Dr. Marla Woodmansee has dedicated her life, communications talents, and professional efforts to spreading the transformative power of God’s Word through her television program, “Dr. Marla,” and her Bible-teaching ministry, Dr. Marla Ministries.
“I believe God’s word is the key to unlock transformation in our lives and to lead us to the light completely,” she said. “We’re in a dark world that is full of negativity, and the Word of God is what He gave us—the life and the truth—to lead us closer to Jesus. And that is the peace that passes all understanding.”
Born into foster care and adopted into a loving family as an infant, Woodmansee’s early life experiences developed her faith and filled her with compassion. She grew up surrounded by faith, a connection with Jesus, and a desire to serve God and share His message with the world.
“I don’t remember a time when Jesus was not with me,” Woodmansee said.
As a young adult, Woodmansee felt a strong calling to ministry, visited many different types of churches, and participated in missions work during college.
“In all of those different seasons, I didn’t realize God was preparing me,” she said.
Revelation came in a future season of life. As a mother of four children, she had a powerful encounter during a worship service at her church. In the transformative experience, Woodmansee says she “felt the presence of the Lord like I’ve never felt in my entire life.” With this defining moment, God confirmed her purpose to take the Word of God around the world.
A few years after this profound encounter, Woodmansee embarked on a journey of formal education. She had initially dismissed it with a laugh when her husband suggested attending seminary. But after reflecting on it in prayer, she took a leap of faith, discovering a deep love for theological training, reflecting that “my thirst was quenched on a very deep level.” She earned a master’s degree in theology and a doctorate in ministry, deepening her understanding of the Bible and preparing her for a life of teaching.
Woodmansee’s ministry had small beginnings through leadership in women’s ministry at her local church. As she gained experience and confidence, she started speaking at conferences and churches, sharing her passion for Scripture. Eventually, she felt called to the broadcasting world, leading her to radio and eventually television.
In 2014, while juggling the demands of motherhood, Woodmansee established her first nonprofit organization, planting the seeds of what is now Dr. Marla Ministries. Step by step, Woodmansee has nurtured and gained insights from new relationships to strengthen her ministry.
“Every one of my connections happened at NRB,” said Woodmansee, who has faithfully attended the NRB Convention for several years. Prior to the NRB Convention, she would reach out to industry leaders by email, arranging appointments that led to recorded interviews and subsequent opportunities. From her early years of booking just a few interviews at each convention, Woodmansee reports that she now conducts over a dozen interviews at the event and even has to decline pitches.
Her ministry has become accessible to listeners and viewers far and wide through radio and television programs, interviews, and digital content. A highlight of Woodmansee’s ministry has been her interviews with notable figures including authors Josh McDowell and Lee Strobel; Cherly Chumley, author and online opinion editor for The Washington Times; Nicole C. Mullen, a worship leader; Jason Crabb, a two-time Grammy Award-Winning Christian music singer and musician; and Susan Michael, Director of ICEJ.
“I think I’m the least likely person for God to choose to do His work,” she said. “I have no idea why He’s asked me to teach His Word and reach those for His kingdom, but I’ve discovered that working for Him is the greatest joy of my life. There’s nothing in this world I’d rather do more than lead others to the freedom, joy, and peace that only God gives.”
Teaching a series for NRB TV: “Faith & Freedom in America,” The Washington Monument, 2024. Photo courtesy of Dr. Marla Woodmansee.
One of Woodmansee’s most notable endeavors has been her work in Washington, D.C. Recently, she spoke in front of the Capitol building and throughout the district, highlighting Bible verses inscribed on the walls of historic buildings, emphasizing the importance of faith and freedom in America.
“The Lord has broadened my idea of what I was called to do,” Woodmansee said. “He continues to get me out of my box.”
Audience engagement is not the only indicator of impact. Woodmansee has seen the lives of individuals transformed through her programs and has had the privilege of witnessing God’s work firsthand.
“People call or send letters,” she shared, “and that highlights in my heart that God has done something in their life through hearing the Word through me. That is a reward to me.”
With her youngest child now off to college, Woodmansee remains passionately committed to her ministry. As she looks to the future, Woodmansee hopes to expand her reach, continue teaching God’s Word in various settings, and advocate for faith and freedom in America.
“Evil is so rampant to the highest degree,” she said. “But I also feel equally that believers are the remnant as a strong force in the world. … We all are working together in the lane God has us to further the Kingdom of God and to help people.”
Dr. Marla Woodmansee has been an NRB member since 2023 and is currently an NRB President’s Council member. Her TV show airs on NRBTV and SuperChannel Orlando. Check out her ministry work by visiting DrMarla.org.