The Set Free podcast brings stories of God showing up over and over again and the freedom and joy found through life with Jesus! Hosted by D1 beach volleyball player and All-American Keara Rutz, tune in every other Thursday for vulnerable conversations with guests who are fellow athletes, friends, teachers, coaches, businesspeople, and more, that will leave you encouraged and hopeful!
The Set Free podcast is an incredibly uplifting and encouraging show that provides practical reminders of God's truth and faithfulness, all while acknowledging the challenges we face in remembering those things during times of hardship. With each episode, this podcast has brought so much goodness and encouragement into my life. It consistently reminds me that God works all things, even the deepest and toughest struggles, for our good and His glory.
One of the best aspects of The Set Free podcast is its ability to provide practical reminders of God's truth. The hosts do a fantastic job of breaking down biblical principles and applying them to real-life situations. They offer insightful advice on how to see God's faithfulness in every circumstance, even when it may be difficult to do so. Each episode is filled with powerful stories of redemption and restoration, serving as a reminder that no matter what we may face, there is always hope in Christ.
Another great aspect of this podcast is its authenticity. The hosts are not afraid to share their own personal struggles and vulnerabilities, which creates a sense of relatability for the listener. It's refreshing to hear people who have experienced hardship themselves talk about how they have found strength and hope in God. This vulnerability fosters a deep connection between the hosts and listeners, making it feel like you're having a conversation with trusted friends who understand your struggles.
While The Set Free podcast offers immense positivity and encouragement, one potential downside is that some episodes can be quite lengthy. While the content is undoubtedly valuable, it can be challenging to find time to listen to longer episodes regularly. However, one could argue that the lengthier episodes allow for more in-depth discussions and insights into various topics related to faith and overcoming obstacles.
In conclusion, The Set Free podcast is an exceptional resource for anyone seeking uplifting messages rooted in biblical truth. It serves as a constant reminder that even in our darkest moments, God works all things together for our good. Through authentic storytelling and practical reminders, this podcast has brought immense encouragement and goodness into my life. I highly recommend giving it a listen if you're in need of a positive and faith-filled perspective on life's challenges.
Keara shares what she has learned to be true freedom in Christ at the Set Free Women's Conference! For so long, she knew who Jesus was, but wasn't living in the freedom that God intends for us to experience in him! Whether you missed the conference or need a refresher on what true freedom in Christ looks like, this is a must listen!
In this episode, Keara is joined by Haley Atkins and Reese Kelly to talk about walking with the Lord in biblical community. We were not meant to do this life alone, and we talked all about building Godly friendships as well as meeting people with grace all while remembering who our best friend for life and forever is! (It's Jesus!!!) Check out Haley & Reese's instagram account where they partner with the Lord in sharing grace & truth daily!!! @freedomfoundd
We all go through times when we feel super close and connected with God, and we also go through times when we feel like God is a million miles away. Why? You might ask God where he went and why he left, but the truth is God didn't leave you and he never will. In this episode, Keara and Noelle sit down and talk about 5 helpful things you can implement in your life when God feels far away. Discerning The Voice of God by Priscilla Shirer Book: https://www.amazon.com/Discerning-Voice-God-Recognize-Speaking/dp/0802450121/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1683776806&sr=8-4 Workbook Study: https://www.amazon.com/Discerning-Voice-God-Revised-Recognize/dp/1462774040/ref=sr_1_1?crid=21GYB1VBPC3IO&keywords=discerning+the+voice+of+god+priscilla+shirer&qid=1683776842&sprefix=%2Caps%2C189&sr=8-1
In this episode, we get to hear another talk from the Set Free Women's Conference! Grace Markwell shares what the bible says about abundant life and some of what God has taught her about a life of abundance. Abundant life is something that we are all looking for and that we all desire, but how many of us can actually say that we have abundant life? Grace gets practical with how we can experience the abundant life that is promised to us in Christ Jesus! Support Avery: https://reliant.org/avery.long
Katie Goram shares some of her wisdom with us at the set free women's conference on the fullness of joy that is found in the Lord. If you missed women's conference or want a refresher on some of the things Katie shared, check out this episode!
In this episode, Keara sits down with FSU softball player Kaley Mudge to talk about the freedom she has found in her life and specifically softball since understanding this simple truth- that Jesus loves her no matter how she plays. This simple idea gives her the freedom to play free and to use the platform that God has given her to glorify him. They talk trusting in God's plan, inviting God into everything (including NIL), and advice for other Christian athletes.
In this episode, Keara sits down with owner of By His Grace, Natalie Weaver, to talk all things Jesus. They talk about how Natalie came to know Jesus, how she got the idea for her business, and some of the ways that God has grown her and used her through owning her own business. The discuss the importance of scripture and having that be a part of our everyday lives as well as being bold about our faith and sharing it with others.
In this episode, Keara sits down in Isabella to talk about her story of coming to faith and loving and serving those around her. Isa was not raised in a Christian home. She was seeking freedom to do whatever she wanted and she really had it all in the eyes of the world. Isa came to know Jesus when she hit rock bottom at age 16 and has experienced a whole new kind of freedom that is so much better than anything the world could ever promise.
In this episode, Keara sits down with artist Emma Danos to talk about all sorts of things from control to loneliness to art. Emma shares how the Lord has met her and continued to be faithful and grow her in some of her darkest seasons of loneliness. She also shares about some of the gifts and talents the Lord has given her and how she has learned to use those as a way to connect with God and also reflect his glory. They talk through Isaiah 55 and the power and freedom that comes from the truth that God really is in control and that we can rest in the arms of our creator.
In this episode, Keara sits down with D1 soccer player EmJ Cox to talk about the pressure of performance in life and athletics and how everything changes when it is met by God's love and grace. They talk about how much greater God is than anything you will ever face as well as the importance of prioritizing time with Jesus every day.
In this episode Keara talks with her good friend Hannah about some of her experiences doing international missions and sharing the gospel with people in nations who have never heard it before. They talk about freedom from fear and anxiety that came with stepping out in faith as well as some of the awesome things God did during her time in the Middle East.
You all sent in some great questions and we had so much fun answering them! Keara and Grace sit down to talk about all things dating. The hope for this episode is that it gives you some encouragement and advice as you navigate dating in a way that is most glorifying to the Lord. If you are not a Christian, we think this advice is still very helpful for a healthy relationship, but it is advice intended for someone who desires to glorify God in their dating relationship.
FRIENDS! In this episode Keara shares a big part has been going on with her life lately through set free and how God is working and moving in big ways! Check it out to hear some beginning of December encouragement as well as get caught up on all the exciting things happening here at set free including our new website, blog, shop, and WOMEN'S CONFERENCE!!!!
In this episode, Avery Long joins Keara to talk about following Jesus and being a light for him in her sorority. Avery shares what God has taught her about having fun in college and how to bring other people into that. She talks about leading her chapter's bible study as well as how she has found so much joy in life with Jesus. Avery also talks about the freedom she has found from fear- fear of what others think, of not fitting in, of not having everything work out perfectly how she had planned- and how it is just better with Jesus!
In this episode, Keara sits down with Lindsey Gordon to talk about what it looks like to truly surrender our whole lives to the Lord and be attentive to the Holy Spirit as we go throughout our day. Lindsey works at DCC, our local church, as the media production director and is also a full time student at FSU. Lindsey's life is busy, and its so cool to hear how she finds time to slow down and surrender every part of her busy to God.
Spence Nicholson joins Keara to talk about the Lord's constant presence and work in our lives. Spencer shares how God saved her from her depression and suicidal thoughts in one night and reminded her of his great love for her. She shares how the Lord has lead her life and given her healing and hope since that night. Spencer also talk s about her line of work and how she has to extend love and grace to those who we may feel don't deserve it and how this reflects what Christ bas done for us.
In this episode, Keara sits down with Savannah Blasdel to talk about what it looks like to follow God in college while balancing all the busy parts of being a college student. They talk about putting God first above all else and the importance of community and leadership. This episode gives very practical advice and things you can incorporate in your day to day to seek Christ first. Check it out!!
Professional beach volleyball athlete Hailey Harward comes on the podcast to share her story of coming to faith later in life and how it has come to be the most important thing in her life. Hailey shares how her curiosity about faith ultimately lead her to place her faith in Jesus and how she now uses volleyball as a platform of sharing that faith.
In this episode, Aeriel Sudnt joins Keara to talk about the Lord's calling on her life to go to India and share the gospel. They also talk about how to Lord is faithful to use our yes and how he wants to use us to partner in building his kingdom. There is so much peace in pursuing the Lord's calling and Aeriel is experiencing that! Please join Aeriel in prayer that her visa would come through and that the Lord would use her as she says yes to his calling.
In this episode, Keara talks with one of her friends from camp Savanna Stout about what it looks like to walk in freedom from the temptations of college and the party scene. Savanna talks about how she has been freed from shame that comes from her past sins and is now able to walk with the Lord in fullness of joy.
In the episode, Keara sits down with former D1 indoor and beach volleyball player, Dylynn Otte, to talk about the things of the world that fight for our time and attention and how they ultimately let us down every time. We all have a hole in our hearts that can only be filled with Jesus, and Dylynn shares her story of trying to fill her life with things other than Jesus and how she ultimately came to find true satisfaction in the Lord. They also talk about how to do everything for the glory of the Lord and what that looks like in our everyday lives.
Keara sits down with student and author Naya Ross to talk about finding strength and joy from the Lord. They discuss what it looks like to walk in daily dependence on the Lord and how to experience peace, rest, and joy when walking with him through this life. They also talk about using the gifts God has given all of us to bring glory to him.
Zach Alessi shares his incredible story of God working a life-saving miracle in his battle with cystic fibrosis. Zach talks about doubt and anger towards God that came after an endless series of setbacks. Zach learned to lean into the Lord and recognize that God was always there, that he has been saved for a purpose, and that God is not done with him yet.
In this episode Keara shares what has been going on in her life lately and some of the things the Lord has been teaching her through it all! Will be back to normal episodes on a normal schedule now!
In this episode, Keara sits down with her mom who has been one of her greatest role models and examples of faith. Kristan tells some of her stories of God's faithfulness throughout her life and how they have become her powerful testimony.
In this episode, Keara sits down with Maddy Muller to discuss Maddy's awesome story of coming to faith in Jesus. They also discuss how God gives specific gifts and talents and calls us to use those unique gifts to glorify him and bring others to Christ as well as looking at discipleship and what it really looks like to be a disciple of Jesus.Â
In this episode, Keara sits down with Jenna Gurklis, a grad student and ministry leader, to talk about what it looks like to follow God's plan for your life. Our God is good and faithful to lead us where He calls, and on this episode Jenna shares her experience with seeking the Lord's purpose for her life and seeing his faithfulness throughout it all.
In this episode, Julia Scoles joins Keara to talk about her story of suffering from concussions and how God has redeemed her story and used it to bring glory to his kingdom. Julia is a high level athlete and member of the beach volleyball team at USC. In 2021, she helped lead them to a national championship and she shares how that experience has showed her what is really important in life.Â
Sofia Pluhar joins Keara on the podcast to talk about learning to combat the lies of the enemy and live in freedom through the Holy Spirit. They talk about the importance of looking to scripture to define our true worth, rather than trusting our thoughts and feelings.
In this episode, Keara talks with Sarah Petronio who works in the office of student athlete development at FSU. They talk about the greatest commandment found in Matthew 22 which commands us to love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and mind as well as loving your neighbor as yourself.
In this episode, Keara talks with Marnie Day about the power of prayer and the importance of our prayer life in our relationship with God. They talk about how to pray and how to grow our trust in God as we grow in our relationship with Him through prayer. Prayer is not just a way to get things from God, but a way to be in deep relationship with him.
In this episode, Keara sits down with her dad for a special conversation to reflect on some of the knowledge and experiences he has gained from his 50 years of life. We talk about the generational patterns that he has been able to change to become an amazing dad for his kids and an amazing husband to his wife mom. Louie Giglio Passion 2019 sermon: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8TEO8XoHQzo
Keara sits down for a solo episode to share just a few of the many many things she learned in 2021! Keara talks about about each of the fruits of the spirit plus how the podcast has effected her life in the past year and what she has learned through saying yes to something the Lord is calling to... even when you might have no idea what it's going to look like.
In this episode, Keara sits down with Tabitha Taylor to talk about what it looks like to have doubts and questions about God and how to navigate those difficult thoughts and feelings. Listen in to hear Tabitha's story of learning to bring her questions to the Lord and learning to rest in him.
