Her Scars Tell A Story: Recent Episodes
Ann
The mission behind my podcast is to provide a platform for ordinary women just like you and me from different cultures, all ages and backgrounds to share their stories of how their scars point to Jesus. Let's be honest, so many of us come from dysfunctional families and upbringings and by the grace of God the wounds and trauma of the past are now our scars that tell a story of God's redeeming grace and love through the finished work of the cross. Although healing is a journey, we can confidently place our hope in the truth of the promises of God. I believe that we each have a voice and your voice has the power to change the course of someone's life.For the majority of my life I've lived afraid of sharing my voice which is why I love to journal. I often thought to myself, "how can I encourage and speak into this generation of women? I'm just a Chicana from the South Side of Chicago who is unqualified!"Then truth settles in and says, "this ain't about you, it's about Him."I don't have much expert advice to give, in fact my story is pretty muddy but it's my story of what Jesus has done in my life and I'll share it with you, along with the wisdom and grace that God gives us to navigate through this life to fulfill His will. In the quietness and uncertainty of these past 2 years during this pandemic, I discovered that it's time to share my voice as I've spent time in deep reflection and prayer with the Lord while tuning out the noise of this world. My purpose and heart is to encourage women right here in the City of Chicago to find their voice and tell others about what Jesus has done and continues to do in their lives. I will be sitting with women discussing different topics having honest, raw, organic conversations that will inspire and encourage this generation of women all to the glory to God.
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A Story of miscariage, grief and hopeđđ»
If you've ever suffered through the loss of a child, you know, it's a very sensitive conversation. And many women grieve and mourn their loss, privately.
I can relate to Cindy's story and I pray that her heartfelt story will bless you and encourage you allâ€ïžđđ»
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In Today's podcast episode, I'm honored to introduce my guest, female comedian, Yzzy Zarate. I had the pleasure of meeting Yzzy at a Women's Called Conference last year and I was truly excited for her to share what her life and journey has been like, bringing joy and laughter to people. She talks about the stigma tied to comedy and it's place in the Christian community. Yzzy, has faced many challenges throughout the beginning stages of her comedy pursuit but she continues to trust the Lord to use her in the present to bring smiles to hearts everywhere. I was inspired and encouraged by this young women's courage and resilience to continue to pursuit God and share her craft and gift with people all around her. Listen to Yzzy's story and be inspired.
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Hey Friends, it's good to be back and on the road.
Today's podcast episode is the first episode of the year and I'm excited to share that we are now mobile and traveling to share these powerful stories of God's redeeming grace,
My guest Delilah is the owner and founder of The ROCK Exchange Boutique and PG-31 Ministry for young women. This is my second interview with her and let me say, every time is so much fun, she's just amazing! Delilah talks about the blessings and struggles that come with running a business and ministry. She talks about life, relationships and trusting God.
My conversation with Delilah will inspire you and encourage you to keep trusting God with the dreams and plans He has for you.
Thank you for your support! I pray this podcast will bless you!
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In today's episode, I'm honored to introduce my guest Dr. Evonne Thompson, author of "Can you sleep like this? In the rest of God." I'm excited for you to listen to our conversation today on rest, obedience, worship and prayer as they all come together to truly find rest in God. I pray this episode will bless you.
Meet my Guest:
As a speaker, teacher, and author, Dr. Evonne is known for leading high-impact events. Complementing her theological experience and MA in theology, Dr. Evonne is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and MBA graduate from Regent University, allowing her to positively impact diverse communities through her professional work. After completing her doctorate from United Theological Seminary, she launched Elici, which combines her gifts as a consultant and Fortune 200 professional with faith.
âDr. Evonne lives in the Chicago, Illinois area, and is passionate about local ministry efforts and volunteering. She works as a Director at the University of Chicago, as well as a Spiritual Director for Contextual Ministries students at United Theological Seminary. She serves on the Executive Council for United Way of Metro Chicagoâs Women United, as well as other Chicago ministry organizations. She loves God, prayer, worship, family, friendship, fellowship, and laughter. When resting in God, she enjoys traveling, hiking, readingâand a favorite dessert.
Website: www.elici.org
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My special guest Mira G. talks about the tragic loss of her son and the hope she found in Jesus Christ to keep moving forward. When tragedy strikes you're never prepared to face such pain and suffering. Mira shares how her life drastically changed when she began to notice her teenage son was having problems and she tried everything she could to help him. She talks about the peace she now has in Christ in the midst of her loss and how she prays her story can help a parent who may be struggling with helping their child.
