Your Best

The Best of Your Best- Featuring Pastor Lewie Schultz with conflict resolution, Pastor Frank Riley with hope, Tony Guerrero with living your best life, Dr. Justin Hildebrand talking about cancer, Kathleen Sogge with friendship, Song: I Can Hear You-Carolyn Arends, John Jennings with leadership, Nurse Tammie Dahlheimer with rest.

An original drama written by Kathy A. Weckwerth, Executive Director of Best Life Ministries. Originally recorded and produced by Garth Hjelte. Starring James Bakker, Tyler Bakker, Diane Bakker, Traci Cox, and Kathy Weckwerth. A crazy psychiatrist takes over directing the Christmas community play. This show features all of the sounds and extras to make it a fun experience for children and adults alike as Best Life reminds us of the true reason for the season!

This week Kathy chats about the holiness of Christmas and how God sent His son Jesus to dwell among us and become our Messiah.

This week Kathy discusses the facts about angels and how they visited Mary, Joseph, Elizabeth's husband, Zechariah, along with the shepherds and the myths that Hollywood and people have created about angels. Songs: Another Angel Gets Its Wings, Trisha Yearwood & Vince Gill, and Hark the Herald-Amy Grant

Join Kathy as she discusses the difficulties that Mary and Joseph must have felt while discovering that Mary would be the mother of Jesus. Song: Mary Did You Know? Michael English, It Wasn't His Child-Trisha Yearwood. Bottom Line Review: The Nativity Story.

Show #110 brings a focus to our minds and hearts as we begin preparations for the Christmas Season. Songs: Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas and Silent Night with Michael W. Smith and Little Big Town

Week 108- This is the final episode in a 3 part series leading up to our special Thanksgiving episode. In this episode, Kathy interviews Guest: Karrie Kjeldahl from Darling Clementine in Willmar, MN, who God called to start up a business. The two discuss what it's like to be called out of your element to do something that requires faith and courage. Song: Thankful-Josh Groban

Celebrating the goodness of God, Kathy chats about why we need to be thankful in every circumstance. Song: Josh Groban's "Thankful"

This is the second episode in a 3 part series leading up to our special Thanksgiving episode on Thanksgiving Day! In this episode, Kathy interviews Hometown State Farm Insurance Agent, Mark Frank, about his battle with leukemia.

- This is the first episode in a three-part series leading up to our special Thanksgiving episode on Thanksgiving Day! Kathy is joined by her family members to discuss what they are thankful for, and listeners are encouraged to be thankful even when we don't feel like being thankful! Song: How Could I Ask For More by Cindy Morgan. Guests: Kathy's Family.

Week 105- Strengthening Your Faith- Do you ever feel your spiritual muscles are wimpy? Perhaps you are struggling with being faithful and you just feel fretful. Kathy discusses strengthening your faith and learns a great lesson from a 3 year old! Joining her is Worship Director/Leader Dave Herring from The Point Church out of Charlottesville, NC as he introduces his latest song: Make a Way. John Jennings brings us a movie review for the movie Home Again.

The world's viewpoint, according to scripture, is not aligned with God's opinion. How can we formulate Christ-like opinions without being judgmental, but still able to remain firm in our beliefs? Do we stand firm without being bullied or pressured by others? This episode investigates details into the Sioux Uprising that took place in the western region of Minnesota. Both sides had reason for upset but where do you land in your opinion and your opinion on today's issues? Guest: Brian Haines, Museum Director from Payensville MN Historical Society.

The pressures of raising today's family is overwhelming. We are pushed and stretched in every direction and scheduling time together and time for God has been cast aside. In today's episode, Kathy is joined by blogger/nurse/mom/wife Brie Gowen from briegowen.com. as we discuss how to keep a good balance in your home life and consequently raise healthy, Godly children. Song: Your Name. Pastor's Corner: Pastor Rachael Warner.

Week 102-Dealing With Disappointment- Everyone is faced with disappointments in life, whether it's your job, health, or dealing with others. The question is, how do we deal with it? In this episode, Kathy discusses what creates our feelings of disappointment and good steps for counter-acting those feelings. Song: You Alone by Kim Hill.

