T Time: Spiritual conversations For, With and About Women.

In this episode of T Time: Spiritual Conversations for, with, and about Women, host Twanna Henderson welcomes listeners to the new year and reflects on the exciting journey ahead. As T Time approaches its fifth anniversary in May 2025, Twanna shares the focus theme for the year: evangelism. Drawing inspiration from Converge, a movement of churches dedicated to helping people meet, know, and follow Jesus.

Welcome to a T Time special episode recapping the Olympics with Dr. Twanna Henderson. This year's USA Men's basketball team was a shining example of unity and strength. Their individual giftedness was remarkable, but it was their collective strength that truly set them apart. As a leader, are you harnessing your own strength, or are you uniting your team to unlock their full potential, allowing each unique strength to be brought to the table? The potential of team unity is boundless, and it's up to you to tap into it.

God has equipped you for much, and just because you don't have it all together doesn't mean He can't use you. On today's episode, our guest, Dr. Kim Maas, discusses her new book, "Finding Your Muchness: Inheriting Audacious Boldness from Women of the Bible," which will profoundly impact and inspire you.Want to hear more from Kim?https://www.facebook.com/MoveforwardNowKimMaas/https://twitter.com/pkmaashttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_6VT9rtfJ8GU8rXdNOtAsQhttps://www.instagram.com/kimmaasministries/

Join host Twanna Henderson on 'T Time Spiritual Conversations for, with, and about women' as she engages in an enlightening conversation with Mindy Caliguire, co-founder and president of Soul Care. Mindy shares her personal journey from pain and brokenness to discovering the importance of soul care, a practice she advocates for individuals, especially women and leaders in ministry.Want to get connected with Mindy and her ministry?Visit https://www.soulcare.comTIMESTAMPS00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:26 Meet Mindy Caliguire: Soul Care Advocate02:12 Understanding Soul Care05:15 Mindy's Journey to Soul Care09:02 Barriers to Soul Care14:47 Soul Care vs. Self Care19:10 Practical Steps for Soul Care23:22 The Importance of Spiritual Friendships29:19 Connecting with Soul Care Ministry31:32 Closing Prayer and Final ThoughtsFor video versions of episode 48 and onward visit us on Youtube.

In this episode of T Time Converge's director of mobilization, Tania Martin shares her transition from the corporate world to full-time ministry, driven by her passion for God, missions, and discipleship.Timestamps:00:09 Intro01:32 Transitioning to full-time ministry05:48 Seeing God's faithfulness in the journey09:31 Navigating challenges and relationships of another culture16:19 The dynamics of singleness in missions20:10 Personal impacts and lessons learned in missions25:01 How should missionaries measure success?27:52 How to prepare if you're considering long-term missions30:08 Wrapping upFor video versions of episode 48 and onward visit us on Youtube.

What would it look like to have a God given view of Sex and Intimacy? In this episode of T Time Twanna discusses Understanding God's desire for us with intimacy and its role in relationships with Dr. Carol Tanksley.0:09 Intro1:13 Biology vs Intimacy4:16 “Sexpectations”7:07 The big deal about sex10:16 Healing from past sexual experiences17:07 The start of “Sexpectations”20:24 God's view on sexuality and intimacy25:42 Relationship Prescriptions29:51 How Dr. Carol dealt with her sexual dysfunctions34:26 Closing Prayer For video versions of episode 48 and onward visit us on Youtube.

Twanna is joined today by Paige Allen as she discusses her experiences in ministry as a woman, the importance of nameless women in her new book, “He Knows Your Name,” and her perspective on what it means to leave a legacy behind.0:09: Intro1:23: Paige on her childhood and how she became a pastor4:56: How Paige's role helps her lift up other women9:12: Experiencing pushback as a woman in vocational ministry10:49: An impactful experience with Indian women16:10: The importance of nameless women in “He Knows Your Name”20:23: Redefining the legacy we leave behind24:30: Closing Prayer For video versions of episode 48 and onward visit us on Youtube.

In this episode of T Time, Nita Bukowski, a missionary in Albania, shares her journey of overcoming abuse and finding freedom through faith. She passionately advocates for women to recognize their worth through God's eyes. Nita's ministry focuses on empowering Albanian women, addressing their challenges, and fostering hope.Want to support the work God is doing through Nita? Visit her giving page: converge.org/global-worker/ted-nita-bukowski0:09 Introduction1:56 Who is Nita Bukowski?2:55 How Nita began her missionary life5:59 Nita's ministry in transforming women's perspectives in Albania14:10 A “typical” day in Albania18:24 Overcoming personal and environmental challenges21:51 Albanian womens' greatest needs24:29 What Nita loves most about her ministry30:13 Closing Prayer32:26 Outro For video versions of episode 48 and onward visit us on Youtube.

Joel Wright joins Twanna Henderson to sit down and discuss how God is moving through women to make a huge impact in the kingdom of God across the globe.0:10 Intro 0:56 Introducing Joel Wright3:12 Joel's journey to becoming a missionary7:40 The importance of women in ministry11:40 How God is moving among Muslim women17:05 God moved at the womens' conference19:28 What's next for Joel Wright23:05 Following God's call25:40 Joel Wright's life verse28:57 Prayer and outro

Twanna sits down and reflects on 2023 while discussing what scripture will be encouraging her outlook as she enters into the new year.0:10 Introduction to the show1:36 Psalms 37's directives for the new year3:09 Trusting in God and letting go of worry 4:46 Humility, prosperity and peace in the new year

Mike Harvey, the driving force behind 511 Media Group, sits down with Twanna to discuss his marriage, business, and the challenges of the two being so intertwined. He speaks on the biggest lessons he's learned the past sixteen years and helps define what a successful life means to him.0:09 Introducing Mike Harvey and how he met his wife5:54 Mike Harvey on working alongside his spouse professionally while balancing family roles12:40 Shared ministry and wise decision-making18:56 The biggest influences on his marriage and lessons learned along the way

Lisa Harper joins Twanna to talk about her newest devotional, “JESUS.” They talk about the differences between her other books, how motherhood has changed her perspective on following Christ, and the depths of love that Jesus has for us.0:10 Introduction to the show1:23 Lisa on the difference between her devotionals “Life” and “JESUS”5:44 Lisa on how becoming a mother influenced “JESUS”11:39 Finding God through grace and suffering17:00 What message would you give to someone who feels disconnected from Jesus?21:18 What do you hope people will learn from “JESUS”

