Your Story with Melinda: Recent Episodes
Faith Strong Today
Our stories have the power to connect and inspire us. Every week, Melinda Estabrooks interviews extraordinary people who share their personal journeys through tragedy and triumph. Most of all, they share the incredible life-changing power of God. Listen for encouraging testimonies every Friday on Your Story with Melinda, a podcast from FaithStrongToday.com.
As a younger woman, Elizabeth Smith has found success in modelling and beauty pageants. Despite that, she responded to God’s call and left that career behind to become a nurse practitioner. On this episode of Your Story with Melinda, you will learn from her on how we can live a life that God set before us with courage and hope.
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On this episode of Your Story with Melinda, we have Kay Wyma back to talk about a very interesting 12-month experiment to teach her children about entitlement and help them learn the value of work, as well as the lesson she learned about being part of the problem.
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Kay Wyma wears many hats. She was as an international banker and a staffer at the White House. Currently, she’s an author, blogger, entrepreneur, speaker, vodcaster – and most importantly – a wife and a mom to five kids! Like me, I know you want to find out how is she not overwhelmed by all these and what she does to stay on top of it all. She gives us the answers on this episode of Your Story with Melinda!
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Growing up in the mission field in Kenya and Congo, Ruth Thorogood has seen the best and worst of humanity. Now a successful racer and businesswoman, she said her experiences living in Africa and then having to start from scratch upon moving back to Canada have redefined her identity through Jesus. Come along with us as Ruth shares her adventures and how she lived God’s purpose in every adventure she took on this episode of Your Story with Melinda.
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Registered psychotherapist Colleen Blake-Miller joins us on this episode of #YourStorywithMelinda to share her advice on how to create more empowering thoughts with the help of God’s truth to create better realities.
In This Episode:
• Finding opportunities to rebuild every day
• Advice to those who are struggling to fight negativity
• Colleen’s very personal story of rising up through adversity
• Advice to parents on how they can respond with love when their child commits mistakes
Connect with Colleen Blake-Miller:
You can find more info on Colleen and read her blog at www.colleenblakemiller.com.
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Why are so many young people leaving the church? Let's ask one! On this episode of Your Story with Melinda, Alyssa Esparaz of Compassion Canada shares why her journey and explains how to inspire her generation to find a relationship with God.
What’s In This Episode?
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The church as a social movement
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Engaging the youth to work for justice and poverty alleviation
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Bringing the poor and the privileged together
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The gift of lament
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Sisters Berkeley and Dylan Ratzlaff started their dancing and acting careers at a very young age. They have worked in LA, lived in Toronto on their own, and there's a lot more to accomplish. On this episode of Your Story with Melinda, Berkeley and Dylan join the show with their mother Pam to share their journey as a family, talk about their television careers, and how praying for the right roles and mentors became integral to their success.
What’s In This Episode?
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Importance of praying for the right roles and right mentors
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How their parents support their passion for dancing and acting
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The best part of following Jesus
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Becoming salt and light wherever fame takes them
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Today’s world offers so many options. We spend a lot of energy on all the little choices we have to make daily just so we can be or get the best. Unfortunately, this distracts us from our God-given purpose and eventually leads us to apathy. Author and podcaster Danielle Strickland has worked with the marginalized for over 20 years. She talks to me on this episode of Your Story with Melinda on how working on the margins have humbled her and opened her eyes to what’s truly essential.
What’s In This Episode?
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Society’s struggle of wanting what’s “it”
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How God makes the ordinary sacred
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Apathy and our “sleepy” culture
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How embracing discomfort can change your life
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Ask and you shall receive! This week we're gathering up your questions from social media and answering them in a very special episode of Your Story with Melinda. From career advice to fashion, dating to purposeful living, and so much more, this show is all about connecting with you.
What’s In This Episode?
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Advice to pre-teens and giving grace to your parents
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Discerning about culture and media
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Living your best life with passion and purpose to find true love
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Being confident with who you are in Christ
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Answers to questions you’re curious about
Share Your Faith
Join our Christian community on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
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This week we're exploring what true and authentic love really means. Bethany Baird and Kristen Clark are sisters and co-authors of Love Defined, a book that offers a Biblical approach to finding true love and having a godly marriage. It’s not as easy and romantic as you see in the movies, but the insight and wisdom they will be sharing on this episode of Your Story with Melinda will certainly help you achieve a lasting one.
What’s In This Episode?
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What the Bible says about true love
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Agape, the sacrificial kind of love
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Having contentment and purpose in your singlehood
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Looking for godliness in a man
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Working towards intentional relationships and a godly marriage
Share Your Faith
Join our Christian community on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
What an amazing story on this podcast hosted by @melindamaria - watch 'Your Story with Melinda' @stayFaithStrongClick To Tweet
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Today’s generation of Christian deals with overwhelming information and content on a daily basis. The question is how can young people separate the noise from the truth of God? Young entrepreneur and digital marketing consultant Isaac Hanekamp joins Your Story with Melinda to discuss how we can play an active role in sharing God with others and deepen our faith in Him on or off social media.
What’s In This Episode?
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How 22-year old Isaac Hanekamp built his business
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Finding and sharing truthfulness in social media
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His advice to parents and older generations on how to inspire millennials
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Being an active consumer and creating for God
Share Your Faith
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Best-selling author and Proverbs 31 Ministries speaker Suzanne Eller grew up in an abusive home, but after her friend decided to invite her to church, her life turned around. Suzie developed a relationship with God and she allowed the Holy Spirit to envelope her life, which gave her the strength to continue her walk with God despite the chaos that surrounded her. Suzie talks more about the Holy Spirit and how to trust it with all your heart on this newest episode of Your Story with Melinda.
What’s In This Episode?
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Knowing when the Holy Spirit is calling you
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Understanding that we have help
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Soaking in the message of the Book of Acts
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Daring to live a Spirit-led life
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Being a reflection of God’s love
Share Your Faith
Join our Christian community on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
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Katelyn Beaty has a successful career as a writer and a leader. She has written for the New York Times and the Washington Post and is also the youngest and first female Managing Editor of Christianity Today. But like many women, Katelyn also experienced struggles and challenges as a woman in leadership. On this episode of Your Story with Melinda, she shares a few takeaways from her book A Woman’s Place that will empower you to go after God’s calling with confidence, whether it’s in the workplace, the home, the church, or the world.
What’s In This Episode?
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Katelyn’s struggles as a young woman in leadership
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Men and women working together makes a better society
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Getting to know the Proverbs 31 woman
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The importance of support groups for women
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Being brave in every decision we make and every role we play
Share Your Faith
Join our Christian community on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
What an amazing story on this podcast hosted by @melindamaria - watch 'Your Story with Melinda' @stayFaithStrongClick To Tweet
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http://media.blubrry.com/faithstrongtoday/content.blubrry.com/faithstrongtoday/YS-S03E04_Kevin_and_Wendy_Pauls_may18-18.mp3
TV hosts Wendy and Kevin Pauls have been married for 30 years, and they will tell you it has not been a walk in the park. Both of them have seen many of their friends’ marriages fail despite being raised with Christian values and knowing how it’s "supposed to work." On this episode of Your Story with Melinda, the Pauls offer their advice on how to keep your relationship with your spouse intact and healthy, despite the challenges that come along the different seasons of married life.
What’s In This Episode?
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The different seasons of married life
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Top 3 issues that cause disagreements
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Tips for young couples who are about to get married
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Why communication is key
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Thinking of your spouse before yourself every day
Share Your Faith
Join our Christian community on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
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What happens if God's calling pushes us outside our comfort zones and fear, shame, and anxiety get the best of us? Elizabeth Thompson, author of the book When God Says Go, shares with us how we can rise to challenges and go where we are being asked with confidence, courage, and faith on this episode of Your Story with Melinda!
What’s In This Episode?
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Defining what God’s calling means
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What God really wants us to do
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Not all calling is big, grandiose, and glamorous
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How to know when God is saying “go”
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3 things that will help us discern God’s calling
Share Your Faith
Join our Christian community on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Sharing this incredible and inspiring story - watch 'Your Story with Melinda' @stayFaithStrongClick To Tweet
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Religion seems to have a bad reputation in today’s society. Greg Paul, the founding pastor of Sanctuary Toronto and author of the book Resurrecting Religion: Finding Our Way Back to the Good News, admits that there is a lot of bad religion out there and that’s causing people to avoid it. Walking in Jesus’s path is more than just going to church or reading the Gospel. As Christians, we are called to something bigger – to think the way Jesus thinks and let it reflect in our actions. Greg talks about how we can live God’s Word for others to see and resurrect true religion on this latest episode of Your Story with Melinda.
What’s In This Episode?
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Bad religion vs. good religion
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Defining what true religion is
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Discovering the Beatitudes
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Working together as a community to uphold justice
Share Your Faith
Join our Christian community on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Stories of faith, trust, and love with @melindamaria and her guest - an amazing episode of #YourStorywithMelinda @stayFaithStrongClick To Tweet
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Even if you don't know her name, you probably know Melba Pattillo Beals. She is a member of the Little Rock Nine, a group of African-American students who were the first to integrate Central High in Little Rock, Arkansas. Because of this, Melba faced telephone threats, brigades of attacking mothers, rogue police, fireball and acid-throwing attacks, economic blackmail, and even a price upon her head. But that journey saw Melba Beals emerged with indestructible faith, courage, strength, and hope. She opens up about it all on this episode of Your Story with Melinda.
Episode Links
Connect with Melba: http://melbapattillobeals.com
Buy March Forward Girl: http://amzn.to/2F3s7es
Join the Faith Strong Community: http://faithstrongtoday.com/forum http://facebook.com/faithstrongtoday http://twitter.com/stayFaithStrong
Explore the Faith Strong Podcast Network: http://faithstrongtoday.com/podcasts
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It's a special Christmas episode of Your Story with Melinda, featuring author and speaker, Sherry Stahl, and co-host of the Why Me Project podcast, Hollie Taylor! It's a conversation with girlfriends about family traditions, favorite memories, and things we love about the season. But we also chat about some tough stuff like why it can e so hard to happy and joyful at Christmas.
Episode Links
Connect with Sherry Stahl: http://sherrystahl.com http://twitter.com/sherry_stahl
Connect with Hollie Taylor: http://faithstrongtoday.com/whymeproject http://twitter.com/hollieonshine
Learn about WIMM Canada: http://wimmcanada.ca
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It's always fun to sit down with another Faith Strong Today family member! Kevin Makins, whose videos discussing faith and life are shared weekly on FaithStrongToday.com, sits down to share his story this week, as well as talk about his recent one-man-show, Holy Shift. Kevin is all about bridging the gap between the secular and the sacred and you're going to love his perspective on how we can effectively create conversations about faith.
Episode Links
Connect with Kevin: http://kevinmakins.com http://facebook.com/kevinmakins http://instagram.com/kevinmakins http://twitter.com/kevinmakins
Join the Faith Strong Community: http://faithstrongtoday.com/forum http://facebook.com/faithstrongtoday http://twitter.com/stayFaithStrong
Explore the Faith Strong Podcast Network: http://faithstrongtoday.com/podcasts
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Last week, Pam Sykes spoke honestly about the hardships of marriage in an inspiring episode of Your Story with Melinda. If you missed it, definitely go back and check it out. But our conversation continued afterward, unpacking more of her story and what helped her along the way. We quickly realized that Pam's story needed a part two, and it's just as honest and inspiring as the last. Join us as we chat about creating a healthy support system and the important part church and girlfriends play in that. You don't want to miss this show.
Episode Links
Connect with Pam: http://cleanlifehappywife.com http://www.facebook.com/Greg.and.Pam.Sykes http://twitter.com/cleanlifewife
Join the Faith Strong Community: http://faithstrongtoday.com/forum http://facebook.com/faithstrongtoday http://twitter.com/stayFaithStrong
Explore the Faith Strong Podcast Network: http://faithstrongtoday.com/podcasts
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week's story is from Pam Sykes, a wife, mom, and clean living blogger at CleanLifeHappyWife. She blogs about a lot of things like parenting, crafts, baking, and marriage, but ut it's that last one that we're really focusing in on this episode of Your Story. Pam opens up about her own marriage to singer-songwriter Greg Sykes, as well as some of the hardships they've faced as a couple. You'll learn three things that will help you and your spouse work through issues and how to come back from the brink divorce to find love again in your marriage.
https://youtu.be/92fgyeOM84Q
Episode Links
Connect with Pam: http://cleanlifehappywife.com http://www.facebook.com/Greg.and.Pam.Sykes http://twitter.com/cleanlifewife
Explore the Faith Strong Podcast Network: http://faithstrongtoday.com/podcasts
Join the Faith Strong Community: http://faithstrongtoday.com/forum http://facebook.com/faithstrongtoday http://twitter.com/stayFaithStrong
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week's story is from Mike Gordon, a passionate speaker who has ministered to tens of thousands of people over the years with a message of hope. His personal steps to Chris wasn't exactly an easy path, experiencing family issues, drugs, alcohol, and crime throughout his early life. Imagine those beginnings with his life today, sharing the stage with the likes of Nick Vujicic, Francis Chan, Hillsong United, and Lecrae. It's a powerful testimony that helps him share Jesus' love and bring people together young and old.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zIEftVIH7vk
Episode Links
Connect with Mike Gordon: http://mike-gordon.ca
Explore the Faith Strong Podcast Network: http://faithstrongtoday.com/podcasts
Join the Faith Strong Community: http://faithstrongtoday.com/forum http://facebook.com/faithstrongtoday http://twitter.com/stayFaithStrong
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Have you ever struggled with an apology? Well, Andrew Blackwood, aka Coach Drew, is here to help. This episode of Your Story with Melinda is all about three things: learning, healing, and growing. Coach Drew is a Registered Psychotherapist and his own personal journey has brought him to The Art of A Genuine Apology, a new book that highlights where unhelpful interactions start and describes how to address hurtful situations with confidence.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M20lYptHAUk
Episode Links
Connect with Andrew: http://coachdrew.ca http://twitter.com/coachdrewcan http://facebook.com/coachdrewcan http://instagram.com/coachdrewcan
Get a copy of The Art of A Genuine Apology: http://amzn.to/2hmZVcu
Explore the Faith Strong Podcast Network: http://faithstrongtoday.com/podcasts
Join the Faith Strong Community: http://faithstrongtoday.com/forum http://facebook.com/faithstrongtoday http://twitter.com/stayFaithStrong
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
As a former professional actor who made a career being someone else, Allison Allen knows a thing or two about playing a character. But we can all understand the pressures to act like someone we're not. On this episode, Allison shares her journey from actor to Bible-teacher and helps us shine in the role God made for us for.
https://youtu.be/NBCp_Pw4Xk8
Episode Links
Connect with Allison: http://allisonallen.net http://twitter.com/AllisonAllen http://www.facebook.com/AllisonAllenspeaks http://instagram.com/allisonallen
Explore the Faith Strong Podcast Network: http://faithstrongtoday.com/podcasts
Join the Faith Strong Community: http://faithstrongtoday.com/forum http://facebook.com/faithstrongtoday http://twitter.com/stayFaithStrong
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week's story is rather special because it comes from my dad, Paul Estabrooks. Beyond adopting me, he has led an incredible life in ministry and broadcasting, which clearly inspired my own journey. Of course, we talk about my adoption and share a few family stories, but this episode of Your Story with Melinda is more about his testimony and how we can look back on a life well lived.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_My3dmLd5yo
What we talk about:
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His story and a life in ministry
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Travelling in the Philippines
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My adoption from his perspective
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Working 38 years before retiring
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His book and real-life drama of Project Pearl
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Looking back at life and what surprises him
Episode Links
Get a copy of Night of a Million Miracles: http://amzn.to/2yCF1fc
Explore the Faith Strong Podcast Network: http://faithstrongtoday.com/podcasts
Join the Faith Strong Community: http://faithstrongtoday.com/forum http://facebook.com/faithstrongtoday http://twitter.com/stayFaithStrong
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Can we be comfortable with uncertainty? It is a notion our guest this week, Nate Petersen, has embraced fully in what he calls the Pilgrim's Process. Nate has been hitchhiking across Canada and he joins us on this podcast to discuss his encounters with people who have loved him even in their differences.
https://youtu.be/9eVk_BpztiU
Episode Links
Connect with Nate: http://pilgrimsprocessorg.wordpress.com http://facebook.com/pilgrimsprocessu http://instagram.com/pilgrims_process/
Explore the Faith Strong Podcast Network: http://faithstrongtoday.com/podcasts
Join the Faith Strong Community: http://faithstrongtoday.com/forum http://facebook.com/faithstrongtoday http://twitter.com/stayFaithStrong
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
There is never a night or a problem that could defeat sunrise or hope, and there's no better proof than that than our story this week. Elizabeth Correia has been through a lot: teen pregnancy, an abusive relationship, and depression for starters. However, she has not only survived but thrived, coming out on the other side with an inspiring purpose. You'll hear all about it on this week's episode of Your Story.
https://youtu.be/OkBZuaGI7PM
What we talk about:
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Elizabeth's story
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Getting pregnant at 16 years old
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If Jesus always protects us
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Feeling broken in an abusive relationship
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Battling depression
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Finding her faith and being saved
Episode Links
Connect with Elizabeth: http://elizabethcorreia.com http://twitter.com/devainyou http://instagram.com/msselizabethcorreia
Explore the Faith Strong Podcast Network: http://faithstrongtoday.com/podcasts
Join the Faith Strong Community: http://faithstrongtoday.com/forum http://facebook.com/faithstrongtoday http://twitter.com/stayFaithStrong
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
With his incredible testimony last week, Clayton King shared what he's learned from his 30-years in ministry. Now his story continues as we dive deep into his new book Overcome and how our false beliefs can hold us back from the things God wants for us. On this episode of Your Story, learn how failure can turn into shame, but love and forgiveness can set us on the path to truth.
https://youtu.be/6vRRqRp1tYM
Episode Links
Connect with Clayton King: http://claytonking.com http://twitter.com/Clayton_king
Get his new book Overcome: http://amzn.to/2eRitwI
Explore the Faith Strong Podcast Network: http://faithstrongtoday.com/podcasts
Join the Faith Strong Community: http://faithstrongtoday.com/forum http://facebook.com/faithstrongtoday http://twitter.com/stayFaithStrong
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
At the base of every broken life is a lie, and at the root of every lie is fear. With over 30 years of ministry, Clayton King knows this better than most. Now in the first of a two part interview, Clayton is sharing his inspiring story with us and helping us overcome what is holding us back from an enriched, spiritual life. You'll learn how he became the pastor and leader he is today, as well as what it takes to feel alive in that good place.
https://youtu.be/G3yfVGxkr9I
Episode Links
Connect with Clayton King: http://claytonking.com http://twitter.com/Clayton_king
Get his new book Overcome: http://amzn.to/2eRitwI
Explore the Faith Strong Podcast Network: http://faithstrongtoday.com/podcasts
Join the Faith Strong Community: http://faithstrongtoday.com/forum http://facebook.com/faithstrongtoday http://twitter.com/stayFaithStrong
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week's story is from Jen Lawrence, an author and blogger who writes about style, books, being forty-something, and returning to faith. But diving deeper into her personal journey reveals that above else Jen is a survivor having faced postpartum depression, divorce, and abuse in her life. Perhaps most inspiring is that she doesn't view these tribulations as a burden, rather a gift to help embrace the next season in her life.
https://youtu.be/KgAOSCaPWL0
Episode Links
Connect with Jen Lawrence: http://dwellonthesethings.com http://twitter.com/readjenlawrence http://facebook.com/jenlawrencewriter
Explore the Faith Strong Podcast Network: http://faithstrongtoday.com/podcasts
Join the Faith Strong Community: http://faithstrongtoday.com/forum http://facebook.com/faithstrongtoday http://twitter.com/stayFaithStrong
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How can we as Christians effectively share the Gospel? It's a question Peter Marshall looks to God to answer every day as President of The Gideons International In Canada and ShareWord Global. But his path to personal evangelism and Scripture distribution might not be what you expect. On this episode of Your Story with Melinda, Peter opens up about his encounter with God, a story and testimony that would radically change his life.
https://youtu.be/QDq17zPcxpQ
Episode Links
Connect with Peter Marshall: http://twitter.com/Peter_JMarshall http://gideons.ca http://sharewordglobal.com
Explore the Faith Strong Podcast Network: http://faithstrongtoday.com/podcasts
Join the Faith Strong Community: http://faithstrongtoday.com/forum http://facebook.com/faithstrongtoday http://twitter.com/stayFaithStrong
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Whether you are star-eyed in love or struggling to make it work, this episode of Your Story will show you how to keep your marriage healthy, strong, and fulfilling. We are joined by Kevin Thompson, a pastor and writer, who knows that great marriages don't just happen - they're made intentionally.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N2T0PIExULo
What we talk about:
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what it takes to make your marriage work
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walking side by side on a foundation of friendship
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what a real partner looks like in a relationship
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how do you know when things are going right
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respect and when intimacy shouldn't happen
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why most marriages won't make it
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the role of Jesus and faith in marriage
Episode Links
Connect with Kevin Thompson http://kevinathompson.com http://twitter.com/kevinathompson
Get a copy of 'Friends, Partners, and Lovers: What It Takes to Make Your Marriage Work' http://amzn.to/2vaYZNq
Explore the Faith Strong Podcast Network: http://faithstrongtoday.com/podcasts
Join the Faith Strong Community: http://faithstrongtoday.com/forum http://facebook.com/faithstrongtoday http://twitter.com/stayFaithStrong
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
After a series of traumatic losses, Pastor John Westfall realized that when everything feels like it's ending, sometimes God is starting something new. Hear his dramatic story on this episode and learn why you don't have to wait until life is perfect to follow God into a new adventure.
https://youtu.be/7QS85sGmHZU
What we talk about:
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his story and what made him carry on
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why some people keep others at arm's length
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the advantages of taking risks in life
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learning to let go of your past and how to move forward
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his book "I Didn't Sign Up for This"
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surviving the storms of life and setting healthy expectations
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why it's good to share your story
Episode Links
Connect with John Westfall: http://johnfwestfall.com http://twitter.com/johnwestfall1
Get his book: http://amzn.to/2eKTpKQ
Explore the Faith Strong Podcast Network: http://faithstrongtoday.com/podcasts
Join the Faith Strong Community: http://faithstrongtoday.com/forum http://facebook.com/faithstrongtoday http://twitter.com/stayFaithStrong
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
http://youtu.be/zUyUQkRYDww
It's so easy (and common) to put others at arm's length and put up walls, but author Deidra Riggs calls us to put our focus on self-preservation aside and, like Jesus, make the first move toward reconciliation. Her story helps us understand that we are secure in God's inexhaustible love, making us free to love others lavishly.
Episode Links
Connect with Deidra Riggs: http://deidrariggs.com http://twitter.com/deidrariggs
Subscribe to the Audio Podcast: http://faithstrongtoday.com/podcasts/
Connect with Faith Strong Today: http://facebook.com/faithstrongtoday http://twitter.com/stayFaithStrong
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
http://youtu.be/GotOHyMJe1I
From working in a leper colony in Madagascar to teaching in South Korea and China, Mei-Lyn Freeman has thrown herself into new experiences with curiosity and wonder. Her view of the world is so inspiring that you are sure to walk away from this story with a desire to connect with others and explore new cultures.
Mei-Lyn talks about:
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her nearly 30-year friendship with Melinda
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growing up and being a third world adult
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living in Madagascar and how it changed her outlook
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the positive effects of experiencing different cultures
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traveling, moving, and teaching in other countries
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parenting and family life while living abroad
Episode Links
Subscribe to the Audio Podcast: http://faithstrongtoday.com/podcasts
Connect with Faith Strong Today: http://facebook.com/faithstrongtoday http://twitter.com/stayFaithStrong
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
https://youtu.be/nUFKJjSCmOM
We often overlook the mountaintops and valleys endured by those who help others. For Mark Petersen, CEO of Stronger Philanthropy, those high-impact grants and dead-end disasters parallel a physical pilgrimage on the Camino de Santiago. Learn from his journey the real reason we need to give back and work together.
Mark talks about:
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what the Camino is and why he chose to walk it
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how long it takes and the interesting people you meet along the way
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if we've lost the faith and hope that God will provide
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what we can do to give back in our everyday lives
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his book and what a philanthropist is
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how he and his family became givers themselves
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why philanthropy and pilgrimage work together
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taking things slowly and fathering people along the way
"But you can move beyond [giving being a transactional experience], to letting giving become a transformational event in your life."
Episode Links
Connect with Mark Petersen: http://strongerphilanthropy.ca http://twitter.com/lovegivingwell
Get a copy of 'Love Giving Well: The Pilgrimage of Philanthropy' book: http://amzn.to/2sPdtS3
Subscribe to the Audio Podcast: http://faithstrongtoday.com/podcasts/
Join the Faith Strong Community: http://facebook.com/faithstrongtoday http://twitter.com/stayFaithStrong
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uNUI6b0iJf4
"Why did you bring me out to the desert to die?" is just the start of Lynne Hartke's journey. Under the Desert Sky is her powerful testimony about redefining hope and beauty. You won't want to miss this episode as she tells all about her battles with cancer and how God manifests Himself in the darkest of times.
Lynne talks about:
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her background, early life, and getting into ministry
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moving to the desert and pastoring with her husband
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being diagnosed and how cancer stole her words
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both her parents being diagnosed with cancer as well
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the "whys" of life and what she never got answered
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how God manifests Himself with compassion and power
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getting through each day during such a difficult time
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her hope for those reading 'Under a Desert Sky'
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good advice for those supporting someone with cancer
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how she feels today and her next chapter
Episode Links
Connect with Lynne Hartke: http://lynnehartke.com http://twitter.com/lynnehartke
Get Under A Desert Sky: http://amzn.to/2tdXKYQ
Subscribe to the Audio Podcast: http://faithstrongtoday.com/podcasts/
Join the Faith Strong Community: http://facebook.com/faithstrongtoday http://twitter.com/stayFaithStrong
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SVeaaRHuZik
This week's story comes Kay Warren, co-founder of Saddleback Church with her husband, Rick, as well as an international speaker and best-selling author, who shares deeply personal stories and wisdom gleaned from decades of experience as a pastor's wife.
Kay talks about:
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growing up and living in a ministry home
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being molested as a child and battling with depression
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how she met Rick and getting engaged after one date
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why her emotional past set her marriage up for failure
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her "fairy tale" marriage actually being "marital hell"
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looking at your future and making the best choices to get there
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deep struggles with God and rebuilding from those struggles
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her book 'Sacred Privilege' and helping others in ministry
Episode Links
Connect with Kay Warren: http://kaywarren.com
Get a copy of 'Sacred Privilege': http://amzn.to/2rWROag
Learn about Saddleback Church: http://saddleback.com
Subscribe to the Audio Podcast: http://faithstrongtoday.com/podcasts/
Join the Faith Strong Community: http://facebook.com/faithstrongtoday http://twitter.com/stayFaithStrong
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
https://youtu.be/E0HgOF5dOt4
This week's story comes from David Anderson, Director of Brooksdale Environmental Centre in Surrey, British Columbia. His experience in outdoor recreation, biology, church ministry and teaching comes together at A Rocha, an organization that helps ecosystems across Canada thrive through environmental stewardship.
