This Changed My Life, with Emilie McCormack

What journey it has been. This podcast has been such a fun adventure. Thank you for tuning in! I will be taking a short break as I spend some intentional, extended time with my family over the next several weeks. What a gift. But before I go, here are a few final thoughts. I hope and pray you are encouraged. I pray you are mostly encouraged to sit at the feet of Jesus. HE CHANGES EVERYTHING. Love y'all! I'm just getting started. See you in Season 3! Launch date TBD.

EPISODE 50! I cannot believe it.  I have been reflecting on all the things I have learned (AND have changed my life) through starting this podcast. What a ride. I am so thankful and truly feel these lessons will encourage you as you face whatever your next adventure is ahead.  My biggest hope is that fear will not get in the way of you saying "YES" to something new. You can do hard things. Don't wait for all the answers before you take a risk. There is probably joy and courage right around the corner of your "yes".

I am deeply encouraged and impacted by leaders, authors, and pastors all over the world (thanks to internet!). I wanted to take one episode just to do some shoutouts for people I love and am deeply encouraged by. I think you should follow them on social media, read their books or blogs, and listen to their podcasts- I know you will be encouraged! I could have listened 50 more, but here are the names of people I talked about on this episode: Jess Connolly, Francie Winslow, Alisa Keeton, Christine Caine, Anjuli Paschall, Katia Adams, Maverick City Music, Derwin Gray, & Jackie Hill Perry.  And here is the link for the tanning drops I can't stop taking about:  https://amzn.to/3NZqLSs

The Spirit of God and the Word of God are one. But sadly, so many of us have divorced them in our hearts, minds & actions. (I think due to the misuse we've seen. Or fear). If we want to know God- all of Him- we must say: I want all of You. All of the Father, Son, and Spirit. Hold nothing back, Lord.

How many times have we heard "shame on you" spoken towards someone. Or how many times have we said it ourselves? Friends, shame is not from God. Shame makes us hide. Shame makes those we love hide. Shame does not lead to true repentance.  Let's be people who know the heart of the Father, and reflect Him to others. Let's reject shame. 

Well this was a first for me. I posted the weekly episode and then quickly got really helpful constructive feedback from a dear friend. I realized some of the things I said could have been misinterpreted and I wanted to address them. So I deleted the episode, and asked my friend if she would hop on a call with me.  We talk about our personal experiences as moms; specifically a working mom and a stay-at-home mom. Our hope and prayer is that wherever you are at in your mothering journey, you will be encouraged.  I also added the original episode at the end of this one. I thought it might be helpful context to what Lauren and I talk about. It was a learning moment for me, and I am thankful for friends who give helpful feedback! We are all learning, friends! My favorite bag for summer: https://amzn.to/3D0d6pi Laurens favorite things: Devotional: https://amzn.to/36AjreE Olaplex hair treatment: https://amzn.to/3N8GfmJ Electric Kettle: https://amzn.to/3qnmJsM Favorite Tea https://amzn.to/3N2eIDk

I have been having conversations with other parents lately that led to this podcast. Also, my own observations and lessons in my own parenting journey with my 5 kiddos. In this episode I talk about boundaries, phone rules for kids (I get very passionate about this one), letting our kids fail, and much more.  We are raising the next generation. What an amazing privilege. With great privilege comes great responsibility. By the grace of God, we can raise world changers. I believe that. 

I did not want this moment to pass without pausing and using this platform to pray for what is happening in the world right now. Ukraine is being attacked violently. People are fleeing. People are fighting People are dying. People are afraid. Thank you for joining me in prayer. God made a promise to hear the prayers of His people. We can find great comfort in that truth.

I still can't believe I am getting my Masters Degree. SO many times I said I would never go back to school. But, here I am! (And absolutely loving it!) My reasons might surprise you, and most of you may not relate to my school decision. But I hope you will pause and ask yourself what might be preventing you from saying yes to a challenge or even a dream. Everyone wants fun pens for school, right? So here's mine: Gel highlighters https://amzn.to/3H6IX87 https://amzn.to/3p502cp Mr.Pen https://amzn.to/3Haoijf

What a title, right? I mean, what does lipstick have to do with freedom? Well, let me tell you. I have always loved fashion & makeup-especially lipstick! But I have also felt insecurity when it comes to sharing about how much I love them. Completely out of fear of what people will think ("she's vain, she's shallow")-sounds lame, I know.  But for real, I've cared too much and holy smokes, it's exhausting!  Slowly but surely, God is bringing true freedom from fear & people pleasing. This week on Instagram, I shared a bunch of my favorite lipsticks and random style things that I love. It sounds so silly, but it was absolutely freeing to not care what people were thinking. And actually, it was so fun hearing all the comments from other ladies who loved the suggestions.  Bottom line, BE YOU. We are each uniquely creative in a million different ways. I am going to keep being me and talking about the things I love....Lipstick and Jesus. Join me! Current favorite lip plumper https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000Z605H2/ref=cm_sw_r_as_gl_api_glt_i_FVD60VA1S2EMDSCSYJ43?linkCode=ml2&tag=emiliemccor07-20 Current favorite lipstick: https://amzn.to/3oS2Ppj

Courtnay has a beautiful and unexpected story with foster care and adoption.  She has 2 bio kids, 2 adopted kids, and has had 19 foster kids over the last 8 1/2 years.  She shares the real and the raw of the highs and the lows of her journey. I was deeply encouraged, and I know you will be too. To keep up with Cournay and her journey, you can find her here:  https://instagram.com/phillourhome?utm_medium=copy_link Here are a few of her favorite things: Collagen https://modere.co/3MaSsXt Hair ties https://amzn.to/3GsKk0j Water bottle https://amzn.to/3J3BvMn

Many of you may have seen Alexa on Spy Kids, Hallmark movies or Dancing with the Stars (just to name a few). She loves acting and has been blessed with an incredible career. She is also a wife, mama of 3, Jesus follower, author and happens to be one of the most fun and genuine people I know.  This conversation with Alexa was so fun & encouraging. We talked about Hollywood, faith, motherhood, social media, parenting, comparison and so much more! And of course, I asked her to share some of her favorite things that have changed her *skin's life (links below).  Go find out more about what she's up to here: https://instagram.com/vegaalexa?utm_medium=copy_link Organic self-tanning drops (these are the best!!) https://amzn.to/3KQxfBD All natural Deodorant (that they created) https://hapbee-company.myshopify.com/products/natural-mineral-deodorant Olaplex (will change your hair) https://amzn.to/3uduoN3 Teami face masks that will change your face  https://amzn.to/3AO9VzF https://amzn.to/3g8b7o2

I'm unloveable. I'm worthless. I will always fail. I shouldn't do _____ because I'm afraid. I'm too much. I'm a screw up. I can't tell anyone. I am ashamed. I can't be forgiven. I'm not worth it. I should harm myself. Any of this sound familiar? I want to remind you that there is a very real enemy and he is a liar. He wants to destroy your life. Where better to start than your thoughts. But GOD. One of the best phrases ever. Truth changes everything. Exposing the lies, and knowing who God says you are just might change your life.

Alright friends, I go full preacher mode for this one, so buckle up! I couldn't help myself because this verse has been changing my life for over 2 decades. 2 Chronicles 16:9 "The eyes of the LORD search the whole earth in order to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him." I need God's strength every day in every single area of my life, don't you? He promises to give it to those who are fully committed to him. Let's dive in to learn what it might mean to be fully committed to Jesus.

What if I'm alone? What if my child has special needs? What if I get sick? What if he/she abandons me? What if I loose a child? What if they falsely accuse me? What if I mess up? What if I can't do it? What if I don't have enough? The list goes on and on and on. I'm sure you could add 20 more "what if's" to this list. All very real fears and unknowns. BUT what if we didn't have to be paralyzed by the what if. Instead, change it to EVEN IF. Truly, these 2 words have changed my life. I hope they change yours.

Happy New Year!  Well, I thought for the first episode of the new year I'd share with you some tricks & tips that have actually changed my parenting life. I am 12 years into parenting and these have been game changers! I have a feeling you will thank me later! If you're looking for specific links to anything I share, check below! I hope you enjoy! Rechargeable kids night light https://amzn.to/3pLHiza Dison vacuum  https://amzn.to/3ePWswZ Echo Dot https://amzn.to/3eMcjN8 https://amzn.to/3pNoUGo Baskets for books https://amzn.to/3pMfxqj https://amzn.to/3mSAePD Dest organizer  https://amzn.to/3ELDS3N https://amzn.to/3pMx7KV Art for kids hub https://www.artforkidshub.com Storage for kids favorite things  https://amzn.to/32XYlW1 Laminator https://amzn.to/3t6DI55

Seasons, calendars, birthdays, anniversaries, a new year… all moments we should absolutely take advantage of. I hope we can each pause and reflect on the past year, and respond by looking forward to the new one ahead. If you're not a fan of resolutions, fine with me! But don't miss out on an opportunity for growth. Often real growth comes after a time of really being honest with what is, and what you hope is to come. I know we all have areas in our lives that we want to see change. Remember, nothing changes if nothing changes. I hope you're encouraged by some of the simple things I will be implementing into my life as I look forward to 2022. One of the highlights of my year was getting to share this podcast with YOU. Every message meant so much, THANK YOU from the bottom of my heart. The best is yet to come.

Honestly ask yourself, are you living in fear most days? Because practically speaking, there is a lot going on in our world right now that might cause you fear. Pandemic. Sexuality. Debating the sanctity of life. Politics. Government power. Social media and effects on teens. Racial tensions. Deconstruction of faith. Just to name a few. So what do we do with the fact that the Bible says “fear not” 365 times? The only time someone needs to say "fear not" is when there is a very real threat nearby. I am here to remind you, FEAR NOT. You can live in peace. True peace. Even if circumstances never change, there is peace to be found. Peace has a name. HIS NAME IS JESUS.

Leadership is such a gift, and it's also very hard. Especially during such tumultuous and unexpected circumstances like a global pandemic. No one was handed a guidebook for how to lead through such a crisis. My very simple hope is that you know you're not alone. I truly believe you are doing your best. Stay on your knees. Seek Godly counsel. Keep showing grace and praying for kindness and compassion to flow through you. Especially towards those who have made wrong assumptions about you. Do not let the wounds cause you to stand back or be passive. Lead strong. Be bold. Be brave. We need you.

This is a big passion point for me, and I may get a little fiery in this episode. It hits close to home because I saw it happening to me. Cable news was slowly destroying my ability to listen, learn and have compassion for people. Different news stations and social media posts made me full of fear and anxiety. I needed to step back and really evaluate where I was getting information to shape my view of the world.  I see so much confusion, judgment, anger, and aggression right now, and I truly believe the news is causing much of it.  My prayer and hope is that you will pause and reflect what is truly shaping the way view the world and your fellow man. 

The Creator of the Universe is very much alive and moving in the world today. Sometimes we need to be reminded that the Church of Jesus is thriving and growing all over the globe. I got to witness an incredible church in London that deeply encouraged my soul and filled me with incredible hope. I hope you are encouraged and reminded that Jesus is just getting started. 

WE'RE BACK! Last week, me and my special friend, Tiffany Thurston, shared about some of our very favorite things. We had way too fun. We decided we needed another episode just for kid ideas! This week we are give you all of our favorite things for kids. These are the perfect ideas for Christmas shopping! Don't forget to check out Tiffany's Instagram and blog-you're gonna love her! https://www.tiffanythurston.com/blog/giftguide All product links are below. EM'S FAVORITES Shrink art jewelry https://amzn.to/3q9omew Slime https://amzn.to/3BTpm8U Sticker mosaic https://amzn.to/3qcr030 Taco vs burrito https://amzn.to/3qcr030 Kids create absurdity https://amzn.to/3HrtYac Paint sticks https://amzn.to/3CUvGOM Air Fort https://amzn.to/3o1f4P2 *affiliate links TIFF'S FAVORITES Play Kitchen https://amzn.to/3wvtFWV Scooter (Ages 3-5) https://amzn.to/3o2khWC Hooded Towel https://amzn.to/3GUIqHx Magformers https://amzn.to/3bHYvlv Post-It's https://amzn.to/3EQcPoA

Friends, are you ready for this? Me and my very special guest, Tiffany, shared some of our most favorite things and we know you will love them! Everyone needs a little help buying gifts, right? We did, and we want to help! All the links are below to make everything even easier to find.  Tiffany is one of my favorite people ever, you're gonna love her! Please go find her on Instagram or her blog (which has all the links!) https://www.instagram.com/tiffanythurston/ https://www.tiffanythurston.com/blog/giftguide She shares one rhythm that is changing her life right now, and it's SO good! Cant wait for you to listen (and share!) https://www.tiffanythurston.com/blog/giftguide Emilie's Favorite Things: Growth journal https://www.growthrootsco.com Popcorn pot https://amzn.to/3EGQVUo  Hammock chair https://amzn.to/3mIwBvU  Scripture journal set https://amzn.to/3bLDS7X  Scripture journal: New Testament https://amzn.to/3C4PUUL Scripture journal: Psalms https://amzn.to/3wAEvL3 Initial necklace https://amzn.to/31rxSPD  Live No Lies By John Mark Comer https://amzn.to/3BK1Rit Fanny pack https://amzn.to/3CRt83Q https://amzn.to/3033sD5 *affiliate links  More of my favorite things here: https://linktr.ee/Emiliemccormack Tiffany's Favorite Things: Hosanna Revival Bible  https://hosannarevival.com/collections/beautiful-bibles/esv Ember Mug https://amzn.to/3GMePjr or  Yeti Tumbler https://amzn.to/3bMsVmA  Instacart https://www.instacart.com Dry Shampoo https://amzn.to/3bLgOq0 Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray https://amzn.to/3mTrA3T + Moroccan Oil Hairspray https://amzn.to/3GV581Y Apple Air Pods https://amzn.to/3wimGjH  Human Kind Lotion https://amzn.to/3CPwuEf Magic Keyboard https://amzn.to/3D2rFYg

