Up from the Muck Podcast

Laura Womack shares her powerful journey through postpartum depression following the birth of her second child. After struggling silently for two years while putting on a brave face for others, she found healing through an unexpected spiritual breakthrough that transformed her relationship with God and restored her joy.Some highlights of our discussion:• Experienced postpartum depression after her second child when circumstances were dramatically different from her first birth• Forced to return to work just six weeks after giving birth when her husband lost his job• Struggled with feelings of intense loneliness despite having a supportive husband and family• Continued attending church and Bible studies but was "just going through the motions"• Found healing through surrendering to God during a small group Bible study after nearly two years• Learned valuable lessons about God's patience, love, and healing power through her experience• Believes Christians should acknowledge mental health struggles and seek both spiritual and professional helpIf you're struggling with postpartum depression or any mental health issue, don't wait to seek help. Reach out to God first, then find godly counselors and friends who can support your healing journey.First West CounselingSend us a textSupport the showClick HERE for access to extra content through my Patreon Account.

Our latest episode dives into the ins and outs  of Hallie Dye's new book, "You're Still a Good Mom: Motherhood Surrendered to the One Who Never Fails (Even When You Feel You Have)". Her book addresses what it means to be a good mom on God's terms. This conversation emphasizes the worth of a mother. In order to do so, Hallie takes us all the way back to Genesis, where everything good was created. This conversation also highlights some of the behind the scenes of how Hallie became and author and how she stated her Podcast show, The Salt Works. Please listen along and find yourself being encouraged! Get your copy of Hallie's book, "You're Still a Good Mom," available on various platforms!The SaltworksYou're Still a Good Mom: Motherhood Surrendered to the One Who Never Fails (Even When You Feel You Have) by Hallie DyeMoody PublishersThe VineSend us a textSupport the showClick HERE for access to extra content through my Patreon Account.

Step into the profound journey of faith as we sit down with Dr. Troy Bostick, my father-in-law and trusted dentist, to unravel the incredible story behind the Gideons. Originating from a simple idea to counter the saloon culture of the late 19th century, this evangelistic association has blossomed into a monumental force for spreading the Christian faith across the globe. Discover how two determined businessmen from Wisconsin ignited a mission that now operates in over 200 countries, distributing Bibles in 196 languages, with a staggering 95 million Bibles shared just last year. We'll uncover the unique color-coding system that helps direct Bibles to groups like military personnel and medical staff, and dive into the biblical inspiration for the name "Gideons," drawn from a figure known for his steadfast obedience to God's will.Our conversation takes a personal turn as we explore the impact of becoming a Gideon, emphasizing its non-denominational nature and the heartfelt commitment involved. Dr. Bostick sheds light on the various roles within the organization, from speaking engagements at churches to the distribution of Bibles in hotels and hospitals. We also highlight the innovative Gideon card program, a meaningful way to honor loved ones by donating Bibles in their name. With personal stories and gospel narratives at the heart of this endeavor, we discuss how these tales of faith can connect and empower. Join us for an episode brimming with inspiring stories, and learn how the Gideons continue to make a difference worldwide.gideons.orgupfromthemuck.comSend us a textSupport the showClick HERE for access to extra content through my Patreon Account.

In this episode, I talk with Tara Fuller as she shares with me a moment from her life that used to clouted with shame, but is now counted as joy. Tara is an elementary teacher, a wonderful mother of two, and my friend.  In this episode, she opens up about her early struggles with identity, anxiety, and depression, culminating in a life-altering suicide attempt in 2015. She shares how seeking approval from God, rather than others, and the unwavering support from her husband, Kenny, were instrumental in her recovery.  Tara's journey showcases the resilience that can emerge from the darkest times, providing hope and encouragement for anyone facing similar battles.Tara offers invaluable advice for overcoming mental health struggles, emphasizing the importance of Christian therapy and the practice of EMDR to process trauma. Join us for this heartfelt episode, as we explore the significance of keeping God's word close so that we can remember to replace the lies of the enemy with God's truth. Take a listen and be encourage! Send us a Text Message.Support the Show.Click HERE for access to extra content through my Patreon Account.