Week 101- Dealing With Jealousy- This week we're joined by Plexus business owner, Wendy Carr Larson as we talk about jealousy. How do you react to someone when they are jealous of you? How do you treat someone when you're jealous of them? What are the motivations behind jealousy? This episode will give you great tips on how to deal with this emotion! Song: How Could I Ever Say Thankyou?" Kathryn Scott. Pastor's Corner: Tyler Bakker.

100th episode of YOUR BEST with Kathy Weckwerth celebrates this important milestone with a tough topic ... anger. Joining me in the studio is psychologist, Pat Russell, who discusses the physical and emotional responses that anger brings when it's delivered like a loose cannon. The two of us describe ways to work through your anger, but not act on it.

More people across America are struggling with drug addiction than ever before! Joining me in this episode is Dr. Scott Abrams, recovering addict. Dr. Scott became addicted to prescription drugs and his world completely turned upside down. Listen in and find out how Dr. Scott, with God's help, broke free. Song: Stay This Way by Jason Castro.

Raising an Esther in a Miley Cyrus World- Today's children are at risk due to such a growing rate of immorality and social issues in our world. Mother of six and MOPS (Mother of Preschooler) director, Jessica Neubert talks with Kathy about how to raise Godly girls, like Queen Esther in the Bible, and re-direct our children's admiration of today's women like Miley Cryus, to Godly examples. Song: It's Your Life by Francessca Batestelli.

Week 97- When Your Problems Seem Bigger Than You- Everyone magnifies things in life. We focus on things and they become what we magnify. When we magnify our problems, they don't really become bigger, but they seem bigger. We need to replace that focus on things of God and how He will help us, not on the problem and how big it seems. Joining me is Worship Artist & Business Owner of Rewired Creative Services, Mark Roach. Mark shares an acoustic version of his song "Beautiful Truth." markroach.com & rewiredcreative.com.

Guilt is something that continually creeps in our hearts and souls. At times it can be debilitating. At other times it can be exactly what God needs to use to convict us. How do you balance out the nagging kind that makes you captive with the gentle push of the Spirit that makes you better? Pastor Lewie Schultz and I discuss this topic. Video Clip from Toy Story I. Song: Live Like You're Loved by Hawk Nelson. Leadership Moments: Guilt.

Neltje Doubleday Kings is an author and abstract expressionist artist from Sheridan, Wyoming. In Part I of this interview, we discuss Neltje's growing up in the very wealthy Doubleday Publishing empire, how she endured two difficult marriages, moved across country from New York to Wyoming, wrote her own memoirs, and discovered her love for nature and art. Song: O How I Need You, All Sons and Daughters. Movie Review: The Shack.

Neltje Doubleday Kings is an author and abstract expressionist artist from Sheridan, Wyoming. In Part I of this interview, we discuss Neltje's growing up in the very wealthy Doubleday Publishing empire, how she endured two difficult marriages, movedcross country from New York to Wyoming, wrote her own memoirs, and discovered her love for nature and art.

In this episode, Kathy talks with Ren Holland from Little Falls, MN. Author, teacher, and historical expert on old Minnesota resorts. They discuss the decline of resorts and the effect of "progress" in today's society and how that has transformed our view of old buildings and resorts and their demise. Kathy correlates this to how God see us, old, broken down, and something from the past, and yet how He is the ultimate restorer/renovator.

In this episode, Kathy talks about the value of the past and embracing beautiful lyrics, melodies and meanings from old hymns and gospel songs. She also interviews Nashville Worship Artist, Jill Phillips, who has a brand new project out called "Lead Me Home," which is focused on this style of music. Think of your favorite hymn and why it means so much to you and tune in to listen to this episode!

So often we're afraid to pray. We think that God is too busy or too big to hear our thoughts, our troubles, our prayers. We aren't sure what to say or if we are even worthy to talk to Him. In this episode, we hear from Pastor Lewie Schultz about the basics of prayer and how God listens. Song: What a Friend-Kathryn Scott

If you're alive and living on Planet Earth, you'll have trouble. Scripture tells us that we shouldn't worry about tomorrow because tomorrow will be filled with its own problems. Instead, we need to learn how to change our attitude when we face difficulties, even when they're life changing. In this episode, Sara Lundquist, a hearing impaired teacher describes the difficulties of living in a made-for-hearing world.

