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.

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.

Henry David Thoreau wrote, "The mass of men lead lives of quiet desperation and die with their song still in them." Bring your unique music to life. The world needs what you have to offer...

Do not allow fear or pride to get in the way of pursuing the life you want to have.

The only limits we have are the ones we place on ourselves. See things as they can be, not as they are.

Metaphors should be used sparingly because the world is mixed up enough already!

The best way to not draw attention to yourself in the public sector is to make certain your behavior is honorable. Otherwise, you might find yourself on TMZ or in the pages of People Magazine!

If you have ever struggled with confidence or self-esteem, this episode is for you. It puts everything in perspective.

Telling the truth is always best, even when it might be uncomfortable in doing so. Lying breaks trust.

In life, we are constantly caught up in keeping score. How do we measure up? The truth is, there is only one scorecard that counts.

Customer service has become an oxymoron. But it is in our power to change that.

Today we examine two common sayings about fairness. You decide whether fairness exists or not.

Linda Churchwell is an award-winning author, speaker and devoted advocate for animals. In our interview, Linda discusses her past experiences with abuse and drug use. Linda is a new person today, thanks to her redemption through Jesus Christ.

You must do the prep work to be at your best when opportunities arise.

Be yourself no matter the crowd you are in. It's the only way to feel genuine.

The grass will always be greener where you water it. The same can be said for how we spend our time. What are we focusing on? If it gets you where you want to go, keep going. If not, it's time to adapt.

Enigmas are mysteries, things that logic and reason don't apply to. In today's episode I explore a few of them.

Strength and resilience are built in the dark, not when life is easy.

Rebellious behavior is a good thing sometimes. In today's episode, we consider the story of the greatest rebel to ever live: Jesus Christ.

Sometimes this world seems crazy and out of control to me. Yet, nothing surprises God. He sees everything. We need to trust God more and Washington DC less.

Never allow anyone into your inner sphere who robs you of your peace and well-being. Set healthy boundaries.

Every decision we make will lead us somewhere. Let's make sure we are deciding wisely. And if we end up in the wrong place, the responsibility is ours and ours alone.

Being an optimistic person is considered to be a good thing. But that path is fraught with danger, too.

Today I am on a rant about people who are constantly late.

Our phones are remarkable instruments we can use to save time. But let's not forget that people are more important than technology.

Make no room for negative people in your sphere. Work on yourself to be a better version of you and the right people will find you. It starts with self-talk.

It's not weak to ask for help. There are times when everyone needs a lifeline.

Be judicious about what you allow into your mind. It affects your thinking which translates into your beliefs. Take the time to test what you believe.

In today's episode, I borrow from Star Trek to talk about the heart of man.

There's a little devil inside all of us. The only problem is, he's not little.

The evil Iranian regime is being toppled as I type this. Pray for a peaceful, prosperous path forward for the wonderful Iranian people.

Everything has its price. But what value are you placing on your life?

We learn as we age. At least we are supposed to. Well, that's what I've been told! Life is sorta like a minefield. Walk deliberately but choose your path wisely.