David talks about:
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growing up and what brought him to A Rocha
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what A Rocha is all about and aspires to do
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practical first steps to help the environment
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getting kids outside and utilizing technology
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the Girls in Action program and helping at-risk youth
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why we need to take care of God's creation
Episode Links
Get involved with A Rocha: http://arocha.ca
Subscribe to the Audio Podcast: http://faithstrongtoday.com/podcasts/
Connect with Faith Strong Today: http://facebook.com/faithstrongtoday http://twitter.com/stayFaithStrong
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h_i3wg19aY4
This week's story comes from Elizabeth Pierce, a clinical social worker who is helping others discover the deep, soulful places where God’s presence can be known. You'll learn why these places are important and how embracing His love will have you living a free life filled with hope, joy, and faith.
What we talk about:
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her story and growing up in a blended family
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how parents can help their kids build a relationship with Jesus
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reacting with your kids when they are dealing with things
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building better connections with our loved ones and God
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the benefit of opening yourself up to God
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her journey writing her book and dealing with fear
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being tangled by lies from the enemy and how to help each other
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the meaning behind and importance of 'Deep, Soulful Places'
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abuse and what the Bible actually says about a woman's role
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the fear of aging and women struggling with their identity
"Your story in someone else's life is more powerful than preaching at them about some Biblical tenets or philosophical ideas that you might have."
Episode Links
Connect with Elizabeth Pierce: http://elizabethjpierce.com
Get her book: http://a.co/fpme3PF
Subscribe to the Audio Podcast: http://faithstrongtoday.com/podcasts/
Connect with Faith Strong Today: http://facebook.com/faithstrongtoday http://twitter.com/stayFaithStrong
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hLPbqFy2KCA
This week's story is from best-selling author and motivational speaker, Jay Payleitner. You'll walk away from this episode with some quick tips and easy ways to better connect with your kids, as well as some sneaky strategies to engage your kids when you're super busy. Jay has written more than 20 books that have sold over half a million copies all about parenting, family life, and connecting with God through it all.
What we talk about:
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his backstory and how he got started
-
what children really need in life
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sneaky strategies to raise great kids
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how to more effectively enter their world
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the importance of setting limits and why it helps
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what children want most from their parents
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making your kids your hobby
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more quick tips and parenting hacks
"Moms and Dads, you think your kids don't want to spend time with you. But with the right tools and right opportunities they do."
Episode Links
Connect with Jay Payleitner: http://jaypayleitner.com http://twitter.com/JayPayleitner
Subscribe to the Audio Podcast: http://faithstrongtoday.com/podcasts/
Connect with Faith Strong Today: http://facebook.com/faithstrongtoday http://twitter.com/stayFaithStrong
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Your Story with Melinda #48
https://youtu.be/ZsHUyXFRiR0
This week's story comes from Barry Chalifoux, a Crisis & Mental Wellness Contractor in Loon Lake, Saskatchewan. His work with First Nations People, combined with his education and training, has given Barry an understanding of the need in communities challenged with addictions, suicide crises, and mental health concerns. But it was his own battles with feeling rejected, as well as God saving him after a failed suicide attempt, that brought Barry to helping others.
What we talk about:
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his story and when he started his faith journey
-
growing up in a First Nations Community
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attempting suicide and what changed in him afterward
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how his personal story guided him to helping others
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why God can always provide hope and bring us together
Episode Links
Connect with Barry: http://barrychalifoux.com http://www.facebook.com/Barry.Chalifoux http://twitter.com/BarryChalifoux
Subscribe to the Audio Podcast: http://faithstrongtoday.com/podcasts/
Connect with Faith Strong Today: http://facebook.com/faithstrongtoday http://twitter.com/stayFaithStrong
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
https://youtu.be/LKncruBAAgc
This week’s story is from Paul Morris and Matt Hill, two former pastors and now leadership consultants. They join me in-studii to discuss mentoring and the importance of community, as well as share their own stories of what lead them to be experts in their field.
Paul and Matt talk about:
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their lives and how they got to where they are now
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their first real significant mentoring moments
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how they met each other
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working as leadership consultants
-
the importance of seeking mentorship
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why people are afraid of being judged
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why mentoring is important in a community
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Melinda's appreciation to Paul as her mentor
-
some profound words that you need to hear
Episode links:
Subscribe to the Audio Podcast:
http://faithstrongtoday.com/podcasts/
Connect with Faith Strong Today:
http://facebook.com/faithstrongtoday
http://twitter.com/stayFaithStrong
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week's story is from author and blogger Sarah Bessey, who joins Melinda Estabrooks to talk about making peace with an evolving faith. She shares thoughts from her books 'Out of Sorts' and 'Jesus Feminist,' as well as her personal journey, marriage, preaching, and more.
Sarah talks about:
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the differences between Canada and the US
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what a "Jesus Feminist" is and feminism in our faith
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a love/hate relationship with the Apostle Paul
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what's the role of women and men in the church
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experiencing God through "narrative theology"
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how to rebrand your life professionally and personally
"We think we have everything kind of sorted out, and we know how we're going to fit. We know how we're going to move through our lives. And then, often times, something happens to throw us off that plan." - Sarah Bessey
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dU1fhQeCclI
Episode links:
Connect with Sarah Bessey on Twitter: http://twitter.com/sarahbessey
Subscribe to the Audio Podcast: http://faithstrongtoday.com/podcasts/
Connect with Faith Strong Today: http://facebook.com/faithstrongtoday http://twitter.com/stayFaithStrong
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Your Story with Melinda #45
Sharing their story this week is Hollie Sackett-Reid. For the past decade, Hollie has worked in the Canadian Christian radio and music industries. Notably, she is the co-host of The Morning Spin on 105.9 Shine FM, as well as the founder of promotion company Ten16 Entertainment. On top of all that, Hollie is also one of the directors of WIMM Canada, an association of Christian women in music media. A busy and passionate woman to say the least. But Hollie sits down on this podcast to discuss her journey through it all and shares her hope for Christian women in media and broadcasting.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_v-DOd1Uu9E
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Your Story with Melinda #44
Sharing their story this week is Alana Walker Carpenter, CEO of Intriciti, an organization that helps leaders incorporate faith and business. Their hope is effect unconventional change within a global context. But Alana starts with her own journey to this role before discussing how she got into integrating ministry and business. Furthermore, she offers an easy, four-point plan to make 2017 your best year yet.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JP5GkR1rN2o
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Your Story #43
It's a Full Circle reunion as Ann Mainse shares her story with Melinda Estabrooks on the first episode of the New Year! Of course, you'll know Ann from her Faith Strong Today podcast Sincerely Yours, which has been topping the Christian iTunes charts here in Canada. But there's a lot more to her testimony that lead her to this season of her life. You'll hear it all in this in-depth conversation between the two "Sofa Sisters."
