblical truth while extending Christlike love, compassion, and understanding to everyone.
The discussion also highlights Light of Hope, a confidential counseling and referral service sponsored by the United Church of God that helps individuals and families facing emotional, mental health, addiction, and relationship challenges.
This thoughtful conversation provides biblical insight, professional perspective, and encouragement for anyone seeking to navigate these important issues in today's rapidly changing world.

Why Israel Matters: A Conversation with Tina Kuo Graham

Posted June 12, 2026
In this episode of The Kubik Report, Victor Kubik sits down with Tina Kuo Graham, Director of Operations at Eastgate Ministries International, for a thoughtful discussion about faith, biblical prophecy, Israel, and the challenges facing the next generation.  She is married to Ned Graham, who is the President of East Gates and the youngest son of the late Evangelist Billy and Ruth Graham.  
Tina shares her personal journey to Christianity, beginning with the influence of a supervisor, John Smith, at Lockheed Missiles and Space Corporation. What started as workplace conversations eventually led her to a deeper understanding of the Bible and a lifelong commitment to faith.
The conversation then turns to the Middle East and the significance of Israel in biblical prophecy. Tina explains why she views Israel as God's prophetic "time clock" and discusses how the Hamas attack of October 2023 became a watershed moment for Israeli society and for those watching world events through a biblical lens. She offers insights into the historical roots of anti-Semitism and how it has changed over time—from religious opposition, to racial prejudice, and now increasingly to disputes centered on land and national identity.
Victor and Tina also explore the spiritual dimensions behind many of today's global conflicts, examining the concept of spiritual warfare and why the Middle East remains at the center of world attention.
The discussion concludes with Tina's vision for the future through Eastgate Ministries International. She shares plans for an educational institute designed to disciple Generation Z, helping young people develop a strong biblical foundation while navigating the opportunities and challenges of an increasingly technology-driven world. Topics such as Sabbath observance, spiritual formation, healthy boundaries, and purposeful living are central to this mission.
This episode offers a compelling blend of personal testimony, current events, prophetic perspective, and practical guidance for living faithfully in a rapidly changing world. 

The Kubik Report: From Army Special Forces to the LAPD — Alan Farber's Remarkable Story

The Kubik Report: From Army Special Forces to the LAPD — Alan Farber's Remarkable Story
What is it really like to serve in elite military units and then patrol some of America's toughest neighborhoods as a police officer?
In this compelling episode of The Kubik Report, Victor Kubik sits down with his neighbor and friend, Alan Farber, whose life journey took him through two extraordinary careers: the U.S. Army Special Forces and the Los Angeles Police Department.
Alan enlisted in the Army at age 18 and eventually became a member of the Special Forces, completing 55 parachute jumps and participating in sensitive missions during a tense period of world history. He shares firsthand accounts of military life, the discipline and courage required for special operations, and the realities behind experiences most people only see portrayed in movies.
After his military service, Alan began a second career with the LAPD, serving in Los Angeles during challenging years that tested both officers and communities. He reflects on life as a police officer, the dangers, the difficult decisions, and the human side of law enforcement.
More than a story about adventure and risk, this conversation reveals the character, sensitivity, and perspective that come from a lifetime of service. Alan's candid recollections provide a fascinating look behind the headlines and Hollywood portrayals of both military and police work.
Alan and his wife, Becki, have been neighbors of Victor and Beverly for nearly three years. Their friendship inspired this engaging conversation that offers listeners a rare glimpse into an extraordinary life.
You won't want to miss this insightful and memorable episode.

Greg Thomas: 250th Anniversary of American Independence. Part 2 of President John Adams and Abigail Adams

In Part 2 of John Adams, we focus on his very influential wife, Abigail, who was very involved in her husband's work.  

With Michael Wilkinson: Facilitation that Leads to Transforming Churches

Michael Wilkinson is Founder and Manager of Leadership Strategies, the largest provider of professional facilitators in the country. He has helped tens of thousands of people find their way to success through collaboration, discernment, and a proven process.  His Website is"
https://www.leadstrat.com/
In this podcast, Michael and I share a personal conversation that spans our two-decade-old relationship in the United Church of God. He first helped us formulate a major Strategic Planning overhaul in 2008, which I used as President of UCG for nine years.
In this podcast Michael Wilkinson speaks about the DRIVERS MODEL and the Three Reasons People Disagree and how to solve them.  More information here
https://www.leadstrat.com/leadership-strategy-resources/executive-guide-to-facilitating-strategy-sample-chapter/ - The Drivers Model Explained (first chapter of The Executive Guide to Facilitating Strategy)
https://www.leadstrat.com/the-three-reasons-people-disagree/ - The three reasons people disagree
Here are more resources:
www.leadstrat.com - Leadership Strategies - The Facilitation Company, training and other resources
www.MichaeltheFacilitator.com - Michael's speaker website for keynote addresses and other presentations

