Destination Connections

Hey there, we're back! after an extended time away we have a new episode for you! Our very own Kelsey Settle sits down to talk with us today about forgiving people in our lives. We discuss the idea that forgiving people is for others of course, but forgiving someone is helpful and healing to you. The freedom that comes from that action can be truly life-changing. we also talk about how forgiving does not necessarily mean forgetting. Today's show is part of the final stretch of episodes as we near the end of topical discussions on the book "Destination Connections" by host and author Roben Harris. Pick up YOUR copy today on Amazon! While you're picking up other stuff, throw it in your cart! When it arrives you will be so happy that you did! It's a great gift to give yourself or a loved one. 

Karin sits down to talk with us today about forgiving the person in the mirror. That's right, forgiving yourself is possibly the most difficult person to forgive. The freedom that comes from that action can be truly life-changing.  Today's show is part of the final stretch of episodes as we near the end of topical discussions on the book "Destination Connections" by host and author Roben Harris. Pick up YOUR copy today on Amazon! While you're picking up other stuff, throw it in your cart! When it arrives you will be so happy that you did! It's a great gift to give yourself or a loved one. 

We have arrived at our final Road Trip Tip.  It is a Construction Zone Tip to boot! Do you have a difficult time actually forgiving the people you are in relationship with? How about forgiving someone who hasn't asked you for forgiveness? What if they aren't even sorry?  Kelsey and Roben are talking all about forgiving for the next 4 weeks. They will have 3 guests who will talk about their individual stories of forgiveness. You will see that it is not just a good idea but it is vital for you to learn to forgive. You may find that the hardest person to forgive is yourself. 

This week we are honored to sit down with a living, breathing,  real-life miracle. Our friend Bryce is here to talk about his harrowing brush with death. On December 19th, 2017, Bryce was feeling terrible. He went to the E.R. to see what was going on with him. Doctors were convinced it was nothing to worry about. That is when his wife, Jenny, implored them to dig deeper. When the doctors dug deeper they found that a terrible thing was going on in Bryce's body. Specifically in his heart.  His aorta had exploded and he was in big trouble. He was flown to a trauma hospital and given about a 3% chance of survival.  He was having an Aortic Dissection. He said that the surgery is basically like trying to sew a wet kleenex back together. He was in a coma for 6 days and his chest was wide open for3 of those days. He is alive today truly against all odds. We are so glad that he is! Listen in and hear his story in his own words! 

The ladies sit down today with Jenny.  She has had her share of bumps in the road. Her daughter has been a medically complicated child. As Jenny and her husband Bryce were beginning to see some light at the end of their complicated tunnel, another tragedy emerged. Bryce was not feeling well one day so Jenny took him to the E.R.  The doctors were about to send Bryce home to take some medicine and rest. It was at that point that the skills of advocacy that Jenny had developed from the years of consistently advocating for their daughter really kicked in. She fought for him to be looked at closer. To run some tests. After running some more tests the doctors quickly realized that Bryce had an Aortic Dissection. He was dying and dying fast. In this situation, Jenny knew who she had to be for her husband at that moment.  Listen in and see how you could ask yourself " Who should I be for so and so"? You know who I'm talking about!

Our friend Steve joins us today! Although he is an amazingly talented professional, we did not invite him today to talk about what he does for a living. Steve is a friend. I mean he is a friend to everyone. You can't be in a room with him without feeling like you are cared for. It's a gift! We have known him for over two decades and this is who he is. It is something that he purposes to do though. He makes reaching out to those around him a priority. Today he joins us on the Pod to discuss why this is important in your attempt to " Be Personable". 

Green means GO!! it's time to discuss our final Green Light Tip, Be Purposeful. Some connections come more easily than others. True and lasting connections often come from this one tip. When you purpose to reach out you tend to connect with people in a deeper, more meaningful way.    

Today, Kelsey and Roben speak with Pastor Josh of Faith Community Church in House Springs, MO. Josh tells personal and engaging stories about his journey to spiritual health as well as the importance of caring for ourselves wholistically as spiritual beings.  Check out Faith Community at https://faithcommunity.co/

Today we sit down with Lauren. Lauren and her family have had to learn about mental health the hard way.  Unfortunately, that seems to be how many people tend to learn about caring for themselves. Today Lauren tells us her story of walking out this journey in her own family. Today's episode contains talk about depression, self-harm, and suicide. If you need help at any time please reach out to a trained professional. We recommend the National Alliance on Mental Illness Helpline at 1-800-950-6264. Your state mental health department and your Human Resources Department are also good places to start. As always, we are here to help in any way possible. Please reach out to us at https://www.destinationconnections.com/. 

Happy New Year from all of us here at Destination Connections! This Road Trip Prep series is perfectly timed! Over the next three weeks, we will tackle the questions that are on everyone's mind.   How do we care for our physical, mental,  and spiritual health?  During the New Year many people are taking stock of these specific areas of their lives. What can they do to strengthen themselves in these areas? I don't think it's a coincidence that the timing of these episodes landed here during the new year.  We sincerely hope that Destination Connections can be an encouragement to you as you ask yourself these questions. This week we speak to author Leslie Davis. Leslie is the author of her self-help book "You Can't Eat Love". Join us as we discover how when we take care of ourselves physically it can drastically affect how we are able to connect with others. 

How are we already starting our 3rd season? It's hard to believe! To kick off our season Kelsey and  Roben talk about the importance of digging yourself.  It's vital for you to love yourself in order for you to truly love others! Join us over the next few episodes as we explore this tip!

Let's get in our Delorean and go back in time! Join us as we share some stories we edited out of each episode! 

Join us today as we sit down with MaryKay to talk about the difficult possibility that a relationship may be over,  or at least changing severely through the implementation of stringent boundaries. It isn't something that seems like you should plan for but you should know how to do this.  This is a tough subject. We have all been there or maybe we should be there right now. It's not a fun thing to think about. MaryKay helps us to understand that this can be a very healthy and loving thing to do.  

Sit down and kick up your feet. It's time for a little counseling session. Today on the podcast we are joined by Andy who is a Licensed Professional Counselor. Andy encourages us that it is good to know where to set up boundaries in our relationships. Sometimes it feels wrong to say " This is how much of this relationship I let in".   Yet it is absolutely necessary to do so. This episode is a really insightful look into how to implement this skill into our lives. Thanks, Andy, the check is in the mail!

Today Kim joins us on the podcast. Kim is a veteran home educator and mother of 8 really awesome kids. All but 1 of her kids are adults, and then there is Nathanial. He could teach us a lot about communicating our thoughts and feelings. Kim and her husband Rich adopted Nathanial in the summer of 2013. I will direct you to Kim's blog to read hours of page-turning documentation of Nathanial's life. You can check it out by searching " holdmywords" or  "kimrankin.com". Nathanial's journey has been anything but easy. He has been nonverbal or as Kim calls it non-speaking since birth and has learned to communicate through a device similar to an iPad.  He now has over 2000 words registered in his "talker". After you listen to today's show we highly encourage you to carve out some time and soak up some wisdom from the Rankins. Kim is a very gifted wordsmith. You can thank us later. 

On the pod today we sit down and chat with our friend Heather. As a mother of 12 children, yep, 12 children,  she has earned the equivalent of a black belt in eliminating daily distractions. She is not only an amazing mother who runs her home with passion and intentionality, but she also owns and operates her own company helping others bring order to their homes.  She is an expert at helping people to recognize what "distractions" could be eliminated in their lives.  She discusses the need for eye contact. She says in reference to her children and her husband Micah that she "needs their eyes". She wants to meet on a level that brings about a deeper connection.  If you would like to know more about Heather and her business you can search for her online @  freshstartstlouis.com. 

Have you ever heard of the acronym FOMO? It stands for: Fear. Of. Missing. Out. It can be a real struggle for all of us. Especially those extroverts among us. Today we talk with Kelsey's sister Kirsten. In her work as an  E.R. nurse, she had to learn this the hard way. In her first year, she found herself overbooking her calendar a lot. She was working lots of long shifts and still trying to be everywhere when she wasn't at work. She taught us a little phrase we'd like to share with the DC family.   " No is a full sentence."  That's it. We hope you enjoy todays show! Just a reminder, Robens book Destination Connections is NOW available on Amazon! Get your copy today! 

Roben and Kelsey chime in to discuss a change to our episode schedule. It's all good though! 

Sometimes, in or hustle  & bustle world we live in,  we forget to enjoy the journey. While we may be busy doing a long list of fun things, we may not actually be present. Today on the podcast, Kelsey and Amazon's "#1 New release" author, Roben, sit down to discuss this essential Green Light Tip. Remember that Green Light Tips are tips that can be used at all times, by all people, in any relationship. Green means go!!

Today  Roben and Kelsey sit down with Roben's husband and Kelsey's Uncle, Luke. That's me, by the way! I am also the Destination Connections' post-production editor as well as the intro voice you hear each week. When I was younger, I loved acting. Like it was all I wanted to do with my life. As I entered into adulthood and ventured even further into parenthood, I felt compelled to set that passion on the proverbial back burner. There were only 24 hours in a day, and my life demanded all of them. Today, Kelsey and Roben ask me about the "You Develop You" Reflection question #3, What would you like to try again? As our 6 kids grow up and gain some independence, Roben and I are picking up some things we laid down almost 18 years ago. I recently dipped my toe in the vaguely familiar arena of auditions, casting, rehearsals and performances! Today was a fun stroll down memory lane. So what did you do once upon a time that you'd like to try again? Reach out to Roben and Kelsey at Destination Connections Facebook page or email roben@destinationconnections.com or kelsey@destinationconnections.com and share your story!

On the Pod today, we talk with Joe, who is a good friend who has an insatiable desire to try new things. Joe is a professional in the corporate world who loves to stay active with his seven kids at home. Whether they are playing games or tending to their hobby farm,  Joe is trying to connect with his family. He is truly an example of today's reflection question, " What Would I Like To Try?". While you listen to today's show, let your mind think about what it is that you may want to try. 

Today on the pod, Kelsey invited her first boss to join in the conversation. Last season we discussed the first Travel Tip,  "You Do You." This season we continue our Travel Tip series with Tip #2, "You Develop You." Rebecca joins the ladies to discuss the lasting impact she had on a young, impressionable Kelsey. She taught Kelsey a lot of important lessons about the world of advertising. One thing that stood out to Kelsey was Rebeccas desire to learn. It wasn't enough for her to learn only the aspects of her job; she wanted to know how the whole company worked. This attribute of Rebeccas is what prompted Kelsey to reach out. So our Reflection Question today is, What Would You Like To Learn?  Take a listen to this awesome interview and then Email Roben and Kelsey and tell them what you would like to learn. 

Season two is here!!  Roben and Kelsey kick things off with a bang! On today's episode they discuss the second of three Road Trip Travel Tips, “You Develop You”. It takes the concept of “You Do You” miles further down the road. The girls discuss how just being you isn't a deep enough journey. We all need to develop who we are to find out more about who we are. They give us a teaser of the next few weeks of awesome interviews, and how those guests  speak to the Travel Tip questions. Thank you for coming along for the ride! Tell a friend and reach out and tell us what you think of the show. Also we are getting so excited as Roben's book, that this podcast is based on is getting very close to going to print! We will share details as we have more details. 