Did you know I homeschool my 5 awesome kiddos? Crazy, huh?! My "why" might surprise you, or be different than what you expect to hear. I definitely felt like I did not fit the mold to homeschool my kids. Whatever that stereotype mold was. I felt ill-equipped, scared, and like I had all the wrong skill sets. But here we are, 4 years later and loving it. My goal is NOT to convince anyone to homeschool. I know it is NOT for everyone. I just love sharing my journey and encouraging anyone who wants to homeschool but feels ill-equipped or scared. I can relate 100%. But I am so thankful I did not let fear hold me back, and I hope you won't either.

Every human on the planet has the same amount of time; 24 hours a day. I recently heard a presentation on ways to optimize my schedule and time and it was SO helpful! Wouldn't it be helpful to know when your brain was most alert and when you're functioning at your best? Priorities must be set in order to give our best to what matters most. I hope this helps, it did for me! The information I shared from the book "At Your Best" linked here: https://linktr.ee/Emiliemccormack

God used a recent conversation with my 10 year old son to teach me about strength. We make assumptions about what strengths or weaknesses we have, by comparing ourself to someone else. We are robbed of the joy of seeing our unique gifts when we compare them to other people. We also rob others of being blessed by our strengths and abilities when we are distracted by the ugliness of comparison. As I was reminded from my sweet son, strength comes in many different forms. I pray you are able to recognize your own strengths (gifts) God has given you, and help others do the same.

Did I just say Moana changed my life? Yes I did. But in reality, God used a specific song & picture from Moana to really speak to me. I love how creative & personal God is. He knows us better than we know ourselves (I really love Disney and He definitely knows that). AND He wants to speak to us. I hope you're encouraged and inspired by my personal story to practice quiet listening to hear from God.

When I first heard about Christian fitness I had several assumptions attached to what I thought that could mean. Most of them were negative, if I'm honest. Until I met Alisa Keeton and experienced Revelation Wellness. This totally blew up all ideas in my mind of what I thought it would be. I am hooked. Alisa, the founder of RevWell, truly cares about wholeness of body, mind, & spirit. She knows the science of the body better than any fitness instructor I have seen (and I've seen TONS). She is full of scripture and oozes truth. The combination of the science of the body, and the truth of the scriptures is life changing. oh, and its FUN!!! I laughed and smiled all the way through my first 2 workouts! I know you will be encouraged. Go to https://www.revelationwellness.org to find all of their workouts for FREE. Friends, give it a try. You won't regret it. 

God chose to reveal Himself in an actual body. He came in human flesh. But for hundreds and thousands of years, our culture has gotten it wrong. Churches have gotten it wrong. There is so much shame and confusion around sexuality and body image. There is also so much hope. Francie shares with us the hope she has found through years of study, prayer, and research regarding what God says about our bodies. I know you will be encouraged. Simply put: God made all of you and all of you is good. Please check our her resources & podcast, "Heaven In Your Home," where she shares incredible wisdom and gives practical steps to engage this important topic. https://franciewinslow.com

Overcompesating is a natural response to being hurt. But it is not the healthy response. We will usually end up more hurt than when we started.

Welcome back to Season 2! I am so excited to continue this journey with you.  We all use our words for good or for harm. We all have a choice about what kind of impact we want to make on those around us with our words. The Bible says "the tongue has the power of life and death..." but do we take that seriously? Let's take a moment to reflect on the ways we use our words. Check out https://www.growthrootsco.com to shop for the most amazing journals I talked about! Use the code "This Changed my Life" for 10% off until September 30.  Delicious Pumpkin foam recipe: 1c heavy whipping cream 1/2c sweetened condensed milk 2 tsp vanilla extract 3-4 tbsp pumpkin puree 1-2 tsp pumpkin pie spice *whip until frothy, smooth & thic. Add to hot or cold coffee!