Keara sits down with worship and ministry leader Cierra West to talk about how to navigate life when our dreams don't match up with God's plan for our lives. They discuss self-imposed disappointment in unmet goals and expectations. They also talk about ceasing striving, being still with God, and resting in his presence. Â
In this episode, Kelle Bond joins Keara to share the story of her struggle with infertility and the adoption of their son. Kelle is a passionate student of the Bible shares a bit of her school brain at the beginning and drops so much biblical wisdom throughout. The love of our good God is so reflected in this story and it is also filled with great advice!
Keara chats with her teammate Caitlin Moon about the last year of her life and the story of God bringing her out of her pit of sadness and renewing her with true joy. No matter where you are, God is good and he is doing a good work in your life. With Jesus there is true joy and freedom no matter your situation.
We are not meant to be perfect. We will never be perfect. And that's ok, because Jesus was. This episode, Keara sits down with Grace Markwell to talk about perfectionism and how there is actually power in our weakness and God's good grace is sufficient for us. Striving for perfectionism is such a big thing in today's culture, and Grace talks about the freedom she's found in letting that go and letting God fill in.
This is a special episode in light of suicide awareness month. Please know that you to know that you are loved and cared for by the creator of the universe. No matter how dark it gets in there, there is hope in Jesus. In the words of our guest, "Hold on love, the world still needs what you've got!!" Listen in to hear Joanna's story with depression and suicidal thoughts and how Jesus saved her life!
This week, Keara sits down with former volleyball player Sara Jones to talk about finding identity in the Lord and who he has created us to be. This conversation is so important because it's so easy to wrap up our identity in whatever we are doing in this world, but we are so much more- we are image bearers of Christ himself. Keara and Sara also talk about what it's like being a Jesus follower in college and how we choose to live differently.
In this episode, Keara sits down with Summer Nestlerode who shares her incredible story of dealing with a painful illness. Summer's inspiring journey will encourage anyone who has dealt with fear and uncertainty as she shares how God has used her illness for good.
In this episode, Keara sits down with Lindsay Price. Lindsay is a very genuine person and is very sure of God's goodness in her life despite some really difficult things she has been through. In this episode Lindsay shares how the Lord is working the evil that has been done against her for good and is passionate about building community with others who are walking through their healing processes.
Join Keara and University of South Carolina beach volleyball player Hannah Mackenhausen as they talk about Hannah's long struggle with anorexia the freedom she finally found in Jesus. Hannah is passionate about the Lord and super articulate with her faith and has a super powerful story of finding freedom through her identity in Christ. Hannah's youtube channel: https://m.youtube.com/channel/UCa1NY1BhT8gABcGC-1tBzuw List of Identity in Christ: https://i.pinimg.com/originals/d4/13/9c/d4139c71113f585d822bdb3ab0d87f51.jpg
In this episode, Keara sits down with her sister Noelle to talk about her struggles with comparison and how she been set free from that. They talk about college, life plans, and finding joy in the gifts God has given you. Noelle shares her advice for anyone struggling with comparison and the lack of joy that stems from that. Battlefield of the Mind by Joyce Meyer: https://www.amazon.com/Battlefield-Mind-Spiritual-Growth-Winning/dp/1455542857/ref=sr_1_2?crid=3JM3DUDE114FB&dchild=1&keywords=battlefield+of+the+mind+joyce+meyer&qid=1625611828&sprefix=battlefield+of+the+%2Caps%2C258&sr=8-2
Welcome to the Set Free podcast! This is a place of encouragement and the hope found through Jesus! In this solo episode, Keara shares why she is starting this podcast and what her goal with it is. Keara is a D1 beach volleyball player and a psychology major at Florida State University who is passionate about her faith and sharing how Jesus has changed her life. Listen now to hear Keara's story and what God has been teaching her in the past few years as a college student and athlete. Battlefield of the Mind by Joyce Meyer: https://www.amazon.com/Battlefield-Mind-Spiritual-Growth-Winning/dp/1455542857/ref=sr_1_2?crid=3JM3DUDE114FB&dchild=1&keywords=battlefield+of+the+mind+joyce+meyer&qid=1625611828&sprefix=battlefield+of+the+%2Caps%2C258&sr=8-2
The Set Free podcast brings stories of God showing up over and over again and the freedom and joy found through life with Jesus! Hosted by D1 beach volleyball player and All-American Keara Rutz, tune in every other Thursday for vulnerable conversations with guests who are fellow athletes, friends, teachers, coaches, businesspeople, and more, that will leave you encouraged and hopeful!
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