Greg Thomas: Continuing 250 Anniversary series - John Adams part 1

Continuing in our series of the Founding Fathers of the United States, Greg Thomas describes the second President, John Adams.  He was Vice-President under George Washington.  Each of the Founding Fathers was distinct from one another, yet they wove a mosaic of leadership that has endured to this day.

Robin Webber/Darris McNeely: Fifty Years of Ministry: Lessons from a Lifetime of Service

“Fifty Years in the Ministry — Lessons from a Lifetime of Service”
What does fifty years of ministry teach a person?
In this deeply personal and reflective episode of The Kubik Report, Victor Kubik is joined by longtime pastors Darris McNeely and Robin Webber for an honest conversation about the joys, struggles, lessons, and enduring purpose found in a lifetime of serving God and people.
Together, these three ministers represent more than 150 years of combined pastoral experience. They discuss what first inspired them to enter the ministry, the mentors who shaped them, and the moments that confirmed their calling along the way.
The conversation explores both the highs and lows of ministry life—memorable baptisms, Feast experiences, counseling moments, friendships, heartbreaks, disappointments, and seasons of deep personal testing. The discussion also turns toward how ministry has changed over the decades and the unique pressures faced by leaders today.
Listeners will hear thoughtful reflections on humility, grace, perseverance, emotional intelligence, leadership, and the importance of compassion in serving others. Darris shares insights from years in media and education through Beyond Today and Ambassador Bible College, while Robin reflects on decades of pastoral counseling and personal connection with congregations. Victor guides the discussion with warmth, perspective, and heartfelt honesty.
This episode is not simply a look backward. It is a conversation about endurance, spiritual growth, and the lessons that only time and service can teach.
Whether you are involved in ministry, leadership, or simply seeking encouragement for your own spiritual journey, this discussion offers wisdom, perspective, and hope.
In This Episode:
What first inspired each man to enter the ministry
The greatest joys and most difficult seasons of pastoral service
Lessons learned after fifty years
How ministry and leadership have changed over time
Advice for younger pastors and leaders
What truly matters most in the end

With Mike Mansoori: Understanding Iran Through the Eyes of an Iranian-American

I speak frankly with Mike Mansoori, an Iranian who now lives in Indianapolis on May 18, 2026.  What is happening in Iran, and what do  Americans need to know about the Iranian people and the current situation in the Middle East.  

Victor Kubik: Ruth, the Church and Pentecost - A Beautiful Story

This is a message that I gave to the Indianapolis United Church of God on May 9, 2026, about the Book of Ruth.  A book of four chapters and only 85 verses that tells a story that's deeper than a love story.  It's a story of God's love for His Church, His love for all mankind.  Ruth was a foreigner who was in the direct descent to Jesus Christ.

Part 3 Greg Thomas: Lessons of the American Founding Fathers - 7 Most Important Leadership Qualities of George Washington

This is the third in an ongoing series by Greg Thomas about the leadership lessons of America's Founding Fathers.  This is the final segment about George Washington, where we discuss the most important leadership lessons.
 
1. Character/Integrity
2. Power should be held lightly
3. Adaptability leads to perfection
4. Surround yourself with strong independent thinkers
5. Unity  requires humility
6. Symbolism matters
7 A leader keeps growing!   
 
 

Greg Thomas: Emotional Quotient (EI) is more important than IQ. Why??