What do you do when your spouse is diagnosed with a terminal illness only a year into your marriage? Jarie Bolander, author of, “Ride or Die: Loving Through Tragedy, A Husband's Memoir,” offers a unique perspective when it comes to such a situation.0:09 Introduction to today's guest 1:55 Jarie and Jane's story 9:02 Why write, “Ride or Die?”14:40 How did you handle the stress of the situation? 17:17 Learning to ask for help 24:23 Tell us about your spiritual journey 30:36 The importance of a strong community 

No one understands unexpected loss and pain quite like Lisa Appelo, author of the book, “Life Can Be Good Again.” On today's podcast, Lisa joins us to talk about loss, grief, and how we can begin to see life as being good again even after walking through impossible situations. 0:09 Introduction to today's guest1:36 The loss of a loved one6:46 “Life Can Be Good Again”8:58 Fear - Identify the lie and take it captive 13:23 Lay it all at the feet of God16:03 Grieving children and a ministry of presence19:45 What does it mean to lament?24:52 The evolution of Lisa27:13 Connecting with and thanking Lisa

Being in control is something we all long for, and usually chase after. But is there more to this desire of always being in control? Sharon Hodde Miller, author of three books and co-founder of Bright City Church in Durham, North Carolina, sits down with us today to dive deeper into this topic. 0:20 Introduction to today's guest 2:13 The cost of control7:14 Can having more control lead to more anxiety?10:43 How does having control affect your ability to live within God's will?15:48 The illusion of control 18:54 Common forms of control22:23 Is there a way to change our views about control?25:51 The power of living within God's promise

Waiting is one of those things that none of us likes to do. So how do we learn to wait while also trusting the Lord and his timing? Brandi Nicole Williams, author of, “Legs Down, Prayers, Up: Six Keys to Unlocking Purpose While Waiting,” looks to answer this very question. She'll also spend time discussing her role as the Director of the African American Church Evangelism Institute at the Wheaton College Billy Graham Center. Whether you're learning to wait on the Lord in various areas of your life, or you're wanting to learn what it's like to navigate new leadership spaces, this T Time episode is for you.0:24 Intro to today's guest 1:14 Brandi's current ministry leadership role4:06 What are some challenges you face within this role?9:19 What are some things you enjoy about your leadership position?14:57 What lessons have you learned or are you currently learning from this leadership space?16:57 Self-advocacy matters and is a value worth having21:49 Ways Brandi is currently serving with women26:36 How would you describe your book?28:36 What has learning to wait produced in your life?34:14 Life after publishing a book

On this T Time episode, we'll be chatting about something that many of us would rather not talk about… our age. With everything from anti-aging creams to serums to injections, it can be hard to not get sucked into the world's view on aging. However, what if we allowed our age to serve as an opportunity to see the purpose and calling the Lord still has for our lives?0:11 Twanna shares a memorable moment from April.2:22 Counting each day of your life as significant 4:05 Trusting God through the process of aging5:31 When you're planted, you'll continue to flourish and bear fruit6:45 Making space in order to age with grace

Ruth King Chaseau started selling popcorn at a young age. Now, she's a successful businesswoman with a heart to see other women succeed in their God-given gifts. One of the tools she has used to encourage women in entrepreneurship is her magazine, EMPOW(HER). Listen to today's podcast and get inspired on your business walk. Whether you're just in the dreaming stages or years into it, you're guaranteed to walk away empowered and encouraged to keep going.0:09 Intro to today's guest1:09 Ruth's faith and faith journey3:11 How did your love for business start?4:54 How did EMPOW(HER) magazine become?6:17 What have been some challenges you've faced since starting your business journey8:45 Where did your passion for business come from?15:11 The importance of having a plan.17:32 What is your purpose behind each business?19:59 Giving the Lord the glory for all of your success.

When God calls you, he doesn't leave you to figure it out alone. He wants to lead you there. Meet a woman who said yes to God's call on her life despite the challenges — and be inspired to do the same.0:09 Introduction to today's guest, Jennifer Frakes.1:24 Jennifer's path to saying yes to the Lord.3:56 Stories of obeying God.6:28 How long were you in India?11:39 How has the Lord inspired you to overcome challenges in ministry?18:00 Challenges of international travel and isolation.20:02 International training for pastors and wives.25:19 How to get your church on board.28:14 Pray for our Caribbean partnerships.

Set your goals up for success. It doesn't matter if you forgot to set your goals for 2023 or are already struggling with the ones you have. Here is a simple but effective strategy to help you pace yourself and get to the achievement side of goal setting.0:09 Still trying to figure out how to get on course in 2023.1:03 The spiritual life season of spring.2:41 The newness of life.3:41 How to prepare for the next season? 5:24 The importance of setting specific goals. 7:02 The importance of having a target date.9:39 My favorite scripture. 

Saying "Yes" might be the easiest part of following God's calling in your life. But walking in that calling can bring problems - both big and small. Let's be honest about one of those problems: When it comes to being a woman in ministry, we've come a long way - but there's still much more we need to embrace.0:09  Introduction to today's guest1:09  Sarah's early career aspirations 3:21  How did she get to this point of ministry? 5:32  Would you consider becoming a pastor? 8:17  The big decision9:47  It was a winding and bumpy road14:34  Family support is key16:46  The Word of God is like an anchor20:03  What is a scripture that speaks to you?21:40  Look for the next best, yes

Are you still trying to figure out your calling in life? What if, instead, you look at what's possibly been there all along? On this T Time episode, we explore the life of Shannon Harris, who lays out clear indications that can help lead you closer to your calling. 0:09 Introducing Shannon Harris.1:58 Who is Shannon Harris and how did she get to this point? 4:27 When did you first feel that strong tug to serve the vulnerable children of the world? 6:35 The passion has always been there. 10:48 One thing led to another. 12:51 What resume? 14:40 New role: Senior church advisor.18:50 What are you most passionate about doing in this role? 20:50 We were chosen by a 12-year-old boy.22:54 Encouragement for women trying to figure out what they're called to do. 

We're talking about KILLING COMPARISON and rejecting the lie that you aren't good enough with special guest Nona Jones. It's time to live confident in who God made you to be. 0:09 Welcome to T Time: Spiritual Conversations For, With and About Women1:16 Where did the title of the book come from?3:02 What is the source of insecurity? 7:57 Life and death are in the power of the tongue10:24 What are approval filters and why do we seek them? 14:41 What is it about Jonatha that makes him so different?16:48 What is the three-step detox from toxic comparison? 21:23 The importance of reframing the idea of comparison24:26 I'm gonna get me a booty27:23 How can we train our hearts to celebrate sufficiency instead of grieving deficiency? 

Get to know the new president of Converge, Pastor John K. Jenkins, Sr. Learn about his call to ministry at a young age and how God has prepared him for such a time as this in leading the Converge movement.00:25 Meet the president of Converge3:50 The call to leadership from a young age5:50 Brief History of Converge7:44 Why join Converge?10:07 Plans for the future13:09 "God did not create us to work in isolation." - John K. Jenkins Sr.14:49 Family plays a vital role in leadership development- especially with six kids.17:38 What's your life scripture?20:57 How can we support each other?24:05 President John K. Jenkins Sr. closes in prayer.

Some grew up at churches that preached only about the end times and others at churches that stood clear of the topic. This episode is for you, no matter what part of the spectrum you find yourself in. Let's chat about what Scripture clearly says our role, as the Church, should be as we anticipate the day of Jesus' return.0:32  Today's topic is not often discussed in the church.1:14 What side of the spectrum might your church be in?2:05 Do you grow up with a fear of the book of Revelation?2:57 Should we, as believers, fear death?4:12 Twanna speaks on what the Bible says will be signs of Jesus' return being near. 7:25 Do you love the lost enough?9:23 Our mission field is right down the street.10:47 Twanna closes in prayer. 

Ministry life is not for the faint of heart but is the most rewarding and purpose-filled. So how can we live out a life of ministry in a world that looks down upon biblical truth but is in desperate need of it?0:30 Toni Kim is introduced by Dr. Twanna Henderson, who shares a brief biography.1:47 How did ministry become such a prominent part of Toni's call in life even before she became a Christian?5:22 Learn more about the National Association of Evangelicals, where over 40 different denominations come together to share the good news to a world in need of a savior.8:25 What does Toni define as the "best job ever?"10:02 Have you ever heard of an interactive conference? Coming soon, October 4-5 in Nashville, Tennessee, the National Association of Evangelical's conference called Flourish.11:40 Toni explains how God has broken her heart for his children.14:42 A pivotal moment for Toni's spiritual life.17:21 Stay curious about God.20:45 The Good News is still good news.24:45 Toni closes in prayer.

The list of options seem limitless when it comes to reaching your maximum potential or helping others get there. There's coaching, mentorship, accountability partners, etc. So what is the difference and how does coaching specifically focus on hearing what you want to achieve and help you get there.0:10 Jason Allison is introduced by Dr. Twanna Henderson who shares a brief biography.1:50 How did a question help start Jason's journey in coaching?4:12 There's a big difference between coaching and mentorship.5:55 How can coaching help you be a better leader, spouse and parent?8:32 Here is a list of reasons why you should consider being a coach or being coached.11:09 Coaching is about asking the right questions.16:40 Let's talk qualities of a good coach. 20:29 Examples of coaching in the Bible. 22:10 Details on Jason Allison's upcoming podcast launch. 25:58 Jason closes in prayer.

There's no cookie-cutter approach to #churchplanting, but a great place to start is to figure out the community's needs and ask God to help you fill them. In this episode of T Time, we learn of a church plant's creativity that is not only fulfilling the needs of its community but also helping other churches around the country fulfill their communities' needs. 0:25 Dr. Twanna Henderson introduces guest speaker, Dr. Melissa Patton, with a brief biography. 2:56 Melissa opens up on how she and her husband share a passion for sports and faith and how they planted their church through that passion. 4:30 What is Victory Kids Sports, what does it offer for the community, and how can you integrate faith principals in-school programs?10:52 Victory Kids Sports is a model that is beginning to be replicated and used in other states around the country. What does it take to make Victory Kids Sports run? 12:36 Twanna shares a concern that many parents have regarding establishing a Christian worldview toward sports with their kids and not having sports and faith clash but work together. 16:40 Melissa shares the ups and downs of running a program for kids and teens and the importance of building a solid and supportive team. 18:40 How can I get Victory Kids Sports at my church? 20:50 Melissa closes in prayer. 

Are you reluctant to step into your leadership gifts? You may not even call yourself a leader or a person of influence, but today we want to tell you that you are. In this episode of T Time, let's figure out ways to be intentional in our areas of influence to make a greater impact with God. 0:10 Twanna introduces episode guest Pastor Stephanie Williams O'Brien and asks her to share her story of becoming the lead pastor of Mill City Church. 4:25 Pastor O'Brien answers the question of when she first recognized that she was a leader. 6:26 Sponsoring women in leadership are taking mentorship beyond just supporting. It uses what you have as a leader to help create space for the person you are sponsoring and give them opportunities. 11:26 Is there necessary traits you need to seek out to live in your purpose and mission?15:41 Some of us are our own worst enemies regarding our mental load as women. 17:23 If you go into leadership with just your strategy or plan, it may be good but it won't be great. 18:22 Pastor Steph shares her greatest leadership win. 24:24 A good community of like-minded people is vital in the leadership journey. Pastor Steph shares some of the many resources she has to offer. 28:26 Pastor Steph closes in prayer.

God treasured the accounts of many women in the Bible and even entrusted the miraculous news of Jesus' resurrection to one. In this episode of T Time, we celebrate the ministry of her.Bible, an audio Bible fully read by a diverse group of women to reach more people with the gospel of Jesus Christ.0:09 Twanna introduces episode guest Jenny Steinbach and asks her to share her faith journey. 3:55 Jenny talks about the beginning stages and the motivation behind creating her.Bible, an audio Bible read entirely by a diverse group of women.8:32 There have been many benefits people have experienced when hearing the Bible read by different women. Jenny discusses those benefits with Twanna. 11:59 Sometimes, when God puts something on our hearts, it's difficult knowing how everything will come together. Jenny tells us how God made her vision a reality by bringing readers to her in different ways. 13:07 Jenny shares the beauty of Jesus choosing to share the news of his resurrection with Mary Magdalen and how this reveals to the world how much God values women. 16:33 Do men listen to her.Bible? Jenny shares some of her favorite testimonies from the men who listen to her.Bible.20:15 her.Bible is hoping to partner with others to expand into other languages. Jenny shares how others can join and help with this vision. 24:39 Jenny closes in prayer. 

"If the church can't live out ethnic unity, how in the world do we expect anyone else to do it?" In this episode of T Time, we hear from Vicki Gray, co-founder of Transformation church, and God's radical heart change in both her and her husband, Dr. Derwin Gray. Their church's mission is to live out the task of being a multi-ethnic, multi-generational, mission-shaped community that loves God completely upward, loves ourselves correctly inward, and loves our neighbors compassionately.00:26 Twanna welcomes listeners and introduces this episode's guest, Vicki Gray.1:42 Vicki unfolds her upbringing in the Mormon community. 4:13 After marrying Derwin Gray in college, which was later drafted to the NFL, they realized what they thought would complete them left them wanting more. 6:00 Twanna asks Vicki to share how she and her husband founded the Transformation church and some history on the church name. 8:10 Transformation church started with a tug on their hearts when they noticed that the church was not diverse. It began with a vision to be a multi-ethnic, multi-generational, mission-shaped community that loves God completely upward, loves correctly inward and loves their neighbors compassionately outward. 11:55 Vicki asks, "If the church can't live out ethnic unity, how in the world can we expect anyone else to do it?" 13:05 Leadership in the church is discipleship at a very high level. 16:25 As the executive director of spiritual formation and staff health, Vicki has learned that people need to want to grow spiritually for the full effect of discipleship. 16:45 Twanna asks Vicki to share how churches small and large can implement a culture of staff health. 19:03 Vicki shares some resources that she would recommend to churches regarding staff health. 20:52 Vicki explains what spiritual formation looks like at Transformation church. 24:46 "As a ministry partner with your husband," asks Twanna, "what has been your biggest challenge and your greatest joy?" 27:46 Vicki closes in prayer. 

Life will quickly pull you this way and that without even asking for permission. So how do you achieve a balanced life for yourself and support the same for those around you? In this episode of T Time, we're talking ALL THINGS BALANCE to free you up to achieve more in your home, work, ministry, marriage and personal life. 00:27 Twanna welcomes listeners and introduces this episode's guest, Charleen Anderson.1:51 Balancing all of the demands of life is complicated. Twanna asks Charleen to impart her wisdom as a pastor's wife, mother, working woman, etc., on balancing life with so much going on. 3:02 Charlene references Proverbs 10:27, saying, "Reverence for God adds hours to each day." 5:05 Twanna comments that we sometimes focus so much on the wrong things that we miss how God provides for us in the middle of our business.6:48 Charleen sheds light on a common theme in many pastors' wives: the feeling of inadequacy, but through time she has learned the importance of being herself in that role. When she was herself, she saw how God would give her the ability to do things she couldn't have done on her own. 11:14 Charleen has noticed a trend in most ministry marriages. They happen right after college; they get married and immediately begin their work in ministry, and have babies. The couples do not give enough time to get to know one another. 13:07 "Having a strong marriage gives confidence to the church" - Charleen Anderson14:40 Twanna asks Charleen how she could get to know some people from the congregation on a more authentic level? 19:43 It was important for Charleen to impress on her children the benefits of being a pastor's kid. 21:27 Charleen points out the importance of building a solid, teamwork mentality with your spouse from the start. 22:49 Twanna asks Charleen to advise how other pastors' wives can successfully support their husbands? 32:32 Charlene shares one of her favorite portions of scripture from 1 Samuel 30. 35:32 Charlene closes in prayer. 

00:27 Twanna welcomes listeners and introduces this episode's guest, Melissa Alderman, Converge Missionary in Togo, West Africa. 1:37 Melissa shares with listeners the beginning stages of how she was introduced to international ministries at a young age. 2:53 Melissa highlights her first international short-term mission trip at the age of 17, being the definitive moment where she chose to do missions for the rest of her life. 3:24 Twanna asks Melissa if she thought her husband was crazy when he told her they would work and live in West Africa. 5:26 Melissa says the best way to prepare for life as a missionary would be to surround yourself with like-minded, Christ-centered, collaborative, life-giving people that want to build and grow you and God's calling on your life. 7:01 Melissa and the team in West Africa have five different projects within the initiative to further the gospel and continue the church planting movement.8:06 Twanna asks Melissa, "What were the early days like living cross-culturally?" 9:21 In West Africa, Melissa shares, the Togolese people worship out of fear. So they have learned to speak of God as the Creator, Redeemer and Friend when presenting the gospel. 10:57 Melissa speaks of one life change story out of the many they have seen that can help summarize the last 13 years that they have been on the field. 15:44 Twanna asks Melissa to share some thoughts with the listeners who are considering living abroad. 16:24 Melissa lists different opportunities and ways to explore a future with short-term or long-term missions. 17:53 Melissa closes in prayer. 

Throw away the titles because they are giving you a place to hide. Leadership development is about moving toward your potential and learning the skills you need to get there. In this episode of T Time, get ready to take a seat at the table God has prepared for you and make sure you keep it. 00:25 Twanna introduces guest speaker Carmen Halsey.  1:12 Twanna asks Carmen to share her God story of going from a healthcare administrator to discipling women. 2:19 Carmen shares how discipleship was not something she grew up knowing in the church, but once she encountered it in the workplace she was hooked. 5:19 Carmen explains how leadership is like yeast working through a batch of bread. 5:40 Leadership should be tangible. Carmen explains what leadership should teach. 6:56 Too many women are hiding behind titles and Carmen believes that is such an injustice. 7:58 Carmen's describes her favorite way to develop leaders. 10:45 Twanna and Carmen discuss the importance of keeping our seat at the table God has placed us in as women. 12:23 Carmen shares why "nobody should be developing leaders second to the church."15:33 Carmen shares her email address as the best way to get in contact with her for leadership development. 16:04 Twanna asks Carmen to share one book that can help someone start leadership development.17:50 Carmen closes in prayer. 

Are you a part of the 40% of women who make up the new entrepreneurs in the United States? Whether you were a part of the great resignation or not, women have eagerly sought out ways to work for themselves and have become more successful in their trade than ever. Check out today's T Time to learn some great tools to be successful as your own boss. 00:23 Twanna introduces guest speaker, Melissa Meyer. 1:15 Twanna asks Melissa to share her journey of entrepreneurship.  2:08 Melissa shared that coming back from maternity leave her boss did not let her work from home and that was not going to work for her family.  3:01 When working for different office jobs, "You tend to work with a lot of different personality types," Melissa said. That experience has helped her gain an understanding of different opinions and perspectives4:07 Being an entrepreneur can be lonely and difficult. Twanna asks Melissa who has influenced her during her entrepreneurship journey. 5:02 Melissa shares that her father taught her to have the grit and tenacity to not give up even when giving up is an option. 6:42 2021 has been known for The Great Resignation and Melissa mentions that since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been an increase in freelance people in the workforce. 7:27 Twanna asks Melissa how faith has played a role in her entrepreneurship.8:04 Melissa shares about the impact of waiting on God from the beginning of her entrepreneurial experience. 10:01 Melissa shares the many challenges entrepreneurs face. 12:28 Having a moment where you can do a time audit is crucial for Melissa to feel like she has work and home-life balance. 17:30  Melissa gives encouragement to women who may be contemplating starting or growing their own business. 20:50 Melissa closes in prayer. 

Julie Thomas became a mom of four in a matter of 20 months. "It is pretty wild how God put our family together," she said. But, as a blended family and a white mother to two Haitan, now teenage boys, she's seen firsthand how inequality, racism and biases are still present today. So she's asking everyone to "take an honest look at your own life. And honestly ask yourself, is there even a drop of racism in me?" 00:23 Twanna introduces guest speaker, Julie Thomas. 1:11 Twanna asks Julie to share a little about her family and living with four teenagers.  2:50 Twanna sheds light on thousands of children in need of adoption and asks Kathy what drew them to adopt two children of a different race. 3:21 Julie says, "I remember one night after my husband and I got married, we sat in a parking lot. I remember him telling me, 'I feel like I'm supposed to have a black son.'" 5:04 When adopting their first son, Isaiah, in Haiti, Julie shares the experience and how Isaiah, at just 14 months old, picked Joel to be his dad.6:06 In just 20 months, Julie and Joel went from parenting one child to parenting four. 7:44 Julie talks about her first encounter with noticing the difference of how others were treating her first two boys in elementary school and how, especially during Black History Month in February, things would get stirred up. 8:55 Twanna shares her experience and observation that "white people, in particular, don't have to deal with black people." She shares how they can go on without dealing with black people, but they would miss the truth of what is happening in our world today and what others different than them are experiencing. 10:56 Julie wrote a blog after the Charlottesville riots called, "Where is the disconnect? The questions I'm asking myself about racism" and discusses the premise for writing this blog. 13:43 After George Floyd's death and its aftermath, Julie shares as her boys get older, she may not fully understand where they are, but she wants them to know they are loved, accepted and safe with her and her husband. 16:18 Twanna asks Julie if she and her husband have had some of the conversations that black parents have with their black children? 16:28 Julie says it's disappointing and frustrating having two black sons and one white son and that the same rules don't apply to them because of the world we live in today. 19:31 Twanna asks Julie how parents can intentionally help their children address race and racism.21:49 Julie says, first, you need to ask yourself good and honest questions. Then ask your kids good and honest questions. Finally, as parents, model racial reconciliation.  23:30 Julie closes in prayer. 

What is easily believed in the light is not easily seen in the dark. Today on T Time, we get to glean wisdom from the unique story of a two-time pastor's wife, Kathy Ferguson Litton, who shares her story of loss, grief and purpose all while church planting, parenting and surviving with faith. 00:23 Twanna introduces guest speaker, Kathy Ferguson Litton. 1:07 Twanna asks Kathy to share her story of being a second-time pastor's wife. 1:34 Kathy shares details of her first marriage to Rick Ferguson and how during a thriving season of ministry, her husband was killed in a car accident. 3:37 Twanna asks Kathy to share how difficult it was to navigate through his sudden death.3:57 Kathy admits that in this season things she easily believed in the light got a little harder to see in the dark. 6:04 After the death of her first husband, Kathy shares having to take a secular job and how a coworker admitted that her suffering made her faith more believable.8:08 As the director of spouse development at the North American Mission Board, Kathy shares some tips from an e-book her team created for pastor's wives. 11:14 Twanna asks Kathy to share her thoughts over the last 18 months in our country and the pressure the church has felt because of that. 15:38 Kathy shares that when we honor anyone's story, we are bearing their burdens and loving our neighbors as we would love ourselves. 16:26 Twanna asks Kathy to share what she now knows about the pastor's wife role that she didn't know before. 18:34 Kathy shares a talk she does with young pastors' wives on sacred influence, and how their influence impacts eternity. 22:26 Kathy believes through her experience that a part of having a leadership role is to develop a thick skin but also keeping a tender heart. 25:46 Kathy closes the podcast in prayer. 

Twanna brings back a very timely episode on Faith during the time of storms. It is hard to believe that one year ago, our world was being affected by the Coronavirus one way or another, and yet today, we are still facing those same effects. Listen to this episode to understand how faith and medicine don't have to be competing entities but work best when understood individually and how they make a positive impact when put together. 0:05 Twanna welcomes everyone to T Time and introduces a past episode from one year ago on "Faith During the Times of Storms." 1:18 Twanna introduces special guest Rev. Percy McCray, National Director of Faith-Based Programs. 2:21 Rev. McCray shares his story of his journey and how he ended up becoming the National Director of Faith-Based programs at Cancer Treatment Center of America. 4:35 Twanna asks Rev. McCray whether there is a conflict between faith and medicine. 5:21 Rev. McCray presents that he believes there is a perceived conflict but the truth is there is no conflict at all. 9:07  Rev. McCray explains that although it is not obvious, many doctors are people of faith but because of the credentials they stand on they may not proclaim it when working verbally but within themselves, many pray and counsel their patients. 10:58 Twanna asks how faith potentially helps people experiencing COVID-19 and even cancer? 13:32 Faith provides patients with the ability to look beyond their own circumstances and limitations. 16:32 Twanna asks: how can we reconcile the fact as ministers that good people are getting something bad? 20:14 Rev. McCray refers to Romans 8:28 and emphasizes the word all. All things, whether good or bad, God will work it for our good. 21:17 Twanna shares how she believes God trusts certain people to suffer. 21:25 Rev. McCray discusses how suffering is a part of the walk of a believer. 23:10 Rev. McCray explains the connection between COVID-19 and cancer. 26:41 How do you encourage people who are encouraging? Asks Twanna. 28:42 Rev. McCray has to consistently remind his team that they are not the healer, they are to direct the people to the healer. 29:47  Rev. McCray defines what makes CTCA different from any other place and that is the fact that they embrace the idea of integrative medicine. 35:02 Rev. McCray closes the podcast in prayer.  

Secrets are a part of everyone's life. They can be personal secrets or secrets held within the family. In Scripture, we learn that only the truth can set us free (John 8:32). In this episode, Twanna shares one of her deepest secrets that held her captive for many years until she learned that true forgiveness only comes through confession and accepting God's forgiveness. 0:42 In this episode, Twanna opens up by sharing how this topic is different from the others because it is more personal and not often discussed within Christianity. 0:54 Secrets are a part of everyone's life, and at times some families have secrets kept within the family for years, shares Twanna. 1:34 Twanna confesses to getting pregnant as a teenager. 2:07 Twanna shares how her father passed away about a year before she got pregnant.3:11 After Twanna confessed to her mother; there was no further conversation about what happened. 4:19 Without knowing how far along in her pregnancy she was, Twanna's family drove her to an abortion clinic. 5:00 After the abortion, the family continued with life as usual, as if that never happened. 6:05 While it remained a secret among the family, Twanna recognized the decision caused a strong sense of guilt that was a part of every aspect of her life. 6:29 Romans 11:29 revealed to hear that God could still use her.6:59 The intent of sharing this is to recognize a segment of wounded people and let them know there is hope in Jesus. 7:47 Twanna closes in prayer. 

In a world where 92% of boys and 63% of girls are being exposed to pornography before the age of 18, as parents, guardians, influencers and/or leaders we need to show the next generation that a victory flag has already been claimed for them to no longer live tied to the chains of addiction. In this T Time episode, we discuss the truths and dangers around pornography from a mother's personal experience and how she has, in turn, made it her mantra to educate parents and students on how to face pornography with God's truth. 0:09 Twanna introduces special guest Barb Winters, founder of hopefulmom.net.1:26 Barb begins by sharing her story of how hopefulmom.net started, which was when learning about her third son's addiction to pornography at 14. 4:17 As a parent learning about your child struggling with pornography, Barb shares, it can feel very lonely because it is not something you want to share with anyone. 6:55 In the world we live in today, Barb says, there are two split views on pornography: either you think it is OK, or you don't even comprehend the pervasiveness of it. 9:16 Barb shares that after going through grief and anger, she realized her son was a victim of a society that says pornography is OK, but he is a potential victor in God's eyes. 12:20 With her son's permission, Barb shares how there was freedom in bringing the sin to light. 13:01 Barb encourages talking to children about pornography and its effects early and thinking through how to daily protect our children from its effects. 15:48 Most parents want a quick fix, but the truth is, there is no quick fix. The important thing is to keep an open line of communication. 17:45 Protecting our kids by providing boundaries is not hurting them; there is a big difference. 19:54 Barb shares her experience with having to forgive a lot of people when walking with her son through his freedom from his addiction to pornography. 22:41 As a certified sexual risk avoidance specialist, Barb gets to go to schools and talk to students about the effects of pornography as well as risky behaviors.   26:54 As a parent of a recovering porn addict, she shares with parents in the same shoes that they are not alone. 29:01 Barb closes in prayer. 

Jesus never kept the gospel in a building. He allowed the word to spread as far as it could go, and it continues to spread faster and further than ever before. In this episode, we get to talk about the church and its forced pivot to think digital from one day to the next due to the effects of the pandemic and how it has benefitted the spreading of the gospel and the church's connections with the community around it and beyond. 0:09 Twanna introduces special guest Pastor Keshia Dixon, the online pastor at First Baptist Church of Glenarden. 1:23 Twanna asks Pastor KD to explain what an online pastor's responsibilities are. 2:01 Pastor KD explains her role as an online pastor, which is to engage the audience and connect with Christ and the church.  5:14 Pastor KD explains how church membership works for the online churches and how they handle baptism for people who call their church home but live in a different state. 12:31 Pastor KD shares some of the successes since starting an online campus. 14:40 Twanna asks if creating an online Sunday worship experience is difficult. 16:44 Pastor KD explains that the goal of a successful Sunday experience is to start where you are and with what you have. 18:39 Twanna asks Pastor KD to explain what pastors looking to hire an online pastor should look for in a person. 20:45 Pastor KD explains that the role of an online campus pastor is not about preaching well but is about being really good at connecting with people.22:15 Twanna asks Pastor KD to share how the pandemic has caused the church to rethink offerings. 24:31 Pastor KD shares about The Beyond Conference that they are hosting virtually again this year at First Baptist Church of Glenarden.  30:16 Pastor KD closes in prayer. 

In this T Time episode, we interview Michele Dudley, the founder of Fashion & Compassion. This ministry started from a trip to Central Africa in 2008 that impacted Michele so profoundly an entire ministry serving vulnerable women in the United States and abroad was born. 0:09 Twanna introduces Michele Dudley as the special guest for this episode on the Fashion & Compassion ministry. 1:19 Michele opens up by sharing how and when she started Fashion & Compassion. 3:07 It was after a trip that Michele took in 2008 to Central Africa that changed her life, and that is when she began selling jewelry to try and support a project in Uganda. 6:03 Michele opens up about what her most significant learning experiences have been since starting Fashion & Compassion. 7:41 Michele shares how women are referred to Fashion & Compassion by other organizations they have partnered with and have listed on their website.8:53 Many success stories have come out of Fashion & Compassion. Michele shares one of her favorite stories of a woman who was coming out of addiction. 12:32 Twanna asks Michele to share how local churches can partner with Fashion & Compassion.15:42 Michele shares the details on the best ways to support Fashion & Compassion and the link to their website to see all of the products they sell. 16:44 Michele shares what her role in Fashion & Compassion looks like now that she has stepped down from the ministry's day-to-day operations. 18:47 Twanna asks Michele to pray over women going through challenging situations in life.19:33 Michele closes in prayer. 

Millennials won't just take your word for it; they want to experience the gospel WITH YOU by the way YOU live it out. Listen to this T Time podcast to get some great strategies on engaging millennials with the gospel.0:09 Twanna welcomes listeners to T Time and introduces special guest Yana Jenay Conner for this episode on discipling millennials. 1:53 Yana opens up the conversation by defining discipleship and emphasizing the words "how-to" in the Great Commission, found in Matthew 28, which helps define what discipleship is. Discipleship is not just teaching people the commands of Christ, but it is teaching them how to obey the commands of Christ. 7:17 Yana begins to explain the different approaches people have to make when discipling a millennial. 10:20 Twanna asks Yana to share some of her thoughts on how the big C church can practically retain millennials. 15:00 Yana shares a story about her experience with engaging in conversation with someone at a coffee shop and how her win was not getting the girl to accept Christ in her heart right there but to teach her a deeper understanding of walking with Christ. 16:37 Twanna asks Yana how she sees Jesus engaging with people on a worldview level in the scriptures? 21:34 Twanna emphasizes that for millennials the "why" is so important and when disciplining a millennial, it will all boil down to "why." 29:20 Twanna asks Yana to share her thoughts on what are the two big life issues that the church needs to address to win and challenge this age group?30:16 Yana explains that she believes every church should be clear on where it stands on issues of justice and equality and that the church should disciple this generation on those beliefs too as the world is struggling with loneliness. Churches should be teaching and making it possible for people to build friendships with one another, and not just through social media. 33:55 Twanna asks Yana to close in prayer. 

We think it is safe to say, 2020 was a challenging year for everyone. People were experiencing enforced social isolation, depression and anxiety were at an all-time high and more. However, those things don't just disappear because of a new year. On this T Time, we discuss the importance of seeking professional counseling, knowing when you need to seek counseling and the stigmas behind faith and counseling. 0:09 Twanna introduces special guest Felice Hightower Britt, who is a licensed professional counselor. 2:05 Felice shares her experience with how she became a licensed counselor. 4:37 Twanna points out that many biblical scholars think counseling and psychotherapy violate the Bible's integrity and asks Felice her views on this. 5:26 Felice explains her personal experience with avoiding counseling when she needed it most and how she learned that Christ, in Scripture, shares how he has sent counselors for his people. 9:14 Felice also explains the importance of taking your issues to God first and then seeking a counselor.11:36 Felice lists out signs people can look for to see if they need counseling. 14:34 Twanna and Felice discuss good ways to find the right counselor for you. 17:49 Felice breaks down the impact COVID-19 has had on Americans, in particular during 2020. 21:02 Felice shines a light on the difficulty of being single during social distancing and encourages singles to find purpose in this time. 23:53 Felice shares the benefits of counseling and what someone could get out of it. 29:12 Twanna asks if counselors need counselors. 32:55 Felice closes in prayer. 

The focus is LOVE. This month on T Time, Twanna and her husband of 23 years, Pastor Michael Henderson, share transformational steps you can start today to experience and give love from John Townsend's book, Loving People: How to Love and Be Loved. 0:09 Twanna introduces Pastor Michael Henderson, her husband of 23 years, as the special guest for this month's special podcast for Valentine's Day. 1:05 This year, for one of Twanna and Pastor Henderson's goals, they committed to reading John Townsend's book, Loving People: How to Love and Be Loved. They share how they are going to talk about their biggest takeaways on loving people through this book. 3:11 Pastor Henderson unpacks the definition of love shared in Townsend's book.4:40 Pastor Henderson explains this new idea that some people are incapable of love because they have never genuinely received love themselves. 7:29 Due to his experience of growing up in a large family and not getting much attention, Pastor Henderson shares his thoughts on how he never really experienced or understood love until his conversion as a teenager. 9:00 The Greeks define love in different levels. Pastor Henderson explains three levels of love that were shared in Townsend's book. 13:46 Pastor Henderson talks about the common phrase of "loving yourself first" being more of a pop culture mentality and how Townsend debunks that thought in his book. 16:46 Twanna shares how Townsend, in his book, explains that for you to love people, you need two things: humility and tolerating discomfort. 20:00 If you want to connect with others, Pastor Henderson shares, you have got to be willing to get hurt by being vulnerable.22:21 Pastor Henderson answers Twanna's question about the difference between caring for someone and loving someone. The most significant distinction is that caring is safe, but you're taking a risk when you love. 26:22 Twanna asks, "why is letting go or forgiveness vital when loving people"? 26:45 Pastor Henderson explains the misunderstanding of forgiveness. Many believe forgiveness is for the offender when it is about the offended. 28:34 Pastor Henderson closes in prayer. 

Toss the 100th gym membership thought out the door. Today on T Time, we talk about SMART goals for 2021. If you’ve never heard of or made a "SMART" goal, join us as we break down a life coaching strategy with Christina Lee, CEO and co-founder of Paradigm 360 Coach Training LLC.0:10 Twanna introduces special guest Christina Lee.2:21 Twanna asks Christina how she helps people set good goals.5:19 Christina breaks down what a "SMART" goal is.8:03 Twanna asks Christina how successful are people when starting goals to bring them to completion. 9:42  Christina shares the "SEE" acronym and how it is essential to completing goals. 11:47 Christina shares that accountability is not just important for goals but every area of your life. 12:07 Twanna asks Christina what she would say to the people who feel like the goals they set for 2020 never happened.12:36 Christina says there has to be grace without lowering the standard. 14:36 Christina explains that as long as we set our goals through the lens of Scripture, then we should be getting our goals right 100% of the time. 17:00 Christina shares four things to start setting goals. 18:57 Christina shares how Jesus is the best coach to have ever walked the earth. 22:59 Christina closes in prayer. 

Gratitude is not always easy but is essential to experience joy. Groundbreaking social researcher and best selling author Shaunti Feldhahn explains shares her analytical studies from both science and the bible and shares some tangible and key elements you need in order to have, keep and share joy. 0:10 Twanna introduces special guest Shaunti Feldhahn2:44 Twanna asks Shaunti if it is possible to experience joy in a season of pandemic? 3:15 Shaunti explains the difference between happiness and joy.5:10 Shaunti explains that one key factor to having joy is by living with an attitude of gratitude. 9:15 Shaunti shares about a myth that we have all bought into and that is the myth that venting is healthy. 12:00 Shaunti says, venting is not ok but seeking wisdom on a situation you need to talk through with a trusted friend is different. 15:36 Shaunti answers the question, "what has really been your journey to unshakable wonder" and how she began writing her devotional.  18:27 Shaunti discusses with Twanna how another piece to the puzzle of joy is to experience it. 21:04 Shaunti closes in prayer. 

It takes practical skills to grow in emotionally healthy discipleship. Skills that help you speak the truth and not lie to yourself, learn how to disrupt false peace for true peace, begin to do clean fighting and not dirty fighting, and learning how to process difficult emotions. All of these skills are necessary for growing in emotionally healthy discipleship. Best-selling author Geri Scazzero shares her journey with her husband, Pete, in church planting and how she hit rock bottom with life's pressure of being the poster child for the church until she realized that pleasing and performing for others is far from the truth God wants for us. 0:09  Twanna welcomes listeners to the podcast and introduces special guest Geri Scazzero. 1:33  Geri shares her start to the journey of emotionally healthy discipleship.  3:14  Twanna mentions how there's nothing like pain that will push us to a whole new level of growth. 3:33  Geri shares her story on how her depression eventually led her to the point that her church no longer brought life to her but death. 8:39 Geri shares how she began to attend a different church from the one her husband and she had planted. This brought shame and embarrassment to her husband.  9:25  Twanna asks Geri to share how she has evolved now from that process.10:25  Geri shares how her core was not centered in the true gospel like she thought it was and that was the beginning of her transformation. 12:43  "If you're afraid of what other people think, then my okayness is not coming from the gospel, my sense of okayness my sense of self,  it's coming from your thoughts of me. In other words, I'm OK with me, if you're okay with me," says Geri. She shares that her identity was being built upon what others thought of her instead of God's gospel. 17:24  Geri shares the importance of telling the truth to yourself and how vital that is for your emotional health. 17:48  Twanna asks, how do people get to a place of emotionally healthy discipleship during a pandemic?18:36  Geri says it starts with self-awareness and knowing how to become self-aware, which begins with paying attention to your body and what is going on inside of you. 21:25  Twanna asks Geri if there is a difference between emotionally healthy discipleship for women than there is for men.22:18  Geri shares that it takes great courage to be emotionally healthy whether male or female and to go through that transformation. 26:34  Geri shares the importance of growing in self-awareness when you are a person in leadership. 27:32  Geri shares the purpose of her two-part course on her website emotionallyhealthy.org 30:34  Geri closes in prayer.

In life, the best thing we can do to move forward with our goals is to recognize our weaknesses. When we recognize our weaknesses, we can set up our environments to make it easier for us to do the things we need to do that will help us and not hurt us. This episode on taking back your temple will help you analyze the context of your life to help you fit in what works for you and your family to improve your health and fitness lifestyle. 0:27 Twanna introduces special guest Kimberly Taylor. 1:16 Twanna shares her excitement to talk about Kimberly's journey with health because of the common problem many people face of either currently struggling or having struggled with weight issues. 2:54 Kimberly explains that although she was a nurse, she never took her health seriously until the day she started to experience chest pain. 3:55 Kimberly shares where the name, "Take back your temple," came from and how taking care of ourselves is one of the ways we can show honor to God because our bodies are not our own. 5:30 Kimberly introduces her circle thoughts when it comes to stress eating: 1) what she can actually control and 2) circle of concern. 9:00 Twanna asks Kimberly if she has found that emotional issues play a part in weight gain.11:49 Kimberly encourages the audience to embrace foods in your life that will help keep you emotionally stable so that your focus could be on finishing the work the Lord has called you to. 13:50 Kimberly shares how it is a high honor for us to have the Holy Spirit living within us, and knowing that should propel us to take care of our bodies like a landlord who rents out their home. Whoever is renting it at the time needs to make sure to take care of it and keep it how it was given to them or even better. 17:32 Kimberly says, "We have to recognize our own weaknesses and set up our environment to make it easy to do things that help us and not hurt us." 18:00 Twanna asks how women can steer away from wanting what others have and learn to appreciate what God has already given us? 19:41 Kimberly asks, What would you do differently with someone else's body? Would you stare at yourself in the mirror all day or get out and share the gospel, which you can do in the body that God already gave you?21:17 Kimberly gives tips on how to introduce healthier meals without them noticing. 23:51 Twanna asks what people can do that want to get their bodies back on track.26:17 Kimberly says whatever weight loss system you are trying to adapt needs to work within the context of your life.27:28 Kimberly shares what the "take back your temple" ministry has to offer. 28:37 Kimberly closes in prayer. 

Faith provides us with the ability to hope. It provides us with the ability to look beyond our circumstances and limitations, especially when battling sickness and/or disease. For years faith and medicine have been understood as competing entities when in reality we are learning that they work best when understood for what they are individually and how they can work together. 0:10 Twanna introduces special guest Rev. Percy McCray, National Director of Faith Based Programs. 1:33 Rev. McCray shares his story of his journey and how he ended up becoming the National Director of Faith Based programs at Cancer Treatment Center of America. 3:36 Twanna asks Rev. McCray whether there is a conflict between faith and medicine. 4:16 Rev. McCray presents that he believes there is a perceived conflict but the truth is there is no conflict at all. 7:34  Rev. McCray explains that although it is not obvious, many doctors are people of faith but because of the credentials they stand on they may not proclaim it when working verbally but within themselves, many pray and counsel their patients. 10:17 Twanna asks how faith potentially helps people experiencing COVID-19 and even cancer? 13:00 Faith provides patients with the ability to look beyond their own circumstances and limitations. 14:54 Twanna asks: how can we reconcile the fact as ministers that good people are getting something bad? 19:26 Rev. McCray refers to Romans 8:28, and emphasizes the word all. All things, whether good or bad, God will work it for our good. 20:28 Twanna shares how she believes God trusts certain people to suffer. 20:36 Rev. McCray discusses how suffering is a part of the walk of a believer. 22:19 Rev. McCray explains the connection between COVID-19 and cancer. 25:33 How do you encourage people who are encouraging? Asks Twanna. 28:07 Rev. McCray has to consistently remind his team that they are not the healer, they are to direct the people to the healer. 29:20  Rev. McCray defines what makes CTCA different from any other place and that is the fact that they embrace the idea of integrative medicine. 34:10 Rev. McCray closes the podcast in prayer.