Below is the Illinois Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
Call 988 or Text 988
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In this episode, I am thankful to have a conversation with my husband Omar Calvillo, the host of Wrong to Strong Chicago Podcast. We talk about gratitude and being thankful to God for who He is and all the blessings He gives to us.
As we approach Thanksgiving the whole world gathers to give thanks. As a believer in Jesus Christ , we are often urged throughout scripture to give thanks to God. I'll be the first to admit my initial response in troubling times, isn't one of thanksgiving. I'm learning that even difficult and trying times are opportunities to give thanks to God for being with us and leading us through such difficulties. I'm grateful for my Lord's love, grace and patience. He keeps us and gives us strength to keep going and seeking Him.
Friends, I'm thankful for all of your love, support and prayers.
Thank you, to the courageous women who have shared their stories for God's glory.
I'm thankful for my sweet blessings, my husband Omar and my children Angel, Angelina and Moses. I'm thankful for my family, friends that became family and all my brothers and sisters in Christ. Blessings to you all this Thanksgiving.
With Love, Ann Calvillo
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Meet my Guest:
For the longest time, Founder, of Be Brave. Be You, Lisba Romo struggled with
the spirit FEAR. In her early childhood, Lisba suffered from being bullied at school
and being verbally abused at home. Consequently, this led to Lisbaâs feelings of
unworthiness, low self-esteem and having fear to do things. Lisba was so shy to do things that simply speaking up and expressing herself was a challenge. When
Lisba became a teenager, she battled with depression and having suicidal thoughts and experienced being spiritually attacked by an evil force. In college, Lisba began to step outside of her comfort zone. Yet life still had some challenges for her along the way as she entered the workforce. After being laid off for the second time, Lisba decided to become one of the caregivers for her dad who was
battling cancer. Unfortunately, her dad lost the battle against cancer and this rocked her to her core. Her father had to hold off on living his life fully in hopes of retiring one day and doing all the things he wanted to do but unfortunately life had a different plan for him. It is then that Lisba made a decision to be brave with her life.
She created her own challenge to conquer her fears by challenging herself for 10 days going live on Facebook doing a Be Brave and Get Uncomfortable Challenge. The more Lisba got uncomfortable, the more comfortable she became with being uncomfortable. Lisbaâs passion for overcoming fears and adversities lead to creating her
own YouTube channel.
One day Lisba met with a woman who invited her to co-author on a book to share her life story and gave her the inspiration to start her organization, Be Brave. Be You, LLC. Lisba is now leading a purposeful life as the Brave Warrior Life Coach, Motivational Speaker and Published Author in Todayâs Inspired Latina. Lisba believes that there is yet more dreams to accomplish and
that nothing is impossible if you put your faith in God. Lisba is a child of God, a wife, daughter, and a sister and
has two pet childs, Honey and Bella.
To learn more about Lisba and her organization, Be Brave. Be You, LLC. visit www.bebravebyou.com
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Meet my amazing guest:
Delilah was born & raised on the South side of Chicago. Sheâs half Arabian & half Puerto Rican. (Two beautiful blend of cultures) God & her relationship with Him is a huge pillar in her life. By the time she was 22 both her parents passed away. Her faith helped her overcome that trauma. Delilah was a plus size model, however, her focus has shifted from modeling to mentoring & public speaking. Sheâs the founder of PG-31, a faith-inspired teen girl summer mentorship program. She was a co-host of an event called âThe Royal Discovery within your closetâ It was an event to encourage women to not only see themselves the way God sees them. But to embrace who they really are, also, to encourage women to work on that inner & outer healing. She is the owner of The R.O.C.K. Exchange Resale boutique and is grateful to have the opportunity to cater so her clients who can truly witness how fashion is timeless.
While modeling, sheâs had the privilege of being on the âSteve Harveyâ show a few times, Sheâs walked in Latino fashion week , Graced the runway for âThe Curvy Fashionistaâ & been seen on Fox News. Windy City Live & WGN, to name a few.
Proverbs Girls 31 (PG-31) is based on the scripture Proverbs 31:25 âShe is clothed with strength & dignity without fear of the future.â Our hope is when we come across young women that go through our PG-31 summer program, they leave different with each meet, learning something new. Especially, when it comes to life skills & faith.
In Delilah's free time she enjoys traveling, volunteering, styling women, hanging out with her family & friends & her main highlights are going to church, fashion, PG-31 & public speaking.
I'm excited for you to listen to Delilah's story. Get ready to be inspired and laugh wit usđ
I pray you'll be blessed through her story as I am.
