The Good Day

Lisa launched her first business in 2023. As founder of Celebrate By Lisa Lou, she believes life is meant to be celebrated! Whether that is wrapping gifts for a party or hosting dinner for friends, Lisa's main desire is to bring people back together through happy occasions and everyday living. She believes a key component to creating healthy families occurs when meals are shared on a regular basis. Her philosophy: Share a meal, heal a family. Heal a family, heal society. With the belief every family has a story to tell, Lisa Lou reveals tales through beautifully curated tablescapes that are sold in her Houston store and online. What is the unique value proposition of her business? One hundred percent of profits are donated to local children's charities in the Houston area. What she cannot convey through a table design, she expresses in writing. Readers will enjoy blog posts on everything from entertaining tips to modern etiquette, and you can watch her short reels on soft skills on Instagram. You can find her blogs and more about the business @lisalouzook. Today, we're talking about: How to combat the pressure to do it all during the holidays Hospitality vs. entertaining - the pivotal difference Navigating empty nest with purpose and perspectiveC A N D A C E  C O F E Rauthor + speaker ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠instagram⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠youtube⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠facebook⁠

Samantha Decker is an author, speaker, and co-founder of Redbud Content. However, more often these days she wears the hat of wife and mom. Recently, God has been teaching her about what it looks like to slow down, create margin, and exchange her plans for His purposes, which she shares in her debut book, Unhurried, which was published earlier this Spring.Today, we're talking about: How push back on hurry this holiday Know when to hurry and how to create room Spiritual gifts and what it has to do with all this hurryC A N D A C E  C O F E Rauthor + speaker ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠instagram⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠youtube⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠facebook⁠

Davy Reeks and Diane Stanley are twin sisters who have been gifted with a singing talent from birth. After pursuing their degrees and singing classical and Opera music, they now serve in their churches and also perform regularly with The Singing Princess of San Antonio, and continues to make little kids' dreams come true as Elsa, Anna, Cinderella and Ariel (to name a few). Davy sings Soprano and possesses extensive expertise in performing and instructing a wide range of music genres. She has consistently guided students towards success, helping them secure coveted roles with Broadway Tours and with prestigious equity companies such as Music Theater Wichita, The MUNY, Flat Rock Playhouse, and Lyric Theater of Oklahoma. Throughout her career, she has collaborated with renowned institutions such as San Antonio Opera, San Antonio Symphony, the Oklahoma City Philharmonic, and Light Opera Oklahoma. Most recently, she held the position of Adjunct Voice Professor at Oklahoma City University's esteemed Wanda L. Bass School of Music. She currently serves as Director of Singer's Workshop at the University of the Incarnate Word in San Antonio, TX, and teaches private voice at Lopez Middle School. Diane is a voice over artist and vocalist of the San Antonio and Austin surrounding area and has previously served as an elementary music teacher. She currently serves as the Children's Director at Grace Church New Braunfels. In addition to this, she has performed with the acapella quartet, Southern Stride, an internationally ranked quartet, having received 4th place in the BING Harmony competition in Germany (2018). Today, we're talking about: Singing as Disney Princesses The gift of music and the power of using your voice A message for all young girls who love Disney PrincessesC A N D A C E  C O F E Rauthor + speaker ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠instagram⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠youtube⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠facebook⁠

Today, we're going behind-the-scenes of some of our favorite concerts and behind the sound. When it comes to music dreams, Nashville is on the minds of many, but one of my good friends I'm proud to say actually did it. He took the leap, made the move, and is living his dream.Michael Brooks, in less formal terms, is a behind-the-scenes musical ninja. He moved to Nashville to follow his dreams of technical sound production and now gets to tour and serve vocal artists on the road making the songs we love to sing along to at some of our favorite concerts sound even better live.He's sharing what he's learned along the way and I believe its for all of us, whether we're musically inclined or simply enjoy music. Today, we're talking about:Behind-the-scenes of some of our favorite concertsHow God directs our steps and prepares us for what He has for usChasing the curiosity to pursue your dreams C A N D A C E  C O F E Rauthor + speaker ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠instagram⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠youtube⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠facebook⁠

Jason White is learning in his thirties how to see failure for what it really is - not the opposite of success but the result of not trying. Many know him as a worship pastor, but are you familiar with his story and the turns which led him to leading worship on Sunday mornings and weeknight youth and all the moments in between? Want to hear more of his passion behind this calling?When he's not serving his church family as the Worship Pastor at the Edmond location for Crossings Community Church in Oklahoma, you can find him spending time with his wife and their family. Today, we're talking about: His journey from accounting to worship pastor The power of worship and Spoken Word Songwriting, inspired by Scripture Overcoming the fear of failureIn today's episode, we reference the song, "You're Still Moving" - click here to give it a listen or stream wherever you listen to music! You'll want this one on repeat, trust me!C A N D A C E  C O F E Rauthor + speaker ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠instagram⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠youtube⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠facebook⁠

Meet TC and Danielle, a married couple who love writing songs and sharing the stories behind them. Their passion is writing tunes that capture the heart of Jesus and reflect His joy and creativity. Right now, they lead worship at two local churches and love hitting the road to share their music wherever they're welcomed. You can find their music under the name TC & Danielle, and with their worship band, Midtown Worship, wherever you stream your music. Today, we're talking about: Passion for music (and hats), how it began Their love story and calling to pursue music professionally together Songwriting and their heart, inspiration, and the truth shared through this giftC A N D A C E  C O F E Rauthor + speaker ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠instagram⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠youtube⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠facebook⁠

When other kids were collecting baseball cards, Wes Kinsler was collecting things he could take apart. This curiosity has endured a lifetime for him and led him to study many innovations and innovators over the years. Today, he's joining us as we dive into a mini series on the power of music to help us see how music and sound were first recorded. We're talking about: The history of recorded sound The power of curiosity and the innovation which follows Being transported back in time through musicIn this episode, we speak of the Oklahoma Steam and Gas Engine Show which takes place every first weekend of May in Pawnee, Oklahoma. Would love to see you join us and experience the music we speak of for yourself (...and "a few" steam tractors too). The homemade ice cream alone is reason enough to come!C A N D A C E  C O F E Rauthor + speaker ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠instagram⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠youtube⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠facebook⁠

This brother-sister duo is joining me to share how God has used them at Bethany Children's Health Center, specifically with Albert Gray serving as CEO and Carol Gray as COO. What initially looked like a door closing moment, God intervened with very different plans. At Bethany Children's Health Center, children receive top notch care in a state of the art facility. To schedule a tour, please call (405) 470-2233.Today, we're talking about: The story behind Bethany Children's Health Center The power of activating simple faith Taking God at His Word and the miracles we know when we doC A N D A C E  C O F E Rauthor + speaker ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠instagram⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠youtube⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠facebook⁠

Sara Emery serves as the Volunteer Engagement Manager at Little Light House, which is a Christian non-profit in Oklahoma providing tuition-free special education and therapeutic services for children with special needs and their families. Their mission is to glorify God by improving the quality of life for children with special needs, their families and their communities.Today, we're talking about: The story behind Little Light House Rejoicing in the trial and witnessing miracles every day How YOU can get involved and support!C A N D A C E  C O F E Rauthor + speaker ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠instagram⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠youtube⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠facebook⁠

Ruthie Rayner has been called into education, serving 34 years with 15 of those as the principal at Stanley Hupfeld Academy, a charter school in Oklahoma City, OK. Driven by her own story of being raised by a handicapped mother and an under-resourced family, she works to lead her team and students to persevere and overcome their circumstances to be all they have been created to be. Today, we're talking about: Helping kids overcome the seemingly insurmountable before them The story and mission of Stanley Hupfeld Academy Ruthie's story and how this has shaped her purpose as a principalTo get connected and/or serve at Stanley Hupfeld Academy, please call (405)-751-1774.C A N D A C E  C O F E Rauthor + speaker ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠instagram⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠youtube⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠facebook⁠

A lot has changed in 5 years - new faces, a farm, and a whole lotta growth - but one thing is still the same: time on the porch.To celebrate 5 years, my favorite people - ‘Dubya and Jenny - are joining me on the pod this week along with our good friend Luke Helms. We're talking about 5 things I wish I knew before starting the blog.C A N D A C E  C O F E Rauthor + speaker ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠instagram⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠youtube⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠facebook⁠

Today, my friend, Traci Shnider, is sharing her reflection of Psalm 58 with us and helping us find immense comfort in our God who is just and promises justice - that evil has not won, good and Love have the final word.Traci Shnider is a passionate encourager, sharing hope and inspiration drawn from her journey of faith and resilience in the face of adversity. Her mission is to help others experience true freedom by deeply rooting their lives in Jesus, growing in His grace, and blooming into their God-given purpose. As a motivational speaker, Traci inspires women at Christian conferences and events, empowering them to walk boldly in faith. She is an author who recently published her 40-day devotional book, Unexpected Blessings: 40 Days of Discovering God's Best and she's been featured in Renew Your Mind: 40 Days to Quiet the Lies Inside Your Head through Proverbs 31 Ministries.C A N D A C E  C O F E Rauthor + speaker ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠instagram⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠youtube⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠facebook⁠

Crying out to God - we usually find ourselves here when God's timing and or ways is different from that of our own. Today, a dear friend of mine and Dubya's, R.J. Hester, is sharing his reflection of Psalm 51 with us and guiding us through a prayer David prayed to be strengthened as he waited upon the Lord.Rodney Hester, known as R.J. to many who know him well, serves at Crossings Community Church in OKC as a Graduate Resident for Kids Ministries. He and Will like to ditch the cordial handshake and wrap each other up in a big bear hug when they see each other. I pray this reflection feels a bit like that - a warm embrace from a good friend.C A N D A C E  C O F E Rauthor + speaker ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠instagram⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠youtube⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠facebook⁠

Joy and grief, these seem so opposite, yet I've come to learn these two are good friends. Have you noticed in your own life how these seem to coexist? Some of our most joyous times are also met with loss, heartache or grief.My friend, Courtney Doyle, is sharing her reflection of Psalm 44 with us and drawing strength from scripture as she endures a season marked by "a smile on [her] face and a hole in [her] heart." Courtney Doyle is the founder of The Mom Show podcast and Courtney Doyle Ministries, dedicated to encouraging and equipping moms with faith-filled wisdom for every season of motherhood. With a heart for authenticity, she unpacks the struggles, joys, and challenges moms face, pointing them back to their identity in Christ. Through storytelling, biblical truth, and real conversations, Courtney creates a space where moms feel seen, supported, and strengthened in their journey. You can connect with her on Instagram, on her Website, or The Mom Show Podcast.C A N D A C E  C O F E Rauthor + speaker ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠instagram⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠youtube⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠facebook⁠

Hang in there! It's a phrase we hear quite a bit and likely even use to try to encourage another not to give up hope, but is it really that encouraging? Is it really that hopeful? We know Hope has a name and His name is Jesus, so this means we gotta go to scripture to see what it has to say about this. To help us, my friend, Cheri Fletcher, is sharing her reflection of Psalm 37 with us. Cheri Fletcher is an inspiring writer, compelling speaker, and the host of the Your Spiritual Game Plan podcast. Dedicated to guiding others through life's challenges, Cheri helps people discover their God-given calling and empowers them to glorify Him in every role they serve. Cheri has faced numerous changes and transitions, each feeling like a piece of her identity left with each role. Drawing from her own journey of transitions and personal loss, she offers unique insights into overcoming obstacles and understanding spiritual warfare. From these experiences, she has come to know that her roles in life will change, but her purpose is eternal! You can find out more about Cheri on her website, Cherifletcher.com C A N D A C E  C O F E R author + speaker ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠instagram⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠youtube⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠facebook⁠

Weeping may stay for the night, but joy comes in the morning. Perhaps you too are familiar with this verse. You've heard it or read it. Perhaps you didn't know it was in Psalm 30, but you've been encouraged by this scripture before. This week, Luke Helms, a long-time friend of Will and I's and of ours here at The Good Day, is back again and sharing key insight from Revelation on this verse. Luke lives in Oklahoma City, where he has found a wonderful community of believers at Crossings Community Church. He has an insatiable desire to learn and write about the interconnectedness and symbolism of the Bible. Luke enjoys trying new restaurants, traveling (nineteen countries and twenty-four states so far), and going to Thunder games. He serves as an attorney at a local law firm and serves as Chairman of the Board for Willow Pregnancy Support. And consider checking out his previous reflection on ⁠Psalm 99 here⁠. C A N D A C E  C O F E R author + speaker ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠instagram⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠youtube⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠facebook⁠

Where are you dwelling today? I, for one, don't ask myself this question enough. We're more accustomed to hearing, "How are you doing today?" but if we want to understand why we're doing well or poorly, I believe it actually goes back to this first question: Where are you dwelling today? My friend, Melissa Labieniec is sharing her reflection of the beloved Psalm 23 with us and helping us experience the peace God has for us. You'll want to stick around 'til the end, the last story she shares is powerful and such a good visual for us as we go forward in our ever-changing circumstances. Born and raised in Connecticut, Melissa is married and has two grown daughters. She has been a Christian for about 25 years now. Utilizing her bachelor's degree in ministry and leadership (with a concentration in human services) from Grace Christian University, she loves going to church to lead and serve in many capacities. She is also on her local children's hospital gala planning committee, where she feels she can be of service to children and families in need.  Melissa is a twice published author with Proverbs 31 Ministries and delights in spreading God's joy, love and hope whenever she can to women of all ages and all stages of life. You can connect with her on Facebook. C A N D A C E  C O F E R author + speaker ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠instagram⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠youtube⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠facebook⁠

My attempt to "do-it-all" shines brightest when it's time to carry in groceries. Sure, it's a lot and it's heavy, and yeah, I pushed it in a cart at the store, but now that it's time to carry it in the house, I decide to do this all in one trip. Deep breath. Do you do this too? Maybe not with groceries but with all the various bags and burdens you carry for the day? This tendency is something my friend, Bethany Kimsey has experienced too. She's sharing her reflection of Psalm 16 to help us surrender this load we're carrying to God and experience His freedom and the lightness He offers us today. As a mother to 8 children, Bethany Kimsey has seen God radically change her messy motherhood from weary, anxious, and frantic to peaceful, joyful, and triumphant. She helps weary mothers win the battle against worry and fatigue as they understand their identity in Christ and rest in the hope of the Gospel in community with other moms. As a writer, speaker, and encourager of mothers, she wants to see a generation of mothers who can connect their motherhood to the love of Jesus in real and practical ways so that they can be confident.   She recently authored A Warrior Mama's Prayers journal to help mothers pray intentionally over their children and anchor in gospel truths. This can be purchased at www.Bethanykimsey.com or on Amazon. Connect here: https://whengodbreaksthrough.libsyn.com, Instagram or Facebook. C A N D A C E  C O F E R author + speaker ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠instagram⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠youtube⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠facebook⁠

What has your prayer life looked like today? This week? This month? Is it a daily rhythm or has busyness or distraction seeped in and taken your attention away? Usually when this happens, we open the door for worry and fear. As we're studying the Psalms together again this Summer, I knew I wanted my dear friend, Patty Conrad, to join us and share how she has learned to pray through the Psalms. These words, as ancient and poetic as they may be, can serve as a guide, a practical prayer prompt for us when we don't know what or how to pray. Maybe we're unsure how to approach the throne room of the Almighty. Maybe we know, but we need something to help us make it a daily habit. Patty Conrad graduated from Baylor University with a degree in Education. She taught special education for 8 years, has been homeschooling for 22 years and currently teaches 1st grade at a private classical school.  Patty and her husband have four boys: two teenagers and two young adults. She enjoys planning, cooking, reading and spending time with her family and friends. C A N D A C E  C O F E R author + speaker ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠instagram⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠youtube⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠facebook⁠

We don't have to be around a child or children for very long to see their expressions, attitudes, and longing for independence is serving as a mirror to that of our own. My friend, Anita McVey, is sharing of a time her grand-daughter unknowingly held up this mirror for her and the surrender and promise which came as she reflected on this experience in the light of Psalm 2. Anita Hinkeldey McVey is a midwest farmer's daughter who grew up in northwest Iowa on a steady diet of faith, family, and food. Her passion for cooking and gardening inspired her to create a blog, Picnic Life Foodie, where she shares her favorite recipes and the fond memories they bring to mind. With their two sons now “out of the nest,” Anita and her husband, Marty, live on an acreage in central Iowa with a large garden, a fishing pond, and an energetic hunting dog named Stark. C A N D A C E  C O F E R author + speaker ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠instagram⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠youtube⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠facebook⁠

What does it mean to be blessed? I have to agree with my friend, Becky Beresford - we tend to get a little confused on this one. Not intentionally, but confused nonetheless. Becky is sharing her reflection of Psalm 145 and helping us understand this foundational part of our faith better. Becky Beresford lives in North Carolina and is happily outnumbered by her husband and three wonderful boys. She is an author, speaker and coach with a Master's Certificate in Spiritual Formation and Discipleship from Moody Theological Seminary. Becky loves encouraging God's Daughters to embrace Christ-centered empowerment through the truth found in the gospel. Her work has been featured in large online communities including Proverbs 31 Ministries, DaySpring, Crosswalk, (in)courage, iBelieve, and HuffPost. Becky's book with Moody Publishers, She Believed HE Could, So She Did, released last year. Connect with Becky at BeckyBeresford.com and become a part of her Empowered Email Tribe or follow her on Instagram and Facebook.

Dr. Gladys Childs understands how our circumstances can try to shake us and make us want to do anything and everything except the one thing we need to do - praise God. I know - how backwards it sounds! And this is why we're talking about this today. In hopes praise will become the seedling and even more - our very response to life's circumstances - the good and the hard. For our circumstances do not change the foundation of our faith: God is still God. Dr. Gladys Childs, the 'Truth Doctor,' meets people at the crossroads of faith and life's challenges, offering clarity, hope, and practical wisdom. As a Religion professor, pastor's wife, author, speaker, and mom, she empowers individuals to navigate life's toughest moments with unwavering truth and faith. Learn more at gladyschilds.com. Follow on Instagram or Facebook. C A N D A C E  C O F E R author + speaker ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠instagram⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠youtube⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠facebook⁠

The cycle of overwhelm. We all know this. The things in the cycle, causing it to pick up momentum vary but the overwhelming result is not a foreign feeling to any of us. To interrupt this cycle, we need to learn to use our minds to calm and quiet our brains. When we do, our soul finds rest. The truth is life is overwhelming but God has peace for us available to us today. Are we seeking this or surrendering to our circumstance and running the rat race? This pivot is something my friend, Laura L. Smith has experienced too. She's sharing her reflection of Psalm 131 to help us recenter today and engage in the peace God has for us. Laura L. Smith is an author, speaker, and podcaster. She's written fifteen books including her most recent two, Brave Woman, Mighty God and The Urgency of Slowing Down. She lives in the charming college town of Oxford, Ohio with her husband and the youngest of their four young adult kids. There you'll find her running the wooded trails, strolling the local farmer's market, or sipping an almond milk mocha at her favorite coffee shop. Find her at www.laurasmithauthor.com and @laurasmithauthor on Instagram. C A N D A C E  C O F E R author + speaker ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠instagram⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠youtube⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠facebook⁠

Psalm 124 is where we're starting this summer and though I've chosen this, seemingly by happenstance, simply picking up where we left off from last summer, I don't believe this is a matter of happenstance.I believe it's a Psalm our hearts need to ponder.Perhaps I'm projecting my teacher days a bit here, but summer is often looked at as a time of refreshment. Not just because we can beat the heat by splashing in a refreshing pool of water with friends, but because the days are longer, our schedules a bit more flexible. We vacate, even if not physically to a new location, we vacate to a less stressed, more relaxed state of mind.Or at least, we long to.And what I know to be true is if we want to feel this refreshment mentally - have less to do's and to be's on our minds- and physically - our shoulders moving away from our ears, our guts finding healthy rhythm once again... If we want to feel this refreshment emotionally - less weight to carry... Then, we must be intentional to seek this refreshment spiritually. In other words, if we want to be refreshed mentally, physically and emotionally, we have to bring these things to God.The Psalms are just that. A collection of times when people who lived before us have brought “their things” to God...C A N D A C E  C O F E Rauthor + speaker ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠instagram⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠youtube⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠facebook⁠

Matt and Katie Harder join to share how God has added to their family through adoption as they live out the command in scripture to care for orphans. Serving in education in the Oklahoma City area, together they have two sons and one daughter, Millie, who they adopted from China. They share their conversations and questions leading up to this decision, their experience with international adoption as well as their many joys and challenges of parenting and how this has grown their faith in deeper ways. Today, we're talking about: Adding to their family through adoption Considering domestic vs. international adoption Living out your faith in bold ways C A N D A C E  C O F E R author + speaker ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠instagram⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠youtube⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠facebook⁠

As a mother to 8 children, Bethany Kimsey understands the weariness, discouragement, and stress of motherhood. Her purpose is to equip you to win the battle against worry and fatigue as you understand your identity in Christ and rest in the hope of the Gospel. She helps other moms learn to rest, recuperate, find encouragement, and feast on the truths of God's Word. Today, we're talking about: The real delight of godly motherhood How to gain God's vision for your children and family The truth you need as your foundation to combat the lies moms hear C A N D A C E  C O F E R author + speaker ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠instagram⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠youtube⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠facebook⁠

Cheri Fletcher is a dynamic writer, compelling speaker, and the host of the "Your Spiritual Game Plan" podcast.  She is passionate about guiding individuals in crafting a strategy to live out God's plan for their lives. Cheri believes that understanding the enemy's strategic plots is crucial to overcoming life's challenges. Through the ups and downs of her own journey, Cheri has faced numerous changes and transitions, each feeling like a piece of her identity left with each role. Her experiences have equipped her with empathy and insight, enabling her to connect with others navigating similar paths. Visit Cherifletcher.com to learn more about Cheri, her podcast, and her grief cards. Today, we're talking about: How to support moms through loss of a child What to do when your role changes Helpful words when approaching another in grief C A N D A C E  C O F E R author + speaker ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠instagram⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠youtube⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠facebook⁠

Patty Conrad graduated from Baylor University with a degree in Education. She taught special education for 8 years, has been homeschooling for 22 years and currently teaches 1st grade at a private classical school.  Patty and her husband have four boys: two teenagers and two young adults. She enjoys planning, cooking, reading and spending time with her family and friends. Today, we're talking about: Zinger gift ideas for Mother's Day Longing for motherhood and waiting on God's timing and plan for you How to incorporate spiritual truths and disciplines into your family's ordinary life C A N D A C E  C O F E R author + speaker ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠instagram⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠youtube⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠facebook⁠

Last year, while serving at one of the water stops at the OKC Memorial Marathon, I see these two come running by (with the front of the pack, I may add) and I was immediately inspired. Then did a double-take to recognize it was Dubya and I's good friend, Hunter Sallee running! The moment only allowed for a quick "HUNTER!!!" and a wave, but I knew I wanted to hear their story. You don't just run a half marathon pushing a wheelchair on a whim... Nah, a selfless act like this, God has nudged your heart and propelled your legs. Sure enough, hearing Hunter's story and how it began from birth for him, it's a beautiful testimony of gratitude for healing and also a reminder of how we can and should use the gifts and talents God has given us for the benefit of others. Hunter Sallee is an avid runner who has chosen to use this gift of his to serve others through the Hoyt Organization, which is a non-profit organization that was formed in 1989 which aspires to build the individual character, self-confidence and self-esteem of America's disabled young people through inclusion in all facets of daily life. Today, we're talking about:Hunter's story as an infant which fuels his purposeRunning with the Hoyt OrganizationOutdoing one another in showing honor - a modern illustration of an ancient scriptureC A N D A C E  C O F E Rauthor + speaker ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠instagram⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠youtube⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠facebook⁠

Michael Harbert III, known as Trey, is a minister at Alive Church in Northwest Oklahoma City where he serves as the lead pastor's Armor Bearer while also serving as the CFO of the church. His ministry is very youth-focused as he teaches a Christ-centric youth leadership class at PC West High School during the school year while being a team lead of the Teen ministry at Alive, OVERTAKERS! Today, we're talking about: Why spiritual growth is not linear The absurdity of Easter and what it means for us Repentance - what it is, what it's not and why we need it daily C A N D A C E  C O F E R author + speaker ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠instagram⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠youtube⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠facebook⁠

Courtney Cartwright is the founder and owner of Whitespace Living Co. and is passionate about helping others experience peace in their homes, offices and other spaces through organizing. Today, we're talking about: Spring cleaning - tips to tackle the clutter in our homes Psychology behind this practice What does our physical reveal about our spiritual state? C A N D A C E  C O F E R author + speaker ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠instagram⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠youtube⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠facebook⁠

Laura Bailey is a Bible teacher who challenges and encourages women to dive deep in the Scriptures, shift from an earthly to an eternal mindset, and filter life through the lens of God's Word. She is a wife and momma to three young girls. She is the author of, Beyond the Noise: Silencing the Deceiver in Loud World of Lies  and blogs at www.LauraRBailey.com, connect with her on Facebook and Instagram @LauraBaileyWrites Access the Embracing Eternity in the Here and Now Devotional Today, we're talking about: Pivoting to an eternal perspective What does the Lord require of me? Fasting and feasting - what does this look like for me right now? C A N D A C E  C O F E R author + speaker ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠instagram⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠youtube⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠facebook⁠

William Daniel is a teenager, a WWII enthusiast, and a competitive gymnast. He builds model airplanes and wants to be a pilot someday. He has an older sister, Maris, and a twin sister, Calyn, and is the younger by four minutes. As you can well imagine, he enjoys making people laugh, which he does for family, for friends, and at school. William lives in Colorado with his family and his dog, Riley. Today, we're talking about: The art of a good joke How to use humor to connect with others in all settings and seasons of life A handful of jokes to equip your April Fools Day C A N D A C E  C O F E R author + speaker ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠instagram⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠youtube⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠facebook⁠

Muriel-Laure Kom has been serving as a prophetic fine artist since 2023, painting in oils with under layers in mixed media (acrylics, inks, spray paint, collage). In her own words she says, the Lord Jesus Christ spoke to me that year, telling me that art is a portal and that He wanted to use me to create paintings that would usher people in His Loving Presence. The honor that He gives me to hear His instructions as I am painting, to feel His Spirit filling me, to be ministered to as the image is taking form on the canvas, and to see people being touched by my artworks, is more precious than what words can describe. I pray to keep having a heart that abides in Him, so that I will remain in His Presence and keep being a vessel He will entrust revelations to, in order to reach the World and bless His People. Today, we're talking about: Serving out of a love and passion - all for an audience of 1 Inspiration behind her painting, “The Potter and the Clay” Collaborating with God with our gifts and talents C A N D A C E  C O F E R author + speaker ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠instagram⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠youtube⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠facebook⁠

Ever find yourself nodding along in church but silently thinking, "I didn't know that." Or, have you been wrestling with questions about faith or God's character, perhaps wondering if The Bible is real or maybe choosing to believe because "what's to lose?" rather than believing because you know it is real?We're diving into all of the above today and what I hope you get from my conversation with my friend and Pastor, Matt Cartwright, is it's okay - even good - to ask questions about God, faith, Jesus, The Bible. It doesn't mean you're a "bad Christian" to have questions. Actually, my experience has been the opposite. Matt Cartwright serves as a Pastor over Men's Ministry at Crossings Community Church OKC location. He initially joined staff as a graphic designer with many questions about faith and soon realized through godly mentorship that his questions were actually what would propel him into a deeper understanding and love for Christ. Today we're talking about: The value of asking questions and mentorshipStruggles men are facing today as a whole and how some men are overcomingFinding purpose right where you areC A N D A C E  C O F E Rauthor + speaker ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠instagram⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠youtube⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠facebook⁠

Cindy Guthrie is an artist who draws inspiration from her life experiences. Living as an Okie for the past 20+ years, she spent her childhood with one foot in the middle of Dallas and the other in my family's Polled Hereford ranch in Emory, Texas. Texas wildflowers, blackberries, sandy garden rows, and the white-faced cows on her grandparent's farm, are enduring images of beauty from her childhood. She also draws from travel experiences, especially beachy locales and the southwest/desert landscape, as favorite subjects for her paintings and photography. She hopes a painting will bring to mind and into your home a special memory or feeling of freedom, adventure, joy, hope or childhood.  Today, we're talking about: From “never tried to paint” to professional artist later in life Prioritizing passion over skill and allowing this to lead you Learning to look with artist eyes, beginning to really see  C A N D A C E  C O F E R author + speaker ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠instagram⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠youtube⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠facebook⁠

Since he was a little boy living in California, Everett Occhinpinti and his twin brother dreamed of experiencing severe weather and chasing a tornado for themselves. When their family relocated to Oklahoma, this dream became reality. Together, the document their weather photography and storm chasing on Instagram @tornado_twins. In addition to this, they turned their obsession for soda into a growing and thriving business, Okolahoma Soda Company. Today, we're talking about: ‘Naders, storm-chasing and weather photography Storms of life and a promise of God we can hold onto through these Okolahoma Soda - how this OK favorite got started C A N D A C E  C O F E R author + speaker ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠instagram⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠youtube⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠facebook⁠

Lissa Anglin is a seasoned freelancer and creative sidekick to vibrant and optimistic brands. She operates as the Creative Director for her business, Lissa Anglin Creative, and she and her team craft compelling imagery, strategic branding, captivating design, and seamless social media management for their clients. With a degree in art, Lissa's stationery and fine art photography is also featured on platforms like Minted, Greenvelope, and Target. A long career in photography and content creation also led her to food styling for commercial clients, and she can frequently be found on set touting an apron, and a few industry tricks up her sleeve. Beyond her creative pursuits, Lissa enjoys serving her church and her bustling family life with her husband and three kids. Today, we're talking about: Your first step to building a brand How to build a brand that is both unforgettable and genuine to your mission Owning and designing your own AirBnb C A N D A C E  C O F E R author + speaker ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠instagram⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠youtube⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠facebook⁠

We've kicked off this year with a mini series on health talking about spiritual, mental, physical, relational health and how these are all connected to our overall wellness and wholeness. Today, you are invited to dinner with Will and I as we are joined with our good friends, The Cunningham's, to talk about another big one - emotional health. We're talking about: Emotional health - from both a husband and wife's perspectives Celebrate Recovery - what it is and what it's not The impact our individual health has on our relationships C A N D A C E  C O F E R author + speaker ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠instagram⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠youtube⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠facebook⁠

Mark and Jill Savage are passionate about encouraging, educating, and equipping families and marriages.  After serving in church ministry for twenty years, the Savage's are now meeting the needs of families as authors, speakers, and coaches. Known for their honesty, humor, and practical teaching, Mark and Jill bring hope and encouragement to every audience. Jill is the host of the No More Perfect Podcast and the author of eighteen books including the bestselling No More Perfect Moms. Together Mark and Jill have created five online marriage courses and authored several books including No More Perfect Marriages, I Really Messed Up, and My Heart Is Broken. The parents of five adult children, and grandparents of six, the Savage's make their home in Normal, IL. You can find them online at www.MarkandJill.org. Also the free rebuilding trust guide we mentioned can be found at www.RebuildingTrust.us Today, we're talking about: The impact of marriage and the war waged against it The Savage's story - honest, real heartache, brokenness and victory Guardrails, the slow fade and Hope for marriage C A N D A C E  C O F E R author + speaker ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠instagram⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠youtube⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠facebook⁠

David Gibson brings knowledge and dedication to his role as a financial advisor at Forge Financial in Edmond, OK. He strives to ensure clients receive exceptional customer service and tailored financial advice. What drives David's passion is his commitment to helping others. He believes in empowering individuals with the knowledge and tools to take control of their financial futures. Every day, he educates clients, emphasizing that regardless of income, everyone has the potential to retire well. By instilling these principles, David believes we can not only transform lives but also impact future generations. Today, we're talking about: Checking the gauges for our finances 7 steps toward financial freedom How to find and partner with a financial advisor Contact David at (405) 340-1600. C A N D A C E  C O F E R author + speaker ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠instagram⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠youtube⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠facebook⁠

Scott Conrad is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, serving in LifeCare Ministries Counseling at Crossings Community Church in OKC. If you or a loved one is enduring mental health challenges, this episode is for you. It is our prayer you will find hope from hearing Scott's unique perspective, shaped by both his professional and personal journey with this. Know you don't have to struggle alone and there is help for you and there is HOPE.  Today, we're talking about: Mental health - signs, symptoms and next steps How to support a loved one through mental health challenges Rejoice in trials …even the heavy cloud of depression? C A N D A C E  C O F E R author + speaker ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠instagram⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠youtube⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠facebook⁠

Shiann Wickam currently serves patients as an RN in Oklahoma. Her very first assignment out of nursing school, to her surprise, was at a Covid-19 hospital. Though her experience eventually led to travel nursing, this initial assignment allowed her to see God placed her there to care and pray for these patients who were very sick and extremely isolated. Today, we're talking about: The necessity of hope, how spiritual health is connected to our physical health Disciplines to implement for spiritual growth Discussing Practicing the Way by John Mark Comer C A N D A C E  C O F E R author + speaker ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠instagram⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠youtube⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠facebook⁠

Heather Brown is the energetic podcaster, writer, online mama cheerleader and healthy living advocate behind the brand & podcast Healthy by Heather Brown. She and her college sweetheart hubby Eric live in Bham, AL with two young boys. Since starting blogging 14 years ago, Heather is privileged to reach over a million women each year, and runs her podcast and business with a team where they daily share ways for young moms to love their life and pursue health in mind, body and spirit through her Sunday Reset!   Today, we're talking about: How this “influencing” gig started - coupons and a popular recipe Sunday Reset - what it is and why we need it A question to ask yourself as you start 2025 C A N D A C E  C O F E R author + speaker ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠instagram⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠youtube⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠facebook⁠

Ever wonder why God gave you a specific gift and/or talent? Sure, He has something for you to do with it but is it bigger than that? 100000% For this reason (which we'll get to soon enough), I've been asking the people around me about their gifts and talents. What does their gift have to do with me and you? So glad you asked! That's where we're starting - the why behind it all. P.S. Thanks so much for joining me for season 5! Can't wait for all the inspiration heaven has in store for us as we come together each week. C A N D A C E  C O F E R author + speaker ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠instagram⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠youtube⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠facebook⁠

It's that time again... time to share the stories we've read and wisdom we've gained in the last year. I continued my commitment to read at least one book a month, and now I want to share my favorites with you. C A N D A C E  C O F E R author + speaker ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠instagram⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠youtube⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠facebook⁠

The weary world rejoices - these words from the familiar Christmas hymn are ones I've held close in recent years. I gather strength from this reminder, this command from scripture to rejoice. Rejoice now, it tells me. For it's not "the redeemed world rejoices" but the weary world who does the rejoicing, the world weary in waiting. Weary from what seems like a prolonged coming, a prolonged advent. Much like Abraham's wife, Sarah... C A N D A C E  C O F E R author + speaker ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠instagram⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠youtube⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠facebook⁠

If you've been following along with us this Christmas, you know we're looking at the genealogy of Christ, traveling back to Genesis with Adam, last week to Noah and now we're going to pause at Genesis 12 with Abraham. In Genesis 12, we see the unwrapping of grace - the very order of grace. C A N D A C E  C O F E R author + speaker ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠instagram⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠youtube⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠facebook⁠

Christmas, though we associate with jolly music, decadent recipes, colorful packages with shiny ribbon, and celebration, is not the absence of pain. Christmas is not the absence of suffering. And if you're thinking, "Okay, but my heart is broken in two. This pain I feel is real. It's overwhelming. If there's a God who feels, a God who cares, wouldn't He see the injustice of the world and His heart would break?" May I remind you friend, it does. God's heart breaks when He sees our pain and suffering. I know this sounds comforting but it's not just a nice-to-hear, it's the truth. God is the same yesterday, today and forever. Walk with me back to Genesis. C A N D A C E  C O F E R author + speaker ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠instagram⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠youtube⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠facebook⁠

Finding the perfect Christmas tree - we consider the size, notably the height, volume of branches, spacing of branches to ensure there are no gaps between the branches, the hue of green, the touch of the pine, whether we want real or artificial, and if artificial then pre-lit or not, as well as assembly and disassembly. What none of us imagine, what none of us have in mind is a stump. But, this is precisely what the first Christmas tree was. An old root. A stump. C A N D A C E  C O F E R author + speaker ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠instagram⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠youtube⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠facebook⁠

November to me is summarized most plainly and festively as "Fall-la-la-la" - the time when seasons merge, both pumpkins and maybe trees. By no effort of my own, only through means of a gift received, there is fudge in the fridge. Fudge, of all things, has been our first sign of the holidays this year. The anticipation of Christmas just around the bend. And soon conversations move from the tree to holiday plans, and with it, the holiday "F" word is mentioned. Family. C A N D A C E  C O F E R author + speaker ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠instagram⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠youtube⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠facebook⁠