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This episode is brought to you by Aligned for Wealth™, a free 3-part experience designed to help you stop paying the high cost of misalignment. Replays end July 2nd!  ✨ About This Season: The Anatomy of Alignment This season of Redefining Wealth is dedicated to unpacking what alignment really means — not as a buzzword, but as structure. We're dissecting how misalignment impacts each of the Six Pillars of Wealth — FIT, PEOPLE, SPACE, FAITH, WORK, and MONEY — and what it truly costs when we tolerate what drains us. Each episode builds on the last. So subscribe and journey with us as we move from awakening… to redefining… to actualizing.   Episode Summary In this season finale, Patrice reflects on one of the most powerful lessons from the Anatomy of Alignment series: the difference between the price of change and the cost of staying the same. While many people fear the discomfort, grief, uncertainty, or inconvenience that comes with making aligned decisions, Patrice challenges listeners to consider the long-term cost of remaining in situations, relationships, habits, and environments that no longer support who they're becoming. Through personal stories about her health, relationships, home, and recent life transitions, she reveals how misalignment quietly taxes our energy, peace, and potential over time. Ultimately, this episode is an invitation to stop calculating only the immediate price of change and start honestly evaluating the hidden cost of staying the same. Patrice reminds us that alignment often requires temporary discomfort, but misalignment can create years of emotional, spiritual, physical, and financial drain. As she closes out the season, she encourages listeners to embrace the work of alignment, trust the vision they've been given, and choose the version of life that reflects who they are becoming rather than who they used to be.   Questions to Ask Yourself: What am I avoiding because I'm focused on the price instead of the cost? Where in my life am I paying a long-term price for staying the same? What relationship, habit, environment, or commitment no longer aligns with who I'm becoming? What would become possible if I stopped negotiating with misalignment? Am I willing to experience temporary discomfort in exchange for lasting alignment?   Want to Redefine Wealth for Yourself? Start Here:

This episode is brought to you by Aligned for Wealth™, a free 3-part experience designed to help you uncover where you've been living on autopilot and realign your life with what truly matters. If you've achieved success but still feel disconnected, unfulfilled, or unclear about what's next, this experience is for you. Together, we'll explore the hidden cost of misalignment and the patterns that may be keeping you stuck in default thinking. Because true wealth isn't just about money—it's about creating a life that feels as good as it looks. ✨ About This Season: The Anatomy of Alignment This season of Redefining Wealth is dedicated to unpacking what alignment really means — not as a buzzword, but as structure. We're dissecting how misalignment impacts each of the Six Pillars of Wealth — FIT, PEOPLE, SPACE, FAITH, WORK, and MONEY — and what it truly costs when we tolerate what drains us. Each episode builds on the last. So subscribe and journey with us as we move from awakening… to redefining… to actualizing.   Episode Summary In this powerful conversation, Patrice Washington sits down with Jay Papasan, co-author of the bestselling book The One Thing, to explore why so many people feel overwhelmed, distracted, and disconnected from the lives they truly want. Together, they unpack the idea that success is not created by doing more—it's created by identifying what matters most and aligning your time, energy, and attention around it. Rather than treating every goal, opportunity, and responsibility as equally important, Jay challenges listeners to ask a transformative question: What's the one thing I can do that makes everything else easier or unnecessary? Throughout the conversation, Jay and Patrice discuss the relationship between focus, alignment, habits, boundaries, and self-trust. They explore how busyness often masks avoidance, why saying “no” is essential for creating meaningful progress, and how small, consistent actions can create extraordinary results over time. Whether you're navigating a new season of life, struggling with competing priorities, or trying to reconnect with your vision, this episode offers a practical framework for creating momentum and building a life that supports what matters most.   Questions to Ask Yourself: What's the one thing I can do such that by doing it everything else would be easier or unnecessary? Where am I trying to give everything equal importance instead of choosing a true priority? What distractions, commitments, or expectations are competing with my vision? Am I building habits that support the life I say I want?   Want to Redefine Wealth for Yourself? Start Here:

Hey friends, Chase here There is a particular kind of silence that can change the direction of a life. Not the peaceful kind. Not the silence you seek out when you need space to think. I mean the silence that lands in the room right after you say something true. The silence after you tell people what you really want. The silence after you say, out loud, that you are thinking about leaving the safe path and choosing the one that actually feels like yours. I remember that silence very clearly. I remember the day I told my family I was going to leave the path everyone expected for me and become a photographer. This was not me announcing a hobby. It was not a side project. It was not some casual thing I thought might be fun to explore. I was saying, in effect, this is what I feel compelled to do. This is the direction I have to chase. And the room got quiet. My parents were not against it, and I want to be clear about that. But I could feel the worry. I could feel the polite smiles and the nods that were probably covering up a very natural concern. I was worried too. I knew it was scary. I knew I might embarrass myself. I knew I might blow up my financial security, fail publicly, and end up crawling back to a "real job." That fear was real. But that moment stuck with me because it mattered. It still matters. Because so much of what keeps us from the life we want is not the actual failure. It is the fear of being seen before we know how the story ends. It is that quiet pause after we name the dream. That is what this episode is about. Betting on yourself, not because there is no fear, but because fear cannot be the thing that gets to design your life. The Moment After You Say the Thing There are obvious forms of resistance in life. Someone tells you no. A door closes. A plan falls apart. A check does not clear. Those things are hard, but at least they are clear. What I am talking about here is more subtle. It is the tiny moment after you reveal what you want and the people around you do not immediately understand. That moment can feel like a verdict, even when it is not. Somebody pauses, and suddenly you start filling in the blanks. Maybe they think I am crazy. Maybe they are disappointed. Maybe this dream is irresponsible. Maybe I should have kept it to myself. And before anything has actually happened, the fear begins doing its work. I have come to believe that this is one of the places where a lot of people stop. Not because someone actively shut them down, but because the silence felt too uncomfortable. If everyone cheered immediately, maybe they would keep going. If everyone criticized them loudly, maybe they would have something to push against. But the silence is different. It creates space for doubt, and doubt can be incredibly persuasive when the dream is still fragile. So if you are somewhere in your life right now wondering whether it is too late, whether you missed the window, whether you are allowed to want something different, I want you to pay attention to that. Especially if you cannot honestly say that you are 100% going after your dreams. This one is for you. Playing It Safe Is Usually Fear in Disguise Most of us do not say, "I am afraid, so I am not going to do the thing." We use better language than that. We say we are being practical. We say we are being responsible. We say we are waiting for the right time, the right plan, the right amount of money, the right amount of certainty. And sometimes those are legitimate considerations. I am not here to tell you to be reckless. But I am here to say that playing it safe is often fear wearing a very respectable outfit. Fear has a job. It is optimized for survival. That is useful when you are in actual danger. But fear is not optimized for creativity. It is not optimized for happiness, joy, connection, harmony, fulfillment, or the gifts you have to give and receive in this life. Fear wants to keep you alive. It does not care if you feel fully expressed. That matters because if you let fear make all your decisions, you may end up safe, but you will also end up smaller than you were meant to be. You will build a life around avoiding discomfort rather than moving toward aliveness. And the best stuff in life is usually just on the other side of the comfort zone you are coddling. By the way, craving comfort is natural. Of course it is. We all want security. We all want belonging. We all want the people we love to understand our choices. But comfort cannot be the only thing we optimize for. At some point, the question becomes: am I protecting my life, or am I hiding from it? The World Will Keep Throwing Curveballs If you are going for it, the world is going to throw you curveballs. That is part of the deal. Not because the world is against you, but because challenge is how you grow. The world cannot really give you anything. It can only challenge you until you become stronger. And when you get stronger, the hard things do not magically become easy. They become easier. That distinction matters. I am not promising a frictionless life. I am not saying the fear disappears or that the path suddenly becomes smooth. I am saying that you become more capable. You become more practiced. You learn how to meet the pitch that used to scare you. What I do not want is for you to quit. I do not want you to take your bat and go home. I do not want the first or fifth or fiftieth curveball to become the reason you stop playing the game you actually came here to play. Whether you meet those challenges as punishment or as part of a playful game of discovery is up to you. But either way, the challenges are coming. The invitation is to stay in the game long enough to find out who you become when you stop retreating every time it gets uncomfortable. Your Weaknesses Might Be Invitations There is something I wish more people said plainly: your weaknesses can be blessings. Not because weakness feels good. Not because fear is fun. Not because we need to romanticize struggle or pretend that everything difficult is automatically noble. But because the places where you feel weak are often the places where you are being invited to grow. That fear you feel right now does not necessarily mean you are doing the wrong thing. It may mean you are standing at the edge of something important. Courage is not the absence of fear. Courage is having fear and doing it anyway. This is easy to forget after years of teaching ourselves to avoid friction. Years of performing the version of ourselves that other people understand. Years of telling ourselves stories about what is realistic, acceptable, responsible, or too late. Over time, you can lose track of what you actually want. You can get so good at managing other people's expectations that you forget to ask whether the life you are maintaining is the life you want to be living. But the desire does not disappear just because you ignore it. It waits. It keeps tapping. It shows up in restlessness, envy, curiosity, frustration, and that persistent feeling that there is something more honest available to you. The Opposite of Playing It Safe Is Freedom The opposite of playing it safe is not reckless risk. That is not the message. This is not about blowing up your life just to prove you are brave. It is not about risk without measure. The opposite of playing it safe is freedom. Freedom is creating the ultimate game of life and then deciding that you are actually going to play. It is betting on yourself with your eyes open. It is taking calculated risks in the direction of what is true for you. It is refusing to let fear be the only voice in the room. That is why I keep showing up. Every week I write an email, create posts, record this show, and share work online because, in a very real way, I am betting on you. I am betting that you will see this work for what it is: a belief that you can activate. You can take calculated risks. You can get to work on your truest dreams. And more than anything, I want you to join me in that bet. What You'll Hear in This Episode This is a short episode, but the message is direct. If you have been waiting for permission, certainty, or universal understanding before you move toward the life you want, this is your reminder that fear does not get the final vote. Why the silence after you share your dream can feel so powerful, and why it keeps many people from taking action The story of telling my family I was leaving the expected path to pursue photography as a career Why playing it safe is often about fear, even when we call it responsibility Why fear is optimized for survival, not creativity, joy, connection, or fulfillment Why the comfort zone is natural to crave, but dangerous to build your whole life around How the world challenges you until you become stronger Why your weaknesses can become opportunities to grow and be brave Why courage means having fear and acting anyway Why the opposite of playing it safe is not recklessness, but freedom Why betting on yourself is a practice, not a one-time declaration Timecodes So You Can Jump to What You Need If you're not listening straight through, here are a few landmarks to help you find the part that speaks to where you are right now: 00:00 – A note about my weekly email and where I put my attention every week 01:50 – Welcome to the micro show and the short message behind today's episode 02:07 – The memory of telling my family I was leaving the expected path to become a photographer 02:44 – The quiet room, the polite smiles, and the worry underneath the silence 03:08 – The fear of public failure, financial insecurity, and having to crawl back to a "real job" 03:32 – Why the fear of saying what you want can keep you from taking action 04:11 – Why the silence after you announce your dream can be more powerful than encouragement or criticism 04:37 – The question: are you 100% going after your dreams? 05:04 – Playing it safe, fear, and why fear is optimized for survival 05:33 – The best stuff in life is on the other side of the comfort zone you are craving 05:54 – The world will throw curveballs as long as you are still playing 06:16 – Why challenges become easier as you get stronger 06:43 – Your weaknesses as blessings and invitations to grow 07:11 – Courage is having fear and doing it anyway 07:33 – The opposite of playing it safe is freedom 07:56 – Why I'm betting that you can activate, take calculated risks, and get to work on your truest dreams 08:19 – The invitation to join me in the bet 08:42 – A quick thank you for listening, sharing, and growing together Read This If You Feel Like It Might Be Too Late If you feel like it might be too late to go after your dreams, start by telling the truth. Are you 100% going after what is true for you? Not what looks good from the outside. Not what keeps everyone comfortable. Not what you chose five or ten or twenty years ago because it made sense at the time. What is true now? For most people, that question is uncomfortable because it removes the hiding places. It asks us to admit where we have settled. It asks us to look at the gap between the life we say we want and the choices we are actually making. That can sting. But it can also wake us up. "Too late" is often fear disguised as wisdom. It sounds mature. It sounds practical. It sounds final. But sometimes it is simply the story we tell ourselves so we do not have to risk being seen trying. Trying is vulnerable. Trying means you might fail. Trying means people might watch you change direction. Trying means you might have to admit that the safe path is not the satisfying one. But not trying has a cost too. The cost is your aliveness. Your creativity. Your sense of possibility. Your relationship