The Ever-Changing World Part Two- Throughout the years, church services have evolved and look different from what they once were in the 50's,60's and even 80's. Garth Hjelte, an entrepreneur, businessman, and former band director for worship teams in the Midwest, shares insights and ideas from how today's church is changing to remain relevant. He and Kathy discuss how some of those efforts to remain relevant may be taking a slight detour from the Word of God and how that's dangerous for today's congregations. Part Two. Song "We Believe." Newsboys

Part One- Throughout the years, church services have evolved and look different from what they once were in the 50's,60's and even 80's. Garth Hjelte, an entrepreneur, businessman, and former band director for worship teams in the Midwest, shares insights and ideas from how today's church is changing to remain relevant. He and Kathy discuss how some of those efforts to remain relevant may be taking a slight detour from the Word of God and how that's dangerous for today's congregations. Part One.

Kathy celebrates a 2 year mark with her radio show so she picks out some of her favorite radio interviews, songs and spots for this episode. Song: Turning to the Light by Joey and Rory.

Many of us have issues with controlling the words that we say to others. It can be a difficult challenge to control our tongue. In this episode, Karen Ehman from Proverbs 31 Ministries (with Lysa TerKeurst) joins Kathy to talk about her book Keep It Shut and how scripture guides and teaches us the steps on how to handle the temptation to shoot off our mouths

For Christ-followers everywhere, the crucifixion and Easter resurrection is the crux of Christianity. But many of us wonder about the details, like what was the significance of the tabernacle curtain being torn in two from top to bottom, or where were Christ's disciples after He was arrested, and how do you answer critics who say Christ was resuscitated and not resurrected? Joining me to discuss these questions and more is Pastor Lewie Schultz. Songs: Lamb of God-Bebo Norman and When I Remember-Kim Hill.

Week 86-God, Grace and the Yellow Brick Road-This episode reviews the Wizard of Oz and parallels it to 3 lessons that can be learned from Dorothy's journey and scripture. Song: Somewhere Over the Rainbow. Bottom Line Movie Review: Riley Erickson.

Coping With Your Child's Illness- How do people deal with an ongoing debilitating illness, especially when their child has it? In this episode, Author & Motivational Speaker, Leanne Waterworth talks about her two sons who have cystic fibrosis and how their family copes with it. Song: Pocket Full of Faith.

This episode explores the details of Best Life Ministries, what we do, who we are, and why you should consider having a One Day Women's Event with us at your church. Guest interviewers are Best Life's Staffers: Kathleen Sogge, Bernadette Fuchs, Dr. Mary Michener and Women's Director, Pastor Marcia Cline.

Sometimes we can feel shy or embarrassed to be ourselves. In this episode, Kathy interviews Shaun Johnson from Shaun Johnson Big Band Experience. A unique performer who re-creates big band music, he brings his true self to every performance. Song: Can I Steal a Little love.

Whether you are a business owner, school teacher, Sunday school leader, women's director, or you're just leading your family, everyone has moments where you lead others. What's makes a good leader? In this episode, Kathy interviews business entrepreneur, Susan Lossing from the Twin Cities as they discuss issues and troubleshooting tips for becoming your best. John Jennings deliver leadership moments on the what and why's of leadership. Song: Lead You to the Cross.

The Bigger Story- So often in life we feel like we are insignificant. We believe that we have limitations because of our talents or where we come from. In this episode, Kathy interviews Joshua Coburn, author, radio host, motivational speaker and creator of the movement Manners & Motivation. Kathy and Joshua discuss how each life is valuable and everyone has the ability to make a difference for the greater good!

Earl and Coleen Hensel join Kathy in this episode as they discuss their call to missions and their preparation to serve in San Jose, Costa Rica. This is a huge life-change for the Hensels as they are following the prompting of God. Kathy discusses what it's like to answer God's call and move out of our comfort zone. Song: Everywhere I Go.

Today's society is changing rapidly and the more that we have ways to communicate, the less people are communicating. Pastor Lewie Schultz joins Kathy in the studio to talk about the challenges of people committing to help you, and your own level of commitment. Song: I Wanna Go Back.

Handling positive feedback is easy and enjoyable, but when we receive difficult feedback that is challenging and negative, how do we respond? In this podcast, Kathy interviews psychologist, Patrick Russell, as they discuss the different types of feedback, how we respond to them, and how we can respond in a healthy manner. John Jennings delivers our leadership moments, while Wendy Larson shares her thoughts on negative feedback. Song: Live It Well.

In this episode, Kathy interviews actress and musician, Cassandra Johnson of Sight and Sound Theaters in Pennsylvania. They discuss the topic of grace and how Sight and Sound's recent show, "Samson" portrayed God's gift of grace to all of us. Song: The Funeral Song.

What do you do with wishing you were someone else or you had what they have? In this episode, Dr. Mary Schulze Michener and Pastor Rachael Warner both share their thoughts on this topic. Kathy discusses what happened when King David had the desire for someone else's life. And Riley Erickson delivers Best Life's favorite winter time movies!

Pushing Past Your Limits- Sometimes we are the very reason that keeps us from reaching our goals or getting past our own limitations. In this episode, Kathy talks to movie producer, director and actor, Troy McKay, about his movie "Road to the Open" and discusses the topic of limits. Kristen Johnson chats about her word for 2017 in her radio spot called Positive Parenting.

It's important to look back at the year and find God moments in your life. Places where God showed up and did work to make things different and better for you. In this episode, Kathy looks back at the podcast and 2016's important moments and lessons learned where God spoke profound thoughts through our guests. Listen for wisdom from Pastors Frank Riley, Lewie Schultz and Rachel Warner. Also, Best Life Staffers: Dr. Mary Schulze Michener, Kathleen Sogge, Sandra & Gene Sheih and Tony Guerreo.

This Christmas, enjoy an original drama written by Kathy A. Weckwerth, Executive Director of Best Life Ministries. Recorded and produced by Garth Hjelte. Starring James Bakker, Tyler Bakker, Diane Bakker, Traci Cox, and Kathy Weckwerth. A crazy psychiatrist takes over directing the Christmas community play. This show features all of the sounds and extras to make it a fun experience for children and adults alike as Best Life reminds us of the true reason for the season!

Christmas has special meaning to us for all kinds of reasons. This week's episode looks at some of the favorites of Christmas, while Pastor Bev Modlin from Best Life's staff joins us for a devotional.

This week's episode helps you remember the reason for the season. When we create undue stress to make things perfect, we create chaos. This show helps us to realize that creating a peaceful atmosphere will help us focus on Christ and not on ourselves. Joining Kathy in this episode is Nashville Musician, Mindy Smith, as we talk about her Christmas CDS, "My Holiday," "Snowed In" and her new feature song, "The Snow and Three Thousand Miles."

With a huge to-do list, we greet the coming month with trepidation and fatigue getting ready for our parties, cookies, services, and Christmas dinners. In this episode, Kathy chats with jazz musician, Tony Guerrero, as he talks about the new CD he and The Tony Guerrero Quintet worked on with Jane Lynch and Tim Daley from Glee, along with Paula Flannery from The Office.

Life can push us to our limits and we often want to give up. In this episode, Kathy discusses her favorite author, Grace Livingston Hill, a Christian author from the late 1800s, and how she impacted her own life and that of so many others throughout the years. Grace didn't give up and wrote her characters to have perseverance. Kathy interviews author & creator of the website gracelivingstonhill.com, Daena Creel.

In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul encourages us to have inner core strength as a Christ follower. In this episode, Kathy talks to Leif Sundberg, contestant from the NBC tv show, American Ninja Warrior about training for the show, as well as his fight to help for a cure for Alzheimers.

Scripture tells us that God knew us while we were still in our mother's womb. He's given us gifts and talents to use in this world to help others and to encourage and bless those around us. Kathy talks with Brett Adkins, Producer at Fox News channel 9 in the Twin Cities about how God developed and matured his gifts to lead him to the job he has now where he is excelling and encouraging others. What God given gifts do you have and how are you utilizing them to bless others?