Kelsey and Roben have a special guest today. She feels right at home behind a microphone because she makes her living on the radio. In St. Louis, you can turn your dial on to 99.1 Joy FM and hear Kim hosting the afternoon show. You can also find her at joyfmonline.org. Kim is one of those people who doesn't know a stranger. Her personality lights up the room. If you listen to her cherry voice or positive attitude on the radio but don't know her story, you might think that she's had a pretty easy life. You'd be wrong. Kim has experienced significant trauma in her life.  Today, she joins Destination Connection to discuss how the events in her life have shaped her into who she is today. Once again, Kelsey & Roben demonstrate how each ordinary person actually has an extraordinary story. We learn that a part of " Valuing Vastly" is understanding that everyone is a product of where they've been, what they've done and what's been done to them. 

On today's podcast, Roben and Kelsey sit down with one of their favorite people in the entire world! After being born with several life-altering diagnoses (including Spina Bifida) and facing many daily challenges (including paraplegia), Roben's amazing daughter, Selah has perspective and wisdom beyond her 16 years. Selah has had 38 surgeries and numerous hospital stays, therapies, etc. In this episode, Kelsey, Roben, and Selah discuss the differences between equity and equality, the important role that equity plays in valuing others, and we also get an insider's viewpoint from Selah and learn how best to connect with people of all abilities. 

Kelsey & Roben talk with Dion today. His stories help us reflect on this first Reflection Question for the Construction Zone Tip "Value Vastly."  Who Are They?  In order to value others, we need to know who they really are as a unique individual. Are you valuing those you're connected with? Are you labeling or stereotyping them? If you're not sure, listen to Episode 14 to learn the differences as well as the benefits of one of these practices. 

Driving down the road with a continuous sequence of green lights is blissful. However, no one likes to see the  Construction Ahead sign. When the four-lane interstate funnels down to a narrow lane surrounded by a seemingly endless row of safety orange cones, the excitement for our road trip seems to fizzle. But, road construction is inevitable. In life's journey, some of our connections need a little pothole repair. Some need bridges built. And some are in need of a complete overhaul. Putting in the work isn't easy, but it can cause connections to be stronger than ever before. Roben and Kelsey discuss this tip in detail and give us a peek into the next three episode's guests. 

Ever been upset at a total stranger because they cut you off in traffic? Ever spent your time and energy on what you'd like to say to that person if you could? Everyone is fighting a battle. Most of the time, it's one that you can't see. Even that jerk who cut you off on the highway. Ashley tells us about the day that she and her husband Josh were given life-altering news. After having four awesome baby girls without an issue, they were told that their fifth baby, Kinzer had died in utero. Ashley had to labor and deliver their baby, yet miss out on the joys and challenges of raising her up. Join Kelsey and Roben as they interview Ashley and ask yourself: what if Ashley and Josh were the jerks who cut you off? What if they had just received this news or were heading home from the delivery of their still-born daughter? 

Kelsey and Roben talk to their amazingly gracious guest. Becky is one of those people who makes you want to be a better person. When she was diagnosed with non-small cell lung cancer, she began fighting a battle that no one is prepared to fight. Becky helps us all to explore how to "Be Pleasant," even in the toughest of circumstances. Sometimes, when we are facing various trials, we find connection and companionship with others driving on the same life highway. That can be helpful, however, we can also get into a habit of complaining and that leads to dead ends.  Becky shares the alternate route she chooses. We are so excited to celebrate with Becky that she is currently in remission.

Today our friend Miranda joins us on the podcast. She is a professional dancer who is a member of the Big Muddy Dance Company based in St.Louis, Missouri.  Dancers (and mimes apparently!) are trained in the art of telling a clear story by using their bodies and facial expressions. So, Miranda is an expert at non-verbals. However, we each also do this all day, every day. Evaluate yourself today to see what your non-verbals are communicating. Then reach out on our website or socials to tell us your stories. And if you're in the St. Louis area, check out https://thebigmuddydanceco.org/ to learn more about Big Muddy Dance Company and its schedule. Like Miranda, the performers are each amazing dancers and even more amazing humans!

On the podcast today, Roben and Kelsey explore the simple concept of being pleasant. Like most " simple " things in life, the application is often quite difficult to walk out.  We look at the differences between proactive pleasantness and reactive pleasantness.  In both types, there are easy applications and applications that are a bit of a challenge.  Can a singular word, unpleasantness, be a tongue twister? You tell us! Log on to Destinationconnections.com and email us the stories of your struggles and your victories in applying this tip! We want to connect with you! 

It's a big world out there! There are so many people and none of us are exactly alike. On the Pod today, Kelsey & Roben sit down with Brenden and talk about how to reach across the cultural divide by being vulnerable and intentional. It is ok to not know everything about every religion, culture, and ethnicity. However, in a time where we should be growing closer in connections with the rest of the globe, we seem to be becoming more tribal than ever. 

Today, we sit down with Jeremy, who is an expert in big talk. Jeremy has spent years training young people to effectively communicate respectfully across the divide of differing worldviews. On the podcast, he shares the importance of listening to understand, especially when discussing hot button topics, such as personal faith beliefs. Jeremy is the founder and executive director of REthink315, which you can find at www.REthink315.com.  Connect with us at www.destinationconnections.com or on Facebook or Instagram at destinationconnections. 

On the pod today, we get to talk to Dena. Whether as a therapist, seeing patients in a New York City Nursing Home, or as an actor, taking the stage across town as a triple threat, she uses small-talk every day. Dena shows us how using small-talk can act as a spark to ignite the flame to better connections. 

This week, Roben & Kelsey sit down with an amazing couple.  Jason & Tracy share the details of the day that changed their lives forever. Our final interview on Travel Tip One: You Do You, brings the reflection question, "What Life Experiences Have Shaped Me?"  The group discusses how we often have no control over major life-shaping events. Jason & Tracy certainly did not. Get a box of tissues ready and listen to their heartwrenching journey. 

Starting at the beginning is the best place to start. In today's inaugural episode, Roben & Kelsey kick things off with that in mind. When preparing for connections with others, it is important to "Know thyself". If you don't know who you are, how could you expect to connect with others in a healthy and meaningful way? Come and join our community as we invest in one another to start, strengthen, and sustain healthy connections! https://www.destinationconnections.com/ *I apologize that the audio quality on this episode is a little wonky. We are learning a lot about how to podcast better. It is our desire to bring you incredible content and incredible sound quality. Thanks, Luke, Post-production Producer/Editor*

"What do I have to offer?"  We have all pondered this reflection question at some point in our lives. In today's episode, Roben & Kelsey talk with Becky. Becky is ordinary. Then again, we all are. Yet even ordinary people who ask themselves "What do I have to offer ?" do extraordinary things! You may not move to the other side of the world and adopt a malnourished, disabled son, as she did. However, you can look for opportunities to see what you have to offer in your life. What should you say YES to?

On today's episode, we continue exploring Travel Tip One: You do you.  Roben & Kelsey discuss the importance of asking ourselves Reflection Question One: Who am I? They introduce themselves and talk about the series of events that led to the  genesis of the  Destination Connections Podcast. Check out our website @ www. destinationconnections.com  and let's connect!

Destination Connections is a brand new podcast! Listen Tuesday January 26, 2021 and every Tuesday after. Join us as Roben and Kelsey discuss their 12 Travel Tips to help you  start, strengthen and sustain healthy connections.  After the year we have endured in 2020 and the complete upheaval of everyday connections, this show is just what you need! We can still use social media to connect, yet we are struggling to truly connect with our families, friends and well ...ANYONE! Kelsey & Roben will discuss a new Travel Tip  every month and then connect with others through interviews unpacking their lives and discussing how they embody that tip. So join us and tell your friends to listen.  Let's build a community of connected people who can be the change our world needs.  Can't wait to connect!