When you find yourself at a career crossroads, the leap of faith into your true calling can be both thrilling and daunting. Mr. Damon Nailer, a man of many talents: educator, author, motivational speaker, and beacon of divine inspiration, has walked this path. In our heart-to-heart, Damon unwraps the layers of his journey, revealing how he navigated from a traditional educational role to fulfilling his purpose in leadership and spiritual guidance.There's a transformation that occurs when you align your life with a higher calling, and Damon's story is a testament to that. We ponder the delicate dance between professional ambition and personal faith, where trust in God's plan becomes the pulse of entrepreneurial spirit and success. The wisdom he shares—from his books to the founding of Real Life Academy—reflects a life steeped in continuous fellowship with the divine, reshaping not only his own destiny but also impacting those around him.Our conversation isn't just about Damon's milestones; it's a broader reflection on how success shapes our relationships and the way we lead. The episode peels back the curtain to reveal the nuanced ways in which faith and leadership intertwine, offering insights into how vision, guided by spiritual maturity, can broaden our horizons and influence. Take a listen and be encouraged!Send us a Text Message.Support the Show.Click HERE for access to extra content through my Patreon Account.

" ...We also boast in our afflictions, because we know that affliction produces endurance,  endurance produces proven character, and proven character produces hope.  This hope will not disappoint us, because God's love has been poured out in our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us."Romans 5:3-5This episode with Jana Hutzler speaks pf brokenness and grief, but also courage and compassion that serves as a reminder that there is always a purpose to our pain.    Take a listen and be encouraged! Broaden HorizonsBH Pickleball Tournament 2024July 20, 2024 8AM-12PM  West Monroe Sports Complex875 Constitution Dr.West Monroe, LA 71292  Men's, Women's, & Mixed Doubles Beginner, Intermediate, EliteCheck out my Patreon Account HERE for Merch and MORE content! Send us a Text Message.Support the Show.

Send us a Text Message.In this episode I sit down with Dr. Woods Watson as we talk about both of his books "Northeast Louisiana: A Community of Innovations" and "What in the World is God Doing in My Life".Woods has been on staff at First West  church for 20 years, and is currently serving as their Adults Pastor. Last summer Dr. Woods Watson came out with his latest book "Northeast Louisiana: A Community of Innovations".  It tells the tales of 20 different interesting and innovative people that either made a mark in Northeast Louisiana or the world. It's definitely a gem for any native northeast Louisiana to have. His previous book is more on the religious side of things, offering insights and points to ponder on the reasons why we endure suffering.Both books can be found on Amazon. Go ahead and give them a read. You won't regret it.For access to merch and extra content click HERE for access to my Patreon Account.Support the Show.

Send us a Text Message.In this episode, I talk with Abigail Avara about the abuse she endured by her first husband, and how the Lord rescued her out of that situation.  This story is also about how Abigail has re-learned her value and self-worth and how important it is to be rooted in God's word. There's also a bit of romance in there as she tells all about how she met her now new husband, Brent. So take a listen and be encouraged! Click HERE to gain access to my Patreon Account for exclusive content. Support the Show.

Porn addictions and sexting are two transgressions that would send any marital partner spinning. Beyond questioning the whys? Hows? and How many times? The bigger question is...should we divorce? In this episode, Cassidy Carpenter, shares with us her most vulnerable hurts and her heart on how she wades through the transgressions and confessions of her husband. Lamentations 3:1-23Grit and Grace Media with Cassidy CarpenterClick HERE for access to my Patreon Account for extra content.Support the show

