Hello! Welcome to The Determined People Podcast, hosted by John Harrell, bestselling author, inspirational speaker, blogger and now podcaster.The Determined People Podcast is a two-pronged approach to podcasting. Every day I will offer a short, 1-2 minute inspirational message designed to start your day the right way. It’s not rah-rah stuff or fluff. The messages are designed to make you think, to inspire you, and to sustain you as you face the unknown challenges of the day. Weekly I will interview real people with honest, relatable stories. People who are willing to share their experience, strength and hope from their own life’s difficulties. When you listen to their stories, it is my hope you think, if they made it, so can I. Our world needs hope, and everyone I meet has a story. All of us have faced difficulties. In fact, we are facing one now…the global pandemic which has compromised our lives, our mental health and has impacted all of us uniquely. By sharing our stories, we connect at the heart level. We are unguarded. And through podcasting, these stories are available whenever you need them. So let’s get started.

Think before you click! Things may not be as they appear to be in the headlines.

Clear your mind and listen to others. Listen with your heart, too...

Every experience we have in life, the good and the bad, prepares us for something else. You just gotta keep going to find out what that something else is.

The food we eat is vitally important for how our bodies and minds function. I'm encouraged by the new food pyramid, emphasizing protein, fresh fruits and vegetables, and healthy fats.

Unity sounds good until it robs you of your identity. Be who you are, not the person the world wants you to be.

God is involved in every detail of our lives. He cares about everything, the big stuff as well as the little things.

Free speech is a wonderful right. We have to fight like hell to protect it. Once it's gone, you won't get it back.

We live in a civilization that is increasingly less civil. It's up to us, individually and collectively, to set the right example when interacting with others.

If you want more from life, you must be willing to give more of yourself. This is how you set yourself up to succeed in all your endeavors.

New things excite us! But one truth stands out: "faith without works is dead." You have talents that are unique to you. You have had them all your life. Develop them. Use them to make your mark on the world.

In the words of the great philosopher, Ferris Bueller, "Life moves pretty fast. If you don't stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it." Don't miss it.

Everyone wants to be seen, heard and understood. Create deeper, stronger connections by peering into the heart of mankind...

Change happens gradually, but it happens if you don't give up. Set your mind on what you want for your life. Don't allow anyone to talk you out of your dreams. Others don't see what you see...

When you begin focusing on solutions rather than problems, you will dwell in possibility.

Timing really is everything. Here is a method you can use to deliver a difficult message.

When you drop your guard and approach life with openness, you create deeper, more meaningful connections. Happy New Year, everyone! Welcome to 2026.

Great accomplishments require sacrifice and commitment. It's okay to take breaks along the way. Don't rest too long or run the risk of being accused of "resting on your laurels." Happy New Year, everyone! I wish you health, fulfillment and success in 2026 and beyond!

The year 2026 is one day away! Have you set any resolutions? If so, or if not, here is a guaranteed way to have success in reaching your goal in 2026 or anytime.

Confidence is quiet and attractive. Arrogance is loud, and it's a real turnoff. False pride destroys everything good in your life.

Resilience is built in the dark times, not when life is easy and we are coasting. Find your inner strength when the darkness comes. Light is on its way...

There are a lot of hurting, struggling people in this world. We can't help everyone, but everyone can help someone. Look for opportunities.

Unlike appliances, you are built to last for eternity. What are you doing here on earth to prepare you for it? It matters.

Everyone goes through periods where they lose themselves. Here's a way to reconnect with yourself.

If you want to learn about something, read about it. Do you have an interest in history? Read historical biographies from those who lived it.

Remember to show kindness to everyone. We don't know what lies beneath the surface...

As you are considering your goals for 2026, make sure you commit to them with tunnel vision. Do whatever it takes to keep distractions away.

Stress from the holidays can cause you to get run down. Be sure to do what you need to take care of yourself!

No matter how far or how fast you can run, you can never run away from you...

In this life we can take so many things for granted. But let's never forget the source of everything good.

Entire industries have changed the world by making our lives easier. But the easy way isn't always the best way.

Christmas is a wonderful time of year. People are more courteous. They smile more. It is my wish that the light of this season would shine all year long.

We talk to ourselves all day long. Be sure that you are having honest, relevant, helpful conversations.

There may be something about your life you wish to change. You can, but you need more than willpower alone.

Faith is a verb, an action word. What good is it to have faith but always play it safe? Step across the line. Serve your fellow man.

Keep the past where it belongs: in the past. Learn from it. Heal from it. Resolve to move forward.

The road to success is not a straight line. There are many twists and turns along the way. Don't dread them. Instead, welcome them. Look at them as opportunities to grow and learn.

In today's episode, I would like you to consider the tenacity of a child learning to walk. You have it in you.

In today's episode, I talk about what success looks like. It might not be what you think it is.

Deceiving others is an evil act. But God gives us an opportunity to redeem ourselves. The same opportunity exists for those who have deceived us, too.

We cannot legislate evil out of the heart of mankind. We can make a difference in the lives of others through our words and actions.

The future is coming. Are you excited or anxious about it. Talk to God about it. He's already there.

Your mind is powerful. It will work for you or against you. The mind is the portal to the Spiritual world. Remember, you are only as limited as you think you are...

We remove the trash from our homes, so it doesn't begin to smell. We clean out the garage when too much clutter has accumulated. Maybe there are some people who need to be removed from our lives.

Distractions are inevitable. You must develop a laser-like focus in your life. Put your blinders on and get to work!

The Spirit of God is speaking to us all the time. Are we listening?

It's easy to have faith when everything is going well in your life. But God is operating behind the scenes even when we question Him.

In the United States, we celebrate a National Holiday known as Thanksgiving on Thursday. But I believe that every day should be a day of thanksgiving.

Two World Wars brought the United States together in a united front. But what are we going to do about the war within our own country?

The holidays have arrived! Don't stress out. Enjoy them. Be more like Clark and less like Hallmark.