Pivotal People: Recent Episodes
Stephanie Nelson
Join us in conversations with inspiring people doing amazing things. Their insights and experiences help motivate all of us to find our purpose that fits with our abilities, gifts and life situation. Get a "behind the scenes" look at successful people making a difference in the world and benefit from their advice for the rest of us. Our guests include authors, artists, business people and speakers.
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Alcohol can be the most accepted coping tool in the room and the hardest one to question out loud. We sit down with Christy Osborne, author of Love Life Sober and a senior sobriety coach, to talk about what happens when drinking stops feeling “fun and normal” and starts feeling like a default setting you can’t turn off, even when your life looks fine from the outside.
We get honest about the social pressure to drink, the fear of being “boring” without it, and the weird push-pull of modern culture that celebrates wine everywhere while quietly warning us about alcohol’s impact on mental health, sleep, anxiety, and the brain. Christy shares her own turning point, including how grief and loss exposed the ways alcohol had become a counterfeit comfort, and why presence, connection, and joy can look completely different when you’re fully awake to your life.
We also dig into the practical side: the dopamine hit that lasts about 30 minutes, the habit loop that keeps you chasing more, and why so many women fall into self-medicating without realizing it, especially in mommy wine culture. Christy explains why you don’t need a permanent label to want change, how alcohol use disorder sits on a spectrum, and how her 40-day alcohol fast is designed so you “can’t fail” because every stumble can become a growth point and real data for healing.
If you’re sober curious, tired of negotiating with yourself every night, or looking for faith-based sobriety support that’s rooted in grace and clarity, this conversation will meet you right where you are. Subscribe for more conversations like this, share this with a friend who needs it, and leave a review with the biggest insight you’re taking with you.
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We sit down with Christian leader, speaker and author Kendall Mariah to talk about how doubt, discomfort, and “soul friction” can strengthen real faith instead of destroying it. We name the pain of performative Christian culture and come back to Jesus as the clearest measure of what belief should look like.
• Kendall’s background in church and why asking questions builds trust
• “Soul friction” as discernment and a doorway to sanctification
• Why comfort-driven Christianity can block transformation
• What it feels like when Christians online act unlike Christ
• How 2020 intensified questions about racism, empathy, and hypocrisy
• Deconstruction as rebuilding belief through better questions
• How culture and context shape theology and church expectations
• Fruit of the Spirit as a better measure than rulekeeping
• Practical hope for people tired of pretending and ready for honest faith
One of the best gifts you can give yourself is to get Kendall Mariah's book, "This Little Fire of Mine: How Flickers of Doubt Can Spark a Bolder, Brighter Faith."
Connect with and follow Kendall on many social media platforms and get her book wherever you buy your books.
Kendall's website: https://kendallmariah.com/
Instagram, Tik Tok: @kendallmariah
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If you have ever hit a big milestone and immediately felt the quiet panic of “now what,” this conversation will land hard. We sit down with Dr. Dave Jones, a former professional hockey player turned Air Force veteran, sport performance psychology expert, executive coach, and Christian marketing leader, to unpack why goals can actually leave you feeling emptier when they become your identity and why a compelling vision keeps you steady through every season.
We get specific about what “vision” really means and how it differs from goal setting, productivity, and achievement culture. Dr. Dave shares a simple criteria that makes vision practical: it must be short, portable, easy to understand, memorable, inspiring, and have a God factor that goes beyond personal effort. We also talk about the arrival fallacy, the danger of idolizing money and status, and how to craft a clear vision statement that can guide your decisions at work, at home, and in your community.
The second half of life shows up in a big way here. If you are retired or nearing retirement and wondering whether you missed your chance to matter, we explore a better frame: constant recalibration. Along the way, we dig into “toxic motivators” fear, lust, anger, pride and the antidotes faith, giving, forgiveness, humility so you can spot what is really driving you and lead yourself with vision instead.
Listen, then share this with a friend who needs direction, and please subscribe and leave a review so more people can find the show. What’s one short phrase that could become your vision?
Connect with Dave, order his books, listen to his podcast, follow him on social media to continue learning from him.
His website: https://misgood.com/
His agency on IG: https://www.instagram.com/misgoodagency/
Order his first book, "Vision Wins"
https://www.amazon.com/Vision-Wins-Strategies-Mental-Toughness/dp/173664680X
Subscribe to the Pivotal People newsletter for new episodes, giveaways and more: https://stephanienelson.com/newsletter/
Learn more at StephanieNelson.com
Follow us on Instagram @stephanie_nelson_cm
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Order Stephanie's bookImagine More: Do What You Love, Discover Your Potential
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We sit down with Pam Baker, founder of "Widows Who Wine" and author of "Where's the Key to the Safe" to talk about rebuilding life after loss through friendship, purpose, and practical preparation. We also get into the uncomfortable but essential money and paperwork realities that hit families during grief and how to make them easier.
• Pam’s path from cystic fibrosis advocacy to widowhood leadership
• Why Widows Who Wine is a social sisterhood rather than a grief group
• How loneliness shows up after loss and what helps women rejoin life
• The “business of death” and why probate tasks feel brutal in grief fog
• The widow tax and the hidden ways cash flow can drop
• How to choose financial help and how various fee structures work
• Common traps like authorized user cards and lack of account access
• Beneficiary reviews that can override a will and trigger conflict
• Writing letters to children to explain decisions and reduce infighting
• How to start a Widows Who Wine chapter with support from Pam and her team
Connect with Pam:
Order her book: https://lastinglegacyconsulting.com/book/
Connect via her website: https://widowswhowine.com/
Find her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/widowswhowine
Subscribe to the Pivotal People newsletter for new episodes, giveaways and more: https://stephanienelson.com/newsletter/
Learn more at StephanieNelson.com
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Order Stephanie's bookImagine More: Do What You Love, Discover Your Potential
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Success can go to your head. Failure can go to your heart. And if you’re building something from scratch, it’s easy to let the business decide who you are.
We sit down with Brett Smith, Executive Director of the Center for LIFE at Miami University (Leading the Integration of Faith and Entrepreneurship), to dig into what founders rarely say out loud: entrepreneurship is a tough, lonely sport that can amplify stress, shame, and identity swings. Brett shares what his research reveals about the “high highs and low lows” of entrepreneurial life and why a founder’s identity often rises and falls right along with revenue, funding, and momentum.
Then we get practical. Brett explains how a relational identity with God can act as a stabilizing counterbalance to entrepreneurial identity, affirming you in the lows and humbling you in the highs. We also unpack why success can be just as destabilizing as failure, how faith can shape decision making when the information is ambiguous, and why translating academically rigorous research into everyday language actually matters for entrepreneurs, investors, and teams.
Finally, we point you to free tools through Faith Driven Entrepreneur’s Research Insights and share where to learn more about the Center for LIFE, including resources on faith-driven entrepreneurship and social entrepreneurship. If this conversation helps, subscribe, share it with a founder friend, and leave a review so more people can find it.
Brett Smith Bio:
Brett R. Smith, Ph.D. is the Cintas Endowed Chair of Entrepreneurship, Founding Director, Center for Social Entrepreneurship, and Founding Research Director, Leading the Integration of Faith & Entrepreneurship (L.I.F.E.) Research Lab at Miami University in Oxford, Ohio. His research interests focus on social and faith-based entrepreneurship. His research has been featured in leading academic journals.
Learn more and contact Brett at: https://lifemiamioh.com/
Subscribe to the Pivotal People newsletter for new episodes, giveaways and more: https://stephanienelson.com/newsletter/
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Order Stephanie's bookImagine More: Do What You Love, Discover Your Potential
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A 13-year-old says, “I want to go to Uganda,” and a whole future cracks open. That’s where our conversation with Dr. Janelle Aby goes, and it’s why it sticks. Janelle is a physician, a clinical professor of pediatrics at Stanford University, and the medical director of the newborn nursery at Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital, but her most surprising work might be the stories she’s been brave enough to write down. We talk about her book-in-progress (working title: A Beautiful Mess) and why storytelling can cut through the endless noise and get us back to what matters.
We dig into how she writes without formal writing training, how reading shapes voice, and why the best stories often start as moments you can’t forget but can’t fully explain. One memory about her son Jack and a homeless man becomes a lesson in generosity with no guarantees. If you’ve ever wondered how to journal, write a memoir, or simply make sense of your life, her process is a practical map: capture the scene, then stay curious until the meaning shows itself.
Then the conversation turns to Uganda, global health, and faith in action. A connection with Damali and her orphanage grows into a community effort and, eventually, a newborn hospital project in a region with limited medical options. Janelle describes it like “surfing on a wave,” where you still take steps, but you’re not the one supplying the power. We also talk about obedience close to home, the courage to loosen control, and a relationship with a friend named Donna that proves community can be both hard and holy.
If this story nudges you to take one next step, don’t ignore it. Subscribe, share this with a friend who needs encouragement, and leave a review so more people can find the show.
Subscribe to Janelle Aby's newsletter for encouragement and inspiration here: https://janelleaby.myflodesk.com/
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Order Stephanie's bookImagine More: Do What You Love, Discover Your Potential
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We talk with Jessica Patay about the moment a diagnosis changes a family’s life and what “bravery” looks like when caregiving becomes a daily reality. We share how community support can protect caregiver mental health and why her book, "Suddenly Brave Together" aims to meet moms right at the defining moment.
• founding We Are Brave Together to reduce isolation for caregiving mothers
• defining bravery as showing up, facing grief and advocating
• naming altered motherhood and the hidden roles moms take on
• using a private online group, connection circles, retreats, podcast and books for support
• explaining the “suddenly” shift after diagnosis and the learning curve that follows
• describing Prader-Willi syndrome, food security and anxiety-driven behaviors
• navigating adulthood after school services end and the shortage of supports
• shifting from "why me?" to "what now?" through validation and community
• building confidence through doing, writing, networking and fundraising
• funding retreats and scholarships through donors, grants and sponsors
Find her website at WeAreBraveTogether.org
You can order this book and previous books directly from their website.
And if anyone out there listening has any ideas about how to get this book into the hands of NICUs and pediatricians and geneticists, reach out to Jessica at WeAreBraveTogether.org
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We sit down with Bailey T. Hurley to get honest about why adult female friendships feel so complicated and how to build the kind of connection that actually lasts. We talk practical questions, realistic expectations, and faith-driven ways to stop chasing approval and start showing up with courage.
• why time gets scarce in adulthood and how to use it well
• the “cost” of meaningful friendship and what we have to give up
• simple questions that move a relationship past small talk
• replacing outdated friendship expectations with a new definition
• handling rejection and lack of reciprocity without spiraling
• initiating without keeping score and knowing when to redirect energy
• having honest conversations that create clarity and closure
• easy friend-date ideas that do not require hosting perfection
• Bailey’s new Friendship Devotional and what it is designed to do
If you would like a chance to win a free copy of Bailey's new book, you can send an email to me on my website, stephanienelson.com, sign up for the newsletter, and you'll be entered to win.
Subscribe to the Pivotal People newsletter for new episodes, giveaways and more: https://stephanienelson.com/newsletter/
Learn more at StephanieNelson.com
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Order Stephanie's bookImagine More: Do What You Love, Discover Your Potential
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We sit down with health coach Jen Trepeck to explain the gut microbiome in plain language and why it affects immunity, mood, hormones, skin, and cravings. We also share practical ways to rebuild gut balance with food, smarter supplement choices, and one small habit you can start right away.
• what the gut microbiome is and why it matters beyond digestion
• dysbiosis explained as an imbalance of helpful and opportunistic bacteria
• common signs of gut imbalance including bloating, fatigue, brain fog, mood shifts, skin flare-ups, frequent illness, cravings
• how antibiotics can disrupt gut bacteria and why rebuilding can take time
• fiber from fruits and vegetables as the most reliable prebiotic strategy
• why plant diversity and more colors on the plate support resilience
• when stool testing may help and why foundations come first
• supplement quality, dosing, and why guidance matters
• how added sugar, artificial sweeteners, and ultra-processed foods affect gut health
• why calorie counting misses nutrient quality and real-world variables
• a realistic starting habit: more vegetables plus more water
Connect with Jenn to get a free 15-minute discovery call at her website:
https://asaladwithasideoffries.com/
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We talk with DEI strategist and leadership coach Israel Greene about why most DEI efforts don’t stick and what it takes to build cultures of real connection. We explore how listening, emotional intelligence, and business-aligned leadership practices turn inclusion into something durable instead of divisive.
• Israel’s path from tech to founding Mosaic Works
• Why DEI fails when it is not tied to business imperatives
• How to engage quiet sabotage with curiosity
• The 101% principle and finding common ground
• A focus group example where skeptics become implementers
• How language choices can trigger DEI backlash
• Why people feel less connected after COVID and remote work shifts
• Emotional intelligence as a core leadership skill
• Psychological safety and trust as drivers of performance
• Practical steps to connect with coworkers and difficult people
• The leadership question that matters most: how people feel after you leave
Learn more, get more information and connnect with Israel Greene via his website: https://www.israelgreene.com/ or at his company website mosaicworks.com.
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We talk with sports counselor Brooke Ewert about what athlete mental health really looks like behind the highlights and why support often starts with identity, grief, and better conversations at home. We share practical tools for anxiety, injury, perfectionism, and retirement transitions that apply to elite athletes and to the rest of us too.
• the difference between performance-focused sports psychology and sports counseling centered on mental health
• how athletes and teammates help break stigma and normalize therapy
• asking “Who are you away from your sport?” to build identity beyond athletics
• using CBT to challenge negative self-talk and reduce black-and-white thinking
• why injury can trigger anxiety and depression and how support changes recovery
• integrating faith as a source of strength and stability during transition points
• making room to grieve failures before rushing to lessons and silver linings
• goal setting with micro-goals and visible reminders to prevent skipping joy
• setting parent boundaries around postgame feedback and car-ride conflict
• what parent motivations can be under the surface and how that impacts kids
• how quitting or getting cut can shake identity and community, especially in college
For more information or to contact Brooke about counseling, reach out to Rocky Mountain Sports Counseling Center in Englewood, Colorado
https://rockymountainsportscounselingcenter.com/
Subscribe to the Pivotal People newsletter for new episodes, giveaways and more: https://stephanienelson.com/newsletter/
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We explore how identity, language, and harm reduction shape recovery and what friends and families can do that actually helps. Caroline Beidler shares her story, practical tools, and evidence-based resources that save time and protect dignity.
• early trauma and the search for peace
• finding faith, fellowship, and recovery purpose
• identity-first language that reduces stigma
• why labels delay help and fuel shame
• harm reduction as a life-saving on-ramp
• navigating social pressure and judgment
• how to host inclusive, alcohol-free options
• curiosity over control when offering help
• mental health support for anxiety and trauma
• fast access to treatment with Recovery.com
• preorder bonuses and community resources
Preorder “When You Love Someone in Recovery” (out April 7th) at CarolineBeidler.com for a candid video with her husband, a family recovery planning guide, and the opening of the audiobook.
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Regret feels like a weight, but we treat it as a signal that points to what we value most and what we still can change. We break down Daniel Pink’s research on regret, share a personal reconnection story, and offer a simple way to turn regret into one small next step.
• reframing regret as a useful emotion and a values signal
• findings from the American Regret Project and how common regret really is
• foundation regrets and the power of small repeated choices
• boldness regrets and why we often regret inaction
• moral regrets tied to identity plus guilt and shame
• connection regrets and why relationships drift quietly
• a real example of reaching out and restoring pivotal relationships
• self-compassion as the middle path between ego and self-criticism
• questions to extract the lesson and choose one forward action
If you'd like a free worksheet to walk you through the process of reframing and learning from specific regrets, just go to stephanienelson.com, go to the Contact button and send me an email. Tell me that you'd like this worksheet and I'll send it to you.
Subscribe to the Pivotal People newsletter for new episodes, giveaways and more: https://stephanienelson.com/newsletter/
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We talk with Elizabeth Cole of SoloParent.org about how community, safe groups, and faith help single parents move from isolation to strength. She shares practical ways advocates can help, why no-fix listening heals, and how consistent support shapes healthier homes for kids.
• scale of single-parent homes and isolation
• story of finding hope in a first group
• why advocates matter and how to help
• grief as ongoing process alongside joy
• faith as a frame for healing and resilience
• Solo Parent Essentials and recovery-model groups
• no-crosstalk rule and psychological safety
• Solo Parent Nation syncing with weekly podcast
• how to start or join groups in churches, companies, and communities
• links, schedules, and how to connect at soloparent.org
You can join Elizabeth's online group Monday nights at 8 p.m. Central on Zoom via soloparent.org . Get more information about resources for starting a group of finding a group as well.
Subscribe to the Pivotal People newsletter for new episodes, giveaways and more: https://stephanienelson.com/newsletter/
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A raw, hope-filled conversation with author and ministry leader Willow Weston about childhood pain, a radical encounter with Jesus, and the honest work of forgiveness that turns wounded collisions into healing ones. We explore naming hurts, stopping reinjury cycles, and saying small yeses that God multiplies.
• Collide’s mission to create spaces where women meet Jesus and find healing
• Willow’s early trauma and surrender to Christ at 21
• The closet moment that led to counseling and change
• How wounded collisions become healing collisions with Jesus
• Small obediences that grew into a nationwide ministry
• A decades-long prayer that revealed God’s pursuit
• Forgiveness as a freeing process, not a single act
• Naming pain to break bitterness and stop sideways hurt
• Reinjury, identity lies, and letting Scripture tell the truth
• How to connect with Collide events and resources
Everyone has to get this book. We're giving away 5 copies of the book to people who enter our giveaway at stephanienelson.com. Sign up for the email newsletter to get a chance to win!
Connect with Willow West on at https://www.willowweston.com/
Subscribe to the Pivotal People newsletter for new episodes, giveaways and more: https://stephanienelson.com/newsletter/
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We redefine wellness with Jen Trepeck, moving from diet rules and the noise of headlines to foundations that build strength, energy, and choice. We talk body composition, habits over willpower, how to eat for stable energy, and how to spot hype in nutrition news.
• defining wellness as dignity of choice and energy
• ignoring goals that are not your goals
• bloodwork as lagging indicator and body signals
• body composition over scale weight
• muscle as a pillar of longevity
• monthly measurements and daily wellness check-ins
• biostack foundations: fuel, movement, hydration, sleep, stress, community
• habits upstream of cravings and willpower
• protein and fiber every meal with quality fat
• vegetables target and eat the rainbow
• decoding studies: funding, bias, correlation vs causation
• less added sugar and fewer artificial sweeteners
• progress over perfection with simple, consistent steps
I’ll be giving away five free copies of Jen’s book. If you want to enter the giveaway, just go to my website, which is stephanienelson.com, and enter your email for the email newsletter, and we’ll send you a book if you happen to be one of the five winners.
Subscribe to the Pivotal People newsletter for new episodes, giveaways and more: https://stephanienelson.com/newsletter/
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Order Stephanie's bookImagine More: Do What You Love, Discover Your Potential
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We sit down with educator and nonprofit leader Emilio Parga to explore how children, teens, and families can process grief with honesty, dignity, and ongoing support. Practical tools, better language, and small acts turn awkward moments into real care that lasts.
• origin story of the Solace Tree and 9/11 catalyst
• why kids want stories and names, not silence
• being a doer with specific offers of help
• language shifts from resolving to processing grief
• boys and girls grieving differently and group design
• culture, faith, and continuing bonds respected
• finding or starting grief centers and resources
• phones, public tragedy, and exposure to death
• meaning making through seasons and milestones
• grief support for athletes and performance teams
Learn more: www.solacetree.org • 775-324-7723 • Email: EMILIO@SOLACETREE.ORG
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We unpack why so many teens feel like hope sits just out of reach and share a clear path to rebuild identity, belonging, and purpose. James McLamb explains a coaching model that equips everyday adults to guide young people toward meaning and measurable next steps.
• three core struggles: identity, relationships, purpose
• why self-image shapes choices and resilience
• social media pressures and practical guardrails
• simple habits that say “you matter”
• coaching vs rescuing and how to ask better questions
• inside the six-week Generation Youth Coaching program
• who can coach and how to get started
• resources, links, and where to find more support
Please share this episode with a parent, teacher, pastor, or coach who needs it. Visit jamesmclamb.com or generation-youth.com to learn more and get training.
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Listen to a fascinating conversation with neurosurgeon Dr. Lee Warren about how the art of "Self-Brain Surgery" can change your life for the better. Do you want to have more peace, contentment and happiness? How about less ruminating and worrying? If so, Dr. Warren's teachings can help you.
We explore how the mind directs the brain, why most automatic thoughts are untrue, and how to use a “thought biopsy” to stop rumination, lower cortisol, and build realistic hope that holds up under grief and stress. Practical tools turn faith and neuroscience into daily habits that steady sleep, speech, and relationships.
• mind versus brain distinction and why it matters
• fMRI evidence of thoughts changing physiology
• neuroplasticity creating worry racetracks
• thought biopsy and replacement with realistic truths
• one-thought-at-a-time focus and gratitude anchors
• chronic stress, cortisol, and long-term health risk
• hope and meaning amid sorrow without toxic positivity
• shifting from patient to doctor of your own mind
• practical steps to feel calmer and act wiser
Get the book “The Life-Changing Art of Self-Brain Surgery” and “Hope Is The First Dose.” Find Dr. Warren at drleewarren.com and follow @DrLeeWarren on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube
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Welcome to our second episode with Kristi Nelson, author of the wonderful book, "Wake Up Grateful." I read her book 4 years ago when she was on the podcast the first time and it has influenced my perspective and life outlook ever since. I asked her to come back on to share her wisdom with our larger audience today. You will be grateful for her wisdom!