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Meet my Guest,
Santalucia Hernandez, best known as Lucia, hails from the South Side of Chicago. A product of the Chicago public school system, she became a first-generation college student at the University of Wisconsin- Madison. She currently works for Chicago Debates helping build debate programs in underserved schools in Chicago.
Lucia gave her life to Christ in 2015 in Humacao, Puerto Rico and rededicated her life by getting baptized in 2016 at New Life Midway and has not turned back since then.
Lucia talks about trusting God to heal the wounds of her heart and her healing journey. She recalls how many times she wanted to give in to her old ways of thinking and old destructive patters because it was familiar and comfortable to her.
It's taken time to leave what was familiar and step out in faith into her calling. Lucia wants to encourage young women to give themselves an opportunity to let God heal their hearts and transform them. I pray you'll be encouraged by her insperational story.
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Meet my guest Marybel.
Marybel Rodriguez, was born and raised in Chicago. She grew up in Englewood/Back of the Yards neighborhood. She is a daughter and sibling to seven wonderful beings, she absolutely loves them all! Jesus is her motivation. She loves Him and He loves her. She has the honor of taking care of her loved ones and those whom God entrusts to her. Every season looks different yet she's always learning from The Holy Spirit in the way in which He guides her in it. She is excited for the new endeavors that the Lord is preparing her for as well as the new things He is doing through her. She currently serves her church in the Usher and Front desk ministry. In addition to the ministries, she is also serving as a deacon and is being trained to serve at a greater capacity. God is continually working in her life, and she absolutely loves it. She would not want it any other way.
Marybel, gets raw and honest as she shares about her struggle with self-righteousness and how God revealed this to her and how He helped her overcome this struggle through humility. She talks about how she viewed others and herself.
Religion had her thinking she was "good" compared to others and she wasn't too bad.
Her relationship with Jesus changed once she realized what His grace was really all about.
I pray that many will be encouraged and set free through her testimony.
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In today's episode, my guest Nikki Cruise, talks about her illness that left her wheelchair bound for many years and how she chose to find joy in the Lord in the midst of her circumstances. The Lord healed Nikki from the inside out. Listen to her insperational story.
I pray it will bless you.
Nikki Cruise (the God Inspired Joy Junkie) is an energetic and dynamic transformational speaker, who in sharing her miraculous testimony, inspires Kingdom leaders to activate the Healing Power of Joy to elevate the impact of their leadership.
As a Christ centered joy coach and Kingdom leader she equips Kingdom women in ministry and business to Heal from past and hidden hurts, release shame and embrace their God given calling - empowered by the tools to daily choose God's abundance and joy in all circumstances.
She is passionate about community, Joy and transformation. The transformation through the empowerment of the Holy Spirit that makes all things possible.
And of course FUN And JOY
Support the showYou can partner up with me by making donations via PayPal by using the link below:
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Meet my guest Angelina Benitez.
She is a newly devoted disciple of Jesus Christ, recently married, mom of 6 and a new student.
In today's episode, Angelina talks about her past childhood trauma and abuse.Â
She talks about the unhealthy relationships and cycles in her life that came about as a result of unhealed pain and trauma in her life. Today she is serving her community in the non profit sector and is working towards bringing Jesus to the nations.Â
Listen to her incredible story of courage and breaking cycles of abuse in Jesus name.
Angelina is very raw and honest about the abuse she experienced and her thoughts of not wanting to continue living the way she was living.
I pray you will be encouraged by her story.
Blessings
Support the showYou can partner up with me by making donations via PayPal by using the link below:
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Meet my guest:
If youâre ready to reach your financial goals and build wealth confidently through proven business know-how, Michelle Velasquez is your go-to expert. Her mission is to help Latina moms and couples create healthy spending habits, pay off any debt & reach their savings goals without an overly restrictive budget. Not only is she a coach for personal and business finances, but she also is a sought-after speaker, trainer, and workshop facilitator.
As a daughter of an entrepreneur, Michelle had an eye-opening experience when her father died, leaving her in charge of sorting out both his family and business finances. Through a flood of frustrated tears, Michelle decided that she would dedicate herself to making sure that no one else had to go through the struggles of poor financial planning the way she did.
Michelle has an intimate understanding of the cultural barriers many Latina women face when it comes to finances. As a result, sheâs developed the skills to help others overcome those roadblocks so that they can heal past traumas and limiting mindsets. This enables her clients to reach their money goals, have effective budgets, protect their wealth, and even navigate financial legalities that used to seem so intimidating.
Michelle is trained as a Financial Coach Master Trainer. She received her Paying for College Certification through NextGen Personal Finance.
