This Topical Life

What an awesome conversation with my Mother-in-Law, Judy. She opens up about her church experience as a little kid all the way up to her adult involvement in church. Has it been an easy road? No. However, the wisdom gained from her experiences and her biblical knowledge help paint a picture of what church could be for all of us. Thanks Judy for opening up to all of us! 

Let's talk about church! The best way to describe this episode is to just listen. Let's open this can of worms. I'm excited. 

I'll be straight with you.   This episode was born out of one question I kept asking myself. Do I believe in hope anymore? Yeah. I like to go back to the drawing board sometimes and look at things with fresh eyes. I think when we hear the same spiritual words over and over and over we lose sight of what they actually mean. Do you feel that way? This episode brought clarity in my continuing journey to have hope and the spot I'm sitting in with life right now.    Also, this is the last episode of Season 3!!! Yup! It's true!! But, don't you worry, Season 4 is right around the corner.    Hugs and love to you.   -Tiff

Have you ever noticed how people don't really share their mental health medication journey? Why is that? It's probably because it can be a long, daunting, and strenuous process. Today, I come on to share my journey with depression and how meds slowly entered the picture through the years.    I also reached out to some friends to share what they wished they learned earlier before starting their own medication process.    I would find this episode very encouraging for someone who is intimidated, overwhelmed, or confused whether they should try medication or not. As always, please feel free to reach out anytime and please know you don't have to journey the medication process alone.    Have a great week! 

Rachel and I recorded a fresh new episode for you yesterday. We talked a lot about current events and how we are dealing and processing them. Tears were shed for sure. We hope our thoughts and tears bring you comfort or put words to what you might be feeling. Sending podcast hugs to you!    As mentioned in episode…here is Rachel's blog post she talks about in this episode about her profound spiritual experience….  https://thewrongsideofthedoor.blogspot.com/2012/12/marana-thamarana-tha.html

Nope, not that “B” word, sorry. Ha!  Today we are taking about a different word: “Burnout”. Could you have it? Is someone you know saying they don't feel depressed but don't feel strong emotions like they used to ? As it turns out, there are valid reasons for this. I have linked another podcast episode which inspired me to talk about my own personal burnout. Much love to you this week!    Here is the link to the other podcast: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1gEdeOPwXGJhe2yYAaR5wl?si=LSauthEESJKRjFeY8wS0Ig

Today we welcome back the wonderful Gina Perkins! Yay! The last time we podcasted together was back in March of 2020 when we talked about anxiety and Covid. Little did she know her life was about to take a massive pivot. Sixteen months ago her oldest daughter, D.J., was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes. We walk through her experience of the news and the impact it's had on her, her family, and all that's in between. Gina, thanks for your raw vulnerability and sharing your heart with us. Anyone who knows you is truly blessed.    Gina wanted me to share this website if you are interested in learning about early detection of Type 1 Diabetes.  https://www.jdrf.org/   Have a wonderful week!

Rachel Payne is back with some hard news. After moving to Oregon 16 months ago she now has to turn around and move right back to Texas.  This was an unexpected surprise to her (and me as well) and we are super sad about it. We talk about some raw truth and process what it is she is feeling and thinking. Rachel will still be our continued, permanent guest on this platform just not in the same state unfortunately.    Thanks Rachel for who you are and the willingness to share the mess in real time. What a gift. Who knows what the future holds. Love YOU.

He's back! Yes! My brother, Kevin Shaw is back! And joining us today is his better half, Angie Shaw! In this episode,  Kev and Angie start by describing to us what it was like getting their business “Brightways Counseling Group” off the ground and how it took off during the pandemic. Did their business succeed because of the cultural hustle we have grown accustomed to? Not exactly. They saw a need and went for it. In talking with Kev and Ang you will see their heart's passion not only in their business but with the people they are surrounded by and most of all each other.    ****The end of this episode is absolute PARENT GOLD. As many of us are experiencing, it's difficult to get a counseling appointment for our kids these days. Don't let that discourage you. Kev and Angie give some excellent advice and tools to tide you over until you can get your appointment. Have a wonderful week ! Enjoy ! 