As an added bonus, we are giving away 5 FREE copies of her book, Wake Up Grateful, to lucky listeners. Just go to my website, StephanieNelson.com and sign up for the email newsletter to be entered into the giveaway.
We explore gratefulness as a durable way of living, not a fleeting reaction, and share practices that turn ordinary days into sources of meaning. Author Kristi Nelson offers a humane path to presence, enoughness, and love while honoring grief as part of a full life.
• difference between gratitude as reaction and gratefulness as orientation
• waking up grateful and taking nothing for granted
• cancer story shaping a daily practice of presence
• contentment, enoughness and escaping social comparison
• top five regrets of the dying as guidance
• super soaking attention to expand time
• appreciation is generative in relationships and care
• legacy check on who matters most
• the “I get to” reframe for daily tasks
• holding joy and grief together without bypassing
• replacing complaint with celebration and generosity
Go to stephanienelson.com and sign up for the email newsletter to enter the giveaway for five free copies of Wake Up Grateful
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We share Kevin Delaney’s story from life-threatening illness to purposeful living, and explore how quotes, perspective, and daily discipline can reshape a noisy life. Contentment, health span, and identity-based habits tie together into a practical path forward.
• near-death experience leading to a new life mission
• purpose inside and beyond the corporate world
• why negative words weigh more and how to counter them
• timeless wisdom from Socrates to Frankl
• contentment as knowing enough, not chasing more
• perspective as a daily choice under pressure
• discipline versus regret framed as timing your pain
• daily habits, two-minute starts, identity-based change
• health span over lifespan as the real target
• reading, reflection, and Words to Wonder as a daily dose
• newsletter Take Two as a weekly reset
Sign up for Kevin’s free Take Two newsletter at kevinjohndelaney.com — two minutes to reset, recharge, and reimagine the life you’d like to live
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We trace Missy Young’s path from tech leader to prison advocate through grief, faith, and a mother’s fight for dignity and restoration. Her plan blends therapy, education, and jobs to help people heal inside and return ready to work and belong.
• how ambiguous loss reframes incarceration through a mother’s eyes
• why compassion and accountability can exist together
• the cost of indifference and conditions inside prisons
• prevention through mentoring at-risk youth and foster care
• three tiers of action: before, during, after prison
• private prisons, policy, and public will
• Grit and Mercy’s model: therapy, education, neurofeedback, hiring
• practical on-ramps for volunteers, donors, and employers
• faith foundations in Matthew 25 and Luke 6
• finding purpose and hope that sustains sobriety
Follow Missy on Instagram at missybyte and visit missyyoung.com
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We welcome Justin Goodman, founder of Project 55, to share a simple goal with big impact: train 100,000 everyday mental health responders and make support as common as CPR. We explore workplace gaps, practical scripts, active listening, and clear off-ramps to professional care.
• 55 percent not getting help as core mission
• workplace prevalence, productivity loss, and unused EAPs
• stigma, cost, and access as barriers to care
• a CPR-style model for everyday responders
• EAGER framework to engage, listen, support, empower, refer
• separating identity from illness to reduce shame
• active listening with prompts for real-life scenarios
• boundaries, advocacy, and when to pass the baton
• suicide risk, warning signs, and protective community
• tell five people you’re their safe call today
• free, self-paced training and mobile resource library
• speaking availability and commitment to keep training free
Go to project55.org, find the training, and sign up. Contact: Justin at project55.org or find Justin Goodman on LinkedIn.
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We sit down with Chelsea Smith to unpack simple daily habits that make marriage easier, warmer and more resilient, from releasing resentment to reframing our partner’s quirks as strengths. Practical questions, money talks without meltdowns and small spiritual rhythms offer a fresh path forward.
• why a devotional format creates daily momentum for marriage
• letting go of resentment before it hardens into distance
• replacing assumptions with questions and understanding
• using childhood stories to decode present patterns
• talking about money outside of crisis and labeling strengths
• reframing annoyances into complementary traits
• simple tools like notes, prompts and five‑minute check‑ins
• spiritual connection as a grounding, intimate practice
• resources to find the book and guided daily prayers
Get I Do Today wherever books are sold; find daily guided prayer free on the Churchome app or website. Follow Chelsea Smith on Instagram; search “Chelsea Smith” and “Churchome.”
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We talk with Dawn Cazedessus about building leadership on purpose—moving from survival mode to calling, reframing failure with structure, and choosing optimism that overflows without denying reality. Her story brings grit, faith, and measurable value into practical tools you can use today.
• why leadership matters even without a title
• Dawn’s trailer park roots and early mentors
• stones of leadership as a practical framework
• purpose-fueled grit and the 4:44 a.m. habit
• failing forward with F.A.I.L. (forgive, accept, inspect, learn)
• effective communication with W.A.I.T. and reading the room
• negotiation by outcomes and measurable value
• extreme practical optimism that resists burnout
• faith as foundation and memorial stones as reminders
• one tangible practice: write your stone and place it where you see it
Get the book and connect: trailerparkceobook.com
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We sit with author and coach Megan Nilsen to explore honest, two-way journaling, Scripture-led discernment, and how kingdom-first living reshapes identity, parenting, and purpose. A raw adoption story becomes a framework for hearing God and turning insights into action.
• adoption, trauma, and a faith crisis that asks if we heard God correctly
• redefining calling from role-based identity to kingdom-first living
• two-way journaling steps: honesty, listening, confirming, acting
• testing guidance by Scripture, wise counsel, and fruit
• releasing control in adult relationships and finding peace
• curating influences and seeking mentors with proven fruit
• guided journaling resource and coaching pathways
Visit Megan at meganbnilsen.com for a free discovery call
Listen to Kingdom Life Coaching Podcast, especially episode 50 for a guided session
Find Untangled Faith and Untangled Advent on Amazon
“Pick up Untangled Advent the day after Thanksgiving—start Advent with intention before you start scouring the deals.”
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Amy Duggar King shares her journey from growing up next door to the famous Duggar family to finding peace after the shocking scandals that rocked her world. Through her powerful memoir "Holy Disruptor," she reveals how she maintained authentic faith while setting boundaries with family still entrenched in fundamentalist beliefs.
• Contrasting her normal Christian upbringing with her cousins' ultra-conservative IBLP lifestyle
• Being labeled the "crazy cousin" on TLC's reality show simply for wearing jeans and climbing trees
• Learning about her cousin Josh's abuse scandal through tabloid headlines in 2015
• Discovering how the IBLP system fails to educate children about abuse and prohibits professional counseling
• Setting necessary boundaries with family members while maintaining her own faith
• Finding peace amid chaos and creating a different homeschooling experience for her son
• Turning down fame opportunities that would have compromised her authenticity
• Embracing the truth that "God is not the author of confusion"
Get Amy's book "Holy Disruptor: Shattering the Shiny Facade by Getting Louder with the Truth" and follow her on Instagram @AmyRachelleKing where she personally responds to messages and offers prayer and encouragement.
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We sit down with author, podcaster, and executive coach Erin Cuccio to talk about purpose, legacy, and the surprising power of small, faithful steps. From a uniquely designed devotional journal to confidence-building coaching, we lean into the peace that comes from living on purpose.
• the craft of clear, wise writing and why it matters
• how Live Lovely pairs scripture, reflection, prompts, and prayer
• purpose reframed in ordinary tasks and seasons
• legacy as daily choices and embodied example
• the role of journaling in clarity, gratitude, and calm
• coaching as confidence plus actionable steps
• accountability that turns vision into motion
• how to connect with Erin and get started
Get a copy of Live Lovely and let’s start the day with something good. Follow Erin on Instagram and reach out about coaching at erincuccio.com
https://erincuccio.com/
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Amanda Hope Haley makes biblical archaeology accessible and faith-affirming, showing how archaeological discoveries deepen our understanding of Scripture rather than disproving it.
• Harvard-educated biblical archaeologist specializing in Iron Age history
• Biblical archaeology contextualizes Scripture by helping modern readers understand ancient cultural settings
• Archaeological discoveries like the Dead Sea Scrolls provide crucial third perspectives on biblical text discrepancies
• David wasn't a weak child but a skilled warrior proficient with tactical sling weapons
• Goliath was likely about six-and-a-half feet tall according to the oldest reliable texts
• Understanding your Bible's translation sources provides important interpretive context
• Archaeological evidence consistently confirms biblical descriptions of places, cultures and artifacts
• Faith requires trusting God with what we cannot see or comprehend
Amanda's book "Stones Still Speak" releases September 23rd. You can find her podcast "The Red-Haired Archaeologist" wherever you listen to podcasts, and connect with her on social media at Amanda Hope Haley.
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Caroline Beidler shares her deeply personal journey through trauma recovery and explains how unhealed wounds can travel through generations. She offers practical tools for becoming a "cycle breaker" and healing family patterns before they affect our children.
• One in five women have experienced sexual assault in childhood, and 60% of people have experienced at least one adverse childhood experience
• Trauma can be passed down through generations both behaviorally and potentially at a genetic level
• Our individual trauma responses differ based on our unique backgrounds and prior experiences
• Small, consistent actions like 15-minute morning devotionals can make significant differences in our healing
• Movement, connecting with others, and establishing healthy boundaries are essential aspects of trauma recovery
• Self-worth is foundational to healing—recognizing we are worthy of kindness, respect, and healthy relationships
• Bringing struggles "into the light" through trusted relationships helps break cycles of isolation and shame
Find Caroline at carolinebeidler.com, follow her on Instagram, and subscribe to her newsletter "Circle of Chairs" on Substack. Her book "You Are Not Your Trauma: Uproot Unhealthy Patterns, Heal the Family Tree" is available now.
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What if the greatest gift you could give your children isn't perfection, but authenticity? Mandy Arioto, CEO of MomCo (formerly MOPS), reveals a startling statistic: 93% of mothers feel pressured to be the perfect mom—yet none of us actually enjoy being around "perfect" people. This paradox sits at the heart of modern motherhood's greatest struggle.
From its humble beginnings with seven women in Denver in 1973 to now reaching over a million mothers in more than 100 countries, MomCo has become a global movement transforming motherhood through genuine connection. Arioto's journey with the organization began like many mothers—reluctantly attending a meeting at a friend's invitation, convinced "mom groups" weren't her scene. That single decision changed her life, eventually leading her to over a decade of leadership with the organization.
This year's powerful theme, "Make it Awkward," encourages mothers to embrace vulnerability rather than avoid it. Through her personal story about her father never expressing love verbally—a pattern he inherited from his own father—Arioto illustrates how avoiding awkwardness only makes things more awkward over time. When we choose to step into discomfort, we often discover transformation waiting on the other side.
Perhaps most refreshing is MomCo's counter-cultural message about what children truly need. "My kids don't need a perfect mom," Arioto explains. "They need a mom who loves them tremendously, who can apologize when she messes up, who models what it's like to be a real person in the real world." In our social media-saturated culture, she offers this wisdom: "You can consume, but don't let it be all-consuming."
Whether you're a new mom feeling overwhelmed by Instagram-perfect parenting standards or an experienced mother looking for authentic community, MomCo's approach offers a refreshing alternative to perfectionism. Their upcoming MomCon in Orlando (September 25-27) and new podcasts "Bloodline and Backbone" and "The Mandy Show" provide various ways to connect with this life-changing community.
Ready to find freedom from the perfect mom myth? Visit momco.org to find a group near you or follow Mandy on Instagram to learn more about embracing authentic motherhood.
Find Mandy for speaking events and more: https://www.mandyarioto.co/
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Brandon Robbins joins us to explore how understanding the historical context of Jesus' world transforms our reading of the Bible and enhances our experience of "The Chosen" series. As a pastor and YouTube creator with over 30 million views, Brandon brings fresh insights that make Scripture come alive in new ways.
• Biblical context changes everything—words like "hate" and "believe" meant something different in Jesus' time
• Understanding the difference between merely believing in Jesus versus following Him as a disciple
• The calling of Matthew in its historical context reveals the extraordinary sacrifice of discipleship
• Brandon's journey from making videos with 100 views to reaching millions happened after he nearly quit
• The disciples' willingness to be martyred provides compelling evidence for the resurrection
• Words like "pisteuo" (believe) meant complete life commitment, not just mental agreement
• Jesus consistently asked people to follow Him, requiring total surrender, not just acknowledging facts
• Discipleship means becoming the "reflection" of your rabbi by adopting his ways
Visit brandonrobbinsministry.com to download "10 Words That Will Change the Way You Read the Bible" and subscribe to Brandon's YouTube channel for weekly insights. His book "The Forgotten Teachings of Jesus" is available anywhere books are sold.
https://www.youtube.com/@BrandonRobbinsMinistry/videos
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David Dingess shares his deeply personal journey of caring for his mother through her Alzheimer's diagnosis and the complex realities of elder care. This conversation explores how faith, compassion, and surrender became essential tools when confronted with circumstances beyond his control.
• Recognizing early signs of Alzheimer's can be difficult, especially when eccentric personality traits mask cognitive decline
• Elder financial abuse devastated David's mother's savings when a "friend" gained control of her accounts and turned her against her son
• Legal preparation through power of attorney documents and consultation with elder care attorneys is crucial before cognitive decline progresses
• The principle "you can't argue with irrational" helped preserve their relationship during difficult interactions
• Transitioning a parent to assisted living requires balancing their desire for independence with safety concerns
• Professional caregivers demonstrate extraordinary compassion and become emotional anchors for both patients and families
• Prayer became David's essential coping mechanism, deepening his relationship with God through this challenging season
• The wisdom "don't try to whip your daddy" taught David to stop fighting God's plan and surrender to the journey
If you're caring for a loved one with Alzheimer's or another form of dementia, David's book "I've Got My Gun" shares his complete story and the lessons he learned along the way. To summarize David's top 10 lessons:
Follow your calling
When you feel compelled to do something deep inside, listen—it’s a sign of purpose.
Share your story
Facts may be debated, but your personal experience carries an unshakable truth.
Look for grace in hardship
Even in struggle, notice the repeated moments where help, love, or faith show up.
Face reality with courage
Naming the truth, even when it hurts, is the first step to wise action.
Balance honor with safety
Sometimes caring well means making hard choices that protect someone despite their protests.
Ask for expert help early
Complex challenges require guidance—don’t wait until you’re overwhelmed.
Trust unexpected openings
When doors open in unlikely ways, see them as more than coincidence.
Let hardship transform you
Trials can deepen compassion, strengthen faith, and grow resilience.
Don’t argue with irrational
Preserve relationships by stepping away when emotions or confusion take over.
Surrender control
Stop wrestling with the way things “should” be—trust that God’s way may be better.
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Charles Achampong shares his family's transformative experience taking a seven-month global sabbatical and the valuable life lessons they gained by stepping away from their structured lives. His book "Around the World in Family Days" captures not just their adventures across eight countries, but the profound insights about presence, connection, and finding joy in simplicity that can be applied to everyday life without leaving home.
• Following a dream sparked during their honeymoon in Brazil 13 years earlier
• Planning and saving for 10 years through intentional choices like cooking at home and limiting extras
• Covering 75% of flight costs through loyalty points and offsetting expenses by renting their home
• Transforming travel into education by creating country-specific learning binders
• Using real-world experiences like market haggling as practical learning opportunities
• Discovering that happiness doesn't depend on material wealth in places like the Philippines
• Learning that "you don't need a passport to pause" - finding presence in everyday moments
• Building "failure immunity" - not immunity to failure but to its emotional impact
• Creating connection through simple actions like neighborhood traditions
• Approaching travel not to "see everything" but to deeply experience each place
Find Charles Achampong's book "Around the World in Family Days" on Amazon or Barnes & Noble, and connect with him on Instagram @aroundtheworldinfamilydays or on his website charlesachampong.com.
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Clarissa Moll shares how her husband's tragic death in a hiking accident transformed her into a widow with four children and ultimately led to her calling helping others navigate grief and loss.
• Author of books on grief including her newest children's book "Hope Comes to Stay"
• One in five million children will experience the loss of a parent or sibling before age 18
• Importance of using real words like "died" and "dead" with children rather than euphemisms
• Grief is not something we "get over" but becomes a lifelong companion
• Learning to hold joy and sorrow in the same hand
• Grief has its own language that includes more than just sadness
• Most helpful support comes from people who simply sit with us without trying to fix our pain
• Remove the word "still" from conversations about grief as it implies a timeline
• Grief is both universal (everyone experiences it) and unique (no two experiences are identical)
• Clarissa produces Christianity Today's news podcast "The Bulletin"
Visit clarissamoll.com to learn more about Clarissa's work, and find her on Instagram and Substack.
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Patrick Day shares his journey from Presbyterian pastor to military chaplain, revealing insights about mental health challenges in today's military and how faith impacts service members in unexpected ways.
• Served 30 years as a Presbyterian pastor before recommissioning in the Georgia Army National Guard at an age past typical limits
• Deployed to the Middle East with an infantry unit and served near the Gaza Strip
• Military chaplains both "perform" services for their own faith tradition and "provide" for all soldiers regardless of beliefs
• People entering military service are four times more likely to come from abusive households than civilians
• Military service offers stability and opportunities for young people seeking to change their life trajectory
• Traditional "break them down to build them up" approach doesn't work for recruits who've already experienced trauma
• Paganism is the fastest-growing faith tradition in the military today
• Many who say they have "problems with God" are actually struggling with how the church treated them
• Now works with Camp Southern Ground's Warrior PATHH program helping veterans and first responders process trauma
• As a leadership coach, helps people find fulfillment by asking uncomfortable but transformative questions
Visit PatrickDay.org to learn more about Patrick's leadership coaching services.
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Justin and Tricia Davis share their powerful insights on how one choice can transform relationships and break harmful cycles that hold us back.
• Founders of Refine Us Ministries, focused on rebuilding healthy marriages since 2012
• Authors of "One Choice Away from Change" and other relationship books
• Transformation starts with a single choice, not figuring everything out at once
• Rock bottom provides a solid surface to stand and make new choices
• Heart transformation differs from behavior modification - it's deeper and lasting
• Guilt vs shame: conviction says what you did is wrong; shame says you are wrong
• Brokenness isn't punishment but preparation for becoming a different person
• Regret can be leveraged to create a different future rather than dwelling on the past
• Forgiveness is a process, not a one-time event
• Forgiveness is free, but trust must be earned
• Boundaries are loving acts, not rejection
• Forgiveness may not restore relationships but always restores your heart
What choice could you make today that would cause your future self to write you a thank-you letter?
Connect with Justin and Trisha at Refine Us Ministries
https://www.refineus.org/
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Mark Ellis, journalist and founder of God Reports, joins us to discuss his new book "When Kingdom Light Shines," a collection of 60 extraordinary testimonies that showcase God's supernatural intervention in modern lives.
• Mark transitioned from commercial real estate to ministry and then to faith journalism after 25 years
• His website God Reports began in 2009 from his desire to share untold missionary stories
• Jesus was the ultimate storyteller, using narratives that remain impactful after thousands of years
• Stanley Premnath's survival on 9/11 as the only known survivor from the impact zone where Flight 175 hit Tower 2
• The transformation of a 27-year-old atheist professor who had a near-death experience that led him to faith and eventually becoming a pastor
• These documented stories serve as modern-day continuations of the miraculous works recorded in Acts
• Even seemingly ordinary lives contain extraordinary evidence of God's presence when viewed through a spiritual lens
You can learn more about Mark's work at godreports.com or email him directly at mark@godreports.com. His book "When Kingdom Light Shines" is available on Amazon.
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Author Rebecca George shares profound insights about her book "You're Not Too Late" which explores finding joy amid unfulfilled longings and learning to trust God's timing in our hurry-up world.
• Rebecca is an author, podcaster, and pastor's wife living near the Smoky Mountains in Tennessee
• Her book "You're Not Too Late" tackles how to handle unfulfilled longings in relationships, career, and other areas
• Most longings fall into two categories: relational (marriage, children, reconciled relationships) and vocational (career, ministry, business ventures)
• True joy comes from abiding in Christ, not from achieving our desires
• We often equate God's goodness with getting what we want, but His faithfulness isn't contingent on our circumstances
• Desires can become idols when they consume our thoughts and prevent us from seeing what God is doing now
• Rebecca and her husband unknowingly prayed at the same bench years before meeting—a beautiful testimony to God's divine timing
• The book includes practical exercises, scripture references, and case studies to help readers process their own waiting seasons
• A free 11-session video series accompanies the book for individual or group study
Find Rebecca on Instagram @rebeccageorgeauthor and her book "You're Not Too Late" wherever books are sold.
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Author, speaker and podcaster Laura Smith is back on the podcast--one of my favorite people and a wonderful writer of GREAT books! She joins us for a compelling conversation about her fourteenth book, "Brave Woman, Mighty God," which explores the stories of 30 women in the Bible and the courage they displayed in both extraordinary and everyday situations.
Laura is giving our listeners a FREE chapter of her book to preview. Here's the link to the chapter:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1frn0C6IIlTIw3hhVIPEa5kS04ivNobL0ZNXy1bFUKIU/edit
About Laura and our conversation:
• She is the author of 14 books including "Holy Care for the Whole Self," and "How Sweet the Sound"
• Committed to helping people understand how deeply they are loved by God
• Shares her journey from childhood trauma to discovering her worth in Christ
• Explains how the same power that raised Jesus from the dead lives in believers today
• Discusses how small acts of bravery can have profound impacts
• Tells the story of Huldah, an obscure biblical woman who was known for her faith during a time of widespread idol worship
• Explores how we can "exude the love of Christ" so others know they can come to us
• Shares the story of Zarephath's Widow and the lesson of God's abundant provision
• Reveals how writing books deepens her own faith as God teaches her through the process
• Discusses her podcast "Brave Woman, Mighty God" and available resources
Find Laura at https://www.laurasmithauthor.com/ or @laurasmithauthor on Instagram, where you can access free chapters of her books and other helpful resources.
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Jen Thompson joins the podcast to discuss her new book "Return to Jesus" and shares how we can find Jesus in every beautiful, stressful, or tedious moment of our daily lives. Her warm wisdom and authentic storytelling offer practical ways to abide with Christ amidst life's chaos.
• Jen introduces her family life with husband Patrick and their four children
• The book emerged from her own need to find rhythms and habits amidst chaotic family life
• She transparently shares about supporting friends through traumatic circumstances and questioning God
• Even in our darkest moments and biggest regrets, God remains present and compassionate
• Letting go of self-judgment with the reminder that awareness of our shortcomings shows our good intentions
• Navigating divisive cultural climates by returning to Jesus rather than engaging in arguments
• The importance of looking up from our phones to connect with the people God places in our path
• Practical suggestions for digital detox to create space for genuine connection
Find Jen's book "Return to Jesus" wherever books are sold. Connect with Jen at jenthompsonauthor.com and listen to her podcast "Return to Jesus."
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Rachel Taylor, registered nurse and childbirth educator, joins us to discuss her book "After Baby Comes" which bridges the gap between healthcare models and mothers' needs during the critical "fourth trimester." Her practical guidance serves as an essential resource not just for new parents but for anyone seeking to improve their communication skills and relationships.
• The fourth trimester extends beyond the traditional six-week postpartum period, with mothers healing for up to two years after birth
• Distinguishing between baby blues (affecting 80% of mothers in first three weeks) versus postpartum depression and anxiety which typically emerge later
• Modern parents face unrealistic expectations from social media influencers showing seemingly perfect postpartum experiences
• "I feel" statements create vulnerability and connection instead of defensiveness and distance in relationships
• Setting boundaries protects your wellbeing rather than punishing others—and can be done with kindness
• New fathers need space to develop their own parenting style without criticism
• Practical ways to support new parents: focus on the mother's wellbeing, offer specific help, and respect boundaries
• Communication skills from "After Baby Comes" benefit all relationships, not just those involving newborns
Find Rachel at mamadidit.com and on Instagram @mamadiditofficial for evidence-based resources on pregnancy, postpartum, and breastfeeding.
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Mary Marantz joins us to share insights from her new book "Underestimated: The Surprisingly Simple Shift to Quit Playing Small, Name the Fear, and Move Forward," revealing how we can overcome the invisible barriers that keep us from reaching our full potential.
Mary is a Yale Law School graduate and the first in her immediate family to go to college. She is the bestselling author of the book “Dirt” about growing up in West Virginia and the highly-anticipated follow up "Slow Growth Equals Strong Roots." She is also the host of the wildly popular podcast The Mary Marantz Show.
Join our conversation to discuss:
• Fear is a "boring liar" that uses the same broken scripts on everyone
• The "missing handbook for life" concept explains why we constantly second-guess ourselves
• "Slow growth equals strong roots" - why consistency matters more than overnight success
• Excellence combined with consistency creates an unstoppable formula
• People-pleasing and "making ourselves small" keeps us from our purpose
• Criticism hurts but isn't fatal - most people can't see your vision until it's complete
• You don't need anyone's permission to pursue your unique calling
Visit marymarantz.com to learn more, take the Achiever Quiz at AchieverQuiz.com to discover your achiever type, and pre-order the book at NameTheFear.com where you can also access the first chapter for free.
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What if embracing imperfection is the key to a truly fulfilling marriage? Join us on the Pivotal People podcast as we host the insightful Jill Savage, who shares her secrets to experiencing genuine relationships through her new book, "No More Perfect Marriages: Experience the Freedom of Being Real Together."
Jill is an author, speaker and host of the "No More Perfect Podcast." She has experienced the challenges of marriage and the pain of infidelity. Married for 40 years, Mark left Jill for another woman almost a decade ago ... Jill was faced with divorce but through God's grace, they were able to reconcile. Now they've dedicated their lives to helping other families and couples have 2.0 marriages.
Jill shares her personal anecdotes and heartfelt counseling stories, challenging the dangerous "perfection infection" that plagues many marriages. Discover how understanding your partner beyond superficial stereotypes and addressing deep-seated insecurities can pave the way to a happier, more authentic connection.
Connect with Jill and Mark https://jillsavage.org/
Order Jill and Mark Savage's book here **or find it at any online retailer
Connect with Jill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jillsavage.author/**
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Kurt Avery, author of the book "Sawyer Think: How a Small Company Disrupts Markets and Changes the World" and Founder and CEO of Sawyer Products, shares his extraordinary journey from the humble beginnings of his Sawyer Products to their monumental impact on the world. His bold entrepreneurial strategies, faith, perseverance, and a mantra of continuous improvement have driven Sawyer Products to revolutionize clean water access globally, beginning with a critical role during the 2010 Haiti earthquake.
Kurt discusses the role of technology and data analysis in making these solutions scalable and the importance of philanthropy in supporting community outreach initiatives. With practical insights from his book "Sawyer Think" and the company's commitment to innovation, Kurt Avery illustrates how Sawyer Products continues to push boundaries, proving that small beginnings can indeed lead to extraordinary change.
Learn more and connect with Kurt at https://www.sawyer.com/
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What if the legacy of your faith journey could inspire generations to come? Meet Dan Jacobsen, a fifth-generation pastor, as he shares his remarkable story of transformation and grace on the Pivotal People podcast. From growing up in a deeply religious family to discovering the gospel at 16, Dan's path is one of profound change and enduring faith. Influenced by his renowned grandfather, Warren Wiersbe, Dan's spiritual journey is a testament to the power of storytelling and the gospel's ability to reshape lives.
Join us as we explore Dan's latest project, the devotional book "Becoming New: 100 Days of Transformation Through God's Word." Dan edited and published his grandfather's final unpublished manuscript into this new book so these words could be shared with everyone. I have been reading the devotional and not only do I love it, but I'm giving it to family members for Christmas this year. It's a wonderful, inspiring devotional based on Bible stories and verses.
Whether you're seeking to enrich your spiritual life or looking for the perfect gift, this conversation will encourage and inspire you.
You can reach Dan Jacobsen here:
https://djacobsen.com/about
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Join us for an inspiring conversation with Justin Kendrick, founder of Vox Church and the author of the USA Today bestselling book "How to Quiet a Hurricane: Strategies for Christian Endurance in the Midst of Life’s Storms."This practical guide to reigniting faith helps all of us who feel stuck in our faith journey find inner strength to navigate life’s challenges.
The storms of life can leave you feeling exhausted and weak. In How to Quiet a Hurricane, pastor Justin Kendrick helps you develop a spiritual resilience that propels you past your weariness and anxiety and into lasting peace. You will discover:
- Why weakness is the starting point for spiritual strength
- How lasting endurance comes from understanding the love of God
- Ways to apply God’s promises to your daily life
- A freeing perspective on what it really means to be secure
- Why faith rooted in Jesus can bring you through any trial
When your heart tells you that God is far away, remember that he is the God who enters in. He is the God who uses suffering to conquer suffering. He is the God who empowers you to move beyond survival and into a life of victory.
Connect with Justin and order the book HERE
https://www.justinkendrick.com/
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Author, educator, speaker and counselor Brenda Yoder shares her journey from being a stay-at-home mom to a mental health counselor on this episode of Pivotal People. Brenda's new book, "Uncomplicated: Simple Secrets for a Compelling Life" is thought-provoking and inspiring. She guides readers in understanding how to have balance and fulfillment in spite of life's complexities, finding contentment wherever they are.
Brenda shares her perspective of living in an Amish community, learning how their timeless virtues can lead to a balanced and vibrant life. Throughout the conversation, Brenda emphasizes the importance of integrating traditional values and modern advancements, drawing valuable lessons in wisdom and sustainability that inspired her book, "Uncomplicated."
Connect with Brenda at https://brendayoder.com/
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Join us for a great conversation with Jack Mooring, founding pastor of Celebration of Life Church and former band member of the Grammy-nominated group Leland. Learn about Jack's transformative journey from the music stage to the pulpit, and his latest book, "Portrait of God: Rediscovering the Attributes of God Through the Stories of His People."
"Portrait of God" explored little-known stories about inspiring people of faith from history, which were fascinating. In this episode, we discussed their stories and how we can apply their wisdom in our lives today. Whether you're a seasoned believer or new to faith, you'll find inspiration in the enduring power of living with integrity.
Order "Portrait of God" here or find it at any online book retailer.
Connect with Jack on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jackmooring/
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Meet Vince Miller: Author, speaker and bible study author for men. Vince's website Be Resolute (beresolute.org) is the largest online library of men's bible study resources and is a wealth of useful studies for every format and topic.
In this episode, we discuss the new study "Forging Godly Men" which I did and found it applies to women as well! Vince shares his personal journey of growing up with a single mother post-divorce and his quest to find a father figure, which led him to his grandfather's structured, faith-centered home. This pivotal chapter of his life instilled values of patience and spirituality, leading him to a life of ministry devoted to teaching men about faith.
Vince shares stories that give insights into the challenges men face, emphasizing the importance of seeking internal change and a new identity in God. Vince candidly shares the brokenness of his personal experience to inspire others to seek an authentic relationship with Christ.
For those eager to grow in their faith, Vince Miller offers a wealth of resources tailored for spiritual enrichment. From daily devotionals and Bible studies to engaging speaking engagements, there’s something for everyone, both men and women alike.
Connect with Vince and discover his Bible Study resources at https://beresolute.org/
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Shari Braendel, founder of Style by Color, inspires women to new levels of confidence through her digital products, style programs, and YouTube channel.
As the author of Help Me, Jesus, I Have Nothing to Wear, and creator of the Color Code System and Closet Outfit Planner, Shari has been featured on ABC News, Focus on the Family, and More To Life Christian TV Network.
She’s spoken at over 500 churches and women's conferences worldwide, drawing from her many years in the color analysis industry to challenge women's beliefs about themselves.
Since 2010, Shari has certified over 400 women through the Style by Color Academy, providing comprehensive training for future Color Analysis specialists and Christian Image Consultants.
She also founded the Women’s Matter Initiative, offering Color Confidence Workshops to nonprofits serving women coming out of distress and abuse. Based in Charlotte, NC, Shari is a wife to Dave and mom to four married kids. Shari Braendel believes every woman is worthy of a stylish wardrobe!
Connect with Shari:
Style By Color--featuring the 27 Hangers Online Course
https://www.stylebycolor.com/
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Lisa Steven is the author of A Place To Belong, a book that shares the miracle of Hope House while encouraging women in their leadership journey. A former teen mom, Lisa is committed to empowering teen moms in her community and across the world.
Lisa has more than 28 years of experience working with teen moms. In 2003, she co-founded Hope House Colorado and has served as the founder & executive director ever since. Under her leadership, Hope House received the Governor’s Service Award for Outstanding Nonprofit Organization in Colorado. Lisa co-authored the Teen MOPS Handbook and worked with MOPS International on their strategic plan for expanding the ministry of Teen MOPS.
Learn more and connect with Lisa:
https://hopehousecolorado.org/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-steven-54b48a10/
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Laurel Appel returns to the Pivotal People podcast to share her inspiring journey of writing her latest book, "Fortify Your Faith." Laurel dives into overcoming imposter syndrome, embracing the transformative power of grace, and using her personal experiences to craft relatable lessons for readers.
Listeners will gain insight into the profound impact of God's grace and how personal stories can resonate more deeply than scripture alone. Laurel opens up about addressing skeptics and the importance of a strong scriptural foundation in her work. By weaving her journey of accepting grace and overcoming feelings of unworthiness, she illustrates how this understanding can lead to a life filled with love and acceptance.
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David Dingess joins us for an enlightening conversation about his journey into self-publishing and the publication of many books. In his latest book, "Six Hours with the Savior," he writes about the significance of Jesus' final hours with His disciples,
David also shares his experiences navigating the world of self-publishing, shedding light on the often daunting task of transforming a collection of writings into a cohesive book. Since the majority of people report they have a meaningful story that they'd like to write and publish, David's insights are very helpful to make those dreams a reality.
Connect with David and order his books from Amazon. You may be lucky and land on one of his "free Kindle book" days--or pay the full price of just 99 cents!
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/word_of_truth__/
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Welcome Laura Smith to the podcast, with her 14th book, "The Urgency of Slowing Down: Bibilical Wisdom for Everyday Renewal."--coming Dec. 3rd, 2024. This is Laura's third episode with us--she is a prolific writer of really beautiful books. And this is a book all of us need!
Instead of adding new habits to our never-ending to-do lists, what if the key to a more fulfilling life is found in the art of slowing down? Laura unravels themes from her book and offers practical advice on how to seek and follow Jesus even in the midst of our busy schedules and lives.
Connect with Laura online for further insights and resources.
www.laurasmithauthor.com
https://www.instagram.com/laurasmithauthor/
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Listen to a fascinating and inspiring story from national speaker and author, Jay Lowder. His Crossroads assembly program for students has been presented to over 2 million students and he has participated in over 450 conferences across the country. He's authentic, humble, and an inspiring follower of Jesus. I thoroughly enjoyed the time with him and you will too.
Jay Lowder, founder of Harvest Ministries, candidly shares his journey from a double life steeped in personal turmoil to a mission dedicated to spreading hope and faith worldwide. Raised in a church-going family, Jay found himself grappling with depression and suicidal thoughts, only to be saved by an unexpected intervention that led him to a life of purpose.
Throughout our conversation, Jay recounts pivotal moments that propelled him toward a transformative encounter with Jesus. Jay's experience challenges common misconceptions within faith communities, urging listeners to embrace their imperfections and find strength in their brokenness. This episode underscores the importance of authenticity and transparency, highlighting how personal struggles can become platforms for helping others.
Jay’s journey is a testament to the idea that past scars and traumas do not limit one's potential for purpose but can instead be sources of hope and strength. Jay’s story offers a compelling reminder of the transformative power of faith and the profound impact of embracing one’s true self.
Connect with Jay and learn more about Harvest Ministries at
JayLowder.com
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Meet Susan Binkley, the author of "From My Front Row Seat: A Collection of Stories from My Time Working Alongside Women in Recovery."
For the past two decades, Susan Binkley has been faithfully working to restore the lives of women and their children who have suffered from trauma, addiction, and abuse. In the mid-90s, Susan had a powerful, God-given dream that described in great detail how one might put together a program like Blue Monarch. At the time Susan realized this dream was like no other, but she didn’t understand the significance of it until years later when the dream miraculously came together in real life. Blue Monarch’s long-term, residential treatment program is unique in its dual focus on both the mother’s and the child’s recovery, creating a path toward lasting transformation and freedom from destructive cycles. Through the power of faith, prayer, and community, Susan has witnessed nearly 1,000+ women and children find healing, with over 350 children reunited with their mothers, who had previously lost custody.
In addition to its holistic recovery program, Blue Monarch empowers women through its on-site business, Out of the Blue Granola, a hand-crafted product distributed in major grocery chains like Whole Foods and Publix. All of the women who work to craft the Out of the Blue products are graduates or residents of Blue Monarch and each package of granola has a card with the testimony/picture of a Blue Monarch graduate enclosed.
Connect with Susan:
https://www.bluemonarch.org/
Learn more about the story:
https://www.bluemonarch.org/how-we-got-started
Follow Susan on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/susanbinkleyauthor/
Order the book:
https://www.amazon.com/Front-Row-Seat-Collection-Alongside/dp/1957616288
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Discover the secrets to becoming a master closer with Bob King, renowned author and sales expert. Bob shares insights from his new book, "The Joy of Closing: The Definitive Guide to Building Trust, Getting the Deal, and Creating Happy Customers." Tune in as we unpack the art of closing sales with integrity, delve into the emotional journey essential for effective salesmanship, and explore how these principles can transform not just your career but also your personal relationships.
My career was in sales, and I wish I'd read Bob's book or worked for him early in my career to learn how to achieve true sales success by closing deals that were the best for both the seller and the buyer.
Even if you're not in sales, Bob's strategies apply to many different types of relationships and situations in our lives. It's fascinating and inspiring. "The Joy of Closing" can equip you with the skills to inspire beneficial changes and make intuitive decisions, enriching both your professional and personal life. Whether you're a seasoned salesperson or seeking to enhance your connection-building skills, this episode is worth your time.
Connect with Bob King:
Order his books and watch his videos: JoyofClosing.comhttps://www.facebook.com/BobKingDirectorhttps://www.instagram.com/bobking3400/
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Meet Katherine Hall of North Point Ministries, as we discuss her ministry and her new project, EverydayScripture.org. It's a fabulous resource to help make the Bible understandable and practical in our everyday lives. She is a graduate of Dallas Theological Seminary and her insights into scripture are not just academic; she is truly passionate about making the Bible accessible and engaging for all.
As Young Adults Director at Buckhead Church, Katherine equips young minds to navigate life's challenges with a strong biblical foundation. Her initiative, Everyday Scripture, offers tools like chapter summaries and study questions, making the Bible relatable to both new readers and seasoned leaders.
EverydayScripture.org is free to users, and can be used for personal Bible Study or as a resource for Bible Study leaders.
Learn more and connect with Katherine at EverydayScripture.org
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What if you could avoid burnout and discover a profound sense of joy? Don't we all want that?
Join us as we sit down with Debra Fileta, a licensed professional counselor and author of "Soul Care: Find Life-Giving Rhythms, Live Restored, Avoid Burnout, and Discover Unspeakable Joy." Debra shares her insights into soul care, a transformative approach to mental and emotional health that goes beyond traditional self-care. Drawing inspiration from the life of Jesus, she introduces us to six life-giving rhythms that promise a holistic path to well-being.
We really dig into the roots of anxiety and burnout, exploring why these issues seem more widespread today. Debra sheds light on how misguided theology, family dynamics, and personality types like firstborns or those from chaotic backgrounds can lead to patterns of self-neglect.
We also discussed the overall balancing of physical, emotional, and spiritual health. Debra offers practical advice on hydration, nutrition, rest, and the power of saying no to protect one’s energy.
Connect with Debra: https://debrafileta.com/
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Meet Silvia Ledon, an award-winning author, teacher, speaker, and worship leader, who shares her remarkable journey from Quito, Ecuador, to discovering her spiritual awakening at just 17.
Silvia reveals the profound solace she found in nature during a time when her family faced significant health challenges, an experience that inspired her acclaimed children's book, "The Voice of God." Through her touching narrative, Silvia aims to teach children and adults alike to listen for God's voice in all aspects of life.
Connect with Silvia and get her book: https://www.asigrow.org/
Find her on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/silvialedon/?hl=en
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Frank Blake, former chairman and CEO of Home Depot, is one of the most humble and generous people you'll ever meet. What a privilege to speak with him and have him share his life lessons with all of us.
Frank led Home Depot out of a downturn into seven years of growth with his people-first approach. Frank shares interesting experiences at Home Depot, General Electric and in government, and his ongoing passion for gratitude and generosity, as showcased in his podcast, Crazy Good Turns.
Frank also shares lessons he learned from iconic leaders like George H.W. Bush, Ronald Reagan, and Jack Welch. Learn how a simple habit of writing personal notes, inspired by President Bush, can significantly elevate team morale, and how Reagan's clear communication style can be a game-changer in any organization. Frank also shared Jack Welch's surprising yet impactful notion that generosity is a leader's most crucial attribute, all through engaging anecdotes that highlight the importance of recognizing and investing in the success of others.
Frank shares the transformative power of gratitude and generosity through compelling stories. Tune in for an uplifting conversation that encapsulates Frank’s "Crazy Good Turns" philosophy, emphasizing the impact of kindness and mutual support in both personal and professional spheres.
Learn more at CrazyGoodTurns.com
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Welcome back Sherry Hoppen, as she shares her ongoing journey in "Sober Cycle: Pedaling Through Recovery One Day at a Time." Sherry shares her story about her past experience with experiencing and eventually overcoming alcohol addiction. Her honest memoir helps everyone understand the challenges of dealing with addiction as an individual and as a family. Her redemptive story encourages her readers to persevere, trust, and to give themselves grace as they face their illness.
Her story is one of resilience and a stark reminder of how addiction can insidiously take over our lives, often normalized by society's acceptance of alcohol. Her redemptive story demonstrates God's faithfulness, and the power of love and support of family and friends.
Today, Sherry and her husband Craig are helping others by opening a specialized recovery facility for women. It is a testament of their renewed purpose and service, and the idea that everyone deserves a second chance. It's an exploration of the profound impact that grace, community, and faith can have on healing, not just for the individual, but for families and the wider community. Sherry's message is clear: recovery is a path best walked together.
Connect with Sherry, order her book and listen to her podcast for more insight and encouragement.
https://www.shesurrenders.com/
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Have you ever witnessed the sheer resilience of a mother caring for a child with disabilities? Jessica Patay, the founder of We Are Brave Together and author of the new book, "Becoming Brave Together" joins us for a second episode. Jessica's life is a testament to the power of community and the strength found in supporting each other. Her new book is a compilation of personal stories written by mothers who are the primary caregivers for their children who have some sort of mental or physical disability. Their stories are beautiful, inspiring, and eye-opening as we understand the hearts of mothers who perform extraordinary acts of caregiving every day, often without recognition.
