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.

Where you are in life is the result of the decisions you made.

Chasing fame and fortune will keep you chasing all your life. There is a better way.

Do the hardest thing first. There are many benefits to this, and in today's episode I list just a couple of them for your consideration.

Reflecting on the past is okay. Just make sure you remember to live in the present.

We don't like to think of ourselves as sinners because we are doing life the right way. But when we consider ourselves in relation to God, we just don't hold up. But there is hope...

Clickbait is a waste of time and energy. Here is your invitation to open something that is real and powerful.

There is a kid's game called keep away. In today's episode, I make the observation that some churches are playing the same game.

When we are tasked with delivering a difficult message, timing is everything. Choose wisely.

No one is right all the time. Let's humble ourselves and admit when we are mistaken.

The rules of religion have been used to control people and make them feel guilty. This is inconsistent with the teachings of Jesus.

Mother's Day was started in 1908 by a woman in West Virginia. Today's episode is a brief history lesson.

Wealth isn't measured by the size of your bank account. There's more. So much more...

Sometimes the weight we need to lose is not measured in pounds.

Strongholds exist in this world, even though the perpetrators are unseen in the supernatural world around us. But we have hope in the One who can break any chain that binds us.

Forgiving those who did you wrong isn't giving them a hall pass. But it does free you from the enemy within that can destroy you if left unresolved.

I had some bad teachers, but I had several who were outstanding. They were difference makers in my life.

Practicing what you preach demonstrates consistency and builds trust.

Peace is priceless. Do not allow anyone to rob you of yours.

In today's episode, I relate hitting the snooze button in the morning to facing traumas from the past.

Why not make today different? The only thing stopping you, is you.

The flight to your destiny is about to take off. Will you be on board?

In today's episode, I examine the life story of a man who was dead inside. Yet, the living God brought this man back to life.

Our family and our name are the foundations for our life. If yours was a train wreck like the family I was born into, you can change your legacy.

Melissa Fleming lost her son to inoperable brain cancer when he was only 7 1/2 years old. Since 2017, Melissa and her family have raised over $2.5 million for pediatric brain cancer research. Her story of turning pain into purpose inspired me so much I have volunteered to work her golf tournament every year.

Be relational, not transactional. Getting to know others for who they are will enrich your life.

There are some things that are best left unsaid. Keep private things private.

God created everyone with a purpose in mind for their lives. This was no casual thought. He can and will use you, if you are willing...

Legacy is built one person at a time. Spend time creating valuable relationships, not wealth.

There are no bad days, only difficult ones. Sometimes these periods stretch into week, months, even years. But for those of us who believe, we have a supernatural helper.

Meaningful conversations leave you stimulated and connected, while too much screen time leaves you empty and exhausted...

This morning I received an award. It was unexpected, and I am grateful. But the work continues...

We have experienced everything from wide ties to shiny disco designs. Those didn't stay fashionable, but there are a few things that remain.

If your week is focused on just making it through to the weekend, today's episode is for you. There's more within your reach, if you are willing to commit to a better, brighter future...

Small groups are a great way to help others. It takes time to build trust when you get a group of strangers together. Give it the time it needs. You and the others will benefit in way you cannot anticipate.

Are you the parent of a picky eater? If this is you and dinnertime is a struggle, Amy Thompson can help. Amy is a pediatric occupational therapist and feeding specialist with over 20 years of experience helping children (and their families) navigate the challenges at mealtime. She is the founder of Little Table of Grace. In our lively interview, we cover:Why picky eating isn't just behavior. We talk about the root cause(s) and how Amy works with children to change their aversion and sensitivities to food.What to expect when working with Amy.Why "a child will grow out of it" is partially a myth. There is more going on than just a phase of life with some children.Why bribing a child with dessert or strongarming them at dinner is a recipe for disaster.How Amy works with children on the autism spectrum.Why screentime may become a crutch that is difficult to reverse. And more! Families are busier today than ever before. Having dinner together should be pleasant, not a war zone or a battle of wills. If this sounds like your family, you can flip the script with Amy's guidance and help. And Amy shares a beautiful story of one little girl's victory over her aversion to pasta! Visit www.littletableofgrace.com to book a complimentary call with Amy.

I'm hoping you wake up every morning and can't wait to get your day started. If this isn't you, have a listen. It's time to flip the script and live fully.

Reckless words and actions can cause harm that lasts generations. Let's remember to think before we speak.

People are at each other's throats over their political differences. This is not only ridiculous, but also pointless. It's okay to see the world through different lenses.

Resilience is built in the darkness. When faced with challenges, you get to decide if you will be strong or weak in the moment.

The world can be a harsh place to live in. Don't make it harder by beating yourself up when things aren't going your way. Resilience is built in the dark times.

We are here to make a difference in the lives of others. Get going before your battery runs out.

Treat your brain like it's a muscle. Do the things that make it grow and you will benefit.

Sometimes we feel like we have painted ourselves into a corner and there is no way back. There is. Have a listen.

Impressions are important. And they might be more telling than you realize.

It's a good idea to question almost everything. But there is one time to believe and follow without question.

For centuries people have tried to convince us they have a miracle cure. But there is only one who can truly make a miracle happen.