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.

Having some alone time or solitude is good for us. But we were not meant to be alone. Talking about things is therapeutic.

Sometimes in life we can get caught up in something we don't want to be in. There is a way forward to a better life.

In today's episode, I bring to light some things that are concerning to me. I'm not a gloom and doom person. In this episode, I am simply being realistic.

In today's episode, I compare people to free range chickens. The similarities might surprise you!

In today's episode, I give you a brief glimpse into my mind and my beliefs.

Bring your unique talents into the world and make a difference in the lives of your fellow man. Don't wait another second.

Mental health was already compromised before businesses and churches were shut down. The ongoing effects are all around us. Take note...

Here's a little advice for you on those days you just can't find any motivation.

Today's episode had me laughing while I was recording. Silly stuff makes me laugh. I hope you will, too.

There will be times in your life when you must decide to stand for what is right and true, or you go along with the crowd. Be ready.

I'm not a runner, but for a long time I tried to run away from myself. Even if I was a runner, I couldn't run that fast.

Every worthwhile accomplishment begins with a burning desire. Find yours.

My life was full of fear, anger and violence when I was a child. There is no way I could have foreseen how my life story would benefit others.

There is beauty all around us. Stop your busy life for a moment and look around. Or at least slow down a little.

Living by the "if only" principle is an excuse. Nothing more. You were created by God in exactly the way he wanted you to be.

Good, solid friendships are worth more than the National Treasure or the Crown Jewels. Do you want good friends? Be a good friend.

People are carrying things inside they just don't talk about. Show some kindness.

Let's let kids be kids. They will grow up soon enough, so let them enjoy childhood.

Before we had libraries in America, there were Reading Rooms. This is an idea I wish would return.

Abuse is pervasive among society. You don't have to live this way. Find your courage, your inner strength and get the help you need. The number for the Domestic Abuse Center is 800-799-7233. Make the call.

What are your dreams for your life? Do they seem impossible? They are only impossible if you believe they are.

Stacy Johnson is changing the world for out most vulnerable citizens, children. Recently I had her back in the studio to share an update on Grace365, a new standalone property for up to 24 kids who have aged out of foster care but aren't ready to be on their own. Prepare to be inspired and to learn about more miracles God has performed in her life.

Did you consider that it's possible for greed and kindness to coexist?

Our biological clocks are ticking. But there are some ways we can slow the clock down.

We show what is in our hearts and mind by our words and our actions. God knows everything...

Law enforcement is under attack in the United States. Lunatics are doing their best to get rid of them. But to me, they are brave heroes. The men and women in law enforcement risk everything every single day on their job.

People want the truth. Nothing more. No narratives or bias. Just the truth. This applies to our media, our personal relationships and out churches.

Fall has arrived! I love all the seasons. In today's episode I discuss how some people are in our lives for just a season. They move on and so do we.

Expect the best from yourself. Demand excellence in everything you do. God didn't create us to live unfulfilled lives. It's time to make your move.

Some of the posts I have seen on social media are shocking to the system. People are showing what lies in their hearts, and it isn't always pretty.

If you like chaos and anxiety, then today's episode might not be for you. If peace is what you are seeking, take a moment to consider the power of gratitude.

When you are ready to throw in the towel and quit, you are very near to a breakthrough. Don't quit. Push yourself, even when things look the darkest.

Political assassinations have been taking place since before the Roman Empire. Yet only God can bring good from evil. Just give it time...

If you have ever been cheated, you know what an awful feeling that is. But are you cheating the world?

There are a lot of things people keep inside. I recognize it because I lived it for a period of my life. Take the time to work through inner conflicts, unresolved traumas. There is life on the other side...

Every school has different groups of students who hang around each other. What group were you in?

Our diets and exercise regimens must improve. America has become fat and out of shape. It's reversible, but we must be willing.

Some people make rude comments about what I say and write. My focus is on spreading encouragement and hope. I guess some people just can't handle that.

We are in the most serious spiritual battle in our lives. We must continue to pray relentlessly.

There are some commemorative events I wish we didn't have. September 11th is one of those.

The Pharisees tried to trap Jesus by bringing him into the battle against Rome. He wasn't having any of their foolishness. In today's society, both the Republicans and Democrats want you to think Jesus was one of them. What do you think?

Unsolved mysteries are better for your mind than working crossword puzzles. They require in-depth thinking about the possibilities.

There are only Ten Commandments, and I can't even keep the first one. Fortunately, we serve and worship a merciful, forgiving God.

Are you holding onto something you just can't get rid of? Maybe you aren't considered a hoarder, but perhaps you can loosen your grip a little.

There are a lot of things in this world to distract us. Don't become so focused on the trinkets and toys around us that you forget about people.

Two-thirds of 2025 have passed. Many people set some goals at the beginning of the year but abandoned them before February. In today's episode, I encourage you to set a new goal for the end of the year. The only thing stopping you from reaching your goal is you.