We navigate the often overlooked necessity for mothers to refill their own cups, so they can continue to pour into the lives of their loved ones. Jessica opens up about practical strategies to maintain one's well-being amidst the storms of caregiving, and how the simple yet profound acts of a supportive community can lift the spirits of these devoted mothers. Her stories inspire us to extend our hands in support and to recognize the immeasurable value of the caregiving role in our society.
Get in touch with Jessica at We Are Brave Together
Order her book Becoming Brave Together
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Ever wondered how a love for coupons could blossom into a full-blown, multimillion-dollar empire? Laurie Hise, the savvy CEO behind passionatepennypincher.com, joins us to share her remarkable transformation from a modest coupon blogger into a multimillion dollar business leader who helps millions of people save money every day.
I met Laurie 14 years ago at a conference when she was just beginning her business. She reminded me of my younger self, full of enthusiasm about the idea of making it easy for other moms to save money in every area of their household budget. BUT Laurie did more than grocery deals--on top of doing that, she grew her business with dozens of team members to search out little-known deals on EVERYTHING and produced an extensive line of organizational products.
She was generous enough to agree to come on this podcast, which was so much fun for me. She's kind, beautiful, brilliant, and incredibly generous. Profits from the company support many charities across the world. I'm so inspired by the progress she has made in 14 years, and I believe her story and experience may inspire other people to take the bold step of faith to put their talents into action to help other people, while building a profitable company.
Recently I subscribed to her newsletter to see if there were deals I would use. I snagged an unbelievable deal on a fabulous purse thanks to Laurie's newsletter (it cost $16 if you must know, and one of my friends who loves expensive things complimented me on it. I didn't tell her the price). Beyond finding deals, Laurie went on to create an extensive line of high-quality home organization products and planners. She sent me a big box of the company's organizational and menu-planning products and they are beautiful and practical.
Start saving money on everything TODAY by going to
PracticalPennyPincher.com
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Author Clare McCallan shares her vision of nurturing the creative side of any reader with her latest book, "Courage to Create." She believes we all hold the potential to craft masterpieces that celebrate the divine. She started an artists' community in Boston called The St. Joseph's Home for Artisans, which has become a sanctuary for faith-driven creators in the city of Boston.
Art has the profound power to connect us to the core of our humanity, a theme we explore in this conversation with Clare. We discuss the beauty of adding depth to everyday life through art--in whatever form fits with each of our individual personalities. Be inspired to explore your creative side after hearing from Clare.
Connect with Clare:
https://www.instagram.com/clare_mccallan/
🖊: @avemariapress🎥: @catholictv @christianchanneltv🏡: @stjosephsartisans
www.avemariapress.com/products/courage-to-create
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Get to know Ricky Dickson, former president and CEO of Blue Bell Creameries--the best ice cream ever! We discuss his new book "One Scoop at a Time: Stories and Lessons from Fear to Faith," blending professional wisdom with personal faith. Ricky shares how he maintained peace amidst major business challenges, and his story in growing the ice cream brand by focusing on service, kindness and a sense of purpose.
Ricky shares the grittier aspects of leadership as Blue Bell navigated major challenges with integrity. Ricky's story is a masterclass in ethical business practice and the relentless pursuit of trust.
Order the book:
https://www.amazon.com/One-Scoop-Time-Stories-Lessons/dp/1957616709
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/rickydickson007/
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Have you ever felt disillusioned by the church, grappling with your scars in search of hope? Aimee Byrd, acclaimed author and speaker, joins us to discuss her journey through faith, as detailed in her latest book "The Hope in Our Scars." She addresses church disillusionment, especially prevalent among youth, while confronting the dark shadows of abuse and cover-ups in religious communities. Amy's candid revelations offer encouragement to those on a quest for a genuine connection with God, amidst the struggles of growing up in the Southern Baptist Convention and coping with her parents' divorce.
The conversation takes a sharp turn into the stormy debate over traditional gender roles within Christianity, inspired by Aimee's book "Why Can't We Be Friends?" As we explore the assumptions and implications of these views on discipleship and church relationships, Aimee's insights spark a much-needed call for balance in representing both male and female voices within the scriptures.
Aimee and I delve into the pangs of "church hurt" and the essential human need for belonging. Aimee shows us how through our spiritual trials, our scars can manifest growth, a richer understanding of divine love, and an unwavering pursuit of hope.
Connect with Aimee and learn more about all of her books:
https://aimeebyrd.com/
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Meet Janis Milham, my favorite former boss and this week's guest on Pivotal People. Janis has had a brilliant 30+ year career as a Senior Vice President with Marriott International. She is known for helping people develop in their careers and lives by taking the time to really understand who they are, and helping them understand themselves. Today, as an Executive Coach with Questage, she continues to help people develop both personally and professionally. In this episode she shares her insights on the Enneagram's role in helping people become their best selves.
It's a heartfelt reminder that each of us can benefit from the opportunity for guidance and support. Join us for a dialogue that promises to leave you with lessons on harnessing the power of personality for professional success and personal fulfillment.
Connect with Janis:
https://www.questage.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/janismilham/
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Definition of "Moxie":
Force of character, determination or nerve. "When you've got moxie, you need the clothes to match."
Synonyms: energy, pep, determination, courage, know-how, fortitude, savvy, skills, strength of mind, guts, fearlessness, heart, gumption.**
We could all use a little more moxie! Karen Brothers' book, "Moxie Matters: True Tales of Rolling Through a Messy, Muddled and Magical Life" is an entertaining, enlightening and inspiring story of growing up in the 70s, with unstructured outdoor adventures and the simple rule of coming home when the streetlights flicker on. Karen is a professional writer and storyteller, and I thoroughly enjoyed experiencing her life lessons through the lens of her younger self, at each age.
Karen shares her motivations for writing her memoir from the perspective of her younger self, reflecting on how her childhood experiences and subtle family dynamics shaped her journey. It's fun to be reminded of memories from our youth including moon boots, Pop-Tarts, Hi-C! At the same time, Karen walked through difficult and painful family circumstances that shaped her character.
We talk about the therapeutic power of sharing personal stories and the raw honesty required to connect deeply with others. Her practical advice on overcoming the fear of writing, the benefits of consistent journaling, and even using voice memos is invaluable for anyone looking to document their own narrative.
**excerpt from Karen's book, "Moxie Matters"
Invite Karen to your book club! Reach out to connect with Karen and order her book at www.karenbrothersauthor.com
Order Moxie Matters HERE
https://moxiematters.myshopify.com/
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Have you ever felt the sting of spiritual hurt or the soothing balm of healing within the walls of a church? Joining us today is Ryan George, whose book "Hurt and Healed by the Church" chronicles a tumultuous yet hopeful journey through faith, pain, and redemption. In this episode Ryan shares how to redefine the essence of a Jesus-centered life in spite of past spiritual hurts. Ryan explains his past within the restrictive confines of the Independent Fundamental Baptist movement and how he came to understand the simplicity and beauty of Christ's teachings.
The path toward healing from spiritual trauma is seldom straight, but it's rich with lessons on grace and the power of community.
If your spirit thirsts for a faith journey that's as adventurous as it is genuine, tune in to learn more from Ryan George.
Order his book "Hurt and Healed by the Church: Redemption and Reconstruction after Spiritual Abuse"
Connect with Ryan:
booksbyryan.com
https://www.instagram.com/ryplane/
https://www.facebook.com/ryan.george/
https://www.threads.net/@ryplane
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryangeorge/
Order Stephanie's new book Imagine More: Do What You Love, Discover Your Potential
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Send us a Text Message.
Tim and Kathy Bush join us to share their 42-year marriage odyssey, a poignant testimony to resilience and faith's restorative power. Their candid revelations about early trials—a surprise pregnancy, youthful vows, and a long search for happiness—paint a starkly honest picture of marriage. Listen as they discuss Tim's personal transformation at age 47, offering hope to all who believe in the possibility of change within a relationship.
The Bush's aren't just survivors of marital strife; they care about helping others in their marriages. They teach "The Art of Marriage" course around the world. Their story is a hopeful example for others, showing that even the most hopeless marriages can heal, survive and thrive.
Connect with Tim and Kathy via their ministry website, War Room Ministries
https://warroomministries.com/
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Join me in my conversation with Kim Stuart, author of "Star for Jesus and Other Jobs I Quit: Rediscovering the Grace That Sets Us Free." Kim is an author of nine bestselling books, a speaker, writing coach, and a podcast host of "For Real" and "The Writing Room" that she co-hosts with New York Times Bestselling author Bob Goff. In her new book she explores the topic of grace in a fresh new way. She reminds all of us that we don't have to perform for God to gain His favor or earn our way to receive his grace. It's a fun and uplifting topic to discuss.
To say I admire Kim is an understatement. She is talented, wise, kind, smart, entertaining and funny--and above all, very humble. Her faith leads her steps in every area of her work and her life, and she inspires anyone who knows her to live a more authentic, faith-filled life. I was thrilled that she agreed to come on this podcast and if you don't know her yet, I know you'll enjoy her too.
SPOILER ALERT: I've read all of her books and they are EXCELLENT! Every single one. Buy all of them.
Get in touch with Kim at www.KimberlyStuart.com
Follow her on Instagram @kimberly.stuart.writes
Order her books https://www.kimberlystuart.com/books
Subscribe to her newsletter! It's hilarious and always has a good recipe too.
https://www.kimberlystuart.com/subscribe
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In this episode I had a fun and inspiring conversation with Kevin Williams, Chick-fil-A franchisee and author of "Irrational Kindness: The Crazy Pursuit of an Extraordinary Life." Kevin isn't just about smiles and holding doors open; he's on a mission to show the world how transformative and profound kindness can be. We explore his philosophy that every encounter is a chance to make a positive change, whether it's through seeing the potential in others, embracing our failures, or turning a fast-food encounter into a life-changing moment.
Kevin shared the remarkable story of Alex Gomez, which started in his birthplace in Mexico to the academic excellence in the United States. Imagine overcoming every obstacle thrown your way to not only succeed but to inspire a city to celebrate "Alex Gomez Day." It's stories like Alex's that remind us of the joy and impact of lifting each other up in a world that too often focuses on pulling us down.
We wrap up with a heart-to-heart on the power of connection and community. This is more than a conversation; it's an invitation to weave irrational kindness into the tapestry of our daily lives.
Connect with Kevin via:
Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-williams-90b183151/
Instagram: @irrationalkindness
Order Kevin's book:
"Irrational Kindness: The Crazy Pursuit of an Extraordinary Life"
https://www.amazon.com/Irrational-Kindness-Crazy-Pursuit-Extraordinary/dp/1631952951/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?
Order Stephanie's new book Imagine More: Do What You Love, Discover Your Potential
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Listen in on our third conversation with Amanda Ferrin, my favorite ambassador of hope and a walking miracle. In this episode she shares her journey of starting her "Miracle Story" movement, writing a book and launching her new podcast. Amanda speaks to the very heart of what it means to live a legacy that defies expectations.
In discussing Amanda's life, we're reminded that miracles are part of our everyday existence, affirming God's presence and the healing that awaits us, whether on earth or in heaven.
Connect with Amanda
Amanda's Miracle Movement: Watch Amanda's video message about herMiracle Movement walking team:
https://amandaferrin.com/miracle
Register for the Miracle Movement walk here:
https://myevent.com/amiraclemovement
Learn more--Amanda's message about her Miracle Movement:
Amanda Ferrin is a walking miracle. She is living life with a terminal illness and wakes up everyday thankful that she is still alive when her Doctor's have told her time and time again, she shouldn’t be. One complication from her “one in 10 million” case of scleroderma is that she has broken 25 bones in the last few years. She’s been told countless times she would never walk again… so quite literally every step IS a gift. Every mile is a miracle.
At the beginning of 2024, Amanda figured out how many steps it would take to walk across the country and made it her goal to do so in a year. A year doctors say she shouldn’t be alive to see. She’s been amazed by the people who have come alongside to help her share my message of hope. In coming together to get her miracle story out into the world, she has seen the power of what working together can accomplish is something much bigger than any one person could on their own. From that, an idea was born!
We are inviting everyone to start walking toward a miracle. For Amanda, her current goal is releasing her book, that never should have been written, and believing she will be alive to see it!
You might have your own miracle you’re believing for, or perhaps you are inspired to join together a team with a mission that’s bigger than you, to bring a message of hope that’s greater than anyone one person could share.
We believe in a month we could collectively walk the miles Amanda dreamed to do in a year. Who knows, maybe with enough people, we can walk around the world! Because it isn’t just about a walk.
Order Stephanie's new book Imagine More: Do What You Love, Discover Your Potential
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Have you ever been caught up in the deceptive charm of a toxic relationship, unable to pinpoint the moment when admiration turned into manipulation? Stephanie Quayle, a celebrated Nashville recording artist and author, discusses the complex ties that bind us to unhealthy love. Her collaboration with Dr. Keith Campbell in the book "Why Do We Stay? How My Toxic Relationship Can Help You Find Freedom" helps readers understand narcissistic relationships. Stephanie shares her personal saga and her healing process to help readers who may be impacted by similar relationships.
Learn more and get in touch with Stephanie at:
https://www.stephaniequayle.com/home
Her book comes out April 30th and you can pre-order it here:
https://www.amazon.com/Why-Do-We-Stay-Relationship/dp/140024451X
Order Stephanie's new book Imagine More: Do What You Love, Discover Your Potential
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When life handed Katherine Wolf the unimaginable—a massive stroke that she wasn't expected to survive—she forged a path of hope and resilience that inspires and encourages everyone. As 26-year old newlyweds with a six-month old son, Katherine and Jay demonstrate what a beautiful marriage looks like. Join us as we discuss Katherine's new book, "Treasures in the Dark," to discuss the intertwined journey of joy and suffering. Her new book offers 90 reflections that promise to light the way for those navigating through their darkest times, showing that even in the shadow of hardship, hope can thrive.
Katherine's story, as told in "Hope Heals" and "Suffer Strong," co-authored with her husband Jay, is one of a love that defies statistics and a life reclaimed through faith and community. We discuss the 'Good Hard Second Chance Life', a concept that embraces the full spectrum of joy and suffering.
We also discuss Katherine and Jay's contribution to creating inclusive spaces like their camp retreat for families affected by disability and their new coffee shop "Mend", both offering respite, joy, and connection. We share how you can engage with Hope Heals to be a part of their uplifting work.
Connect with Katherine and Jay at
www.HopeHeals.com
https://hopeheals.com/
@HopeHeals on social platforms
Order Katherine's new book
https://hopeheals.com/treasures/#treasures-retailers
Order Stephanie's new book Imagine More: Do What You Love, Discover Your Potential
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Meet Jessye Wilden – bestselling author of We Wrote Your Name in Color, host to the heartfelt podcast The Molden Cast, and experienced grief coach. Jessye’s journey through unthinkable loss, grief, trauma, joy, and healing has woven a life full of resilience and inspiration.
In this episode we discuss her upcoming retreats being held at the Oaks Retreat Center in Ramona, CA with Bob Goff. Her personal experience of surviving trauma, death and grief has made her an expert in connecting with anyone trying to navigate life in the midst of any kind of pain and suffering. She inspires everyone she meets to see more joy and hope in our everyday lives., regardless of our individual circumstances.
Learn more about her retreats here and sign up for the next retreat April 26-28, 2024: https://www.jessyewilden.com/
As the mom of five kiddos, including those through adoption, she offers tangible encouragement for anyone navigating the intricate dance of a blended family. She continues to write and speak to groups using her unique perspective and exciting storytelling to help others hold onto goodness when life hurts most.
Jessye lives with her husband and partner-in-crime, Ryan, and their children in Mount Shasta, California, where bears rattle the garbage cans and deer occasionally pose dramatically in the backyard. When she finds spare time, you will find her skiing down hills, camping under the stars, playfully snapping towels, binging a Netflix series, or singing in her car with the music up and the windows down.
Join Jessye Wilden on a journey that goes beyond words on a page. Together, discover a life filled with love, audacious hope, and a profound strength found in sharing stories.
Connect more with Jessye: jessye@jessyewilden.com
https://www.instagram.com/jessye_wilden
Order Stephanie's new book Imagine More: Do What You Love, Discover Your Potential
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Listen in on a helpful and practical conversation with Stephanie May Wilson. She is an author, podcaster, and encourager of millions of listeners and website visitors, helping people make life decisions that fit their true hopes and desires, not necessarily the expectations of outside voices.
Did you know that 80% of life's most defining moments happen between the ages of 25 and 35? That's a lot of potential pressure--and Stephanie calls it the Everything Era. Stephanie's new book, "Create a Life You Love, How to Quiet Outside Voices So You Can Finally Hear Your Own" comes out April 30th. You can PRE-ORDER the book now and you can get a FREE chapter today. Go to https://stephaniemaywilson.com/create for more.
Through her books, courses, and podcast, she helps women take off the pressure of what they think their lives are supposed to look like by now — and then intentionally, confidently, and authentically build the life they actually want to live.
Get in touch with Stephanie:
https://stephaniemaywilson.com/
https://www.instagram.com/smaywilson/
Order Stephanie's new book Imagine More: Do What You Love, Discover Your Potential
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Have you ever been captivated by a story shared by a great storyteller? This is the art that Heather Adams, CEO of Choice Communications and host of the Make Me Known podcast, shares with us. As a communications expert for 25+ years and the CEO/Founder of Choice Communications, she has practical advice for all of us.
The simple act of sharing our stories can be powerful. Heather delves into why these narratives are far more than just cocktail party chatter—they're the fibers that really bring people together. She persuades us to move beyond life's surface conversations and into authentic engagement. This is the key to engaging listeners and inspiring or motivating people. It's an episode that serves as a reminder: every story matters, and the way we present ours can entertain, educate and inspire rather than painfully boring other people!
And we talked about Heather's upcoming Choice Summit conference! Imagine a place where women professionals gather, not just to network, but to truly grow and thrive together. Heather gives us a sneak peek into this vibrant event being held in Franklin, Tennessee on April 29th. Pivotal People listeners can even save 10% with a special code she shares with us.
Learn more about the Choice Summit conference here:
https://www.choicemediacommunications.com/choice-summit-1
Use the code GOODCOMPANY10 to get 10% off the conference fee
Connect with Heather at Choice Communications here:
https://www.choicemediacommunications.com/
Order Stephanie's new book Imagine More: Do What You Love, Discover Your Potential
Learn more at StephanieNelson.com
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Watching a loved one's memory fade isn't just heartbreaking; it's a call to action. That's precisely what propelled Rob Liebreich to initiate the Stronger Memory program, an approach that offers hope and tangible results for those grappling with cognitive decline. Rob is the compassionate CEO of Goodwin Living, who walked us through the program's inception — a personal mission kindled by his mother's memory loss. Through a blend of reading, handwriting, and math exercises, the Stronger Memory program has shown remarkable improvements in cognitive function, a testament to the simple yet powerful impact of these activities.
Our conversation took an uplifting turn as we shared the story of this extraordinary woman's cognitive journey. Diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment, she refused to let her diagnosis define her. Now, she teaches bridge, learns Mahjong, and advocates fervently for brain health. The centerpiece of her and over 10,000 others' success? A 177-page workbook, a gift to those facing memory challenges, supported by George Mason University's encouraging research and free of any pharmaceutical intervention. This story serves as a beacon of hope, highlighting the unheralded potential of cognitive maintenance tools and the importance of keeping our minds agile, irrespective of age.
We wrapped up our episode by focusing on the broader community's role in dementia care. Goodwin House's pilot program, a beacon of innovation, has integrated a social component that's strengthening cognitive resilience in senior centers across Maryland. The enthusiastic feedback is a clear indicator that accountability paired with cognitive exercises can make a profound difference. With a mission to touch 100,000 lives and resources like the facilitator's guide from strongermemory.com, this program isn't just a beacon of hope—it's a catalyst for change. Join us in this movement to empower minds and combat cognitive decline—one workbook, one community at a time.
Learn more here:
Stronger Memory Program https://goodwinliving.org/stronger-memory/
Learn more from videos about the program:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCavNYuTN_xph8ZrasOVQyWQ/featured
Order Stephanie's new book Imagine More: Do What You Love, Discover Your Potential
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Are you yearning for a conversation that merges faith, mental health, and the joys of building connections? Look no more, as bestselling author Laura Smith is our guest today, bringing with her a wealth of wisdom from her latest book, 'Holy Care for the Whole Self.' We tackle the often-ignored subject of mental health within Christian circles, shedding light on the crippling effect of shame and the healing power of empathy and understanding.
Ever wondered how to initiate meaningful friendships and harness the power of connection? Laura shares her personal experiences and practical tips on meeting new people, setting ground rules for engaging discussions, and celebrating the joy of forming bonds. We firmly believe age doesn’t dictate the possibilities of making new friends, so tune in to get inspired.
Lastly, we take a deep dive into the importance of maintaining mental health through practical steps. From nurturing creativity and implementing a prayer routine to prioritizing exercise and healthy habits, Laura also shares how maintaining a relatable presence on social media platforms encourages and inspires many. Hear more about Laura's writing process, her future projects, and how embracing biblical principles can lead to a more abundant life.
Order Laura's book "Holy Care for the Whole Self" on Amazon, available Feb. 6th
Connect with Laura at https://www.laurasmithauthor.com/
Order Stephanie's new book Imagine More: Do What You Love, Discover Your Potential
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Imagine this: You're part of a small church, fostering a deep sense of belonging and connection. Sounds exciting, right? Now, what if you were given practical insights on how to achieve this, straight from the authors of "The Art of Missionary Spirituality"? Join us as we invite Jeremy and Monica Chambers to share their unique perspective on micro church planting and the practices that foster a vibrant spirituality. Drawing wisdom from their experiences in over 40 different countries, they'll unravel the success factors of small churches, focusing on simplicity and adaptability.
But, that's not all. Ever wondered how to find time for God in your buzzing life? Or the power of unseen acts of kindness? We get personal and share our own experiences to help you do just that. We also explore how secret acts of kindness, done without expecting recognition, can lead to true humility. So, you're not just hearing from Jeremy and Monica but us too. This episode is a candid discussion about spirituality, humility, and connection, a must-listen for anyone interested in fostering a sense of community and a deeper relationship with God. Join us to discover how to resonate God's affirmation instead of human approval. It's all here - the journey to a deeper spiritual connection.
Order "The Art of Missional Spirituality" Here and download your FREE chapter: https://www.jemochambers.com/the-art-of-missional-spirituality
Find Monica on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/mograpalocha/
JEREMY AND MONICA CHAMBERS have participated in launching movements that make disciples and networks of microchurches in over thirty-five countries with a special heart for Denver, CO, Richmond, VA, and Costa Rica (Monica's home country). They currently work with Forge America, The Pando Collective, and The Arise Network. They love rock climbing, chess, mixed martial arts, hardcore metal, dubstep, and indoor plants. Prayer is of utmost importance in their lives. Jeremy has master’s degrees in both Intercultural Studies and Christian Studies from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School.
Order Stephanie's new book Imagine More: Do What You Love, Discover Your Potential
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What if you could halt the ceaseless hustle, confront your past traumas, and find a new purposeful path? Our guest today, Mark Bannon, bravely faced his past and found an unexpected lifeline amidst the chaos. As an author, speaker, and professional coach, Mark shares his transformation from a relentless workaholic to a man of faith and purpose. He takes us through his journey of writing his forthcoming memoir "The Boy from the Cave: A Soul-Stirring Journey from Hopelessness to Faith" You'll get insights into his childhood, the traumas that triggered his relentless work-desire, and the subsequent epiphany that made him hit the pause button and reexamine his life.
Join us as we explore the significance of addressing past traumas, mental health, and finding balance in life, with personal stories from yours truly. I'll share my personal journey towards spirituality and the peace I find in nature, alongside the changing attitudes towards therapy. As we navigate through our shared experiences, Mark unveils his 16-year immersion into Eastern philosophy and spirituality, leading him to find refuge in Christianity. He urges listeners to explore the Bible on their own, sharing how his faith shapes his daily existence. Don't miss this enlightening discussion highlighting hopelessness, purpose, faith, and personal growth.
Download the first 4 chapters FREE Here: https://markabannon.com/sample-chapters
Connect with Mark at https://markabannon.com/
Order Stephanie's new book Imagine More: Do What You Love, Discover Your Potential
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What if art and beauty were the most potent tools for evangelizing in the 21st century? Join me as we explore this intriguing concept with Emily and Isaac Gay, founders of Parallel Society. Through personal anecdotes and insights, Emily and Isaac shed light on the transformative power of artistry - how the triad of goodness, truth, and beauty can point to the divine. They highlight how their journey as artists led to the realization that artists can be today’s evangelists, communicating gospel truths through their work.
We don't just stop at understanding the potential of artists, we dive right into the role they play in society. Emily and Isaac elaborate on how artists, often undervalued within the church, have their fingers on the pulse of culture, shaping ideologies, impacting legislation, and education. Referencing insights from Vaclav Havel, the former Czech Republic president, they underline the power artists wield in shaping a nation's heart. Together, we envision a future where artists are nurtured both within and outside the church, enabling them to reach the lost.
Our discussion takes a fascinating turn towards the power of art and beauty, especially in times of crisis, using real-life examples such as a video of a woman playing the violin in a Ukrainian war bomb shelter. We reflect on the importance of imagination and creativity in maintaining our humanity in the face of adversity, inspired by the experiences of Victor Frankl in a concentration camp. As we wrap up, we peek into the future of faith-based art, discussing how it can embody Christ's ethic and morality, and the potential for artists of faith in the future. Tune in for this enlightening journey through faith, art, and beauty with Emily and Isaac Gay.
Learn more about The Parallel Society: https://www.theparallelsociety.co/
Reach Isaac Gay @imisaacgay
https://www.instagram.com/imisaacgay/
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What if the biggest opportunity of your life lay hidden in the shadow of your biggest setback? This is the transformative journey our esteemed guest, Maina Mwaura, an ordained minister, public speaker, journalist, and author, embarked upon after losing his job at the age of forty. In this vibrant discussion, Maina not only shares his inspiring personal story of resilience but also takes us on an intimate exploration of the life and teachings of Howard Hendricks, a renowned professor at Dallas Theological Seminary, captured in Maina's latest book, "The Influential Mentor."
Unveiling Hendricks' passion for evangelism, his close friendship with Billy Graham, and the challenges he faced in a divided society, Maina underlines the indelible impact Hendricks has had on the Christian community. His influence echoed through the lives of countless leaders, Tony Evans and Andy Stanley included, illustrating the power of mentorship. Beyond the historical and spiritual insights, this episode also delves into the discovery of Hendricks' book, graced with a rare forward by Billy Graham, uncovering the hidden gems within.
But this isn't just an episode about past legends and their relevance today. It's a masterclass in personal transformation and the power of influence. Maina shares his journey of starting anew, the life-altering power of stepping out of your comfort zone, and how God's divine plan can supersede our own in times of adversity. Finally, we emphasize the invaluable role of being an influential mentor - impacting lives without seeking credit or recognition. So, buckle up for a journey of inspiration, wisdom, and transformation, because it's never too late to start anew, and you never know where your influence might lead.
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Are you familiar with the power of love and the strength of hope in the midst of grief and trauma? Picture this: author, speaker, and podcaster Jessye Wilden and her family find themselves unexpectedly caring for two children left orphaned by their best friends. As they navigate this new and challenging journey, an unexpected addition to their family sparks a light of joy and hope, reshaping Jessie's perspective on life and the power of love.
Think for a moment about the challenges your own family has faced. Have you ever wondered how you'd cope with a significant loss? Jessye shares their personal experience of pulling together as a family and underscores the importance of prioritizing the needs of others. She paints a vivid picture of their journey through grief, the absence of support groups for families in similar situations, and her dream of starting a grief group to help others.
Now, imagine the strength it takes to choose love and empathy over judgment in the face of a personal tragedy. This episode features a compelling story of a woman who experienced the tragic loss of her son and daughter-in-law to murder-suicide. Her mother-in-law's act of painting her son's name in color every morning serves as a profound testament to the power of love. Tune in to this moving and uplifting conversation that will inspire you, make you think, and perhaps transform your perspective on life. Jessye Wilden's story is one you won't want to miss.
Follow Jessye on Instagram @jessye_wilden
Order Jessye's book and memoir, "We Wrote Your Name in Color"
Connect with her athttps://www.jessyewilden.com/
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In this episode I chatted with Kori Reed, author of Men in the Middle: Conversations to Gain Momentum with Gender Equity's Silent Majority. Drawing from her personal experiences as the only female in her family, Kori shares insights about the pivotal role men, who aren't on the extreme ends of behavior, play in driving change. Kori explains the intricate tangle of gender dynamics, highlighting the importance of connection and understanding in creating a more equitable society.
Kori helped me understand the complexity of equity, and the role emotions often play in overshadowing data-driven decision making. She also underscored the significance of women empowering each other in the workplace, helping to normalize these vital conversations.
Kori explains the often unspoken challenges men face in their journey towards gender equity. She elaborates on the need for people to start a different conversation, one that fosters understanding and empathy. She explains how balancing career success with personal sacrifices is an issue for both men and women (rather than being considered a women's issue only) so we explore how to create a space where everyone thrives.
Kori's book helped me recognize and appreciate the importance of 'men in the middle' in creating a more equitable society. Tune in for an enlightening dialogue that promises to broaden your perspective on gender equity.
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How often do you come across someone who's made a shift from a life of commercial fishing to leading a congregation? Meet Steve Jamison, the lead pastor of Eastridge Church in Seattle. Steve's inspiring journey from casting nets for fish to spreading the gospel has been beautifully penned down in his book, "The Most Valuable Catch: Risking it All for What Matters the Most." We get a glimpse into his unique take on leadership, integrity, and authentic living through our enlightening conversation.
It's not every day that we are nudged by God to carry out an act of generosity. Well, Steve was, and he responded with open arms and an open heart. You'd be intrigued to know the story of how a simple food court in Puerto Rico led him to provide shoes for a pastor and his family residing in Cuba. But Steve's desire to spread the gospel doesn't stop there. His evangelistic outreach ministry, Jammin' Against the Darkness, has attracted sports figures who share their faith and inspire many.
Legacy, mentorship, and encouragement are powerful tools. As Steve shares his thoughts on these, you can reflect on how your life, irrespective of the stage, can be a tool for God's glory. Drawing from the life of Barnabas, Steve shows how starting small can lead to a significant impact. By the end of our chat, you'd appreciate the vision behind Steve's book and how it can transform lives. So grab a cup of coffee, tune in, and let Steve's passion, wisdom, and dedication inspire you to serve God and people.
Order Steve's book and additional study tools and extra bonuses at the website:
http://www.themostvaluablecatch.com
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Ever wonder how a simple task like couponing could turn into an unexpected journey filled with challenges, triumphs, and ultimately, the power to make a difference in people's lives? Join me as I recount the extraordinary 20-year journey that began with a simple idea sparked by an inspiring talk by author Becky Tirabassi. Hear how this idea evolved into a group of women coming together to understand the art of couponing, and how a bridge was built between those who mastered this art and those who were in need.
As we unravel this amazing story, you'll discover how faith, trust and an unshaken belief in God’s plan played a pivotal role in shaping the trajectory of this journey. I share how a friend's assistance led me to national television, reaching millions of viewers and showcasing the incredible power of couponing when combined with charity. We'll explore the significance of owning your dreams, the importance of persistence in the face of challenges, and most importantly, the beauty of believing in your unique path.
The final segment of our story reveals the unexpected leap of coupon moms into the national spotlight, from appearances on Good Morning America to my coupon system demonstration on the Oprah Winfrey Show. Hear about the growth and evolution of the website, the rise of other coupon moms, and how this unexpected development surprisingly propelled the business to new heights. As we wrap up the episode, we delve into the critical importance of authenticity and steadfastness in holding onto your dreams. This episode is a celebration of believing in oneself, trusting the process, and the incredible power each one of us holds to effect change.
Order Stephanie's new book Imagine More: Do What You Love, Discover Your Potential
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What happens when you disconnect from the digital world for a year? This happened to Ciara Laine Myers, award-winning entrepreneur and author of the book, "Glasses Off: Seeking God When Your Vision Is Gone." Imagine the courage it takes to step back from your digital presence, not for a digital detox, but a spiritual one. Join us as we have a powerful conversation with Ciara about her year-long journey of faith and discovery.
Through her book, Ciara shares how that period of disconnection allowed her to discern God's voice better, and in the process, she discovered and embraced a new vision for her life. But it wasn't easy. Ciara recounts a pivotal moment when, in a fit of frustration and anger, she received the title of her book during prayer. Ciara takes us through an exploration of the Bible beyond the pure gathering of information, the importance of daily communion with God, and how being a visionary differs from being a dreamer. Learn from Ciara's seven practical steps on how to embrace and fulfill God's vision for your life.
Ciara's desire to provide value for others led her on a transformative path, and she shares this and more, including her journey into public speaking, with us. With Ciara's journey as a guide, discover how you too can unlock the power of pursuing God's vision for your life.
Order book from Amazon
Connect with Ciara:Website: https://www.ciaralainemyers.com/
Monthly Newsletter: https://ciaralainemyers.substack.com/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.pt/ciaralainemyers/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ciaralainemyers/
Counseling Services: https://intentional-counseling.com
Counseling YouTube Channel (featuring Paul Myers): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQBREwLFoj0BS0Ta0YT0PHA
Ciara's personal blog: https://veiledfree.com/
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This episode of the Pivotal People podcast is a riveting journey of faith and resilience featuring our special guest, Nick Nilson. Nick's story is one that takes us from his small hometown in Wisconsin to his remarkable transformation into an Associate Pastor at Lakewood Church in Houston with pastor Joel Osteen , serving a congregation of 30 to 40,000 people weekly. Nick's life is a testament to the healing power of faith and the potential each one of us has in our lives.
Nick's new book has made the USA Today Bestseller list and it's a great read. It's title is based on Nick's personal experience: "You Can Live the Dream: Trading Disappointment and Discontentment for Peace, Joy and Fulfillment,"
Diving into the heart of his narrative, Nick shares the profound shift from his football dreams to becoming an influential pastor. He underscores the importance of having faith even in the face of adversity. His powerful message of hope encourages listeners not to resist the challenges life throws at them. Instead, he emphasizes the importance of seeing these closed doors as opportunities for greater things. Nick's inspiring words are a beacon of light that guides us towards finding our own purpose amidst the chaos.
In the latter part of our conversation, Nick speaks about the undeniable power of serving others. He believes that each one of us has been given influence and it's our prerogative on how to use it. Nick encourages us to use this influence to uplift others and spread positivity. He also underscores the significance of community outreach, and the role we all can play in making a difference. Join us for this episode, filled with insights that will make you reflect on your life, your struggles and the incredible potential you hold to make a difference.
Connect with Nick at https://www.nicknilson.com/ You can order his book from Amazon HERE
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We're inviting you to journey with us, alongside our guest Rebecca Rothman, director of donor relations at Faith Bridge Foster Care, as she unpacks her incredibly inspiring life story. Abandoned at birth, adopted, and now a beacon of hope in the foster care system, Rebecca's tale is not one to miss. Through sharing her personal experience, she illuminates the hardships and triumphs of fostering and adoption, and how they shaped her faith and purpose in life. Her upcoming book, "Abandoned for God", promises to be an intimate chronicle of her journey to healing and finding her divine calling.
The second part of our discussion takes a deeper look into the pressing issues and challenges within the foster care system. With her first-hand insight, Rebecca paints a vivid picture of the potential trauma children in the system face and how we can actively contribute to changing their lives for the better. We conclude this enlightening conversation by delving into Faith Bridge Foster Care's innovative programs and introducing their newest initiative — the Youth Opportunities Program. A must-listen episode filled with touching stories, life-changing insights, and how you can make a difference in the lives of vulnerable children. Let's embark on this journey together.
Contact Rebecca here:
https://faithbridgefostercare.org/
https://www.instagram.com/rtrinklerothman/
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Can leadership truly be found within each of us? Let's uncover the answer in our engaging conversation with Tim Lupinacci, the CEO and Chair of the Baker Donelson law firm, one of the largest firms in the country. Not just a successful business leader, Tim is a self-proclaimed leadership junkie, actively transforming his car into a leadership university and practicing 'dinner table diplomacy' to better understand and inspire those around him. As the founder of the nonprofit Everybody Leads, he's dedicated to fostering leadership skills and confidence in underserved communities.
Our discussion with Tim Lupinacci takes you on a journey exploring the power of words and mindful communication, from impactful quotes to a simple phrase from his nephew that holds immense significance. He shares with us how one sentence altered his career path, reinforcing how words can shape our lives. As we delve deeper into his leadership journey, we explore how he invests in relationships, practices active listening, and creates a conducive environment for ideas and feedback in his firm. Here's an episode that reminds us that leadership is not confined to titles or roles but is a potential within us all. So, let's tune in and uncover the leader in each of us!
Connect with Tim for more information:
CEO of Baker Donelson law firm: https://www.bakerdonelson.com/
Founder of nonprofit "Everybody Leads": https://everybodyleads.org/
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Amanda Opelt, author of "Holy Unhappiness: God, Goodness and the Myth of the Blessed Life" invites readers to challenge the false beliefs many in the church hold about “the good life” and what it means to walk in communion with God. Amanda examines some of the historic, religious, and cultural influences that led to the idolization of positive feelings and the marginalization of negative feelings.
Amanda acknowledges the value of pursuing happiness but advocates for embracing a broader range of emotions within the Christian experience. She urges for the normalization of feelings like sadness, anger, grief and disappointment, highlighting their potential for growth in your faith journey.
Amanda is available for interviews and can speak on how to find holiness in the midst of unhappiness and uncomfortable emotions, how being blessed is often misunderstood or misinterpreted or the importance of normalizing feelings such as sadness, anger, grief, and disappointment is a part of the Christian experience.
Learn more and Order from Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/Holy-Unhappiness-Goodness-Myth-Blessed/dp/1546001921/ref=sr_1_1?
Connect with Amanda:
https://amandaheldopelt.com/
https://www.instagram.com/amandaheldopelt/
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Chris Beth is the Executive Director of The Bucket Ministry. It is an innovative and practical approach to providing clean water to impoverished communities in developing countries, while ministering to residents to share Christ's love.
I am fascinated with Chris' story, the technology he uses, and am touched by his sincere love for this cause. I will be a supporter of his ministry after meeting him and learning about his exciting organization.
Their website www.thebucketministry.org describes their appproach:
"We share God’s love through the gift of clean, safe, drinking water. We provide under-resourced communities around the world with long-lasting water filters, forge and nurture new relationships with Jesus Christ, and inspire systemic, Christ-centered change through discipleship training."
Chris started this ministry after a mission trip to the Brazilian Amazon with his daughter. His personal story is inspiring and encouraging, and motivates the rest of us to help in very simple ways.
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In this episode of the Pivotal People Podcast, we welcome Mark Bannon, an author, speaker, and professional coach, to discuss his upcoming memoir titled "The Boy From the Cave: From Hopelessness to Purpose." Mark shares his personal story of growing up in poverty and the challenges he faced as a result of his difficult childhood. Despite the hardships, Mark developed a strong work ethic and achieved great success in his professional life. However, he realized that he was running from his past traumas and sought to find purpose and meaning in his life.
We discuss Mark's journey of self-discovery, including his exploration of spirituality and his pursuit of various Eastern philosophies. Ultimately, Mark finds his way to Christianity through an unexpected encounter with a coworker from India who radiated peace. He begins reading the Bible daily and emphasizes the transformative power of connecting with God through scripture.
Our conversation delves into the importance of mental health and finding balance in life. Mark advises his younger self and listeners to face their traumas, take time for self-care, and be mindful of what they ingest mentally and emotionally. He emphasizes the significance of reading the Bible and encourages readers to seek their own understanding of faith rather than relying solely on interpretations from others or organized religion.
Today Mark is helping clients as a life coach, executive business coach and a speaker. You can connect with him at MarkABannon.com and on Instagram @markabannon .
His book comes out in August 2023 and is available to pre-order in June.
Learn more here and get a FREE download of the first 3 chapters of the book: https://markabannon.com/
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I had the privilege to discuss the documentary "The New Abolitionists" with director and producer Christina Zorich. She shared her perspective on the documentary's topic of human trafficking in Southeast Asia as well as other parts of the world. As she sheds light on the topic, she also provided encouragement on how the rest of us can help in easy and practical ways. I know you will find her conversation as inspiring and encouraging as I did, particularly in light of how challenging this issue is.
THE NEW ABOLITIONISTS, was directed by Christina Zorich and produced by Zorich, Oscar-winner Olympia Dukakis, and Susannah Julien Barnes, and features the participation of Olympia Dukakis, Christina Zorich, Eng Veng, Annie Dieselberg, Daniel Vaupel, and Andrea Aasen.
Three NGO’s (Non-Government Organizations) are featured in the documentary. These organizations are nobly dedicating their lives to battling human sex trafficking with inspiring results everyday.
Film Festival awards include Los Angeles Film Awards (2020) LAFA August Award, Best Inspirational Film; Bridge Fest, Vancouver (2020) Grand Prize, Best Documentary; Hollywood Verge Film Awards (2020) Winter Award, Best Documentary Feature; Manhattan Film Festival (2021) Film Heals Award, Documentary Feature.
THE NEW ABOLITIONISTS is a must-watch film for all who desire to learn more about this devastating crime and those who are bravely fighting against it.
You can find more information and links to watch the film here:
https://thenewabolitionistsdoc.com/
Find more in Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/thenewabolitionists/
https://www.facebook.com/TheNewAbolitionists/
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Beverly Harzog is a nationally recognized credit card expert and consumer finance analyst for U.S. News & World Report. She's also the bestselling and award-winning author of five personal finance books. You can read her columns and see her US News interviews and videos here.
Her expert advice has been featured in thousands of media outlets, including TV, radio, print, and major websites. She’s appeared on Fox News, CNN Newsource, NBC New York, NY1, ABC New York, NBC NY, ABC News Radio, Bloomberg Radio, and more.
In this conversation, we discuss how people can improve their credit scores to help get lower interest rates on major purchases. We also discuss how to stay out of debt and be prepared for unexpected expenses. I've found Beverly's finance columns to be very helpful and practical. Check them out here:
https://money.usnews.com/credit-cards/experts/beverly-harzog#bucket5
Get in touch with Beverly:
https://www.beverlyharzog.com/
https://www.instagram.com/beverlyharzog/
https://www.facebook.com/CreditJunkie/
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Between Mercy and Me will be available nationwide, on June 20 for one night only, through Fathom Events. Spring boarding from the Juneteenth holiday, the film is set to challenge societal norms and spark honest and raw conversations around sensitive topics including race, gentrification, interracial dating within the evangelical church and beyond. Between Mercy and Meis a must-watch film for all who desire to learn more about having honest, authentic, and more meaningful conversations about race, and the impact of racial divisions within the church.