Chris Craighead Jr. is currently the College Pastor at North Monroe Baptist Church in Monroe, Louisiana. In today's episode we'll unveil a trauma that he experienced as a child and how that event has impacted his life into adulthood. 2 Corinthians 4:8-9  says, "We are afflicted in every way but not crushed; we are perplexed but not in despair; we are persecuted but not abandoned; we are struck down but not destroyed."I think these verses most accurately depict Chris's journey of faith as he processed the tragic loss of his sister, Caroline at just 9 years old.This is struck down, but not destroyed kind of story. One filled will loss and hurt, but also with hope and healing. So, take a listen and be encouraged!  Click HERE for access to my Patreon Account where you can get Extra Content and Merch! Support the show

Mentoring is not just for the young. It's for all of us all at ages and stages. And there is no better place for it than in the body and community of other believers. In this episode you'll hear from my friend, Krystal Farnell, and learn how she strives to find good mentors in her life. Who knows, maybe you'll find someone you need to mentor too? Listen on and be encouraged!  Click HERE  for access to my Patreon Account to receive extra content and merch! Support the show

For 68 episodes, I have interviewed other people, and not once have y'all heard from me, so I thought it was time to share one of my stories.  With Easter just a few days behind us, I thought the best story for me to share would be  my Salvation Story.  May you know that you also are made for more. So take a listen and be encouraged!  *Trigger Warning* - I do talk about suicidal thoughts.Click HERE  for access to my Patreon Account for extra content and merch! Support the show

In today's episode I talk with West Monroe High School Senior, Mallie Cole.  She shares with me the moments of her sweet salvation with Jesus, how to came to that decision, and impact that decision has had on her life since. You're in for a treat! Take a listen and be encouraged!LINKSJason Curry-that weekend's speakerVerses mentioned in the show.John 3:16Matthew 10:32-33Acts 20:24Click HERE  for access to my Patreon Account where you can gather extra content! Support the show

When you find yourself in a broken marriage, what do you do?Do you stay and fight for it or flee?Even if you want to stay, how do you keep trudging ahead?In today's episode, I'll be talking with Ellie Murphy where she shares where she finds the strength to keep fighting for her marriage.Click HERE for access to my Patreon Account where you can find extra content.Support the show

When life suddenly takes a left turn down a path that we never thought would be our own, it is sometimes hard to remember the goodness of God. In this episode listen to how Kayla finds herself on a path she never thought would be hers, but was able to cling on to hope by remembering the goodness of God. Take a listen and be encouraged!Click HERE for access to my Patreon Account for Merch and other perks! Support the show

In this episode I talk with the Minister to Young Adults at Fair Park Baptist church, Clayton Bryan. We discuss how he dealt with the revelation of his father having a pain killer addiction while he was a teenager-the impact of that revelation on his family and ultimately his relationship with the Lord. Take a listen to this heroine story and be encouraged!  LINKSLamentations 3:22Shane and Shane"Praise You in this Storm"-Casting CrownsFair Park Baptist ChurchClick HERE for access to my Patreon Account for merch and extra content.  Support the show

I'm wrapping up this series with my current favorite woman of the Bible, Abigail. I look to her example for guidance in so many areas of my life. In this episode I asked Kristin Cook to come along side me to discuss who the woman of Abigail was and what we can learn from her even still today. What to know who she is and why I love her so much? Press play and find out. LINKS1 Samuel 25Mt. CarmelSUM Bible CollegeClick HERE for access to merch and other perks from my Patreon Account.Support the show

This week is part three of the Women of the Bile Series. In this episode we'll be exploring the characters of Miriam and Hannah-both Old Testament Women. Both have so many virtues and wisdom to learn from-even a few mistakes. Take a listen and be encouraged!LINKSAge Samuel may have been weened (3 or 4)Praises Rise by Valerie Barley (feat. Katie Ashcraft & Enrique Magana)We Bless Your Name by Valerie Barley (feat. Katy Ashcraft & Enrique Magana)North Monroe Baptist ChurchClick Here for access to my Patreon Account for merch and extra episodes from the guests that I interview.  Support the show

Join me today with Lifeway content writer, Alecia Bryant, as we dig in and discover more about Lydia and Anna of the Bible. LinksLifewayThe Gospel ProjectMap of Thyatira- Lydia's HometownMap of Ancient GreeceClickHERE for access to my Patreon Account to learn a little extra about the guests I interview. Support the show