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AFwCG2cGJC8
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Your Story #42
With Christmas upon us, there is no better time to be thoughtful and generous. So sharing their story this week is the President and CEO of Yonge Street Mission, Angie Draskovic. This episode is all about giving and how we should come to Christmas with an open heart. Angie offers a unique perspective to that coming from a Telecommunications background and the social profit sector. You'll hear all about her own faith journey and how it lead her to the work she does now.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ixT47jmBFuc
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Your Story #41
Sharing their story this week is author Shelly Miller, who joins Melinda via Skype from her home in London, England. Shelly is originally from St. Louis, Missouri and has spent the past 26 years with her husband and kids doing ministry work. She lives a busy life, something most of us can relate to, but that's why she's so passionate about finding the Rhythms of Rest. That's the name of her new book, which aims to help readers find simple, practical ways to rest. Rest is a gift from God, and in this podcast is sure to refresh you mentally, physically, and spiritually.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gDpLfmG18lw
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Your Story #40
You might remember Dr. Merry Lin from Episode 16 where she spoke about absent dads. But if not, Dr. Lin is a registered clinical psychologist who specializes in helping people overcome depression, anxiety, abuse, grief, marital and relationship struggles, and other life stressors. Her passion is to help people of all ages discover their full potential as children of God and to break free from the bondage that prevents them from realizing their purpose and joy in life. And that's why she's back on the show. Her and Melinda cover so much in this great interview that you can listen or watch above.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6DKGUynvvF8
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Your Story #39
Sharing their story with Melinda this week is Robia Scott, an author, speaker, and teacher passionate about seeing lives transformed. Robia has a unique background as a professional dancer and successful actress in Hollywood for 20 years. She has worked with recording artists such as Prince and starred in numerous television shows like Beverly Hills 90210, CSI, and Buffy the Vampire Slayer. While working on Buffy in in 1997, Robia accepted Christ into her life, walking away from a thriving career in the entertainment industry to pursue God and follow the call into full-time ministry.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yKaG3OORgTo
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Your Story #38
Sharing their story this week is author and speaker Linda Evans Shepherd. She is the founder of Right to the Heart Ministries, as well as oversees an online resource for the hurting and suicidal called ThinkingAboutSuicide.com. But Linda is joining Melinda Estabrooks to talk about the existence of spiritual warfare, a reality that every Christian must face. You'll learn how to recognize it and face battles with the enemy in your life. More importantly, you'll learn why the armor of God is Jesus Himself.
Linda Evans Shepherd and Melinda talk about...
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the spiritual battles she's had along the way
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defining spiritual warfare and how to recognize it in our own lives
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why the armor of God isn't thought of more by Christians
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understanding suffering and the choice we face because of it
-
finding hope, joy, and love in your own journey
http://media.blubrry.com/faithstrongtoday/content.blubrry.com/faithstrongtoday/YourStory-038-Linda_Evans_Shephard_nov21-16.mp3
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Your Story #37
Sharing their story this week is Daniel Henderson, a pastor, author, and leadership coach. Daniel spent 25 years in pastoral ministry, but now focuses his efforts to Strategic Renewal, a non-profit Christian organization igniting the heart of the Church. But Daniel's latest book, The Prayer God Loves to Answer, aims to help individuals access Christ's wisdom. Join the discussion today to find out how practical prayer can get you living wisely in a broken world.
Daniel Henderson Talks to Melinda About...
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growing up and his own faith journey with God
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defining prayer and making the switch from desperation to intimacy
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why there isn't more emphasis on prayer in Western society
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declining Church attendance with a rising population
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transforming relationships and why Jesus himself is wisdom
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how to pray effectively and communicate with God
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his personal prayer for the Church and other pastors
-
the next generation and getting involved with ministry
-
authentic Christian relationships and his hope for the new book
You can also check out a free sample chapter of The Prayer God Loves to Answer, and let us know what you think in the comments below!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aAYbH-B1zgk
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Your Story #36
Sharing their story this week is Colleen Allan, who offers a sobering testimony that truly shows the hope and healing Jesus can bring. However, we should say that this episode contains sensitive subject matter, including molestation, sexual trafficking, and drug addiction. But these parts of Colleen's journey do not define her. Instead, it's her faith and relationship with God that gave her the strength, courage, and conviction to recover.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zk92OqFqOdE
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Your Story #35
Sharing their story this week is Jeremy Enns. He is one of the hosts from the Open Road Podcast, which is all about helping people find more adventure in the everyday. On this episode, Jeremy sits down with Melinda to chat about the intersection of faith and adventure. Furthermore, he shares his personal story of how his faith shaped him into who he is today.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oW1rcHKQs_w
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Your Story #34
The newlyweds are sharing their story this week! With the wedding behind them, Melinda Estabrooks sits down with her husband, Chris Orme, to reflect on their exciting new journey together. You'll hear about their big day, the stress and excitement of planning, as well as what this commitment means to them. It's an episode that is sure to keep your faith strong with love.
Chris and Melinda Talk About...
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a second time around marriage
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their vows
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being a blended family
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what will it take for their marriage to last and succeed
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wj9T6Qv53s8
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Your Story #33
Sharing their story this week is Elle Pyke. Where do we begin with Elle? She's a bit of a jack of all trades: a women's speaker, marketer, teacher, and leader, to name a few. But most recently Elle has been involved with New Leaf, a Canadian network that cultivates and supports starters and church planters.
Elle Pyke talks with Melinda About:
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growing up and being called to ministry
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finding her place in the church as a woman
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the need for new ideas to grow the church
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getting out of our comfort zone and innovative discipleship
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what it means to be a spiritual entrepreneur
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balancing life, faith, and following your passions
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5w_EZASOyHw
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Your Story #32
Does breaking free mean letting go? Sharing their story this week is Kim Gowdy, an author and life coach who faced that question head on. Kim reached a point where she felt tired, burdened, and overwhelmed. In seeking out change, she was given perspective on how cycles of pain, hurt, and the lies she believed about herself were playing out in her life. She is incredibly thankful for her journey and shares her freedom story with you.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kwWHcyyf964
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Your Story #31
Sharing their story this week is journalist and author Les Sillars. More accurately, Les joins Melinda, as well as special co-host Karen Petersen, to share the gripping true story Radha Manickam. Radha lost most of his family along with 1.7 million of his fellow Cambodians in the mind numbing brutality of the 1975 Cambodian Field Killings. The full story is retold in Les Sillars new book, Intended for Evil, but Les joins the podcast to discuss how he met Radha, hearing about his faith and courage during that time, and why he was asked--and compelled--to write his story.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D-n9CD_ghYY
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Your Story #30
Sharing their story this week is author and speaker Cathie Ostapchuk. She is also a coach who loves giving women an opportunity to come together and tell their own stories. This opportunity helps create and equip a community of clear, brave, and strong women, unified and diverse in a culture of support. More importantly, it prompted Cathie to launch Gather: Women, a national movement created to gather Canadian Christian women from different backgrounds in order to forge a strong infrastructure of faith and connection coast to coast.
Connect with Cathie Ostapchuk
-
learn more about Cathie and check out her blog at www.cathieostapchuk.com
-
tell her you heard the show on Facebook or Twitter
Finally, make sure you subscribe to the podcast by following the links below. If you've already done so, we'd love for you to rate the show or leave a review to help us reach more people.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hazjLxBMqxc
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Your Story with Melinda #29
What do you really believe about your life and your creator? Melinda's guest this week is Debbie Lindell, author of a new book called She Believes. As a women's speaker, Debbie champions women of all ages and helps them connect to one another through life-giving sisterhood. But her book really focuses in on living the faith-filled life God created us to live. It's an idea Melinda took to heart and she talks in-depth with Debbie about it as she shares her story on the podcast.
Connect with Debbie Lindell
-
learn about Debbie's Designed For Life women's conference
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buy a copy of She Believes: Embracing the Life You Were Created to Live
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tell her you heard the show on Facebook or Twitter
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QIfaxHbKuR4
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Your Story #28
Sharing their story this week is author Christie Purifoy. She is a Jesus-follower who believes that life, in all its pain, beauty, and mystery, is a journey of love. Christie's latest book, Roots and Sky: A Journey Home in Four Seasons, is the story of her family's first year in an old farmhouse called Maplehurst. You'll hear her motivation behind the book and why it's important to find a home on this side of heaven. Most importantly, Christie's journey is about all the ways heaven comes to us.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_22Eoi9AASY
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Your Story #26
Sharing their story this week is singer, songwriter, and Canadian worship leader Brooke Nicholls. Before heading out on her European tour this fall, Brooke joins Melinda for this emotional and inspiring interview. They discuss their dreams, convictions, love of music, what Heaven will be like, and faith. Then Brooke's husband, Steve Lensink, joins her in studio for a special performance of her single "Home" from her new album Found in You. Yes, Melinda cried a little.
Connect with Brooke Nicholls
-
find tour dates and more information on Brooke at www.brookenicholls.ca
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let her know you heart the podcast on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram
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buy her latest single and other music on iTunes
While you're on iTunes, help this podcast reach more people by subscribing and leaving us a review. Here is a quick link to do that: bit.ly/yourstorywithmelinda.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yjoeWUU_ofc
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Your Story #25
Sharing their story this week is the thoughtful, funny, and inspiring Elyse Fitzpatrick. She is the author of a new book called Home: How Heaven and the New Earth Satisfy Our Deepest Longings and it's all about longing to find the place we truly belong. On this podcast, Melinda and Elyse talk honestly and imaginatively. They explore heaven and the afterlife to help you find peace and comfort.
http://media.blubrry.com/faithstrongtoday/content.blubrry.com/faithstrongtoday/YourStory-025-Elyse_Fitzpatrick.mp3
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Your Story #24
Sharing their story (or should we say re-story) this week is Mary DeMuth. She is an author and speaker, but the most important thing she wants you to know is that she loves Jesus. It's the main focus of her conversation with Melinda on this week's podcast.
Mary opens up about her own struggle with feelings of worthlessness, her life and family, and how she came to know Jesus. It's an episode that is sure to leave your feeling worthy in light of God's wild love.
Connect with Mary DeMuth
-
check out Mary's blog and Re-story Podcast at www.marydemuth.com
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her latest book, "Worth Living" is available for purchase on Amazon
-
message her on Facebook or Twitter and let her know you heard the show
Finally, if you've read Mary's latest book, we'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CUiQFpv7ZS0
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Your Story #23
Telling her story this week is Dawn Camp, author of The Gift of Friendship. She joins Melinda and special co-host Kimberley MacLaren to talk about the beauty of shared moments in life and faith. They also discuss some of today's best writers with some great book suggestions for you to check out.
Connect with Dawn Camp
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on her personal blog My Home Sweet Home
-
follow her on Facebook and Twitter
-
check out her books on Amazon
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2mQS5CIuZEE
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Your Story #22
Sharing their story this week is multi-award winning recording artist Ali Matthews. Ali has been a performing songwriter for 35 years and is highly respected in both the Christian and mainstream music industry due to her accessible, honest lyrics and her ability to weave the “spiritual” into everyday life experiences. You'll also get an acoustic performance of "Lucinda's House" when you subscribe to our YouTube channel.
In this story:
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a fun game of Would You Rather...
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Ali's influence and how she got into music
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faith and how it helps navigate the industry
-
a special live performance
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rXZffhqJdj4
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Your Story #21
This week, Melinda welcomes Leanne Cabral to share her story. Leanne is an author, speaker, coach, mom, and wife who loves to help parents navigate the awesome privilege of passing on the Christian faith to their children.
http://media.blubrry.com/faithstrongtoday/content.blubrry.com/faithstrongtoday/YourStory-021-Leeanne_Cabral.mp3
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Your Story #20
Sharing their story with Melinda this week is author, speaker, and nutritionist, Laura Harris Smith, whose latest book, 30-Day Faith Detox, aims to renew your mind, cleanse your body, and heal your spirit. Having always had one foot in ministry and one in media, Laura speaks and ministers internationally and is known for bringing a light-hearted look at the heaviest of life's topics.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_bAXw2qBWvU
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Your Story #19
Sharing his story this week is author James K.A. Smith, who joins Melinda via Skype to discuss faith and how it can fundamentally shape our hearts. James is a professor of philosophy at Calvin College, where he holds the Gary and Henrietta Byker Chair in Applied Reformed Theology and Worldview. His latest book is You Are What You Love: The Spiritual Power of Habit and helps readers recognize the formative power of culture and the transformative possibilities of Christian practices.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gtL6brCzh68
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Your Story #17
Born into a family of nine in (what at that time was) a third-world country, Wisdom Moon grew up experiencing poverty firsthand. On this podcast, Wisdom shares his story with Melinda Estabrooks and how growing up with an atheist father and a devoted Christian mother lead him to worship ministry. He currently works at Integrity Music as the Manager of Song Resource & Church Engagement and gives leadership to WeAreWorship.com.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5UVVlbFacGQ
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week on the podcast, Melinda is joined by Executive Director of LifeCare Centres, Scott Armstrong (www.lifecarecentres.com), and registered clinical psychologist and author, Dr. Merry Lin (www.drmerrylin.com), to discuss absent dads.
http://media.blubrry.com/faithstrongtoday/content.blubrry.com/faithstrongtoday/YourStory-016-DrMerry_ScottArmstrong.mp3
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Your Story #15
This week, Melinda welcomes Sami Cone to share her story. Sami is the author of Raising Uncommon Kids: 12 Biblical Traits You Need to Raise Selfless Kids, as well as a blogger, radio host, TV correspondent and loves mentoring others to live their dream life on less and pursue their passions.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h9LmCj5O6iA
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode, podcasting mom Emily Thomas shares her story as we welcome her to the Faith Strong Today team. Emily is a teacher turned RN, turned artist who now stays at home with her kids and hosts a podcast called Mom Struggling Well, where she interviews someone (usually a mom) about a challenge they've had and how they struggled WELL through it. Melinda turns the tables on her as we get to know the mom behind the mic, and hear how she struggled well through life's ups and downs.
