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.

The internet is full of lies told by irresponsible people. Think before you believe.

We see the good in people show up to serve the least among us. Find your purpose to serve others and get involved. Everyone wants their life to count. You can make a difference.

You aren't out of living a fully engaged, thriving life until you decide you are. Feel empowered...

The scam artists have gotten better and better. Be alert and be aware. Don't think that it won't happen to you.

We know what the afterlife holds. So why do we hang onto this life so dearly?

Every Sunday is an opportunity to worship God with others. Don't be concerned about how you look. Remember, God is glad you are there. You brought a smile to His face.

When professional athletes join a team, they are issued a playbook. Did you know that we were issued a playbook for life? Every one of us has access to the book.

When we win, let's give the glory to God. He is the one who made it happen.

If someone throws your past in your face, smile and tell them you don't live there anymore.

Knowing the right thing to do and not doing it is wrong. And deep down we know this to be true. Take a lesson from The Book of James.

It's a good idea to challenge our own beliefs. The world is constantly evolving and we should, too. If your beliefs are sound, stay with them. If they have changed, the change.

In my heart, I believe most people are good. There is nothing you can do to convince me otherwise. We see the best in us show up when tragedy strikes. Those are the times we see our true selves...

We aren't required to be busy all the time. Solitude and boredom are not the same thing.

Laughter is good for us. But I see some people have lost their sense of humor.

Judging others is for the weak-minded. The people who judge others put their own insecurities on display. See others for who they are, not just what you see on the outside. Jesus was the best at this.

A recent international magazine featured a picture of nine men dressed as women. They were cited for being "Women of the Year." In what universe could this happen?

There is some information you can't get from a marketing report. But there is one source that is 100% reliable every time.

Life is full of unpredictable changes. This isn't eternity so it's not perfect. Stay the course. You win in the end.

Peace through strength is usually associated with Ronald Reagan. It was his strategy to deal with the Soviet Union during the Cold War. But are you aware that Jesus showed peace through strength, too?

We forget our wallets, appointments, and we forget people's names. But there is one thing we cannot forget, no matter how hard we try. I'm talking about painful memories. There is a way to let them go, though.

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.