with the part of you that still knows there is more. Stop Treating Fear Like a Stop Sign Fear is information. It is not an instruction. It can tell you that something matters. It can tell you that you are stepping outside familiar territory. It can tell you that identity, security, belonging, and ambition are all tangled together in this next move. That is useful information. But it is not the same as a command to stop. Sometimes fear means prepare. Sometimes fear means slow down and get clear. Sometimes fear means make the risk more calculated. Sometimes fear means ask for help. But fear does not automatically mean abandon the dream. If you wait until fear disappears before you act, you may wait forever. The practice is learning to move with fear. To take the next honest step while your hands are still shaking. To understand that courage is not a feeling you wait for, but a behavior you choose. A Simple Practice for Betting on Yourself Here is a simple way to make this real. Start by naming the thing you have been afraid to say out loud. Write it down plainly. No polishing. No over-explaining. Just the truth. Then ask yourself whose silence you are afraid of. Who are you imagining in the room? Whose pause, judgment, worry, or disappointment has more power over your choices than it should? Once you have that, separate fear from fact. Write down what is actually true, and then write down what fear is predicting. Those are not always the same thing. Fear loves to present a prediction as a certainty. Your job is to notice the difference. Then choose one calculated risk. Not a reckless leap. Not the whole mountain. One honest action that moves you toward what you want. Send the email. Make the call. publish the work. Have the conversation. Block the time. Start the project. Admit the dream to someone you trust. The goal is not to eliminate fear. The goal is to build evidence that you can move with it. Don't Take Your Bat and Go Home As long as you are still playing, you are going to get curveballs. That does not mean you are doing it wrong. It means you are in the game. The temptation, when things get hard, is to turn challenge into evidence that you should quit. To decide the safe path was safer for a reason. To take your bat and go home. But growth comes from staying in the game long enough to get stronger. The things that feel impossible today may not become easy tomorrow, but they can become easier. You can become more capable. You can become more resilient. You can learn how to meet the pitch. That is why betting on yourself matters. It is not blind optimism. It is a commitment to keep participating in your own life. Questions to Ask Yourself What dream have I been afraid to say out loud? Whose silence am I afraid of? Where am I mistaking discomfort for danger? What am I calling "practical" that might actually be fear? What comfort zone am I currently protecting? What curveball has the world thrown at me, and what is it asking me to learn? Where could one of my weaknesses become an invitation to grow? What would courage look like today, even if the fear does not go away? What calculated risk would move me closer to my truest dreams? What would it mean to bet on myself this week? The Core Idea Bet on yourself. Not because success is guaranteed. Not because fear will disappear. Not because everyone will understand immediately. Bet on yourself because the alternative is letting fear quietly design your life. The silence after you say what you want is not proof that you are wrong. The discomfort is not proof that you should stop. The fear is not the enemy. Fear is optimized for survival, but you are not here merely to survive. You are here to create, connect, grow, and give what is yours to give. The opposite of playing it safe is not reckless risk. The opposite is freedom. It is creating the ultimate game of life and then deciding that you are actually going to play. So today, I'm betting on you. I'm betting that you can activate. I'm betting that you can take calculated risks. I'm betting that you can get to work on your truest dreams. And more than anything else, I want you to join me in that bet. Until next time: stop treating fear like a stop sign, stay in the game, and bet on yourself.

This episode is brought to you by Redefining Wealth LIVE. Join me for the transformational experience that will challenge the way you think about success, wealth, and well-being. Redefining Wealth LIVE is where purpose-driven individuals come together to gain clarity, alignment, and momentum in creating lives that truly reflect their values. If you're ready to break free from default thinking and step into a more fulfilled, abundant life, don't miss this event. ✨ About This Season: The Anatomy of Alignment This season of Redefining Wealth is dedicated to unpacking what alignment really means — not as a buzzword, but as structure. We're dissecting how misalignment impacts each of the Six Pillars of Wealth — FIT, PEOPLE, SPACE, FAITH, WORK, and MONEY — and what it truly costs when we tolerate what drains us. Each episode builds on the last. So subscribe and journey with us as we move from awakening… to redefining… to actualizing.   