Find a theater near you to see the movie June 20th here: https://www.fathomevents.com/events/Between-Mercy-and-Me
The film was written and directed by Craig Lamar Brown and is based on some of his own experiences experiencing racism and microaggressions – with the police and with other Christians. It stars Andrea Summer and David J Driskill, and Andrea also co-wrote the screenplay and the original music featured through the film.
View the 2 minute trailer here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FrZHui76HXo
Synopsis: The film centers around Hugo, a talented musician and worship leader in a Cincinnati community grappling with the impact of gentrification and tragedy. When his pastor challenges him to produce more inspirational music for the congregation, Hugo struggles with writer's block. In his search for inspiration, he meets Mercy, a jubilant and outgoing fellow musician, at a neighborhood coffee shop. As they join forces in their songwriting efforts, their relationship blossoms romantically, but they soon face challenges from friends, family, and their own communities. Determined not to let hard conversations or tension tear them apart, Hugo and Mercy set out to create space for honest conversations and work toward unification in their community. They courageously challenge biases, both seen and unseen, often left unspoken. However, one fateful evening, their relationship is rocked by a routine traffic stop that forces them to confront their own internal narratives and beliefs. Will they choose to embrace vulnerability with each other or let their relationship crumble under the weight of biases they worked so hard to overcome?
Find "Between Mercy & Me" at your local theater on June 20th.
Contact Craig Brown at https://www.instagram.com/craiglamarbrown/
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Tyson Motsenbocker is a singer, songwriter and author of the new book, "Where the Waves Turn Back: My 40-day pilgramage along the California coast." We had a wonderful conversation about his journey, learnings, and insights. Be ready to take notes because his observations and perceptions make us think--about love, relationships, grief, and what really matters in our lives. It's a must-read for anyone, especially mothers.
In this powerful memoir, following the death of his mother, Tyson Motsenbocker retraces the journey an 18th century priest took in this harrowing story of one man’s pilgrimage of healing and finding beauty and hope in tragedy.
After years on the road performing at sold-out venues, Tyson Motsenbocker returned home to the impending death of his 57-year-old hero and mother. He begged God to heal her, but she died anyway. When they buried her body, Tyson also buried the childhood version of his faith.
Two days after they buried his mother, Tyson set out on a 600-mile pilgrimage of sorts, intending to walk from San Diego to San Francisco along the El Camino. Tyson’s journey takes him down smog-choked highways, across fog-laden beaches, past multi-million-dollar coastal estates, and along the towering cliffs of Big Sur. And as he walks, Tyson also wrestles with his faith, questioning the pat answers and easy prayers he once readily accepted, trying to understand how hope and tragedy can all be wrapped up in the same God. The people he meets along the way challenge his understanding of the meaning of security, of what it means to live a meaningful life, and of the legacies we all leave behind.
Connect with Tyson here: https://www.tysonmotsenbocker.com/
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Kevin Lewis has been a coach, teacher, singer, performer, business owner, podcast host and an author. I know him personally and will add that he is a super nice guy--who encourages and affirms everyone he meets. Kevin's new book, "Can You Trust Me This Much?" comes out in June 2023. You can preorder the book here to get a signed copy: https://www.hizworks.com/the-book
I read the book and enjoyed his entertaining stories, perceptive observations and life lessons that speak to all of us. It's a great read. What prompted Kevin to write this book? From Kevin's website, www.HizWorks.com:
"A mustard seed. God asks us to have faith the size of an itty, bitty, tiny mustard seed. Now that shouldn’t be so hard, should it? And yet, so many times we experience difficult, even traumatic events in our lives that make us ask questions like, “If God loves us and wants the very best for us, why does He allow such horrible things to happen?”
For Kevin, it was a mass shooting in his town of Buffalo, Minnesota that brought him to ask this important question. And each time he prayed, he heard the words, “Can you trust me this much? Those words kept replaying in his mind over and over again.
Kevin eventually wrote those six words down on strips of paper and Scotch-taped a mustard seed to each one. He proceeded to place the strips in random places. They were in his house, his business, on his computer, and even in his car.
What Kevin discovered was how the traumatic events we all face in life can either destroy us or bring us to place where we realize our pain has a purpose. And when we finally get real and have the crazy courage to face the big hurts - those life-changing events - we can answer with certainty, “Yes…yes, I can trust you this much.”
A portion of the proceeds from Kevin's book will go to help people through The Least of These Ministries.
Also hear from Kevin on his podcast, The Next Step.
Find it here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-next-step/id1613368608?i=1000556141208
Follow his podcast on Instagram at @thenextstepwithkevinlewis
Find Kevin
Instagram: @officiallykevinlewis and @hizworks
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kevin.lewis.98499/
All links to all platforms: https://linktr.ee/officiallykevinlewis
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Erin Cuccio is a writer, speaker and podcast host. She is a wife, a mother of three young boys, and supports her husband in running their family-owned restaurant.
Erin's new book called "Unraveled: Finding the Lovely When Life Comes Undone" addresses the idea of finding purpose in the painful experiences of our lives. When Erin lost her fourth son in early labor, she was determined to find the purpose in the pain.
Maybe you are facing grief in loss, or maybe you're grieving a life that doesn't quite look like you pictured. Erin's story and her wisdom helps readers realize who we are created to be, and encourages us to live with reckless abandon in pursuit of that purpose.
Her stories are insightful and entertaining. Author Kim Stuart says it best: "Erin Cuccio is the wise and kind friend you want walking with you shoulder-to-shoulder, both on the days that leave you breathless with joy and on the days that bring you to your knees. Just like its author, Unraveled extends a warm and honest invitation to find hope that battles and wins in every season."
Find Erin on Instagram @erincuccio
Pre-order her book (coming out May 2nd) at book.ErinCuccio.com
Listen to her podcast "Room For Lovely" with new episodes every week
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BONNIE GRAY is the author of the new book, "Breathe: 21 Days to Stress Less and Transform Chaos to Calm." She loves encouraging women to experience deeper intimacy with God and refresh the soul with His love and rest. She guides women to live inspired, detox from stress and celebrate their calling as the beloved.
An inspirational retreat speaker, Bonnie touches thousands of lives helping women through topics of soul care, stress recovery, and emotional healing through storytelling, visual arts, nature, prayer and meditation. Bonnie’s powerful writing is featured on Relevant Magazine, KLOVE, (in)courage, MOPS, and Christianity Today. She lives in California with her husband and their two sons.
Follow Bonnie @thebonniegray Facebook and Instagram. Pull up a chair and enjoy free soul care videos, encouragement, and podcasts.
Get free resources at her website, https://thebonniegray.com/
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Dr. Claudia Hawley is a counselor, speaker and a mental health advocate who owns Stoney Creek Counseling in the Denver, Colorado area. In this episode she shares her experience and perspective counseling married couples. She shares her Seven Principles of a Successful Marriage, as well as the four issues that can lead to divorce. WOW. Her practical advice and insight can help all of us who are in or who are seeking a committed relationship.
Claudia holds a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Denver Seminary. Claudia is coming to mental health as a second career after spending many years as a small business owner. Working alongside clients in her former career as a realtor, instilled in Claudia a deep empathy, and a sincere desire to serve couples, families, and individuals in the journey through depression, anxiety, and trauma to healing, connection, and self-worth.
Connect with Claudia at
Website: https://stoneycreekcounseling.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stoneycreekcounseling
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100032306993558
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Today we're having a great conversation with my friend Dr. Heather Penny who shares key insights from her new book, "The Life You're Made For." It's a fantastic book--I've read it and couldn't put it down. It's not the kind of book that you read once--it becomes a guidebook for life.
Order Heather's book, listen to her podcast and learn about her coaching program HERE
Heather describes her book for anyone who can relate to this idea:
Are you struggling in the mire of life’s disappointments or stuck in a rut that’s lasting much too long? Are you looking to discover the strength and insight to excel in who you were meant to be?
It’s time to reset your life with a new way of thinking that motivates and inspires you toward self-discovery and helps to uncover your true beliefs. Through practical application, research, and personal experience, Dr. Heather Penny offers ‘3C Living’ as a way to go after the life you want. Learn how to increase your clarity, build your confidence and engage your courage. To find a new way forward, we need new ideas. And the world is waiting for you to show up—in all your authentic glory—to offer the beauty, grace, and gifts that only you possess.
Get more from Heather at https://heatherpenny.com/
Order her book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09FYJ9MTK
Listen to her podcast: https://heatherpenny.com/podcast/
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Jonathan Merritt is one of America’s most popular writers on issues of faith and culture. Heis author of several critically-acclaimed books, includingLearning to Speak God from Scratch: Why Sacred Words are Vanishing - and How We Can Revive Them, named “Book of the Year” by the Englewood Review of Books.
Jonathan is an award-winning contributor for The Atlantic, a contributing editor for The Week, and a regular columnist for Religion News Service. He has published more than 3000 articles in respected outlets such as The New York Times, USA Today, Buzzfeed, The Washington Post, The Daily Beast and Christianity Today.
In addition to the written word, Jonathan regularly contributes commentary to television, print, and radio news outlets. He has been interviewed by ABC World News, CNN, MSNBC, Fox News, NPR, PBS, and CBS’ “60 Minutes.”
Jonathan is also a sought after speaker at colleges, conferences, and churches on topics relating to spirituality, politics, and current events. Whether he is delivering an academic lecture or inspirational sermon, Jonathan’s captivating communication style and powerful presence are well-suited for intimate gatherings of hundreds or arenas filled with thousands.
As a collaborator or ghostwriter, Jonathan has worked on more than 50 books, with several titles landing on the New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal bestsellers lists. Additionally, he trains hundreds of young writers through his Write Brilliant seminars and online course. He is often available for exclusive one-on-one coaching for a select number of advanced writers.
Jonathan holds a Master of Divinity from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary, a Master of Theology from Emory University’s Candler School of Theology, and has done additional graduate work focused on ascetical theology at The General Theological Seminary of the Episcopal Church.
He is the recipient of numerous awards and accolades including the Wilbur Award for excellence in journalism, and the Religion News Association’s columnist of the year award.
Jonathan currently happily resides in New York City. He is an aspiring dog dad, a college football fan, and intolerable before coffee.
Hear more from Jonathan at:
https://www.jonathanmerritt.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jonathan_merritt/
Facebok: https://www.facebook.com/JonathanMerrittWriter/
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Tara Sun is the author of Surrender Your Story: Ditch the Myth of Control and Discover Freedom in Trusting God (March 2023). I read her book and couldn't put it down. It is filled with relatable stories, practical wisdom and encouragement for readers of all ages.
Tara takes readers on her journey of discovering the antidote to the burdensome and ultimately empty myth of control: surrendering to the God who cares for us and has an infinitely better blueprint for our lives – filled with the joy, peace and meaning we’ve been searching for.
“When we surrender to God, it might feel like we’re making a sacrifice—after all, it feels like we’re being asked to give up quite a lot,” writes Tara. “But genuine surrender actually involves an awesome trade. You get to trade away the burdens of performance, legalism, and control, and instead receive what I can only
describe as profound peace, real joy, and a deeply satisfying purpose. The best is yet to comewhen we surrender.”
In Surrender Your Story, Tara gives readers practical steps, strategies, and biblically rich insight for letting go of control and moving forward in faith, even in the face of setbacks and disappointments. “When we put our faith in Jesus, we are given a new life, a new nature and anew operating system,” writes Tara. “It’s not just our story. It’s His story.”
- Video: https://www.youtube.com/c/tarasun
- Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/truth-talks-with-tara/id1526013986
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/misstarasun/
- Website: https://www.tarasunministries.com/
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From the Producer of the critically-acclaimed documentary, “Forks Over Knives,” comes a new film about a unique restaurant that nourishes the body, mind and soul. Revelations Café: Food for the Soul follows the journey of married couple, Mia and Robby Graham, who, after receiving divine inspiration, created a faith-based café with a plant-based menu designed to heal the body.
But for Robby and Mia, the decision to open Revelations Café was as much about spiritual health as anything else. As Christians and recovering addicts who had both experienced a transformative work in their own lives because of their faith, the Grahams wanted to create a cafe that would feed people spiritually– a place where people could gather, have community, and even pray together.
“Revelations Café is about love and forgiveness,” said Mia. “And for us, that starts right here in our kitchen, with our own staff. We know that we are all broken people, just trying to do the best we can.”
In 2018, with no previous restaurant experience, Mia and Robby transformed a former mattress store into Revelations Café – named for the profound influence their relationship with Jesus has had on their lives. When the Covid-19 pandemic struck the world, while most restaurants were forced to shutter, Revelations Café developed plant-based freezer meal plans to nourish customers during a time when healthy eating was (and still is) paramount. Before long, some local physicians even began prescribing the meal plans from Revelations Café to their patients in lieu of pharmaceutical drugs.
For more information, visit www.revelationscafefilm.com.
View Revelations Café trailer here.
Robby and Mia oversee Revelations Café operations and marketing. However, their roles go far beyond these two facets of the business. Both Robby and Mia’s passion is to serve the Lord by serving others. With degrees in Christian Counseling from Life Christian University, and as certified Life Coaches, Robby and Mia teach others how to break free from the hurts and hang-ups holding them back, to use God’s word as “a lamp unto their feet and a light unto their path,” to trust God and walk by faith not by sight, to discover the God-sized dream within, and become one with Christ in body, mind and spirit.
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Polly Letofsky is the author of the bestselling and award-winning book, "3 MPH: The Adventures of One Woman's Walk Around the World." She is also the founder of My Word Publishing. She has worked with hundreds of authors to help them self-publish their books, and many of them have won awards and landed on bestseller lists.
On August 1, 1999, Polly Letofsky left her home in Vail, Colorado, and headed west. She traveled across 4 continents, 22 countries, and over 14,000 miles – by foot – to become the first woman to walk around the world.
As an awareness campaign for breast cancer, survivors and well-wishers around the world came to walk with her. Every day strangers welcomed her into their homes and shared meals. The world had embraced her.
Polly’s GlobalWalk has been featured in over 2,000 newspapers, magazines, radio and television stations around the world, including Good Housekeeping, CNN International, The CBS Early Show, NBC’s Your Total Health, and Fine Living Channel’s Radical Sabbatical.
A natural storyteller, since her return, Polly has been speaking to rapt audiences around the country. She richly details her journey with humor and honest reflection, the good times and the hardships. Sometimes serious, sometimes funny, always inspirational, Polly’s inspiring keynote personifies the spirit of commitment and perseverance that will compel your audience to take on life’s biggest challenges – one step at a time.
Her book: https://www.pollyletofsky.com/the-book/ and find it on Amazon
Her publishing company: https://www.mywordpublishing.com/
Contact Polly at https://www.pollyletofsky.com/
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Traci Schubert Barrett was one of the founding team members of national cable television network HGTV. After thirty years of experience in corporate America, Traci began to wonder, what if there's more to our vocational lives than success? In a leap of faith, she quit her executive job and went on a soul-searching journey. Today, Traci is an entrepreneur, podcast host, speaker, author and executive coach who helps others in their search for meaning beyond success.
Her new book, "What if There's More? Finding Significance Beyond Success" shares the details of her soul-searching journey that led her to where she is today and equips readers to do the same.
Traci lives with her husband and two daughters in Nashville, Tennessee.
You can find more about Traci here:
Her website: TraciSchubertBarrett.com
Go to Traci's website to download a free sample of her new book!
Traci's company website for coaching, training and speaking is
NavigatetheJourney.com
Find her on social platforms:
https://www.instagram.com/tracisbarrett/
Discover multiple resources to help you in your journey:
https://www.tracischubertbarrett.com/links
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In today's episode, my friend Jenny Rae shares her concept of "the balance sheet of a radical life." She shares her perspective about approaching our lives from the perspective of serving others, learning new ideas, and having adventures. Her desire is to help other people live their own radical lives while pursuing their life purpose.
Jenny Rae is an accomplished business owner, author, and strategic advisor with a B.A. in Economics from the University of Virginia and an MBA from Columbia Business School. She co-built tech companies in the energy and financial services industries before purchasing Management Consulted, a private tech-enabled services company.
Jenny recently ran for Governor of California--and she came very close to winning. She is also a wife and mother of three boys. They all live and work on their family ranch in Northern California.
She has developed an educational program called "Money Camp" which she provides at no cost, and is also doing individual money makeovers on a limited basis, at no cost.
Jenny Rae is a frequent presenter at Harvard Business School, the Wharton School of Business, and over 60 other top institutions, and has been quoted in Forbes, Business Insider, and other business publications.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennyraeca
FB: https://m.facebook.com/100066291232274/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jennyraeca/
Twitter: https://mobile.twitter.com/jennyraeca
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Meet my friend Mark Gottlieb, one of the top literary agents in the industry. I believe he is so successful at his work because he is kind, caring, knowledgeable, and a really nice guy. As a result, he has meaningful relationships throughout the industry, and his submissions are respected by publishers. He makes authors' dreams come true.
Mark is a highly ranked literary agent, both in overall deals and other individual categories. Through his work at Trident Media Group, Mark represents numerous New York Times bestselling authors, as well as major award-winning authors, and has optioned and sold books to film and TV production companies. In his free time, Mark Gottlieb tutors free English language classes to adults from low-income immigrant families, via the Literacy Volunteers program at Family Centers, a nonprofit organization offering education, health and human services. He is also the Founder and President of the Stamford Literature, Arts & Culture Salon (SLACS). Mark Gottlieb is actively seeking submissions in all categories and genres and looks forward to bringing new and established authors to the curious minds of their future readers.
REVIEWS
“He is professional, knowledgeable, and deeply cares about the careers of his clients. …I’m lucky to have Mark in my corner!”
—Alan Hlad, USA Today bestselling author
“My writing career never would have advanced as fast or as far without Mark’s help.”
—James Breakwell, bestselling author
“He goes above and beyond his work expectations by cultivating caring relationships with his clients, always expressing empathy and patience. He is kind, supportive and knows what he’s doing.”
—Ruby Karp, author of Earth Hates MeGet in touch with Mark:
Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markgottliebliteraryagent/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/markgottliebliteraryagent/
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Meet Zach Windahl--a successful entrepreneur, author, husband, friend and a really great guy. Zach's life is an inspiration to everyone he meets. I loved our conversation, his insights, perspective and simple advice for all of us to have a more fulfilling, peaceful, and joy-filled life. I've read his new book twice and bought it for my family members.
You can learn more about Zach on his website, ZachWindahl.com. Here are a few highlights of his story, in Zach's own words:
Perspective changes everything
"My outlook on life wasn’t always to “see the good.” Through two defining moments in my life I learned how to experience positivity, joy and live every day to the fullest. The first was when my mom, a 4-stage cancer survivor, was given a 5% chance to live. The second was in 2014 when I hit a low spot in my life and moved to Australia with the mindset of “God, if you’re real, prove it.” I dove straight into an intensive program where we studied the Bible. God used those moments to rewire my thinking. This experience led me to growth and the hope of helping others find love and understanding in pursuing God’s word.
I’ve also written several books:
- The Bible Study
- The Bible Study for Youth
- The Bible Study for Kids
- The Best Season Planner
- Launch with God
- See the Good
In 2022 our Brand Sunday company received recognition as the:
-
63 Fastest growing business in America
-
3 fastest growing business in Minnesota
-
4 fastest growing consumer product in America
End of Zach's quote.
If someone could have a Christian product as the #4 fastest growing consumer product in America, I think there's hope for the world. Listen in and learn more from Zach.
Order Zach's new book "See the Good" from Amazon or anywhere books are sold.
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Kay Adams is the author of the book, "Bedside Witness: Stories of Hope, Healing and Humanity." She shares real-life stories of clients and families impacted by dementia, and how she helped them manage their challenging situations with dignity and compassion. Her book opened my eyes to the complexities involved in dealing with this very real issue faced by so many of us.
She is a Dementia coach, consultant, trainer and speaker. She is aLicensed Clinical Social Worker and founder of Compassion Works, LLC. with over 30 years of experience counseling and coaching individuals and families around a broad array of complex emotional and health-related challenges. She can work with clients anywhere, because she is available via Zoom. She does individual counseling and conducts online workshops. You can reach out to her at her website listed below.
You can book Kay for your book club! She is available to join your book club in discussing her book via Zoom, wherever you are. Take advantage of this excellent opportunity to ask questions and learn more about dealing with dementia. Just send her a message at kay@kaymadams.com for details.
She has worked extensively in the fields of geriatrics, hospice, palliative care and mental health counseling over the course of her career. She is a Certified Dementia Consultant and Trainer, and started her own company, Compassion Works, LLC, in 2017 to focus her passion and energy on engaging care partners and organizations impacted by dementia.
Learn more about Kay at her website: https://www.kaymadams.com/ You can order her book on Amazon here: https://www.amazon.com/Bedside-Witness-Stories-Healing-Humanity/dp/057837370X/
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Today we’re chatting with my dear friend Amanda Ferrin. Amanda is a writer, a speaker, a worship leader and a "hope enthusiast." Amanda's desire is to point people to Jesus, to inspire hope, to remind us of God's wonderful promises. Amanda also deals with a terminal illness, and her perspective on God's purpose for each of our lives is uplifting, inspiring and even life-changing.
Amanda shared her story with us in Episode 4 a year ago, and she's here today to update us on the amazing events that have happened over the past year and have helped keep her alive. They are miracles, and so is she.
You can find more of Amanda's inspiration, humor, and joy on
Instagram
@amanda_ferrin
https://www.instagram.com/amanda_ferrin/
and Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/amanda.ferrin
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Listen in on a great conversation with Alex Avila, discussing his new book, "Emotional Safety: Honoring Yourself While Creating Trust and Presence to Experience Meaningful Relationships." It's an eye-opening and encouraging book to help us know how and when to trust others as we build relationships.
Alex A. Avila is an author, speaker and a therapist. He is passionate about helping people secure and enjoy safe, healthy relationships. As a full-time licensed professional counselor, author and speaker, Alex empowers people to pursue physical, emotional, spiritual, emotional and relational health. He holds multiple advanced therapist certifications and guides individuals and couples.
In 2007 he began full-time counseling studies and has since facilitated thousands of hours of private counseling and over 100 relationship workshops. Alex also conducts trainings for therapists working toward clinical certifications.
You can order Alex's book on Amazon HERE You can download a free chapter of his book and learn more about Alex and his practice at his website https://www.alexaavila.com/
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Meet my friend and author, Laurel Appel. Her new book, "Radical Grace" is a breath of fresh air. Laurel explains God's grace in a refreshing, honest and engaging way. Her writing made me stop and think, read passages out loud to my husband, and discuss the topic with friends. It's a wonderful book to enjoy, give as a gift to anyone we love, and to have as a permanent addition to our own book collections.
Author Bob Goff had this to say about Laurel's book, which says it all:
“ With her masterful unpacking of biblical truth and her engaging style of storytelling, Laurel reveals Jesus' answer to living life fully free and motivated by love. Radical Grace: Live Free and Unashamed makes the seemingly impossible possible."
Bob Goff
New York Times Bestselling Author
of Love Does, Everybody, Always,
Dream Big, and UndistractedLife has certainly allowed Laurel to have a diversity of experiences that have influenced her mission and ministry. She has a heart for people to know they are loved, free, and can live without shame. Her own journey to accepting these facts has given her compassion for those who struggle to believe they are true.
You can order Laurel's book "Radical Grace" HERE
Learn more about Laurel at https://www.laurelappel.com/
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Listen in on our most popular Pivotal People episode yet--our conversation with New York Times bestselling author, Bob Goff. We are re-airing it because he is one in a million--if you missed this episode back in February, here's another chance. He's a friend to everyone he meets, a devoted husband, father, grandfather; a humanitarian, an attorney and even a farmer.
If you haven't read Bob's books yet, get started by ordering all of them at https://www.bobgoff.com/books . I loved every single one of them--I've read each of them at least twice. They have changed my worldview and opened up doors to new adventures I never could have predicted.
Bonus: All of the profits of his Love Does book go to his Love Does organization (LoveDoes.org) that puts love in action around the world by building safehouses, schools and hospitals in conflict zones and 8+ countries around the world, creating US feeding programs to fight hunger and more. So your purchase will help someone in a very practical way while helping you, too.
Love Does: Discover a Secretly Incredible Life in an Ordinary World
Everybody Always: Becoming Love in a World Full of Setbacks and Difficult People
Dream Big: Know What You Want, Why You Want It, and What You're Going to Do About It.
Undistracted: Capture Your Purpose, Rediscover Your Joy
Live in Grace, Walk in Love: A 365-Day Journey
and many more!
Bob inspires everyone he meets to love people better, to have more fun adventures, and to chase big dreams. He shares real stories about people and life and love. Once we see the world through Bob's lens, it never looks quite the same again.
You may even want to be like Bob. Most people do, but Bob will say, "Don't try to be like me. Try to be like Jesus. I'm trying to be like Jesus."
So join Bob in dreaming big, connecting and loving people better, and being a little more like Jesus.
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Meet Karen Hardwick--an amazing leadership consultant to Fortune 1000 corporations, podcast host, spiritually-trained psychotherapist and speaker. Her new book is called "The Connected Leader: 7 Strategies To Empower Your True Self and Inspire Others." Stop what you're doing and order it right now. I read it once, and then I read it again because it's so eye-opening and is full of too much wisdom to absorb in one reading. It's entertaining, easy to read, and very inspirational.
Karen is wise, entertaining and inspirational--you'll appreciate hearing her explain how these seven strategies can make a difference in our lives and the lives of our loved ones. It's all about connection. In Karen's words, "God knew exactly what he was doing when he wired us for connection. When we connect deeply and in healthy ways, we release the best in ourselves and others."
Connect with Karen here:KarenjHardwick.com Sign up for her complimentary download "The Connection Manifesto" to get started
Order her book on Amazon **Listen to her podcast "Saving You a Seat": A podcast with conversations on connection
https://savingyouaseatpodcast.com/
Find her on
Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karenjhardwickinc/**
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Join in on a great conversation with Dr. Sasha Shillcutt about her new book, "Brave Boundaries: Strategies to Say No, Stand Strong, and Take Control of Your Time: The Key to Living Empowered." I read it and recommend it to everyone who wants to get off the crazy train of trying to be everything to everyone! It's GREAT and we all need to read it.
Sasha Shillcutt, MD, is a tenured professor of anesthesiology at the University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha, Nebraska. She is a gender-equity researcher, award-winning clinician, professional coach, and speaker.
Learn more and get in contact with Sasha at BecomeBraveEnough.com
In 2016, she launched her organization Brave Enough, where she leads a community of thousands of women. She teaches women how to have work-life control through coaching, courses and conferences. Her passion is empowering women to be brave enough in their professional and personal lives to set boundaries.
She speaks often at conferences, workshops, and retreats, including her annual conference for women’s leadership and wellbeing on the topics of career burnout, boundaries, and developing resilient leaders. In 2016, Sasha was awarded the national American Medical Association’s Women Physician’s Inspiring Physician Award by her peers.
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Listen in on an eye-opening and inspiring conversation with John Cotton Richmond, an attorney and diplomat who has committed his entire career to battling human trafficking.
As John puts it very simply, "Freedom matters because people matter."
You can get in touch with John and learn about his coaching and speaking opportunities at johncottonrichmond.com .
Ambassador Richmond is an attorney and diplomat focused on ethical business, human rights, democracy, and rule of law. His career has taken him to the front lines in the global battle against human trafficking. Ambassador Richmond currently serves as a Partner at Dentons, the world’s largest law firm, where he focuses on the intersection between business and human rights. He advises companies on how to keep their supply chains free of forced labor and their workforces free of sex trafficking.
Previously, the U.S. Senate unanimously confirmed Ambassador Richmond and he served as the U.S. Ambassador to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons from 2018 to 2021. Serving in the nation’s highest-ranking position dedicated to human trafficking, he led U.S. foreign policy related to modern slavery and coordinated the U.S. government’s response to the crime.
Ambassador Richmond also served for over a decade as a federal prosecutor with the U.S. Department of Justice’s Human Trafficking Prosecution Unit, where he prosecuted numerous victim-centered labor and sex trafficking cases. He also lived in India for three years pioneering International Justice Mission’s slavery work.
Ambassador Richmond has received numerous honors and commendations, including being named a “Prosecutor of the Year” and receiving the “Wilberforce Award for Exceptional Leadership in the Fight Against Human Trafficking” and the “David Alred Award for exceptional contributions to civil rights”. His work caused the former head of the FBI’s human trafficking program to call him “every trafficker’s worst nightmare”.
Ambassador received his undergraduate degree from the University of Mary Washington and his law degree from Wake Forest University. Ambassador Richmond is a Senior Fellow at the Atlantic Council, Senior Advisor to Love Does, and frequent speaker on topics of faith, justice, and vocation. He lives in Virginia with his talented wife and they have three wonderful children.
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Allan Roth is a brilliant, kind, entertaining and generous investment advisor. He has a long waiting list of clients that range from millionaires to billionaires. His goal isn't to become rich--it is to help other people invest their money wisely. Honesty is his super power. I discovered him a decade ago while reading an article about him. The Wall Street Journal featured him because Allan has a very unusual approach to working with clients--charging by the hour. No smoke and mirrors--no steep commissions or wealth management fees. He doesn't sell any financial products. He simply helps his clients structure the most sensible investment portfolios for their risk preference and lifestyles using low cost investment vehicles. And then he charges by the hour, like an accountant or attorney. By not charging commissions or accepting commissions for financial products, he can be completely objective.
Allan takes pride in being mocked on a semi-regular basis by some financial professionals for his hourly fee model and its obvious inability to make him rich. He is also the author of "How A Second Grader Beats Wall Street" (Wiley & Sons in 2009 and 2011) and writes for various financial publications. He has been quoted in such publications as The Wall Street Journal, Money Magazine, The New York Times and Dow Jones MarketWatch, and appeared on numerous TV and radio shows.
Despite the many credentials (CFP, CPA, MBA) he has earned, Allan claims he can still keep investing simple. His professional goal is to never be confused with Jim Cramer.
Allan is the founder of Wealth Logic, LLC. An hourly based financial planning and investment advisory firm. He has been working in the investment world with 25 years of corporate finance. Allan has served as corporate finance officer of two multi-billion dollar companies, and consulted with many others while at McKinsey & Company. Allan has taught behavioral finance at the University of Denver and has been an adjunct faculty member at Colorado College and the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs. He currently teaches investing and behavioral finance for continuing education credits to CFPs, CPAs, and attorneys.
Find more of Allan's advice at his website "Dare to Be Dull" https://daretobedull.com/
Be sure to subscribe to his newsletter to get current financial advice
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Rob Liebreich is the President & CEO of Goodwin Living, a comprehensive program that supports, honors and uplifts the lives of older adults. In this podcast, Rob shares the exciting story of his "Stronger Memory" program that has helped thousands of people improve their memory and slow down the progression of dementia. The results are encouraging for all of us. Best of all, the program is simple, free, accessible, and is something all of us can do to extend the quality of our lives as we age.
Access this free program here: https://goodwinliving.org/stronger-memory/
“Our mission to support, honor and uplift applies equally to those we serve and those who provide services. This drives us to be intentional both as a best senior living and healthcare provider and as a best place to work.”
Rob Liebreich started his service as President and CEO of Goodwin Living in July 2019. He brings energy, compassion and a creative drive, as well as proven leadership in senior living for nearly 20 years. He has also held senior positions in marketing and operations for senior living organizations in the Washington-Baltimore metropolitan area and the Pacific Northwest.
Rob studied Business Administration and International Business and Marketing at Georgetown University. He earned a Master of Business Administration with a concentration in Senior Care and Housing from Johns Hopkins University. Rob’s additional passions include his family, travel, mentoring and brain health.
Learn more here:
Stronger Memory Program https://goodwinliving.org/stronger-memory/
Learn more from videos about the program:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCavNYuTN_xph8ZrasOVQyWQ/featured
Jennifer Taylor Wagner is my guest on today’s episode, and she is the perfect person to help us embrace a holistic view of health and wellness. Jennifer’s new book, Your Good Body: Embracing a Body-Positive Mindset in a Perfection-Focused World, is just what we need as we reframe how we view weight and scales and food and feeling good in our own skin. I can’t wait for you to hear her story and her hard-earned wisdom.
I LOVED her book and bought several copies of it to give to friends. Her approach isn't about the perfect diet, or the perfect fitness program. Her approach is about feeling GOOD about our bodies, and being FREE of the constant criticism we give ourselves. It is possible to enjoy life, feel good about ourselves AND achieve health and wellness. Listen in on Jennifer's wisdom and experience the "My Good Body" viewpoint. It may change your life.
Jennifer Taylor Wagneris a certified fitness instructor and successful blogger. She is passionate about challenging the way we think about health, wellness, and regularly writes on the topics of healthy living and body positivity. Whether it's hosting online webinars, speaking in churches, or chatting at MOPS meetings, she is committed to helping others find hope in their journey. Jennifer lives in Virginia with her husband, Phil and their two kids. Visit her online at jenniferwagner.com and @jennifertaylorwagner.
Listen in on a great conversation with Jonathan Evans, author of the new book "Fighting Your Battles: Every Christian's Playbook for Victory." I read it and recommend it to everyone--it's fabulous. My husband read it too--it's a great gift for other people.
In Fighting Your Battles, author, speaker, and former NFL chaplain Jonathan Evans shows how you can face every hardship with strength and hope, confident that God will always use your trials for His glory. You’ll understand what it means to:
- evaluate the “giants” in your life from God’s point of view
- relinquish self-reliance and depend completely on the Lord
- progress toward the purpose you were created to fulfill
God has new ground for you to gain, and often the land, promises, and experiences He wants for you are discovered as you endure life’s struggles. Fighting Your Battles will give you biblical encouragement, support, and perspective, empowering you to follow God into victory.
Order "Fighting Your Battles" here: https://tinyurl.com/2x54xakc
Check out Jonathan's video study series on Right Now Media: https://app.rightnowmedia.org/en/content/details/749539
Find him on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/jonathanblakeevans/
Meet J.T. Harding--the award-winning songwriter of several country hits including Keith Urban's "Somewhere in My Car," Uncle Kracker's "Smile," Kenny Chesney's "Somewhere With You," Blake Shelton's "Sangria" and many more. His songs have had ONE BILLION Spotify streams to date. I've loved his songs for years and didn't even know he wrote all of them. In fact, I put together a Spotify play list of 13 of his songs and love it. Here it is! https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3YxNgYXdPNNf9waUZ4Tp76
J.T. Harding writes about his pivotal life story and his long climb to success in his new book "Party Like a Rockstar." It's a MUST READ because it's funny and entertaining, but most of all inspiring. In this podcast, JT shares his stories and perspective on what it takes to reach our dreams. He'll make you laugh, and you'll want to take notes.
If you are an aspiring songwriter, you can enter J.T.'s "Write Like a Rockstar" contest to get a chance to write a song with him. The contest ends Sept. 15th. Learn more here:
https://www.writelikearockstar.com/
J.T. Harding was born and raised in South Detroit. While other kids were on the baseball field, J.T. was in his basement jumping around to MTV and trying to write his own songs. He put together several bands in high school and then moved to Los Angeles to pursue his dream. J.T. made his first demo tape with prize money he earned by winning the VH1 game show Rock & Roll Jeopardy! He has since written several chart-topping hits, including “Smile” with Uncle Kracker, “Somewhere in My Car” with Keith Urban, “Somewhere with You” and “Bar at the End of the World” for Kenny Chesney, Dierks Bentley’s “Different for Girls,” Jake Owen’s “Alone with You,” and Blake Shelton’s number-one song “Sangria.” His memoir/how-to book, Party Like a Rockstar, released in February 2022 and quickly reached number one on Amazon in the songwriting category. He lives in Nashville and continues to churn out the hits by the light of his vintage KISS pinball machine.
Order J.T.'s book here: https://tinyurl.com/3jsc38ay
Learn more about J.T. Harding here:
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/jtxmusic Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/jtxrockstar/?hl=enTwitter- Tik Tok
Listen in on a great conversation with Randy Hartley--a father, husband, and author of the new book "Beautifully Broken." It is a powerful and inspiring story that I loved. Randy Hartley lives in Nashville, Tennessee, where he has been a financial planner for thirty-eight years. He is married to his wife, Darla, and they have three children—Alyssa, Andrea, and Nate.
Randy was the executive producer for the film Beautifully Broken, which was released in 2018. He also serves as Chairman of Legacy Mission Village, the refugee ministry.
He shares his family's story of overcoming adversity and healing, and how their story intersected with others in Rwanda. He is also the producer of the award-winning movie "Beautifully Broken" which debuted in 2018. It's an incredible God story involving three families, from different countries, each struggling to find hope and safety amid the devastation of war, both in their families and in their land. I've watched the movie and read the book and recommend everyone watch or read this beautiful story.
You can order the book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Beautifully-Broken-Fighting-Families-Unlikely/dp/1949784606
To learn more, visit: https://beautifullybrokenmovie.com/
Meet Jamey Dickens, an incredible pastor who has worked as a pastor for Andy Stanley of Northpoint Ministries for over a decade. Jamey is now the lead pastor of Northpoint Ministries' newest church, East Cobb Church in Marietta, Georgia since early 2020. That's my church! Jamey has been a pivotal person in my life, and in the lives of countless people as he has preached and ministered over the years.
The mission of East Cobb Church is simple, Jamey says, because Jesus made it simple. They are on a mission to Love Where You Live. #lovewhereyoulive. Jamey cares deeply about helping people know Jesus personally, and Jamey leads the church very personally. He is approachable and accessible--always willing to listen, connect, meet with people individually, talk on the phone or even text. Last year, a young man from downtown Atlanta (far away from East Cobb) accepted Christ and was baptized by Jamey at East Cobb Church because he had messaged Jamey's Instagram account with some questions about God. Jamey responded and became a mentor for this young man. That's who Jamey Dickens is. I sat next to the young man's mother at the service, and she told me she never dreamed her son would have turned his life over to Christ.
If you live in the Atlanta area, join us in person at East Cobb Church at 4 pm on Sundays. Until our new church building is completed, we meet at Eastside Baptist Church in Marietta. You can also watch the service on demand, online. Learn more at https://eastcobbchurch.org/sundays
Hear a quick message from Jamey here: https://eastcobbchurch.org/imnew
lovewhereyoulive
Meet Janis Milham--one of the most pivotal people in my career. She is the co-founder of the leadership consulting firm, Questage. She was my hiring manager at Marriott International over 33 years ago, and she was the best boss I ever had. She is naturally good at working with people, because she truly cares about others. She worked with Marriott for over 30 years, and recently retired. She advanced through the ranks, eventually becoming the Senior Vice-President & Global Brands Leader for Marriott Classic Select Brands. She led the vision, strategy, and execution for all facets of global brand positioning, strategy, product design, guest experience programming and marketing for seven of Marriott’s 30 brands.
She was a pivotal person in hundreds of people's lives at Marriott as she managed, mentored, counseled and befriended everyone who worked for her. She is passionate about helping others grow in their careers. She co-founded the Marriott Headquarters Women's Leadership Networking Group, growing the organization to encompass over 100 participants.
Today, as an executive coach and mentor, she is impacting even more people's lives positively. I like the idea that she is making her leadership skills available to more companies and individuals, since not everyone had the good fortune to land in her department at Marriott.
Learn more about Janis at https://www.questage.com/about-questage/
and find her on Linked In at https://www.linkedin.com/in/janismilham/
Jessica Patay is the Founder and Director of the organization " We Are Brave Together." In our conversation, Jessica shares her family's story and how she decided to start supporting other mothers of children with disabilities by starting this organization.
We Are Brave Together is a nonprofit organization that provides respite, community, and resources for mothers caring for children of any age with disabilities, unique needs, or other medical or mental health challenges.
As a special promotion, we will personally match any financial donation made to We Are Brave Together--to a maximum of $5,000. No donation is too small. Simply go to their website and make a donation, including a note that you heard about them on the Pivotal People podcast. https://www.wearebravetogether.org/
We Are Brave Together provides resources, support groups (both in person and virtual) and retreats for members.
Jessica's "Brave Together" podcast is a very popular podcast with great storytelling and discussions. (https://www.wearebravetogether.org/podcast). It's one of my favorite podcasts because Jessica does an excellent job producing episodes that are interesting and enlightening. It has helped me understand the challenges that parents in these circumstances face. Hopefully, the more we all learn, the more we can help others feel accepted and supported, rather than isolated and alone.
Find out more at https://www.wearebravetogether.org/
Meet Laura Smith, a bestselling author, a popular speaker and wise teacher. She is an engaging storyteller and shares stories to point people towards Jesus.
She has just come out with her new book "Restore My Soul: The Power and Promise of 30 Psalms" which is fabulous. In today's conversation she shares her insights and background which inspires all of us to draw nearer to God for the peace and contentment we all desire. You're going to love her.
More about this book from Amazon.com:
"The book of Psalms is full of wonderful passages that illuminate the intimate connection we get to have with our Father. Despite the chaos of our busy lives, the Father is frequently whispering to our souls to spend time with Him. As you read Restore My Soul: The Power and Promise of 30 Psalms you will receive revelation and insight from best-selling author Laura L. Smith on the beauty of connecting with God through His Word. Dive into the power of the Psalms and be inspired to praise God every day.
- Showcases 30 popular psalms and the timeless truths and emotions they reveal about our daily lives
- For women who are longing to deepen their faith
- Explores popular Bible themes to encourage you to participate in spiritual development
Laura has written over 10 books, including the runaway bestseller, "How Sweet the Sound: The Power and Promise of 30 Hymns."
Amazon link:
https://www.amazon.com/Restore-My-Soul-Promise-Psalms/dp/1640701621/
Find more about Laura's work and contact her through her website:
https://www.laurasmithauthor.com/
Follow her on Instagram: @laurasmithauthor
Join in on a great conversation with Brett Smith, Professor of Entrepreneurship at Miami University of Ohio as we discuss business and faith. Brett is a leading expert in the area of Social Entrepreneurship--starting and building profitable private businesses that address social issues. It's an intriguing topic that has incredible potential to change the world. We discuss how we can use our faith, skills, talents and creativity to help others while employing people profitably.
Brett is a successful entrepreneur, professor, fundraiser, and a builder. Just as he started and grew successful businesses in the private sector, he has gone on to build academic programs to foster research and courses in Entrepreneurship, including Social Entrepreneurship.
Brett is a respected expert in his field and has spoken to the United Nations and the Nelson Mandela Foundation. He has been interviewed by major media outlets like CNN, Time, Business Week, MSNBC and many more.
Learn more about Brett:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/smithbrettr/
Miami University Entrepreneurship program: https://www.miamioh.edu/fsb/academics/entrepreneurship/index.html?
Meet my good friend and brilliant author, David Dingess. He is a husband, father, Sunday School teacher and an all-around great guy. Everybody loves him, and I'm thrilled to be able to share him with all of you.