Find Emily at MomStrugglingWell.com and subscribe to the FST Podcast on iTunes, Android, or your favourite podcasting app for a new episode of 'Mom Struggling Well' every Saturday on Faith Strong Today!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c9o4MSq2BFU
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Your Story #13
Faith Strong Today is a sponsor of the upcoming No Greater Love festival and, this week, Melinda welcomes the visionary woman behind the biggest Christian music event in Canada. Karri Ward shares her her story and the importance of unity in the Body of Christ.
You can find out more about the festival at www.nogreaterlove.ca and let us know you're coming by using the hashtags #LetsFillTheField and #UnitedInFaith on social media.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=esPcw0ao2Is
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Your Story #12
This week, Melinda is joined by the Executive Director and CEO of Prison Fellowship Canada, Stacey Campbell, to share her story and how we should respond to those in the prison system. In addition to her executive duties, Stacey continues to work hands-on in the PFC national ministry of reconciliation with ‘the least of these’ and practices a Biblical approach to transformation, justice, restoration and prevention based on the life and teachings of Jesus Christ.
Find out more about Prison Fellowship Canada at www.prisonfellowship.ca.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DjdNCdQr5T8
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Joining Melinda Estabrooks in the studio this week is Helen Sworn, the foremost international expert on anti-human trafficking and International Director of Chab Dai and Freedom Collaborative. Helen shares her story of courage and hope for the most vulnerable.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rYhatzbE3rU
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http://media.blubrry.com/faithstrongtoday/content.blubrry.com/faithstrongtoday/YourStory-010-Lauren_Daigle.mp3
Life experience often serves to sharpen a songwriter’s edge and Melinda welcomes recording artist Lauren Daigle to share her journey on this episode of 'Your Story'. Though she’s young, Lauren Daigle has lived a lot of life and those experiences have helped her create heartfelt worship music. She has been nominated for GRAMMY, was a contestant on American Idol, and has won multiple awards for her singing and songwriting.
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This week, Melinda Estabrooks welcomes her good friend, Wendy VanderWal-Gritter, author of Generous Spaciousness and Executive Director at New Direction Ministries of Canada, to share her story. Wendy is an internationally recognized contributor in the conversations around faith and sexuality.
http://media.blubrry.com/faithstrongtoday/content.blubrry.com/faithstrongtoday/YourStory-009-Wendy_Vanderwal_Gritter.mp3
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This week, hear two moving stories of courage, strength and resiliency. Karen Petersen (left) and Sandy Reynolds (right) join Melinda to share their journey into leadership, battling their own fears and others expectations, and eventually helping women find their voice as well as finding their own. They are both involved with The FIELD Collaborative, a community dedicated to multi-sector leadership solutions.
http://media.blubrry.com/faithstrongtoday/content.blubrry.com/faithstrongtoday/YourStory-008-Karen_Petersen_Sandy_Reynolds.mp3
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On this week's show, Melinda Estabrooks is joined by Christa Hesselink, author of Life's Great Dare: Risking It All for the Abundant Life. She is currently the Director of Next Generation Engagement for BIC Canada and directs the FLOW Internship program and The Spark Initiative.
Learn more about Christa and her book at www.lifesgreatdare.com.
Connect with Melinda Estabrooks at www.melindaestabrooks.com.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mdsEdQ_bjBk
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This week, Melinda welcomes Lorie Hartshorn, who shares the redemptive story of her prodigal children, her wake up call to spiritual warfare, and the power of prayer that brought them home. Lorie is a pastor, speaker and author with a passion to see people grow in faith.
Learn more about Lorie Hartshorn at www.loriehartshorn.com and connect with host Melinda Estabrooks at www.melindaestabrooks.com.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dbg7VyHaWeE
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http://media.blubrry.com/faithstrongtoday/content.blubrry.com/faithstrongtoday/Your_Story_005_Leeana-Tankersley.mp3
This week, we ask the questions: "Do I know who I am really am and is who I am really enough?" Author Leeana Tankersley helps answers those with the challenge to be brazen and have the courage to be the you that has been hiding.
Find more about Melinda Estabrooks at www.melindaestabrooks.com and sign-up for the Faith Strong Newsletter to hear about future episodes.
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http://media.blubrry.com/faithstrongtoday/content.blubrry.com/faithstrongtoday/Your_Story_BONUS-Donna-Carter-Brooke-Nicholls.mp3
Learn to leverage pain, travel light, and honour God with two special guests in this chapter of 'Your Story' with Melinda Estabrooks. Brooke Nicholls is a Worship Leader and songwriter who released her debut EP, Blessed Assurance, last year and is currently on tour (as of this writing). Donna Carter is an international speaker, co-founder of Straight Talk Ministries, and the author of several books, including her latest, Kick the Boring Out of Your Life.
Find more about Melinda Estabrooks at www.melindaestabrooks.com and sign-up for the Faith Strong Newsletter to hear about future episodes.
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http://media.blubrry.com/faithstrongtoday/content.blubrry.com/faithstrongtoday/YourStory_BONUS_Kristen-Strong.mp3
Do you need help to not just weather the storm, but thrive within it? On this special bonus episode of Your Story, Kristin Strong joins Melinda Estabrooks to help us rewrite our stories for the better by opening ourselves up to God and finding hope while navigating life's turns. Kristin is a wife, mom, blogger, speaker, and the author of Girl Meets Change: Truths to Carry You Through Life’s Transitions.
Find more about Melinda Estabrooks at www.melindaestabrooks.com and sign-up for the Faith Strong Newsletter to hear about future episodes.
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Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/stayFaithStrong
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Username: stayfaithstrong http://www.snapchat.com/add/stayfaithstrong
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This week on 'Your Story' with Melinda Estabrooks, Kimberley MacLaren shares her compelling story of divorce, singleness, and finding love again.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WiYjLJpL_oU
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Learn how to trade comparison and competition for freedom and fulfillment as Melinda Estabrooks welcomes Cheryl Martin to share her story with you. Cheryl is a speaker, broadcaster, and the author of Distinctly You, a book that unveils the actions and attitudes that may be sabotaging women and explores ways they can engage and build up their unique talents, interests, and strengths.
Connect with Cheryl on her website www.cherylmartin.org or on Facebook.
http://media.blubrry.com/faithstrongtoday/content.blubrry.com/faithstrongtoday/YourStory_002_Cheryl-Martin.mp3
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Your Story #1
On the first episode of Your Story, Melinda welcomes Bethany Winz, co-author (and wearer) of One Dress. One Year., who talks about her personal stand against human trafficking.
http://media.blubrry.com/faithstrongtoday/content.blubrry.com/faithstrongtoday/YourStory_001_Bethany-Winz.mp3
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