Episode Summary In today's episode, we explore the grief that can accompany alignment. Reflecting on a transformative week in Mexico, Patrice shares what happens when choosing yourself is the right decision—but still breaks your heart. Through vulnerable storytelling, she unpacks the emotions that surfaced after releasing something she genuinely loved and reminds listeners that growth often requires grieving what no longer fits. Patrice challenges the tendency to romanticize the past and offers practical ways to navigate difficult transitions, including creating a “truth list” and reassigning meaning to endings. Ultimately, this episode is a reminder that grief is not proof you made the wrong choice—it's often proof that something mattered. Alignment may come with loss, but it also creates space for a life rooted in purpose, truth, and self-trust.   Questions to Ask Yourself: What am I grieving right now, even though I know I made the right decision? Have I been intellectualizing my emotions instead of actually feeling them? What truths am I overlooking because I'm romanticizing the past? Where have I mistaken grief as evidence that I should go back? How can I reassign meaning to this season instead of labeling it a failure? What would it look like to trust myself more deeply in this next chapter?   Want to Redefine Wealth for Yourself? Start Here:

This episode is brought to you by Taste & See Tuscany: A Journey to Redefining Wealth. Join me for an unforgettable experience through the heart of Italy designed for women ready to slow down, savor life, and reconnect with themselves beyond the hustle. From beautiful vineyards and cultural experiences to meaningful conversations and sisterhood, this journey is about choosing alignment, joy, and abundance in every sense. ✨ About This Season: The Anatomy of Alignment This season of Redefining Wealth is dedicated to unpacking what alignment really means — not as a buzzword, but as structure. We're dissecting how misalignment impacts each of the Six Pillars of Wealth — FIT, PEOPLE, SPACE, FAITH, WORK, and MONEY — and what it truly costs when we tolerate what drains us. Each episode builds on the last. So subscribe and journey with us as we move from awakening… to redefining… to actualizing.   Episode Summary In this powerful conversation, Patrice sits down with bestselling author and executive coach Sarah Centrella to explore how our thoughts, beliefs, and internal narratives shape every area of our lives. Sarah shares the deeply personal story of rebuilding after heartbreak, foreclosure, and bankruptcy through intentional thinking, visualization, and aligned action. Together, they unpack the connection between mindset and manifestation, discussing how fear, shame, and scarcity can keep people stuck even when they have a clear vision for their lives. Sarah also introduces simple yet powerful tools — like her “Mental Tennis” method — to help interrupt negative thought patterns and redirect the mind toward possibility. Ultimately, this episode is a reminder that alignment begins in the mind. When you intentionally shift your thinking, you begin creating a future that once felt impossible.   Questions to Ask Yourself: What thoughts do I consistently rehearse that no longer align with who I want to become? Where have limiting beliefs quietly shaped my decisions, behaviors, or expectations? What would the “opposite thought” sound like for the areas where I feel stuck? Have I truly given myself permission to dream beyond my current circumstances? What would change if I stopped focusing on scarcity and started looking for evidence of abundance? Who or what in my environment supports the future I say I desire?   Want to Redefine Wealth for Yourself? Start Here:

This episode is brought to you by Redefining Wealth LIVE. Join me for the transformational experience that will challenge the way you think about success, wealth, and well-being. Redefining Wealth LIVE is where purpose-driven individuals come together to gain clarity, alignment, and momentum in creating lives that truly reflect their values. If you're ready to break free from default thinking and step into a more fulfilled, abundant life, don't miss this event. ✨ About This Season: The Anatomy of Alignment This season of Redefining Wealth is dedicated to unpacking what alignment really means — not as a buzzword, but as structure. We're dissecting how misalignment impacts each of the Six Pillars of Wealth — FIT, PEOPLE, SPACE, FAITH, WORK, and MONEY — and what it truly costs when we tolerate what drains us. Each episode builds on the last. So subscribe and journey with us as we move from awakening… to redefining… to actualizing. Episode Summary In this week's episode, Patrice sits down with entrepreneur, investor, and Pink Skirt Project founder Renée Warren for a powerful conversation about vision, courage, and trusting what has been placed inside of you. Together, they explore what happens when you stop chasing goals that look good on paper and begin honoring the deeper vision that keeps calling you forward. Renée shares the remarkable story behind The Pink Skirt Project — a vision that first came to her as a vivid image of herself standing before thousands of women in a pink skirt. What began as an unexplainable spiritual download eventually evolved into a sold-out event experience that now gathers women from around the world in community, purpose, and possibility. This conversation dives deep into what it means to trust the next step before you can see the full staircase. Patrice and Renée unpack the fears that often keep people stuck — comparison, perfectionism, fear of disappointing others, and waiting until everything feels “ready.” They remind us that vision is not about having every answer. It's about being willing to move with what has already been revealed. Ultimately, this episode is an invitation to stop borrowing other people's definitions of success and start taking responsibility for the vision that is uniquely yours. Because your calling is not random, your dreams are not accidental, and someone on the other side of your obedience is waiting for you to fully show up. Questions to Ask Yourself: What vision or idea have I been repeatedly receiving but avoiding? Am I waiting to feel fully prepared before taking action? Where have comparison or fear caused me to shrink my vision? Who in my life expands my vision instead of contracting it? What is the next best step I can take toward the life I truly desire?   Want to Redefine Wealth for Yourself? Start Here:

This episode is brought to you by the 5th Annual Scaling Joy Retreat. This five-day retreat in a private beachfront villa in Playacar, Mexico (May 17–21) is designed for high-capacity women who are ready to rest, reconnect, and expand without performance. Learn more at https://patricewashington.com/retreat ✨ About This Season: The Anatomy of Alignment This season of Redefining Wealth is dedicated to unpacking what alignment really means — not as a buzzword, but as structure. We're dissecting how misalignment impacts each of the Six Pillars of Wealth — FIT, PEOPLE, SPACE, FAITH, WORK, and MONEY — and what it truly costs when we tolerate what drains us. Each episode builds on the last. So subscribe and journey with us as we move from awakening… to redefining… to actualizing. Episode Summary In this episode, Patrice returns with a spirit-led reminder that alignment doesn't begin with having all the answers — it begins with having the courage to ask better questions. She reflects on the life-changing question that shifted her path in 2021: What are you willing to lose to have everything you believe God is calling you to? Patrice unpacks why so many of us avoid honest questioning: not because we fear the question itself, but because we fear what the answer might require us to change. If you've been minimizing discomfort, staying loyal to roles you've outgrown, or pretending not to know what your soul already knows, this episode is your invitation to stop defaulting and start discerning.   Questions to Ask Yourself: What belief, role, or pattern in my life am I no longer fully aligned with? Where have I been afraid to ask honest questions because I fear what the answer might require? Who benefits from me staying in this belief, relationship, or way of being? What have I been calling “fine” that my spirit is actually rejecting? What would shift if I gave myself full permission to question and discern for myself?   Want to Redefine Wealth for Yourself? Start Here:

What Is Your Rock? The Danger of Trusting Wealth Instead of God What is your rock? In a world where investments, real estate, and retirement accounts are rising faster than ever, it's easy for our hearts to slowly shift from trusting God to trusting our wealth. In this episode of the Rob Skinner Podcast, Rob explores the powerful warning from Psalm 62:10: "Though your riches increase, do not set your heart on them." Financial growth isn't the problem. The real danger is when our hearts begin to rest in money instead of God. King David understood this tension well. Though he was incredibly wealthy, his peace and security didn't come from his kingdom, armies, or possessions. His confidence came from God alone. David declared: "Truly he is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will never be shaken." (Psalm 62) In today's world of market surges, investment growth, and financial success, this message is more relevant than ever. As wealth increases, faith can sometimes decrease. In this episode, Rob challenges us to examine a critical question: Where is your heart really anchored? Is your confidence in the market—or in the Master? In This Episode You'll Learn • Why wealth can quietly pull our hearts away from God • The difference between using money and trusting money • Why the Bible warns about the deceitfulness of wealth • How King David modeled generosity even in great success • Why retirement should never become spiritual retirement • How to use your blessings to build something that lasts eternally A Powerful Question to Ask Yourself What or who is your rock right now? Are you trusting in markets or in your Maker? God never intended wealth to be the foundation of your life. It's meant to be a tool for eternal impact. Scripture Featured Psalm 62:10 Psalm 62:1–2 Resources Mentioned

Hey friends, Chase here There's a myth that quietly messes with a lot of us — especially if you're a maker, builder, or artist. It's the myth that creative fulfillment is something you find. That if you just get lucky enough… brave enough… talented enough… you'll stumble into "the thing" and everything will click. But here's what I want to remind you today: Your path isn't discovered. It's designed. Not as in "perfectly planned." As in: you choose it. You shape it. You tend it. You build it on purpose — even when you don't feel ready. This episode is a short one, but it's dense. It's about why wildly creative careers aren't an accident… and how to return to what makes your heart sing. Here's what this episode explores: Creative lives don't happen by accident. They happen intentionally. They're designed. The Core Idea Creative lives are built on purpose. The "lucky ones" didn't just stumble into it. In some way, shape, or form, they created a vision and worked toward it. This episode is about doing that — deliberately. What You'll Hear in This Episode This one moves quickly, but here are the ideas worth listening for — and revisiting when you need