While there are many great men in the Bible, there are also many great women of the Bible too! But somehow, the women sometimes get over looked. So, in this 4 part series, I've chosen some amazing women for us to uncover and apply their life lessons to today. In Part One, I invite local radio host of 88.7 The Cross, Bri Dunn, to come and discover Deborah with me. There is so much to learn about Deborah...and Jael. Join us as we discover their stories of the middle and be encouraged! LINKSMap of KedeshMT. TaborMap of Ramah and BethelMap of HazorStudy Tool for "Prophetess"Study Tool for "Judges"Judges 4 Christian Standard Bible (CSB) Judges 5 Christian Standard Bible (CSB)Judges 4 Commentary88.7 The CrossClick HERE for access to my Patreon Account, where you can access EXTRA content!Support the show

Watching a love one suffer and succumb to cancer is heartbreaking, when that person is your spouse of over 30 years, it's down right debilitating. It's challenging to stay steadfast to anything when faced with those circumstances, much less our faith. But in today's episode you'll hear from both Terry and Jill Slawson, as they share how they were able to hang on to Jesus throughout the loss of their spouses, and how God eventually restored and established them to the life they now live together. Take a listen and be encouraged! LINKSSeeker Springs- Celebrating the Grand Opening of their Lodge February 10th 3-6pm!Seeker Springs Facebook Page10,000 Reasons/What a Beautiful Name by Caleb and KelseyBroaden HorizonsPsalm 91:1 -2Matthew West-Christian Music ArtistIsaiah 43:191 Peter 5:10First WestClick HERE to access to my Patreon Account for extra content. Support the show

Living life after the death of a loved one is sometimes too hard to even fathom, epsecially when the loss comes sudden and out of nowhere. In this episode, Austin George shares about the loss of his brother, Tyler George. As you listen to his story, it is our hope that you are given hope and encouragement for this life and the next. May you know that there IS LIFE after death and that THIS life is worth the living because HE (God) lives. LINKSDead Reckoning String BandMcClendon Baptist ChurchBob Ross"Firm Foundation""Thank you for the Valley""Brighter Days are Coming"1 King 19:5-19Click HERE to access my Patreon Account for extra episodes from the guests that I interview. Support the show

The way that church is often structured can sometimes leave people wondering...where do I fit? Where's my community?This was Krystal's situation. Listen on to how she decided to fight for community and how she came to find it. LINKSClick HERE  to listen to extras content on my Patreon Account. Support the show

Welcome to Part Two  of this Pursuing Peace Series!This week I am continuing the conversation with First West's High School Minister, Garrett Hodges on how we can pursue peace in our lives. In this episode we discuss Colossians chapter 3 and uncover handles that will help us obtain and maintain peace in our lives.Links*Colossians 3*Battle Belongs by Phil Wickham-Lyrics*2 Chronicles 20*Romans 14*Matthew 6:33 (Seek first the Kingdom of God)Interested in learning MORE?Click HERE for access to extra content and perks with my Patreon Account! Support the show

Season 4 is starting off with a two part conversation on Pursuing Peace with God, ourselves, and others. In today's episode, First West's High School Minister, Garrett Hodges, discusses with me the usual obstacles that block our peace, why as Christians we should be compelled to pursue it, and what it means to be true peace makers.Links*Blessed are the Peace Makers (Matthew 5:9)*Joseph's Story (Genesis 37-50)*Abigail's Story (1 Samuel 25)*Brent Crowe-Student Leadership University*Season 3 Episode 8 with Jimmy Snow on Boundaries Interested in learning MORE?Click HERE  to access extra content and perks from my Patreon Account! Support the show

Are your searching for community? Do you love Jesus?  Do you ache for a good girls' night that will restore your soul?We'll Aimee Swanner and her friends have created a new group just for you called NELA Ladies Worhip.Listen on to learn what the group is about and how you can join them. .........LINKS......NELA Ladies WorshipPatreon Account...to learn more about my guests and to receive other perks. My website...to shop, read, and explore. Support the show

Faith is defined as the reality of what is hoped for, the proof of what is not seen. A reality and a proof…without having to see it. A confidence in something without the need of physical, tangible proof. Trusting God's plans to that degree, the way He asks us can be a tall order. In today's episode I'm talking with Caleb Pool. He's going to share the different points of faith he's had throughout his life and how he's come to trust God's plan even when he doesn't understand it.....LINKS....Pulmonary aneurysmPatreon Account for EXTRA interviews with guests on the show and opportunities for other merch! Support the show

No one likes waiting. Especially when we don't know when the waiting will end. Proverbs 13:12 says that hope deferred makes the heart sick. And while that is true, it is also true that it is often during the waiting period where we grow the most and come closer to God. Especially when what we're waiting on is the blessing of having children. In today's episode I'll be talking with elementary teacher and snack entrepreneur, Gina Allen. She'll share how she leaned on God during a grueling season of infertility. Listen and be encouraged!...............Links Below...........Purple Cow Snack Company-  purplecowsnacks@gmail.comPurple Cow Snack Company Facebook PagePurple Cow Snack Company Etsy ShopPatreon Account for more perks and merch from Up from the Muck! Support the show

Shame is such a crippling emotion. It makes us feel small and unworthy-disqualified. It's easy to get wrapped up in those chains of failure and doom.BUT GOD...it's because of Him that fear and shame don't have to be our story.In today's episode, Misti Guerrero, shares how God broke those chains for her while dealing with an unplanned pregnancy and the possibility of raising a child as a single parent. Listen to her story and be encouraged.  ***Links***Life Choices (resource for unplanned pregnancies)Embrace Grace (resource for unplanned pregnancies)Gastric Cancer (Stomach Cancer)Early Head Start for Ouachita Parish"Life is Tough, but God is Faithful: How to See God's Love in Difficult Times" Written by Sheila Walsh XMA-MissionsChildren's Coalition-Al's Pals Program"While I'm Waiting" by John WallerCourageous  Christian MovieIsaiah 43:2Psalm 126Pine Cove City CampTo support my show and gain access to extra content click on my Patreon Account. Thank you! Support the show

If a tree is poorly rooted or doesn't have deep roots it is easily knocked over during a storm. Christians are no different. But how does someone become rooted? Where do they start?  In today's episode, I have Deano Casola tell us where to dig, so that we too can be rooted in God and not so easily knocked down during life's storms. LINKSPatreon Account...for bonus material and merch!Micah 7:7 "But I will look to the Lord;I will wait for the God of my salvation.My God will hear me."Ezekiel 22:30 "I searched for a man among them who would repair the wall and stand in the gap before Me on behalf of the land so that I might not destroy it, but I found no one."Support the show

 A few shattered dreams, a broken body, and a myriad of other difficulties can definitely seem like life has come at you like a wrecking ball. But as the saying goes it's not what knocks you down, it's how you get back up that matters. And in my friend, Erin Wilson's case, this is triply true for her with the amount of wrecking balls she has endured throughout her life. Listen to her story of how see got up from the muck and be ENCOURAGED!***Links for MORE***TaekwondoPCOS-Polycystic Ovary SyndromeMRSA-Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus infectionWant MORE? Check out my Patreon Account HERE- you'll find extra interviews with each of my guests to get to know them more, digital downloads of prayer guides and phone wallpapers, and other cool merch! Support the show

Money did not grow on trees in the Heckford Household and when things get tight sometimes everyone feels the squeeze.  With few resources and fewer options, financial difficulties can be enough to bring anyone down. Add three kids, a mortgage, and a spouse to mix...and well, is there any way out? Where's the hope? What's the answer?Today's message is a special one from my dad, Wayne Heckford. In this episode you'll learn a little of how I was raised and the man that raised me. Listen on and be encouraged! *Dave Ramsey-Financial GuruClick here to check out my Patreon Account for extra bonus content and other cool merch. Support the show

Receiving a difficult diagnosis and dealing other big life changes, can make it hard to see anything good. It's easy in those moments to let fear, anxiety, and depression to seep in and take control. But with God...even joy and happiness is still possible.Listen to Landon's story of how He made God his refuge and fought back against his anxiety and depression. ***Links***GlioblastomaFirst West Counseling Though You Slay Me by Shane and Shane featuring John PiperMy Patreon Account...for perks and other cool merch!Support the show

We all like to maintain control in all aspects of our lives. The moment we feel like we're losing even a little bit of control is when we start to white knuckle it.This is even more true when it comes to our children, especially for moms. However, when it's an unexpected illness...letting go can be the hardest thing to do.This is what Adriane White faced when her newborn daughter suddenly became sick in the middle of the night. Listen on and learn how she was able to let go and lean into Jesus.May your heart be encouraged! **Links**SVT-what it isCome What May by We Are Messengers (Psalm 23)My Patreon Account...for perks and other cool merch. Support the show

It's Summer time, which means graduations and vacation trips galore! All that most people keep asking is "Where are you going?" or "What's next?"Very natural questions to ask, but what if we applied this question spiritually?Do you know where your going...after this life? Is there an after-life? How can we know? And if there is, what does that mean for you today?I sat down with Young Adult Pastor, Wes Coleman, from McClendon Baptist Church to discuss just that. Man, life is short-we know that...but let's make sure we're making the "dash" count. So listen on and be encouraged! ***Links Below***New Heaven and New Earth2Corinthians 4:16-18 * I said this verse backwards in the podcast-oops!John 17:3John 9:4John 10:10PlatonismGnosticismNear Death and Out of Body Experiences by the Blind-Scholarly articles from the University of ConnecticutThe Case for Christ by Lee StrobelHow He Loves Us by David Crowder Band (unforseen  vs sloppy wet lyric)*******************************************************************My Patreon Account for EXRTRA episodes and other cool perks. Support the show

Have you ever found yourself in the depths of despair and wondered where was God?Your prayers seem to go unheard like there's a glass ceiling keeping them from going through. Maybe God hasn't checked His messages yet? Or maybe you thought, where's my miracle? In today's episode you'll hear how Roberta struggled with those some feelings, but ultimately kept her faith in God. Listen on and learn how He speaks even in the silence.***LINKS***What a Friend We Have in Jesus-LyricsClick herefor access to my Patreon Account for Merch and other cool Perks! Support the show

I decided it would be fun to have my two year old son help me  and my husband sound check before my guest arrived. I was not disappointed.  Enjoy his sweetness. Support the show

When we feel a nudge to do something out of our comfort zone or event our "interest" zone, it's hard to lean into it to see where it goes. But the nudge persists, that's when we often know that it's God and we must answer His call. This is Grant Tolbird's story of how he answered God's call into the deep of foster care by becoming a C.A.S.A. Volunteer (Court Appointed Special Advocate). In this episode we'll learn how Grant was able to move himself into the great unknown and that experience changed him and grew his faith in God.Oh and you might just learn a little about the C.A.S.A. Program and how you can get involved too!Here are some links from the show below. CASA of Northeast LouisianaDCFS (Department of Children and Families)  that Serves Ouachita ParishThe Center for Children and Families"It is Well with my Soul" Back story and LyricsUp from the Muck Patreon Account- for cool merch and other perks!  Support the show

Pride comes before the fall as scripture says in Proverbs 16:18. Just when we think we got it all figured out, God shows us different. And sometimes God moves us from our comfort zones for our own good. To mold us into something better. It's often because we fail to see that we have something to work on...so He brings us somewhere where we can see it.As Aimee put it, "He will move mountains to sanctify us."Today's story is a story about learning to trust in God's plan and not our own. A story about unveiling one's pride, so that the need for humility can be seen. Have a listen and be encouraged! For Merch and extra perks check out my Patreon Account here! Support the show

Have you ever not been sure of where the line is between just being yourself as a Christian and being professional in the work place?Have you ever felt uneasy about initiating a gospel conversation? Me too.That's why I asked Drew Coker, the Worship and Missions Minister at First West to help us find ways to be true to our calling to share Jesus with others, while also being respectful of others too. If you are looking for some take aways about how to naturally share Jesus in the work place, or your neighborhood, or with your family, Drew gives some great practical advice.So listen on and be encouraged!Links to things talked about in the show Below:Radical by David PlattCounter Culture by David PlattMatthew 10:16"We are in the world but not of it"My Patreon Account to Merch and other cool perks!Support the show

Sometimes your passions and God's calling collide. Well, at least they did for this local photographer.In this week's episode, I had the privilege of speaking with Angela Shoemaker, the amazingly talented photographer and owner of Unveiled Radiance. We take a look a behind the lens and see what it's like starting a business, eating tons of wedding cake, and capturing priceless moments. Angela shares the good and ...not the not so good, but most importantly how she shares how she uses her profession as an opportunity to love on others and share God's light where she's able.Listen to our fun conversation and be encouraged! ***Links to things mentioned in the show ***2 Corinthians 3:18-the verse behind the name of her businessMatthew 6:33-seeking the KingdomEnnegram 3Ennegram Test (personality test)Molly Engen ArtistWhat to support me and get EXTRA stuff?Check out my PATREON account here! Support the show

A series on Healthy Relationships would be remiss without an episode on boundaries. Boundaries play a huge role in our everyday lives, but often times it goes unnoticed.They are our guard rails, our bumper pads in the bowling alleys of life. They keep the good in and the bad out. So, I thought it would be good to ask an experienced counselor how we could ensure we have good healthy boundaries.In today's episode, I have seasoned counselor, Jimmy Snow, on the show to help us better understand what boundaries are and how build better ones on our lives. Jimmy has 23 years of experience in the mental health field, and has been licensed to practice counseling for the last 17 years.During the show Jimmy mentions a few books here are their links down below. Along with the link to gain behind the scenes episodes and extra merch! Positive Parenting with a Plan by Matthew JohnsonBoundaries by Dr. Henry Cloud and James Townsend Good Boundaries and Goodbyes by Lysa TerkeurstStrategic Counseling SolutionsPatreon! Click on the link here to gain to EXTRA content! Support the show

Healthy relationships are sometimes hard to have. They take work!  So I asked licensed counselor, Sara Beth Prewitt to join me in a conversation on what to look out for in unhealthy relationships with friends and family. We covered so many things-common toxic patterns, privacy-sharing-oversharing, codependency, using "I" statements, how to validate someone's feelings, and what invalidating some looks like..just to name a few. If you're in any relationship at all. This episode is for you. Check it out today and be encourage. Sara Beth PrewittStrategic Counseling Solutionsupfromthemuck.compatreon.com/upfromthemuckSupport the show

What does it look like to have a healthy biblical friendship, marriage, or budding romance? And what about the parent-child relationships? Is there a way to escape all the drama?This two-part series seeks to answer all those questions and more. For part one of this series we''ll be focusing on how to have a healthy marriage. So I've asked for the director of the First West Counseling Center, Todd Sherwin to help me cover this topic. Todd is a licensed counselor and has his certification in Marriage and Family Therapy and has been in practice for over 20 years.Throughout our conversation we talk about what makes up the essential parts of a marriage, the three most toxic behaviors, and the WHY and where God fits into the relationship.  We also discuss how to rebuild trust where it has been broken and why premarital counseling is important. This is an encouraging conversation for those that are married, engaged, dating, or one day want to be married! So give it a listen and be encouraged.Need Counseling? Check them out!First West Counseling Center212 Cypress StreetWest Monroe, LA 71291318.322.1427Want more? Check out my Patreon Account. You can support my ministry and get a little extra and cool perks for yourself! Support the show

Welcome back to the Up From The Muck Podcast! This episode teaches us about trusting in faith during difficult times and features Kaiti McFarland, a pastor's wife and mom of three incredible children – including twins born at just 25 weeks. We discuss Kaiti's journey from the preparation leading up to becoming pregnant through IVF to how they leaned on God to get them through giving birth at just 25 weeks. She speaks about the hardest parts of their journey, being told their babies had a 50% chance of survival, not being able to hold their babes for weeks and leaving their babies every night for nearly 4 months. We also cover coping strategies for families with preterm babies in the NICU.  Kaiti advises families with preterm babies in the NICU to celebrate every milestone their babies go through and reminds you to ask a lot of questions and build a relationship with the healthcare team. This is yet another story where we see God being the Way Maker and Miracle Worker that He is. Listen on and experience His goodness too.****Link to things Discussed Below****Micro Preemie Clothing StorePsalm 27Though You Slay MeShane and ShaneSupport the show

What was God's intention when He made man? And what does it truly mean to be a man of God? Is it lording over people? Does "might really make right"?We wrap up this series of Identity by talking about what makes a man special, and we  answer the question, what is a man's identity in Christ? For part 4 of this series, I asked business owner of J.E. Dupuy Flooring Company and long time Christian, Stanley Dupuy, to provide some perspective and understanding to these questions. Take a listen and be encouraged!Support the show

In Part 3 of the Identity Series, we tackle the question "What is a woman?" by asking another question, "What does God say?"   This conversation is not about rattling off Proverbs 31, but instead looking at what makes a woman divinely special. We also take a look at the distinctions between a calling and ones identity. In this episode, school counselor and pastor's wife, Brooke Skipworth,  provides much wisdom and insight on the subject. Please listen and be encouraged! .................................................For more about Brooke and John Skipworth's new church click on the link below https://www.oakschurch.cc/ Support the show

In Part 2 of the Identity Series, Julie and I talk at length of the things that plague our children and young people today.  We discuss anxiety, gender identity, "furries", but not least what it means for a child to be rooted in Christ.In a world that seems to crave chaos and anyone's "truth" abounds, how can our children be rooted in anything, especially Christ? And even if that's the goal how do we help our children achieve that in the midst of this digital age? In this episode, school counselor, Julie Bowman, provides much hope on the subject. Listen and be encouraged! Support the show

"I identify as_______". In today's society that has become such a common phrase. So, it got me thinking, what does it mean to have an identity? Can a person identify as more than one thing? And where does God fit in, if at all? This podcast series seeks to address all those questions and more.For Part 1 of the Identity Series, I talked with Pastor Michael Wood of First West Baptist Church. In this episode, we discuss what it means to have an identity and why it is important. The biggest question we'll answer is, "Who does God say that you are?" Listen on to hear Michael's answer.Support the show

Life-after a sudden tragedy at first seems impossible.  However, as time passes, the space that used to hold a person, now holds the hope of Jesus as we mourn and heal. After losing her husband, Caleb Wood, in a tragic car accident, Tara becomes a young widow and single mom to three young children within a blink of an eye. Listen to Tara's story of how she has waded through her grief, guided her child through theirs, and leaned on the hope and healing of Jesus in between. May your heart be encouraged. 1 Corinthians 15:55 @tarawood036    -Tara on InstagramCounselingSupport the show

James 1:27 says, “Pure and undefiled religion before God the Father is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself unstained from the world.” I've always believed that this verse also applies to those that feel like orphans and widows, the least of these if you will. Times may have changed, but for women an unplanned pregnancy can still leave one feeling like the “least of these” with no hope and too many hard choices in sight. But in today's episode, we're going to talk about a hope that can be found-even amidst a desolate pit.  I've invited Life Choice's Executive Director, Lyndsey Sykes to come and share how choices for life and hope are very real. >>>LINKS BELOW>>>Life ChoicesWant to Volunteer?Contact Dawn Smith the Director of Operations at 318-323-2200Support the show