She is proudly changing the financial narrative of Latinas as a co-author of Latinas in Finances. And is determined to change the financial narrative one Latina at a time.
Because she practices what she preaches (creating multiple streams of income to build wealth for her childrenâs children) Michelle is also a Real Estate Investor (experienced in renovating and flipping homes), a Landlord who owns multiple properties, and an Airbnb Host with a suite of properties. She also is the wife of an entrepreneur and is able to bring her financial skills into practice with her husbandâs general contracting business.
Her extensive training and experience, combined with her heart for seeing Latinas rise into financial powerhouses, make Michelle the perfect person to come alongside women who are ready to uplevel their personal and business finances as well as develop wealth through growing a real estate portfolio. Michelle has walked families through overcoming thousands in debt, embracing self-discipline, and helping them save money to buy a house, travel, build new streams of income. Through her one on one coaching programs, she has helped many heal from past money traumas, witness marriages go from seperate to merged finances, has taught individuals to become better stewards of their money while paying off debt, and has helped families better plan for their future so they can leave generational welath.
Michelle is a daughter of a King, a mom to four young children, and a lover of conchas and coffee.
Michelle Velasquez
Financial Coach
www.vwbcoaching.com (website)
Info@vwbcoaching.com (email)
@vwbcoaching (social media handles FB/IG)
FB Private Group- Latina Moms Building Wealth
Support the showYou can partner up with me by making donations via PayPal by using the link below:
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Meet my guest Nelly.
Nelly committed her life to the Lord on April 8, 2012, after living her life as a teen addict. She suffered the great loss of her ex-boyfriend in 2011 who died, due to a drunk driver. God started to heal her heart but she found herself falling back into old patterns after her separation in 2016 and final divorce in 2017. Nelly later met a man and was involved in a domestic violent relationship with him. She broke free from this relationship in 2020. God has then helped her heal. And has called her to pray for women and help woman find the courage to begin to heal and walk away from domestic violent situations. She currently works as an addiction counselor. She serves as an alter prayer partner, bringing hope through the word of God to those who are lost and in need of hope.Â
Nelly shares the steps which helped her to walk in freedom from addiction.
I pray her story will bless you!
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In today's episode, my guest Tia Juarez talks about her life before Christ and how she practiced in the occult. She was diagnosed with stage 2 cancer when she came to know Jesus Christ as her healer, Lord and Savior.
I pray her story will encourage you and inspire you.
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A few months ago, I had the blessed opportunity to listen to Melody Fabien speak at the New Life Women's Conference at the Moody Bible Institute, on the topic of "Breaking Generational Cycles." In this episode I am honored to have her as a guest, to talk about breaking generational sin and cycles.
Tune in to this powerful message!
"Melody is a lover of Jesus, wife to Claudaniel (CD), and mother to Jael, Maria & Ellianah. Melody resides in Davie FL with her family, enjoys serving in her local church and speaking at Family Life Weekend to Remember conferences. Melody also travels the US speaking and teaching about faith, love, relationships and marriage. Melody is known for her humorous and animated style of communicating hard truths. She is also very passionate about connecting women to God and connecting them to each other. She has a heart to see young women set free and living victorious lives, both physically and spiritually."
I pray you'll be blessed through this podcast episode.
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In this podcast episode, I sit down with my guest Rosie Haro as she shares her story.
Rosie grew up in a abusive home with a lot of fear and feelings of unworthiness. Over time she developed a distorted view of love from her childhood and found herself in the same abusive cycle she saw at home with her own relationships.Â
Rosie went through a major health scare in which she witnessed the love of God that changed her life. Rosie and her husband own several businesses in the heart of La Villita. Helping this community and low income families is the heart behind their mission. Rosie is also a part of a women's empowerment group and assists her close friend in her ministry for women. She is also in the process of writing her book.
I pray you will be encouraged and inspired by Rosie's story as I was.
Blessings
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In this podcast episode, I sit down with my guest Sarah Gonzalez as she shares her story. Sarah followed in her fathers footsteps to serve and minister to the prisoners in Cook County jail. When her father grew ill and passed away. Sarah found herself angry at God and not wanting anything to do with Him. She grew distant from her mother and would later go through her own journey back to God. Sarah strayed far from the Lord but her mother never gave up praying for her. She is currently serving and ministering to the prisoners in Cook County jail.Â
Listen to Sarah's powerful story of God's redeeming grace.
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In this podcast episode, I have a conversation with Marcy with my guest Marcy who joins me from Alabama. Marcy grew up, the daughter of a single father. Along the years she was always looking and searching for something. As a teen and she started seeking attention and fell into promiscuity and drinking. While living in Chicago, in her twenties her choices would eventually lead her to a few failed relationships, early pregnancy and then ultimately a second divorce where she was facing losing her kids.
Marcy started dancing to make money to pay her lawyer. This was the low point in her life and felt the tug from God to leave everything behind and join the Army.
In the Army she met her husband and together they would follow Jesus.
Marcy is a "sojourner on her way home. Bond servant 0f Christ, wife and mother."
She teaches an online Women's Bible Study Group for all women.
Her story is so encouraging and humbling.
I pray you will be blessed by Marcy's story as I am.
Thank you for tuning in.
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I had the pleasure of interviewing Tanya Delfin for this podcast episode.
She talks about growing up feeling so misunderstood amongst her peers because she was different. Tanya would later go to college and still have to war off some of these conflicting thoughts of herself. Years later she become a speech pathologist for CPS and helps non-verbal children communicate. Like Tanya at a younger age, a lot of her students just want to be understood. She is the creator and inventor of the amazing silicone placemat with AAC pictures geared towards helping non verbal children.
Her hope is to help as many non-verbal children and their families to communicate more effectively.
You can find this placemat on Amazon.
I pray that Tanya's inspiring story will bless you.
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In this Podcast Episode I sit down to have a conversation with my dear friend, Betzabel.Â
She shares about the trauma and abuse she suffered which affected her as a child and into her adult life. All of her relationships were affected by the unaddressed pain and hurt she was carful to hide until she couldn't keep it hidden anymore.Â
Because of Jesus Christ and his redeeming love she is being renewed day by day.
She talks about her strained relationship with her mother and how God not only redeemed this relationship through forgiveness but also how he gave her the opportunity to lead her mother to Christ and to the waters of Baptism. Her marriage and family is also a testimony of God's continual grace and love.Â
My prayer is that Betsy's story will give you hope and bring healing to the wounded areas of your heart in Jesus mighty name.
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This podcast episode is an invitation for all women to come together in Christ for a Royal weekend getaway. I've been graciously invited by Adrianna Grimaldo to be one of the many speakers to share a timely word with you. Listen to Adrianna and a couple of the women who are all a part of this Royal experience, share about the vision and planning involved.Â
Save the date: July 7th at 6pm to July 9th at 1pm.
More details and registration link, soon to come.
We can't wait to see you in July
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I've had the pleasure of meeting Christy a few years ago through our church.
Christy and her husband responded to the call to move their family from the familiar and comfortable, to the City of Chicago to minister to the Brighton Park community.
She talks about the heartache of leaving everyone they knew and loved and trusting God with His plan. She currently pastors a church alongside her husband Jason in the Chicago, Brighton Park neighborhood and hold community outreach events.Â
Christy leads her women's ministry and has a heart to see the women in her community grow in their relationship with Jesus. Christy is a blessing to me and so many women who know her. Her gentle yet courageous spirit is so inviting. Her perspective on finding the beauty and unity in Christ through our cultural differences is so enlightening. I know you'll be blessed by Christy's story.
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A few months ago, I interviewed my husband on his podcast Wrong to Strong Chicago Podcast and I decided that it was fitting to share this interview on this Podcast since it's him and I sharing our story.Â
Omar and I were two very lost and hurting souls before we came to know Jesus Christ. Jesus not only saved us and rescued us but He redeemed us and delivered us.
The message is clear, "He loved us while we were yet sinners" and this is the love that motivates us to love others and testify of His amazing grace and share His gospel with those just like us. Once we were considered outcasts, rebellious, and rejected. Now, forgiven, new creation, chosen and loved in Jesus Christ. We share our story in faith, believing that with God all things are possible for them that believe.
We pray our testimony will bless you.
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Email: wrong2strongchicago@gmail.com
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In my conversation with Kristynn, she talks about being physically, emotionally and sexually abused since she was a baby.
All throughout her life she found herself being bounced around from home to home and never really feeling like she belonged. Often times she fought her way through life to survive. Kristynn found herself in a toxic, abusive relationship that left her shattered and fearful for her life. Kristynn surrendered her life to Jesus and learned her worth, value and identity in Jesus Christ. She did something so bold and courageous when she left this toxic an violent relationship and is now focused on her relationship with Jesus. Kristynn's story will truly bless you. If you find yourself in a violent and toxic relationship, please know that there is hope and a way out.Â
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In today's episode with Adrianna, she talks about her childhood and recalling the time when her father sold her and her siblings. Her memories of going hungry and alone would one day serve a greater purpose in developing and preparing her heart for the homeless ministry she leads today. Adrianna talks about breaking cycles and curses in her family and claiming God's victory over them after walking away from a almost head on car collision. She also learns to forgive her father whole heartedly after learning more about him and his story. "Forgiveness is not just for us but it's also for them". Adrianna's love for people and outlook on life truly blessed me. She is a women who believes in empowering people by walking with them on their journey and serving them. Her story is truly inspiring!
I pray that Adrianna's story will bless you and encourage you.
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My guest Blanca Sepulveda talks about growing up in Chicago with her family and seeing firsthand what it meant to work hard and sacrifice. While she was taught the importance of hard work, she saw how her family struggled financially and how it created problems in her parents marriage. As a teenager, she knew she didn't want to repeat that cycle but things took a turn when she became a single mom and found herself in that cycle. Blanca began to network with people and was mentored by people who would provide some necessary tools and rescources for her. Along her journey she realized something within was missing in her life and she received the Lord in her heart and started her relationship with Christ.
Today Blanca is building a new legacy with her son, with practical steps to financial transformation. She is dedicated to equipping, mentoring others and coaching families to financial freedom and growth!
Meet my Guest:
Blanca is driven by financial transformation, uplifting individuals and communities towards prosperity that is generational. Blanca spent 25 years in banking. She took a bold leap
of faith and followed her passion; she quit her corporate job to open up her own business, Transformation Financial. Her company helps families from all walks of life create an independent financial future. She is a nationally licensed financial expert who mentors, trains, and develops other individuals to become entrepreneurs.
I pray you'll be encouraged and inspired by Blanca's story!
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I'm so excited for you to tune in to my NEW Friday Segment, "Gracious Words".
Let me introduce my wonderful guest and co-host for this segment Krissi Raines.
Krissi is a dear friend that graciously accepted my invitation to join me every other week to bring you this segment, "Gracious Words", to promote healing for our souls and empower this amazing community of women in their walk with Christ.Â
We are all about edifying and building each other up!
Krissi Raines is a native of Abbeville, SC with a B.S. in Elementary Education and a Masters in Professional Counseling. She is a certified Life Coach and Mental Health First Aid Instructor through the National Council of Mental Health and Well being.Â
God has equipped Krissi to understand spiritual gifts and psychology in a unique way to bring deliverance to those around her.
Her greatest passion is to see people break free of beliefs, mindsets, and patterns that hinder them from living a life surrendered to Jesus."
We can't wait to discuss raw and real topics of conversation with you, every other Friday!
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Rechele grew up on the South Side of Chicago in Bridgeport during her childhood years. She grew up in a dysfunctional home with childhood trauma. She grew up struggling with abandonment issues and found herself in a violent relationship.
During a very violent situation with her partner while she was pregnant, she divered her baby girl early. Her baby lived for two days and then sadly passed away. This incident compelled her to leave with her babies and all that she knew to seek a better life for her family. Against all odds she decided to continue to pursue her education. Years later, she was in a horrific car accident that almost took her life. This was a life changing event for her as she drew closer to God and surrendered her life to him. Today, she dedicates her time and life encouraging and empowering women.
I pray you'll be blessed through Rechele's inspiring story.
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Rebecca grew up on the South Side of Chicago in the "Back of the Yards" community.
She recalls exploring spirituality at a young age and even unknowingly got involved with cults because she felt like something was missing in her life. Rebecca grew up in a dysfunctional home but was encouraged by her family to go to college and pursuit her education. At just 19 years old, she was overwhelmed under the pressure of college and had just gone through a devastating break up. In an effort to cope with her pain she drank away her feelings that night which led her to a very dark place were she became consumed by dark thoughts to end her life. By the grace of God her mother and sister found her passed out in the attic. Rebecca goes on to talk about God saving her and redeeming her life. Rebecca felt led to talk about suicide and depression since many people secretly suffer with these thoughts.Â
I pray you will be blessed by Rebecca's courage and story.
Instagram: herscarstellastory Email: herscarstellastory@gmail.com
I'm so excited to let you in on my NEW Friday Segment, "Gracious Words" launching today!!!Â
Let me introduce my wonderful guest and co-host for this segment Krissi Raines.
Krissi is a dear friend that graciously accepted my invitation to join me every other week to bring you this segment, "Gracious Words", to promote healing for our souls and empower this amazing community of women in their walk with Christ.Â
We are all about edifying and building each other up!
Krissi Raines is a native of Abbeville, SC with a B.S. in Elementary Education and a Masters in Professional Counseling. She is a certified Life Coach and Mental Health First Aid Instructor through the National Council of Mental Health and Well being.Â
God has equipped Krissi to understand spiritual gifts and psychology in a unique way to bring deliverance to those around her.