There is a growing concern across many workplaces that emotional intelligence—often called EQ—is becoming less common or less developed in professional settings, especially among younger or newly hired employees. While broad generalizations should be avoided, many managers, educators, and organizational leaders are noticing shifts in communication style, conflict resolution, resilience, and interpersonal awareness.
Part of this change comes from the environment in which people have grown up and learned to work. Digital communication has replaced much face-to-face interaction. Remote work, texting, social media, and online education have created efficiency, but they have also reduced opportunities to develop the subtle human skills that come from reading body language, handling awkward conversations, listening deeply, and navigating disagreement in person.
Another factor is that modern education and hiring systems heavily reward measurable cognitive performance—grades, certifications, technical competence, analytical ability, and productivity metrics. These emphasize IQ. Yet organizations increasingly discover that high IQ alone does not guarantee effectiveness in leadership, teamwork, or long-term contribution.
Emotional intelligence includes qualities such as:
Self-awareness
Self-control
Empathy
Social awareness
Ability to receive correction
Adaptability
Conflict management
Encouragement of others
Humility and maturity under pressure
These are difficult to quantify on a résumé, but they often determine whether a person succeeds over time.
A workplace can survive a lack of brilliance more easily than it can survive chronic emotional dysfunction. One highly intelligent but emotionally volatile employee can damage morale, create division, exhaust leadership, and reduce trust across an entire team. By contrast, a person of moderate technical skill but high emotional maturity often becomes invaluable because they stabilize relationships, solve problems collaboratively, and inspire confidence.
Daniel Goleman, whose work popularized emotional intelligence, argued that EQ becomes increasingly important as people rise into leadership. A company may hire someone for IQ, but they are often promoted—or dismissed—because of EQ.
This does not mean IQ is unimportant. Intelligence quotient reflects reasoning ability, memory, analysis, and problem-solving capacity. Modern organizations absolutely need technically competent people. But IQ without emotional intelligence can produce arrogance, impatience, poor listening, relational blindness, and inability to lead people effectively.
The strongest leaders tend to combine both:
intellectual clarity and emotional steadiness,
analytical skill and empathy,
competence and character.
In many ways, emotional intelligence is what allows intelligence itself to become constructive rather than destructive.
There is also a spiritual dimension to this discussion. Wisdom is not merely accumulation of knowledge. The book of Proverbs repeatedly distinguishes between knowledge and wisdom. A person may know many things and still lack discretion, restraint, kindness, or understanding.
The modern workplace increasingly rewards speed, efficiency, and technical expertise, yet human organizations still function on trust, respect, emotional stability, and relational maturity. Machines can process information. Human beings must still inspire, reconcile, encourage, and lead.
The future may belong not merely to the smartest people in the room, but to those who can combine intelligence with emotional depth, humility, and wisdom.

Melvin Rhodes: King Charles Visit, Another Trump Assassination Attempt, Anti-Semitism

In this episode of The Kubik Report, Victor Kubik speaks with journalist and columnist Melvin Rhodes about a remarkable convergence of world events: King Charles III’s address to the United States Congress, rising tensions involving Iran, and troubling reports of another assassination attempt involving the President of the United States.
Melvin brings a unique transatlantic perspective, having lived in the United States for many years while maintaining deep roots in England. Together, Victor and Melvin explore how events may be viewed differently on each side of the Atlantic and what these differences reveal about national identity, media interpretation, and global stability.
The conversation begins with King Charles’ visit and its symbolic importance. Does the monarchy still carry diplomatic influence? Is the “special relationship” between the United States and the United Kingdom still strong, or is it becoming more ceremonial than practical?
Victor and Melvin also examine the growing tensions with Iran and whether the U.S. and U.K. remain closely aligned in their foreign policy goals, especially in a post-Brexit world.
The discussion then turns to political instability in America and how assassination attempts are perceived internationally. What effect do such events have on America’s image as a stable democracy?
Finally, Melvin reflects on the role of media narratives, the fragility of alliances, and what thoughtful observers should be watching beyond the headlines.
In uncertain times, this episode invites listeners to step back, think deeply, and seek understanding through informed conversation.

40th Anniversary of Chernobyl Disaster April 26, 2026 - Lessons with Michael Snyder

April 26, 2026 marks the 40th anniversary of the Chernobyl nuclear disaster—one of the most catastrophic man-made events in history. The explosion released more than 400 times the radioactive fallout of the Hiroshima bomb, leaving a lasting scar on the environment and on human lives.
In this episode, we reflect on how Chernobyl was not just a technical failure, but a profound moral one—where flawed systems, suppressed truth, and human error converged with devastating consequences. Yet amid the chaos, stories of courage emerged: firefighters, plant workers, and ordinary citizens who risked—and often gave—their lives to contain the disaster.
Michael Snyder offers sobering insights into what Chernobyl reveals about the trajectory of human systems and the vulnerabilities we still face today.
Join us as we explore the lessons of Chernobyl—lessons about leadership, accountability, resilience, and the enduring capacity for courage when it is needed most.