To celebrate the 20th episode, my friend joined me to talk about things that have changed our lives. From products that are very practical, to our favorite books, to just fun makeup & skincare we love-I think you will be glad you listened! Also, stay tuned for season 2 coming in a few weeks!!! To find our favorite things: https://linktr.ee/Emiliemccormack

The Word of God is the anchor for our souls. The Word of God is our tether amidst the storm. The Word of God is alive. The Word of God is also being attacked and discredited and we must know the truth. Read the Word of God. Study the Word of God. It is essential. 

Feeling pulled back is hard. Unless the purpose is to launch you forward. And what if the hidden place is where you learn who you really are? It was for me.

Fear steals. Fear distorts. Fear confuses. Fear robs us being able to see clearly. What if we could walk through life without looking through the distorted lens of fear? What if we didn't fear rejection, being misunderstood, false accusations, or the uncertainty tomorrow? By God's Grace, there truly is freedom from fear waiting for you and for me.

We have all heard this before. We have all experienced this before. The cycle of hurt goes on and on, unless someone stops it. Unless someone makes the choice not to respond to hurt with hurt. What if that someone was me and you? I believe with my whole heart that God can and will help us break the cycle of hurt.

Often we hear the word authority and immediately cringe. The authority we have witnessed is very flawed. What if there was an authority that was the essence of good, even perfection. Authority to be completely trusted. Might that be an authority worth our allegiance?

We live in a culture where people seem to have everything BUT hope. Or, the things we place our hope in are not certain or guaranteed. We must remember that in Christ, we have a hope that cannot disappoint. His hope is a promise and He can be trusted.

Scripture compares your tongue to a sword, which is either very good or very bad. Swords can save lives, or take lives. You can bring healing with your words, or run someone through with them. Whatever we choose to say, we better say it prayerfully and on purpose.

You know that thing you know you're supposed to be doing? The thing you've been putting off out due to fear of failure or the assumption that someone else is doing it better? Knock that off. It's time to get on with it. Starting this podcast was that thing for me. I'll share my story, then you get busy writing the next chapter of yours. Deal? Cheering you on!

I can't wait for you to hear my conversation with Desiree. She shares about her new book, The Road to Roses, and her hopes for the reader.  We talk about identity, rejection, comparison, Jesus, love, truth, the Church, and....the bachelorette! Preorder her book here. https://amzn.to/3gmuFpB

To celebrate the 10th episode (HORRAY!), I switch things up a bit. I asked a friend to join so I could tell her about 10 things that changed my life. I got super practical! I hope you laugh, find something fun or helpful, and are encouraged. To find my favorite things: https://linktr.ee/Emiliemccormack

What habits do you have that you wish you didn't? What habits do you wish you had, but just can't stick with them? You might just have to daily practice something, even before you actually want to do it. With consistency & discipline, you just might start enjoying it.

We can all relate to having big feelings about things. For better or worse. Feelings matter. A lot. They reveal what is in our hearts. We should pay attention to how we feel. But feelings can also be wrong. We need a game plan when our feelings lie. Is there a place to find truth & hope when our feelings are anything but. Yes, yes there is.

Your feelings matter, but they often lie to you about things that matter A LOT. When we remember we have worth regardless of how we're feeling or what we're thinking, we're able to see God, ourselves, and the people around us as they truly are.

Sometimes you just can't deny that it's time to pull back -- to prepare, to learn, to dream. Winter seasons will feel like your story is over. Don't believe that for a second. If there's breath in your lungs, there's purpose for your life.

When a perfect God trusts imperfect people to give the world a glimpse of what he is like, things get messy. If you've been hurt by those who claim his name, that wasn't Jesus. If you've misrepresented him, there is grace -- receive it.

Wouldn't it be something if we could disagree about important things, and still choose to care instead of cancel? Actually treating others how we want to be treated would change our lives.

In relationship and leadership one thing is certain -- you are going to take shots from time to time. Checking in on my head and my heart changed my life.

Nothing tries to hijack our happiness like obsessing over how we measure up to other people. Knowing who I belong to and where my worth comes from changed my life.

I've been dreaming about this for years. Here's who I am, what to expect, and why I hope you and yours will come along for the ride. I want to hear from you as we go -- introduce yourself!