Her greatest passion is to see people break free of beliefs, mindsets, and patterns that hinder them from living a life surrendered to Jesus."
We can't wait to discuss raw and real topics of conversation with you, every other Friday!
Instagram: herscarstellastory Email: herscarstellastory@gmail.com
My guest Trini Espinosa grew up on the South Side of Chicago in the "Little Village" community.
Trini talks about her childhood struggles as she grew up in a neighborhood surrounded by the wrong influences and feeling the rejection and the absence of her father. Trini was bullied all through school and learned quickly how to fight for herself.Â
Trini goes on to talk about her relationship with God and how throughout her life there was this common thread in her story of how she persevered in prayer.
From the death of her brother and the brokenness of her marriage and divorce, Trini has found her strength in the Lord and is purposed to encourage and empower women going through their own struggles in life. Trini now leads a women's bible study group called "Kingdom Women" were she and women from different states come together to grow in their relationship with God and the Word of God.
I pray you'll be encouraged through Trini's story as I am.Â
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My guest Maritza R, grew up on the Northside of Chicago. She found herself having to relocate as life changed and her family grew. She left everything that was familiar behind. From her family home on the Northside to becoming a mom and wife and having to leave her job. Maritza decided one day after discovering she had post partum depression to cut her and change it. That decision was the beginning of stepping into her calling. She started the journey of beauty school. In this process she surrendered her life to Christ and was mentored by the same women who trained her in the beauty industry. Maritza is currently operating her own studio salon were every client is treated with the utmost care and comfort. She makes her clients feel safe by listening to them and their needs. I pray Maritza's story will encourage you and inspire you.
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Sonia Calderon grew up watching her brothers be bullied into joining a gang at a very young age. She watched her mother suffer as her own son was escorted to the back of a police car in handcuffs. At the young age of 10, Sonia already knew she wanted to help families through gang prevention by providing recourses for families. Sonia is an advocate for her community. She has worked alongside at risk youth through a mentorship program. Sonia believes she is planting seeds of hope by putting God at the center of it all by bringing the community together to heal with God's help.
She is currently in the process of building a ministry to help those impacted by injustice. She has been given the opportunity to go to Cook County Jail to speak into the lives of many who are incarcerated.
Sonia's story will bless you and encourage you.
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My guest JoAnn L Smith-Figures, talks about the night she suffered a tragic car accident that left her fighting for her life while coming home from her church life group. JoAnn is an Author who was inspired to write a book on prayer. She is also the lead prayer intercessor at her church. JoAnn experienced sexual identity issues at a very young age. She talks about leaving and renouncing the homosexual lifestyle and how the church loved her and prayed for her.Â
I pray that JoAnn's story will bless you and inspire you.Â
JoAnn's book is titled:
Prayers During A Global Crisis
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My guest Valerie G grew up in Chicago in the Humboldt Park area and had to relocate often. Valerie talks about the childhood trauma she endured and how this all changed the trajectory of her life. She suffered abuse and abandonment. She became a young mother and got involved with gangs and heavy drug use. She was homeless and helpless. One night while walking home she was approached by gunmen and was shot and almost bled to death. It wasn't until she looked in the mirror and realized enough was enough and she cried out to God. Valerie has been sober for may years and living for Jesus.
Valerie's story give you hope and encourage you. She's an amazing story of God's grace and love. I pray you will be blessed by her story.
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My guest, Claudia, grew up on the south side of Chicago with her mom and siblings. She was surrounded by the gang life and got involved with the wrong people at a very young age. She talks about her estranged relationship with her mother and growing up with her grandmother who raised her. Claudia shares some deep personal scars growing up including sexual and physical abuse and how even through her pain and struggles she saw God's faithfulness all through out her story.
Her courage and merciful heart will inspire you.
I pray that every listener who may be in a estranged relationship with your mother will be blessed by her heartfelt story.
Thank you for tuning in to Her Scars Tell A Story.
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I'm so excited for you to listen to today's conversation with a woman that has encouraged and empowered me and so many women over the years.
Rosabel Sanchez is Married to our Pastor, Juan Sanchez and they have 4 amazing children and a sweet doggy. She grew up on the Southside of Chicago with a learning disability and strived to go to college to achieve her dreams and goals. She struggled along in her life with anxiety and panic attacks. Rosabel opens up and shares her heart on what it means to be honest with God, yourself and others. She leaves us with some words of wisdom and encouragement. I know you will truly be blessed through this episode.
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Krissi Raines has a Masters Degree in Professional Counseling and is a Certified Life Coach. She is passionate about helping women navigate grief, loss, and learn to grow again. Krissi has found her way through seasons of deep loss and grief by being vulnerable with Jesus and honest with herself. She believes you can too.Â
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In my conversation with Lupita today, she talks about what life was like when her father left his family. She would later learn that she had God the fathers love to count on. During the Pandemic she was faithful to the call to pray for people in her community and soon a prayer walking ministry was born through two faithful women. Listen to Lupita's powerful story.
(This Podcast is recorded in Spanglish)
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"Rose Ann was a successful executive and working mom of four.  When the Covid 19 pandemic hit, she enrolled in a secular coaching program to put alcohol to the side for three months. Her experience was extremely transformational and she recognized Godâs Word embedded in all of the concepts that made this journey successful.  She started documenting the important aspects of the journey in a devotional format and called it âThe Plans He Has For Me, A 12 Week Daily Devotional for Freedom from Alcoholâ. She is an Amazon Best Selling author and an alcohol free coach."
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"At the age of 25, my entire life was destroyed. I suddenly began experiencing a constant UNBEARABLE pain that doctors said was an incurable and untreatable illness. Incurable. Untreatable. NOTHING medically could be done. For nearly 2 years, I was left to suffer from a horrific condition that would not allow me to eat, move, walk, shower, lay down, or even sleep. I had to kneel at the side of the bed & remain completely still for hours in order to avoid triggering the pain. I kneeled for 8-12 hrs a day. I developed a host of other health conditions as a result of this. I lost 70 lbs b/c the only thing that didnât make the pain worse was drinking plain water. I survived nearly 2 years off the same 1-3 food items. My appetite was normal yet I could not eat b/c of the horrific pain. Every day was a new day to experience torturous physical agony & terror unspeakable. About 8 months in, I developed a habit of telling God that I hated life. One day He responded by saying âMy steadfast love is better than lifeâ (Psalm 63:3). In the midst of my suffering, His presence never departed from me. He showed me that my ultimate purpose in life is to abide in Him, & that in His presence there is fullness of joy (Psalm 16:11). God kept me from sinking into a dark pit of despair & hopelessness. He empowered me to resist every temptation to give up on life. He guarded my heart from becoming bitter, resentful or envious of others. He led me to share my story to help encourage others to persevere through hardships. He also MIRACULOUSLY HEALED ME!!!!!"
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In today's conversation with Rosa she shares her story of her broken relationship with her father and how God filled the role of her father at a very young age. She talks about the insecurities and issues she faced growing up with an absent dad and how she was able to forgive him. As a single woman she shares about the challenges she's endured and how she's learned to grow on her journey with God in her singleness. She is currently mentoring women and has dedicated her life to discipling women and encouraging them to walk and live in their purpose. Rosa R is an inspiration to all who know her. I pray you'll be encouraged through her story.
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In today's conversation with Juliet. She talks about her battle with anxiety and how she's learned how to face her fears and slay those giants. She also talks about the gift of drawing that was developed through her season of anxiety while receiving some devastating news. She now sells and showcases her art work through her website and Facebook. You can follow her at Juliet's Art Room. Listen to Juliet's story.
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In today's conversation with Arce, she talks about Marriage and building relationships. She shares how when she separated from her husband and how they fought to keep their marriage together with Christ at the center of their marriage. She talks honestly about her struggles with anger and other issues and how now she has the tools to work in those areas within herself and in her relationships. She goes on to share how her small business as a Paparazzi Jewelry Consultant opened the door for new friendships and deep connections. Listen to Arce share her scars and story.
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In today's conversation with Lisette, she talks about the accidental tragedy that marked her life forever and the miracle of God's healing touch. During one of the darkest and grievous moments of her life she turned to God for help. Her family once divided by this tragic event is now united through the power of God's love and forgiveness.
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In today's conversation with Luz Orta, she talks about the mask coming off and learning to live authentically in accordance to who God purposed her to be. She talks about the tough choice of releasing her business for a season and her call to boldly pray for souls. As a single woman she finds her purpose and contentment in Jesus.
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In today's conversation with Hilda Ortiz, she's discussing the foster care system she was raised in and the moment that she received a powerful prophetic word that prompted an urgency to call her mom to ask for forgiveness and how that changed the short amount of time she had left with her.Â
Hilda is honest and transparent about her journey with the Lord and how she is focusing on restoring her relationship with Him. Her story is heartfelt and I pray that it will speak to many women.Â
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Intro for Her Scars Tell A Story - Podcast
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