In this continued conversation, Kevin and I pick right up where he starts to talk about his spiritual path. The focus is more on his adventure to Oregon from Nashville and what made him to decide to make a big move. The end of the conversation is my favorite, which is when he meets his beautiful wife. Have a wonderful week. 

Joining us today is the one and only, Kevin Shaw --- who also happens to be my brother.  Kevin shares with us his life journey and gives us a complete picture of what it means to find beauty in the struggle of life. Topics include: career path, mental health issues, eating addiction, spiritual journey, and the amazing story of meeting his wife. This is a two part series. ENJOY!

Rachel Payne joins us again for another riveting conversation on, you guessed it, LIFE!    Topics include: kid stuff, Ukraine, faith, heartache, purpose, and so much more. Honestly, it was like we were catching up in a coffee shop, only we weren't the only ones there --- you were too. Enjoy!  

In this episode I introduce you to the magnificent Rachel Payne. She's an awesome addition to “This Topical Life,” and when you listen to her you will probably agree. We recorded this episode before the Ukraine news and wasn't sure if we should release it quite yet. But, as it turns out after listening, I can't think of a better time than now. We hope you find encouragement and comfort as Rachel and I dive head first in life's hard stuff.

Yes! Your eyes aren't seeing things! Season 3 is back in the game.  This episode I pick up with where we left off with "Selah" (15 months ago!), and dive right into talking about a Lo-fi approach to life and to this podcast. If you have never listened to a single episode this is a great place to start.  I am inviting you to journey with me as we continue to explore life in the NOW.  That's not all! I hope you enjoy hearing my heart's mission and the updates about what is to come. If you are reading this maybe being a part of this  community is for you. If there is anything I could say about the 15 months of not podcasting, we are not meant to journey alone. God Bless

The last Selah session has arrived, yes, but our Selah (pause) continues.  That's if we take all we have learned and keep going and growing. In this episode I cover all the main points of all the Selah sessions. As well as what the sessions have meant to me personally.  I say it in the episode and I will say it again.  I can honestly say I am experiencing more peace now than I was at the beginning of recording these sessions.  My life isn't any easier, but I do have peace. I'm calling that a huge win! Selah is putting your hope in action.  It's yours for the taking.  Season 3 will continue I just don't know when or how yet but I do know I will be having some "pop up" episodes.  I will give you plenty of warning.  I hope these sessions have challenged you to take a courageous step in letting go of life's crap and taking in all the good stuff we often overlook.  I hope you have an awesome week. Please reach out to me anytime. SELAH

This episode starts with a reading of one of my favorite stories, "The Legend of the Three Trees," by Catherine McCafferty.  Who doesn't love a story read to them, right? Find a quiet mental space for yourself because there is a message for you.  Things in your life might not seem like the success you have been hoping for or working so hard for, BUT there is more to your story.  It's not done yet. If you feel the way I feel than you are with me when I say this is good news.  I share a few tears with you and mention my next step in my personal Selah process.  Next week will be the last Selah session for now.  It's time for me to pause in my pause. Have a wonderful week.

This session boils down to this. In your process and journey what does success look like for you?  In this episode I challenge us to define what success means to you and also what the world presents success to be.  What do you want to accomplish in this life? No greater time than the present to think about what you want your legacy to look like after your time on this earth.  Is it having all the money in the world? Is it having a certain image you want the world to see? I doubt it. Our tomorrow isn't promised. Shortly after recording this episode I found out someone I admire for his courageous outlook on life tragically died.  He leaves behind four children, a beautiful wife and thousands of changed lives. This episode is dedicated Collin Kartchner and his #SAVETHEKIDS campaign.  

Has it been four weeks of Selah sessions already? Wow!  Time flies and sometimes time doesn't fly fast enough.  Which leads me to my next thought, the idea of process.  We also talk about patience. So, what do you get when you put process and patience together? Well, you will just have to listen in this episode to find out. Hope you have a fantastic week!

It's that time of the week where we sit down and figure out what this "Selah" time is all about.  This episode we focus more on the word "Resiliency" as it relates to our time in Selah.  I come clean with some of my ups and downs of the week but overall I think this time of pause is really opening my eyes to a few things. Have an awesome week! I will see you in 2 WEEKS. I'm taking a week off to turn the big 40! 

How is the word, "Selah" setting into your soul?  Listen in on this LIVE recording as I guide us through the beginning steps of experiencing our, PAUSE. Have a wonderful week and I hope this message lightens your load and gives you some freedom.  I know for myself, I will need to re-listen and let the words soak in a little more.

Season 3 is here! We are taking this season of episodes to reflect upon one word, "Selah." You are invited on a new journey and with only one guest. ME! I'm going to leave the explanation for your ears. I will say this though, there is something in this series for you. Get ready for nitty gritty, unrefined vulnerability folks! These recordings are recorded LIVE so, no edits, just raw. Follow "This Topical Life" on Instagram and Facebook to learn more about live recordings. Stay strong. Stay loved. Selah

Welcome to the Season 2 wrap up! Join with me in honoring our guests and what it has meant to the "This Topical Life" mission. I share some behind the scene thoughts in light of current events and some heart speak that's been in the works. If you have never listened to an episode this is a good place to start and get a quick capture of what this season holds. Thanks so much for your support and encouragement and riding this wild wave with me. Season 3 will be here before you know it!

Please let me introduce you to the incredible Donna Parker folks! She may look familiar as she is the owner of "Blondy's Baked Goods." She's a local favorite by many but who is this Donna Parker I speak of? What's her story? How did she get to where she is today despite what happened to her? Behind every amazing person is usually an equally amazing story to back them up, am I right?  I'm going to leave the details for your listening pleasure.  Thank you Donna for speaking out your truth and paving a path of authenticity for us to follow.  I will be leaving her contact info on social media outlets. Have an amazing week you guys and stay safe.

Robyn Byleveld was born with a rare birth defect called, "Proximal Femoral Focal Deficiency" (PFFD) - "rare" meaning only 1 in every 200,000 children are born with this defect and it varies in severity from person to person.  Robyn was also born with a cleft palate and hydrocephalus (water on the brain). For Robyn, all of this has meant many surgeries, a prosthetic leg on her left side, and 50% of her bones are shorter than the average adult which has led to hip mobility issues and chronic pain management.  Did I mention she was born without a left femur bone yet?! It's a road less traveled for many for us.  Physical disabilities combined with the emotional toll that can transpire is enough for anyone to give up and sink into a dark place. Not for Robyn though. Listen to her story and take heart in her perseverance and self acceptance. You are a shining star Robyn! Thank you!

Erik Kilgore tragically lost his older brother to an accidental drug overdose. In Erik's words, "James Matthew Kilgore was a son, brother, friend and uncle. His smile could light up a room. It seemed that everyone he met became a friend instantly. James had a sense of humor that could make the most serious person burst out laughing.  Most importantly, James wanted to know how YOU were doing as a person. However, James also suffered from a disease, opioid use disorder, for 12 years. He was first introduced to opioids during a wisdom tooth extraction in high school, a classmate turned drug dealer introduced James to OxyContin.  The addictive nature of OxyContin was not understood by many people at the time."  Then on December 9, 2018 James died of an accidental overdose from a pill laced with fentanyl. If there is one thing I choose to take away from this episode and conversation, it is that NO ONE and I mean NO ONE is immune to a drug disorder.  Thank you Erik for sharing your story and so much more.  I am left with no words for the loss of your beloved brother except that I am incredibly moved by your dedication to helping educate others about drug addiction.  Erik started a non profit organization breaking down the stigma and statistics surrounding drug addiction that can be found at https://www.henrysuncle.org.

This week the lovely Christine Borchert zooms with me about her experience in her profession of being an end-of-life Doula.  Christine describes what death can look like in a positive light and how to promote a good experience in the process of losing a loved one.  The process starts now.  There are things you can do today to ensure an easier transition in the process of life to death.  This is just a touch of what we talk about. No one loves talking about death obviously, but I learned that death has so much to do with life and the now.  Thanks Christine for talking to us about such an important topic.  You can find Christine (and team) at https:/eveningstar-eol-doula.com/

Before Covid-19 hit Pam Pearce and I recorded on the topic of alcohol.  We covered a TON! Part 2 and Part 3 episodes are packed with full disclosure information.  Pam shares her own personal recovery journey and all that she has learned along the way.  We talk about genetic predisposition to alcohol.  We entered the advice arena as well.  How do you respond if someone talks to you about your alcohol use? How do I talk to someone who has an alcohol problem?  How do I know if I even have an alcohol problem? The list goes on.  In Part 3 we talk mostly about PREVENTION.  How do we stop a substance use  problem before it starts? Pam is a wealth of information and encouragement.  Are you struggling? Do you need a Pam in your life? She is available to help in any way you might need.  No problem is too big for Pam.  Feel free to contact Pam at pamflorapearce@gmail.com 

Before Covid-19 hit Pam Pearce and I recorded on the topic of alcohol.  We covered a TON! Part 2 and Part 3 episodes are packed with full disclosure information.  Pam shares her own personal recovery journey and all that she has learned along the way.  We talk about genetic predisposition to alcohol.  We entered the advice arena as well.  How do you respond if someone talks to you about your alcohol use? How do I talk to someone who has an alcohol problem?  How do I know if I even have an alcohol problem? The list goes on.  In Part 3 we talk mostly about PREVENTION.  How do we stop a substance use  problem before it starts? Pam is a wealth of information and encouragement.  Are you struggling? Do you need a Pam in your life? She is available to help in any way you might need.  No problem is too big for Pam.  Feel free to contact Pam at pamflorapearce@gmail.com

The struggle is REAL folks. Many people are experiencing massive amounts of adversity in this virus season of our lives.  For many, drinking alcohol helps soften the blow.  Is that bad? How much is too much? Am I becoming an alcoholic? Is it bad to want to drink at 10am? These are few of the questions I ask Pam Pearce.  Pam is a fountain of knowledge and experience in the area of alcohol and substance abuse. So much so that this episode is just a touch of what we will be talking about in the next two episodes following.  This is an episode you DO NOT want to miss. This isn't a talk about what anyone is doing wrong it's about getting ourselves in the right light.  Where does alcohol sit in your life?  I've had to ask myself that question recently and I'm thankful Pam helped me with my answer. Love you Fierce Pearce!!

You heard right! My sister! Chelsea Lauchner joined us on the last talk LIVE on Combat Covid-19 to talk quarantine life. Chelsea has had extensive quarantine experiences, especially most recently after a strict quarantine with her son, Skylar, who was tested and cleared from Covid-19.  However, for Chelsea and family, isolation was a lifestyle not too long ago, even before recent events. Her daughter, Leora (LeeLee) was diagnosed with autoimmune neutropenia a little after she turned one year old. (15-17 mo old). It meant COUNTLESS hospital visits and life protected in isolation (given her susceptibility) not knowing what the future would hold. Now, LeeLee is 5 years old and healthy!  Chelsea shares incredible wisdom she gained during her time in isolation and how her faith literally carried her through. We covered a lot in an hour but we could have kept going for sure. Lucky for us, Chelsea is currently writing a book about her story and it will definitely be THE BEST BOOK EVER.  We hope you leave the conversation encouraged. Have an awesome week!

Struggling with having a positive mindset during this pandemic? Yes? Me too! Keri Faith at our service! Keri is a mindset coach, speaker, and as of April 17, 2020, an author!  Listen to Keri as she shares about her past struggles and how she used the pain to help propel her future and others. Keri is passionate about people and is gifted the amazing ability to see the potential in every person she meets.  This episode LITERALLY helped me.  I showed up to the interview a HOT MESS.  This is a good listen for some quick tips you can apply as soon as you are done reading this. You can find Keri at http://kerifaith.com/

Awesome News!!!  This Topical Life will be recorded LIVE on the facebook page, "Combat Covid-19" for the next couple months.  The stories will still keep coming and hopefully encourage you even more now with the pandemic we are experiencing. It's a tough time for many and we need each other more than ever.  This week I talk with the amazing KEVIN BROOKS! His story has been heard by millions and for good reason.  Kevin has a book out too! A good read for all ages that would be great to incorporate in homeschool learning too:) I will have a direct book link on social media. Stay hopeful! Stay Well! Stay Loved!

Gina Perkins and I have a video chat over Zoom on the topic of anxiety. Gina and I both describe our anxiety journeys and how we have gotten where we are today.  Have we got it figured out? NOPE! Now that Covid-19 has hit we are facing some personal struggles with anxiety, but also realize so many people out there who have never struggled with anxiety are now facing it as well.  This is a great conversation that offers hope, love, and life.  Great tips for kids too! Stay well.

Lyndsey McDonald is back! Are you flat out terrified at the thought of homeschool as I was ?! I'm not anymore folks! Lyndsey has such a fresh and VERY experienced perspective on homeschool.  One of the main points that Lyndsey wanted to drive home was, you DO NOT have to be amazing at this. We have your back. Best case scenario, you were able to keep the kids alive during this scary time. 

I present to you Heather Rose folks !  If you haven't listened to the first 2 parts of this series you are going to want to listen to those first. Questions you might have for Heather. How did you handle yourself when Ben told you the life changing news? Why did you stay with Ben? How did you recover and heal? How were you able to forgive him? We answer all of these questions and more today in Part 3. A huge thanks to Ben and Heather for coming on This Topical Life and being so transparent and spreading the hope that your marriage carries so well.

This week Ben and I continue to walk through the fall out of his decisions.  We talk about four different concepts he discovered when he started to repair his life and marriage.  We dig deep in the trenches as he discloses what it was like to "Square up" to porn and change his life.  Ben is so transparent and is determined to help others through this. Ben, thankyou for being YOU!  Next week we hear from Ben's wife, Heather, in Part 3.

Not often do you run into a person who is open enough to talk about porn addiction and sexual brokenness.  Ben Rose is a different story though.  He wants anyone and everyone to know the "hook" that took him down a long, dark path.  Thank you Ben for your transparency and willingness to discuss what many people are dealing with behind closed doors.  This episode is Part 1 of a 3 Part series.  

That's right. It takes two. Shivon Marquand knows exactly what this means. Years ago Shivon was faced with a life decision that is familiar to many. She was suddenly pregnant and facing a possible commitment to a partner for life. The decision didn't come overnight. Eventually, though, a decision was made. Shivon shares her story, and let me tell you, it takes a WILD turn that shocks almost anyone she mentions it to. I'm so glad to know you Shivon! Thanks for being an example of hope.

Austie Eckley joins us as she tells her story of complete redemption. A wonderous mosaic of a story that she would say she can't take credit for. Living her life addicted to drugs, pills, bad relationships, and full on functioning while trying to stay afloat eventually gave way.  Listen in as we unfold her story and see where her life is today. 

Join Stephani Falcone and I as we talk through what a REAL health journey looks like. I would consider Stephani an expert in the fitness industry and has amazing perspective on physical fitness.  Among many topics of discussion, Stephani reveals the #1 voiced concern that she often hears from clients.  Have you failed your January fitness goals? (You haven't) Are you wondering where to start on a better health journey? Start by listening to this quick episode and walk away with some healthy truths to start incorporating TODAY!

Brian Murphy plays host as he asks wife, Tiffany, her thoughts on Season 1 of "This Topical Life."  If you have listened to every episode or haven't listened to any episodes this is an episode you don't want to miss. Tiffany talks about the amazing guests and some behind the scenes details of what the podcast is doing for people.  It is clear that the podcast is making a difference for both listener and guest.  Sit tight because Season 2 is right around the corner! 

Joaquin Socolofsky at age 19, is by far the most amazing flutist I have ever listened to in my whole 39 years of life.  Not only that, his personal story behind the flute is pretty amazing too.  Joaquin shares his journey of young childhood learning difficulties to his eventual fate as an amazing musician.  At the end of the episode Joaquin shares a few tunes too! I highly recommend this episode to ALL AGES. Thanks so much Joaquin! I am so glad I have your autograph! 

Meet tapestry artist, Shelley Socolofsky. Google her folks! She's incredible! Shelley is extremely humble about how amazing and well known she is around the world for her craft. She has been trained under the best of the best from different parts of the world including Paris and Italy. Shelley also has a passion for teaching and spreading the importance of art to students. She mentions how healing and therapeutic it is for us to express ourselves through art. At the end of our conversation Shelley reveals a haunting experience you are NOT going to want to miss! Happy early Halloween folks! Thank you Shelley for sharing yourself with us! 

Vulnerability strikes again by an awesome woman named, Luan Lierman. Luan shares her story of moving to the States and the challenging transition that it was in the beginning of her arrival. Family struggles, religious obligations, learning a new language it was a lot for a little girl to take.  Her Faith carried her through some really dark times that now as an adult she has had to confront.  We dig deep into her story and she reveals that her new path has never been brighter. Thanks Luan for being YOU! Luan also teaches Chinese and has herself busy with different events local events in the West Linn Community. You can find her facebook page @Luan's Language World to get involved.

Raise your hand if you have all of your financial affairs in order if something were to happen to you? If your hand is up, awesome! If your hand is down, it's okay! Only one in four people have this kind of stuff figured out.  Good news! I took the plunge for you and met with Aaron Hessel from Hessel Law Offices myself.  It wasn't as scary as I thought it would be and it did help that the consult was free. It's free for you too! After walking through this process with Aaron I invited him to come share with all of us the importance of Estate Planning. As someone who loves checking things off her list, I am so glad Brian and I went through this process to gain some peace of mind.  You can check Aaron out at www.Hessellegal.com for more info and contact information.  

Today is October 1st. For those of you who don't know, the month of October is Pregnancy & Infant Loss Awareness Month.  Let's face it. It's a topic no one loves to visit but a brave soul came forward to share her personal experiences on the subject. Her name is Heather Beck.  Please listen to her story and her courageous vulnerability as she shares about her loss and triumphs. Thanks so much Heather xoxo!!

Who is Melissa McDonald you ask? A wife, mom, friend, sister, daughter, running coach, teacher, and best friend for life.  In all of the life roles she plays for others, love, is the common theme. I LOVED sitting down with Melissa and picking her brain wisdom. Be jealous you guys.  We live in the same neighborhood. However, if you showed up on her porch she would take you in no problem too.  Thanks Melissa for coming and sharing yourself with us! 

This episode calls for a quote. "Nothing good comes from the death of your child.  I think good can come from how you choose to live your life after their death." -Carrie Higgins         Dedicated to Madison (Maddi) Riley Higgins January 22, 1997--June 9, 2014

What is the alternative to safe sex? In this episode, my good friend Mary and I dish on the decision to wait to have sex until marriage and how it affected us before and after. We'll be drawing from our own experiences to discuss why abstinence is a real option. You will want to listen until the very end for a hilarious bonus! :)

Keegan Chastain. A runner, a mother, a wife, and Jesus believer.  Keegan walks us through her journey of self discovery and finding her true identity. A journey that at one point she didn't think she would survive. Keegan had a miraculous experience and hasn't looked back since. To listen would be a gift. Thankyou Keegan for your vulnerablity and your absolute sincere heart. 

I am not lying when I say Roxy McDermott is the jackpot of life experience. If anyone could walk away from life living as a true victim of circumstance, it could be Roxy. Instead, she walks a different path. From abuse, to her mom's murder, to having next to nothing, and so much more, she manages to climb out of a victim mentality and into something far greater than she could have ever imagined for herself. Roxy, I am so privelaged to have met you and to have had this conversation with you. I learned so much!