David has written a fabulous new book, "Where Are You: God's Questions that Need to be Answered." In this episode, we discuss his book's message and how we can all listen to and understand God's questions in our lives. David's down to earth teaching style makes it easy for all of us to learn, understand, and apply God's word to our everyday lives and real situations.
You can follow David's regular teachings and insights on his Word of Truth Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/word_of_truth__/
@word_of_truth
You can order his new book at Amazon for as little as 99¢ for the Kindle version: https://www.amazon.com/Where-Are-You-Questions-Answered/dp/B09TDPTDRQ/
**If you enjoyed this episode, please write a quick review or rating on your podcast platform so that it will be easier for other listeners to find. Thanks so much!
I picked up Kristen Welch's book "Rhinestone Jesus" a few months ago as an easy read on a long airline trip. I had no idea how that book would change my perspective. When I got home from the trip, I found Kristen's website and asked if she would come on our podcast to talk about her book and her incredible experience in founding Mercy House Global. She was kind enough to say yes, and we hadn't even launched our podcast yet.
Meet Kristen Welch. Her book cover says it best:
"Rhinestone Jesus is the spiritual adventure story of one woman who went from living a safe, "good-girl" faith that didn't cost much, to realizing that God was daring her to say yes to a deeper, more authentic way. This book throws the doors wide open for any woman who's ever thought of herself as "just a mom." Say yes to God right where you are--and stand amazed at your your life will shine."
Do yourself a BIG favor and order Kristen's book HERE. You can find it on Amazon or any online bookseller.
In the 12 years since she wrote this incredible book, Kristen has founded and grown her nonprofit Mercy House Global, a nonprofit organization that rescues girls in Kenya and empowers them by supporting their fair trade businesses. Visit www.mercyhouseglobal.org to learn more. Its mission is stated on the site:
Mercy House exists to engage, empower and disciple women around the globe in Jesus’ name. We provide for the rescue of pregnant girls in Kenya and provide a home for them. We empower their families and many others with dignified work so we can redeem future generations. We do this by engaging those with resources to say yes to the plight of women in poverty by empowering women around the world through partnerships and sustainable fair trade product development.
Meet my friend, Hamilton Winters. He has written a great book called "The Art of Everything" which shares real-life, entertaining and inspiring stories that he compares to stories from the Bible. Hamilton is kind, funny and wise beyond his years. I enjoyed our conversation and his perspective, and I'm sure you will too.
Hamilton's story is inspiring, and he isn't even 30 yet! He is one of the most amazing young men I've ever met. Hamilton's purpose in life is to light fires in others, encouraging and inspiring them to pursue their passions and professions while staying grounded in their true purpose through Christ.
Originally from Northeast Louisiana, Hamilton Winters now resides in Atlanta, Georgia. An award-winning speaker and author, Hamilton is a graduate of the University of Louisiana at Monroe (BBA, Marketing) and the University of Mississippi (MBA) and current student at Dallas Theological Seminary.
Hamilton works with North Point Ministries in Atlanta and is the author of the new book "The Art of Everything: connect your story to History." In recent years, Hamilton co-founded one of Atlanta's fastest growing flight schools, NSPIRE Aviation, and worked as a marketing strategist for Liger Partners serving a range of clients from local boutiques to multi-billion dollar conglomerates. With an extensive background in the fields of branding, marketing, sales, operations, graphic design, and public speaking, Hamilton has provided valuable insight for businesses and leaders across the United States. In his free time, Hamilton is an avid traveler, creative writer, and occasional skydiver.
Throughout the past decade, Hamilton has visited 26 countries on 5 continents. He is an Eagle Scout and co-leads a men's small group Bible study in the Buckhead neighborhood of Atlanta.
Meet Illana Raia. She is an author of the bestselling book, "The Epic Mentor Guide: Insider Advice for Girls Eyeing the Workforce from 180 Boss Women Who Know." She is also the founder and CEO of Etre Girls, a mentoring program for young women. The Etre Girls program encourages girls to ask who they want to be, and then finds ways for them to connect with mentors in all professions to ask questions. Check out their website and find out how girls can get involved. https://www.etregirls.com/
I wish this program had existed when I was a young girl. In our conversation, Illana shares how her bestselling "Epic Mentor Guide" book is a logical extension of her Etre Girls program. It includes 180 questions written by young girls, answered by leaders in many professions. including famous celebrities and well-known leaders.
I loved this book because the wise advice and perspective from the mentors is helpful for all of us. The book is written in an easy-to-read format and it's a fun read.
From Amazon:
Imagine if you found the perfect mentor before you actually started work? Now imagine you could ask her anything. The Epic Mentor Guide matches questions from girls eyeing and entering the workforce with answers from 180 boss women already there.
Wondering what it’s like to be the first female coach or general manager of any men’s professional sports team? Ask Nancy Lieberman or Kim Ng. Want to know what Veronica Beard thinks you should wear to work, why Tyra Banks over-prepares for every meeting, how Haben Girma graduated Harvard Law School deaf and blind, or what Bobbi Brown wants you to do when you hear the word no at work? Order your copy from Amazon and find out! We will be giving a free copy of "The Epic Mentor's Guide" to the first 100 people who subscribe to the Pivotal People newsletter. **Once you've confirmed your email subscription, we will email you to ask for mailing details. We will keep this offer active through May 25th. Sign up for the newsletter here: https://stephanienelson.com/podcast/
Connect with Etre Girls
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Etregirls/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/etregirls/**
Meet my friend, Sherry Hoppen. She is an author, speaker, wife, mother, friend and encourager to millions. You are going to love her honesty, insight, wisdom and sense of humor. I met her a few months ago at a workshop and have since read her amazing book, "The Sober Cycle," listened to her great podcast "She Surrenders" and had the great privilege of chatting with her on our Pivotal People podcast. I wish she lived down the street to chat with over coffee. This is the next best thing.
Sherry talks about her own story of addiction and recovery--in the context of being a faithful Christian. She doesn't sugar coat it and shares her insights on how it developed, how it impacted her friends and family, and how she eventually surrendered it all to God. She reminds us of Ephesians 3:20: God can do immeasurably more than we ask or imagine.
She never intended to talk about this with strangers--but God had different plans. Today Sherry has a website and program called "She Surrenders" that helps all of us understand how God can take anything from us and use it for good.
Find her website: https://www.shesurrenders.com/ Instagram: @shesurrenders_sherry Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shesurrenderssherry She Surrenders podcast (on all platforms):https://www.shesurrenders.com/podcast
Tim Schurrer is the author of the new book, "The Secret Society of Success: Stop Chasing the Spotlight and Learn to Enjoy Your Work (and life) Again." I read it, loved it, and recommend it to anyone who would like to love their career instead of dreading their job. You can pre-order the book here--it will be released on May 17th: https://tinyurl.com/2p92yz2j
You don't have to wait until May 17th--you can download the first 2 chapters of his book FREE here: https://www.buildawinningteam.com/free
Get links to Tim's website, podcast and book here: https://linktr.ee/timschurrer
Tim Schurrer knows what it takes to build a winning team.
He spent almost a decade of his career launching two brands— StoryBrand and Business Made Simple—as COO alongside New York Times bestselling author Donald Miller.
In that time, Tim and the team accomplished the following:
– Grew the business from $250K to $16.5M in annual revenue.
– Generated more than 20 million podcast downloads.
– Launched multiple bestselling books and on-demand video courses.
– Produced dozens of events, from a 2,400-person conference to a 5,500-person livestream.
– And, most importantly, built a culture where people loved their work and would do whatever it took to help one another and their customers win.
Before his time at StoryBrand and Business Made Simple, Tim worked at TOMS as well as Apple Inc. He is the host of the Build a Winning Team podcast, where he offers listeners actionable advice as he interviews some of the top leaders in business.
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-a-winning-team-with-tim-schurrer/id1618921345
Tim lives in Nashville, Tennessee, with his wife, Katie, and their two kids.
Meet Damali Mirembe, the founder of SonriseMinistriesInc.org. Their slogan is "Making a Difference One Life at a Time." To make a secure, tax-deductible donation online OR to mail a check to help Damali save children, go to: https://www.sonriseministriesinc.org . Double the value of your donation* by putting "Pivotal People podcast" in the Comment section and we will match your donation.
Before I spoke with Damali, I had an expectation of what her mission and work were about. By about the middle of our conversation, I realized that the impact of what God is doing through her is far beyond what I expected. Her story is absolutely beautiful, in spite of the tragedies she has endured.
Damali is a woman who bought a few cribs one day and just started taking abandoned babies into her home. She was raised in a wonderful orphanage herself, and is passionate about helping other orphans grow, thrive and learn about God. By faith these humble beginnings have exploded into an entire ministry that now cares for more than 100 kids, runs 3 homes, 4 schools, 8 churches, and spreads love in the three communities in which they live. She’s also the mom of three beautiful girls, one of whom has special needs. Her work and her faith has permanently changed not only the lives of the people she serves, but also the lives of the people who have come to know and support her ministry. She’s one of those ordinary people who has partnered with God to do extraordinary, world-changing work.
I hope you will be as inspired by Damali's attitude, hope, joy and faith as I was. I am sure you will love her and if you want to help multiply her efforts to save children and donate, here are the details:
To make a secure, tax-deductible donation online OR to mail a check to help Damali save children, go to: https://www.sonriseministriesinc.org . Double the value of your donation* by putting "Pivotal People podcast" in the Comment section and we will match your donation.
The reason this podcast is called "Pivotal People" is because in the 20-year experience with my Coupon Mom website, there were many people who helped me tremendously over the years. However, there are a few people who I consider to be "pivotal people," meaning that if they hadn't offered to help me, the Coupon Mom website would have been a failure.
Today's guest, Robert Swarthout, is one of the four most pivotal people in the Coupon Mom journey. He was the genius behind making sure the technology of the website worked--in extremely challenging situations. He has done the same for other companies, and has created and built companies of his own. Today, he has practical and helpful advice for all of us on how to pursue our ideas and face challenges on our own paths to success.
He's absolutely brilliant, extremely hard-working, and is a really nice person. He has an impressive resume of technology positions with major companies and is also a very successful entrepreneur. Ten years ago he went out on his own to create and build a business (Shootproof.com), and he recently sold it for an undisclosed amount.
Robert is now an advisor and investor in start-up companies and enjoys helping other people build and grow their big ideas. He is also a very generous philanthropist.
Learn more about Robert at https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertswarthout/
Today we're having a great conversation with Kristi Nelson, Executive Director of A Network for Grateful Living. WOW. She is an incredible person with a very helpful life perspective. I loved getting to know her and you will too. She is also the author of Wake Up Grateful: The Transformative Practice of Taking Nothing for Granted. Her life’s work in the non-profit sector has focused on leading, inspiring, and strengthening organizations committed to progressive social and spiritual change. Being a long-time stage IV cancer survivor moves her every day to support others in living and loving with great fullness of heart.
Kristi received her BA from UMass/Amherst, a graduate certificate in Business and Sociology from Boston College, and her Master’s in Public Administration (MPA) with a concentration in Leadership Studies, from Harvard University.
Kristi lives in Western MA with her family, and gives thanks every day to be surrounded by the glories of the natural world and a vibrant, loving community.
You can peruse a selection of Kristi’s writing and podcasts, and learn more about her new book, Wake Up Grateful, here. Be sure to visit her organization's website and learn more about living with gratefulness here. To contact Kristi, send her an email at:
kristi@gratefulness.org
Listen in on my conversation with author and pastor Jason Patterson, as we discuss his fantastic new book, "From Your Biggest Fan." Click here: It's available NOW on Amazon and other bookstore sites.
Jason believes there is unseen God-given potential in every person. Few fully discover and fulfill it in their lifetime, but it doesn't have to be this way. In From Your Biggest Fan, Jason shows us how we can cultivate our influence in the lives of those we love and lead and deploy it like Jesus would-for the benefit of everyone but ourselves.
Through powerful storytelling, a razor-sharp wit, and personal vulnerability, Jason lays out a new mindset that opens our eyes to the wonders woven into every person and candidly shares his own struggles with insecurity, negativity, and other obstacles that can rob us of the ability to champion those around us.
I discovered Jason at a workshop a few months ago for authors. He's not only a great writer, he is also a great pastor. I actually took notes when we were just chatting over coffee. After meeting him, I found his church's website and listened to a few of his sermons. He has a way of making the Bible understandable.
Jason's passion is encouraging other people to find God's path for their life. In his book, he tells several compelling stories and provides illustrations to teach all of us how to find God's path for our lives, and how to encourage others to do the same. This is a must-read for anyone who wants to be a better parent, spouse, leader, or friend.
Find out more about Jason on his social media platforms @jasonpatterson and at the Parkside Church website--the phone number is right on the homepage!
Join in on a wonderful conversation with Becky Tirabassi--one of the most pivotal people in my Coupon Mom journey over 20 years ago when I heard her speak at my church. Becky makes the idea of prayer exciting and teaches all of us how to believe that "God can do immeasurably more than we can ask or imagine" when we pray.
Before this podcast, I had never spoken personally to Becky. In this conversation, I shared (for the first time) what her message meant in my life, and she surprised me with how my message to her impacted her. WOW!
Becky is a pastor, author, speaker and a coach. She founded a church in Newport Beach, CA with her husband and started a prayer ministry for politicians in Washington DC--among many impactful moves over her life. She has a way of speaking that inspires people to do big--or small--things for God that are beyond what we may have ever asked or imagined. I can personally attest to that!
You can learn more about Becky, listen to her podcast, join in her prayer programs, learn about her ministries and reach out to her directly HERE:
https://linktr.ee/BeckyTirabassi
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beckytirabassi/
https://www.facebook.com/beckytirabassi
I tell the entire story about my Coupon Mom journey, which began with hearing Becky speak, in my upcoming book, "Reimagine: Trading Our Ordinary for God's Extraordinary." You can download the first chapter FREE, "The Coupon Mom Journey," HERE. https://stephanienelson.com/books/
Today we're having a great conversation with Dr. Heather Penny who shares key insights from her new book, "The Life You're Made For." It's a fantastic book--I've read it and couldn't put it down. It's not the kind of book that you read once--it becomes a guidebook for life.
Order Heather's book, listen to her podcast and learn about her coaching program HERE
Heather describes her book for anyone who can relate to this idea:
Are you struggling in the mire of life’s disappointments or stuck in a rut that’s lasting much too long? Are you looking to discover the strength and insight to excel in who you were meant to be?
It’s time to reset your life with a new way of thinking that motivates and inspires you toward self-discovery and helps to uncover your true beliefs. Through practical application, research, and personal experience, Dr. Heather Penny offers ‘3C Living’ as a way to go after the life you want. Learn how to increase your clarity, build your confidence and engage your courage. To find a new way forward, we need new ideas. And the world is waiting for you to show up—in all your authentic glory—to offer the beauty, grace, and gifts that only you possess.
Today we’re chatting with Ian Morgan Cron, an expert on the Enneagram personality assessment and a very entertaining guest. Ian is a bestselling author, a sought-after speaker, and the host of the wildly popular podcast, “Typology” with millions of listeners. He’s just come out with a new book called “The Story of You,” which follows his bestselling book “The Road Back to You.” They are must-reads for everyone–I've read them both and recommend them to everyone. Today he teaches us how to use the Enneagram to live a better story.
**Learn more about Ian and the Enneagram at his website, https://ianmorgancron.com/
You can find online courses, take the Enneagram personality assessment, and order his books.
Find Ian's Typology podcast here: https://www.typologypodcast.com/
Typology features interviews with recognized Enneagram leaders from every sphere of life, including renowned Enneagram teachers, bestselling authors, psychologists, theologians, artists, business leaders, neuroscientists, and others who are using the Enneagram as a path for personal transformation.**
**Today we’re having a fun conversation with Kim Stuart. She is an author of 8 books, an engaging speaker, a writing coach with author Bob Goff, and the host of the popular podcast “For Real.” Kim’s sense of humor, as well as her wisdom, immediately captivates anyone listening to her. Today she generously shares how to publish a book if that’s on your bucket list. Surprisingly, over 80% of people admit that they’d like to write a book but don’t know where to start. Kim’s simple advice can help aspiring authors get started. And even if you don’t want to write a book, you’ll enjoy getting to know Kim and I guarantee that you’ll want to be her friend.
You can find more from Kim at https://kimberlystuart.com/ . You can even download a free copy of one of her bestselling books.
Listen to her "For Real" podcast here: https://availableon.com/forrealwithkimberlystuart
Learn more about her writing coaching program with Bob Goff here: https://www.coachingwithbobgoff.com/writing-coaching**
Today we’re having a great conversation with the amazing Bob Goff. He’s a New York Times bestselling author with several books, he’s a humanitarian, a philanthropist, an incredible speaker, and most recently, a farmer. He is married to Sweet Maria and is a father and a grandfather. He is a friend to everyone he meets. He has been a pivotal person in millions of lives, including mine. If you don’t know Bob yet, you’ll love him. Everyone does. You will appreciate every single word of wisdom and humor he shares with us. Be sure to order his new book “Undistracted” as soon as you’re done listening to this podcast.
Find more details about Bob's online courses, his Dream Big Academy, his coaching programs and his in-person workshops at https://www.bobgoff.com/. Find him on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/bobgoff/ and on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/bobgoffis .
**Join us today in a great conversation with singer/songwriter Laura Story as she shares her life stories and her perspective on God and faith. Laura is absolutely delightful, relatable, and completely open as she teaches us what she's learned through her life journey.
Laura's new book "So Long Normal" is a must read--I've read it twice. To quote Laura:“I GAVE UP MY PURSUIT OF NORMAL A LONG TIME AGO,” WRITES WORSHIP LEADER AND CHRISTIAN RECORDING ARTIST LAURA STORY IN HER NEW BOOK, SO LONG, NORMAL: LIVING AND LOVING THE FREE FALL OF FAITH**. LAURA CONTINUES, “SURPRISINGLY, I CAN SAY THIS WITHOUT SHAME OR REGRET.”
NOT ONLY WAS SHE TERRIBLE AT TRYING TO BE NORMAL, SHE CONFESSES, BUT SOMEWHERE ALONG THE WAY SHE REALIZED THAT “NORMAL” WAS A VAPOR: “WHENEVER IT APPEARED WITHIN REACH, I WAS UNABLE TO GRASP IT.”
Laura is a wife, mother of four kids, a worship leader, an author of four books and an award-winning singer/songwriter. She’s also an extremely humble person in spite of her amazing success. She won a grammy for her song “Blessings”, her “Blessings” album hit the top of the Christian charts, and she continues to produce great music and write great books. Be sure to check out her new song, “Hello Unknown”--it’s fantastic. Today she talks about her new book, “So Long Normal” as well as the challenges she’s faced and how God has worked in her life through those experiences.
Learn more about Laura, find her books, her Bible studies and her music at her website, LauraStoryMusic. You can also find her on Instagram , YouTube and Facebook.
Today we’re chatting with my dear friend Amanda Ferrin. Amanda is a writer, a speaker, a worship leader and a "hope enthusiast." Amanda's desire is to point people to Jesus, to inspire hope, to remind us of God's wonderful promises. Amanda also deals with a terminal illness, and her perspective on God's purpose for each of our lives is uplifting, inspiring and even life-changing. I am thankful that Amanda joined me on this podcast to share her stories and lessons. You will love her. Her hashtag and motto is "terminal ain't terrible" and after you hear from Amanda, you'll agree. #terminalaintterrible
You can find more of Amanda's inspiration, humor, and joy at www.amandaferrin.com .
Today we’re having a fun discussion with the Olympic skater, Scott Hamilton–an eternal optimist who has overcome many obstacles on his path to success. Between 1981 and 1984 he won four consecutive U.S. championships, four consecutive World Championships, and a gold medal in the 1984 Olympics. He captured the world’s attention with his Olympic gold medal skating performances and has since shared his love and enthusiasm for the sport of skating as an analyst/commentator, performer, producer and best-selling author of many books including Finish First and The Great Eight. He inspires millions of people as a motivational speaker, humanitarian, and cancer survivor.
I read his book “Finish First” and recommend it to everyone. Scott’s attitude toward life is contagious, and his stories both entertain and motivate the rest of us.
After losing his mother to cancer and becoming a survivor himself, Scott turned activist and launched the “Scott Hamilton Cares Foundation.” which raises millions of dollars for cancer research. His motto is “the only disability is a bad attitude” and in today’s conversation he shares his insight–with his sense of humor–to inspire all of us to live more intentional lives.
I’m thrilled to share our conversation with Mac Powell–one of my favorite singers ever, and the first artist who introduced me to Christian music over 20 years ago. Mac is a gifted singer/songwriter and a really nice guy. He was the lead singer of the band “Third Day” for 25 years. Third Day has sold over 10 million albums, they’ve had 28 number one songs on the Christian charts, they’ve received 4 Grammy awards and 25 Dove awards, and they are in the Georgia Music Hall of Fame. Third Day had their farewell tour in June 2018, and rather than retire, Mac continues to write and record great new music.
Mac released his first solo Christian album called “New Creation” in October and it’s fantastic. Check it out if you haven’t already–it’s 10 new songs and every single one is great. I’ve played them so many times they’re stuck in my head! In our interview he talks about how he produced the new album, how he writes songs, when he’ll be releasing new music, and he even shared a surprise about what’s next for his career.
Listen in on conversations with entertaining and inspiring people who are making a difference in the world. This podcast shares inside stories from people we admire, including authors, speakers, musicians and business people. It’s for people who like to read good books, listen to great music, and enjoy a fun business story. Our guests entertain, motivate, and inspire all of us to be pivotal people to others. Subscribe to Pivotal People now and listen to new episodes each week.