them. Why creative careers are designed, not accidental What it really means to start from scratch How to identify what makes your heart sing Why you shouldn't judge your curiosity by commercial potential The garden metaphor — and how it reframes your life Why separating yourself from your art increases freedom and resilience The power of building a creative habit Timecodes (So You Can Jump to What You Need) 00:00 – Weekly email intro 02:11 – Creative lives are designed 03:20 – Start from scratch 04:22 – What makes your heart sing? 04:51 – Don't judge it by commercial potential 05:43 – The garden metaphor 06:40 – Let go of cultural assumptions 08:14 – "You are not your art" 09:13 – Create without focusing on the outcome 10:09 – Turn the gears 11:11 – The creative habit is what matters Read This If You Feel Stuck If you've been waiting for clarity before you move, here's your reframe: Clarity often comes from motion. Design doesn't require certainty. It requires participation. Questions to Ask Yourself What kind of creative expression would I practice long term? What am I judging too quickly by its earning potential? Where am I overly attached to outcomes? If my life is a garden, what do I want to plant next? What small habit could I start this week? A Simple Practice for Reengaging Pick one small creative habit. Make it low-stakes. Work on it for 15–20 minutes a day for one week. The point isn't to create something impressive. The point is to rebuild the relationship with the work itself. Because once you understand that your path is designed — not discovered — you stop waiting to be chosen. You start choosing. Until next time: keep tending your garden, trust the process, and remember — your path is built on purpose.  

What do you do when what used to work in your business… stops working? When the strategies that once brought in clients and momentum suddenly feel flat? In today's episode, I want to remind you of something: You didn't lose your magic.You just outgrew your current identity. Business plateaus are not usually strategy failures.They're identity invitations. If you're in the in-between — questioning yourself, doubting your momentum, wondering why it feels harder — this episode is for you. Inside This Episode: ✨ Why plateaus are often upper limits (not proof you're failing)✨ How your nervous system adapts to your current income + visibility✨ The real reason your growth may have slowed✨ Why daily tapping stabilizes expansion✨ How to know when your network is capped✨ Why your next level lives in new rooms✨ The danger of outsourcing your authority✨ How to trust the next step God is nudging you toward I also share my own story of rapid expansion in 2020, what I got wrong, and why consistent tapping would have changed everything. If You're Feeling Plateaued, Ask Yourself: What part of me doesn't want to grow right now — and why? Am I still selling to the same network I've already maxed out? Am I copying others instead of trusting my own direction? Plateaus aren't punishment.They're preparation. Resources Mentioned

If you're making decent money but still feel like you're one bad month away from stress, this episode is for you. Joe Saul-Sehy, OG, and Neighbor Doug sit down with Mel Abraham to talk about something most Stackers think about but don't know how to start: creating income that doesn't depend entirely on showing up to work every single day. Not side hustle mania or get-rich-quick schemes. Just practical ways to build what Mel calls a "money engine" that makes your financial life steadier and way less stressful. Mel breaks down the different types of income streams, how they fit into real life (not just theory), and where to start if you're tired of feeling like your paycheck is the only thing keeping everything afloat. The goal isn't to quit your job tomorrow. It's to create options and breathing room so one surprise expense or career hiccup doesn't derail everything you've built. Then Joe and OG tackle the January financial to-do lists that flood your inbox every year. You know the ones: "15 money moves to make before February!" They separate what's worth your time from what's just financial busywork designed to make you feel productive without moving the needle. Because here's the truth. You don't need more financial homework. You need a few strategic moves that make 2026 feel more manageable from the start. What You'll Walk Away With: • How to think about building income beyond your paycheck without burning out • The different types of income streams and which ones fit your actual life right now • Where to start creating assets that work even when you're not clocking in • Which January money tasks are worth doing and which ones waste your time • How to prioritize your financial checklist for maximum impact with minimum stress • Simple ways to organize your money for the year without it becoming a second job This Episode Is For You If: • You're making decent money but still feel financially stressed • You want options beyond your paycheck but don't know where to start • You're tired of feeling like everything depends on your next paycheck • January financial advice usually overwhelms you more than it helps • You want systems that reduce anxiety, not add more tasks to your list Before You Hit Play, Ask Yourself: What's one income stream you'd love to build if you knew it wouldn't be complicated? If you only had one hour this month to improve your finances, what would you spend it on? Drop your answers in the comments or the Basement Facebook group because Mel's framework plus Joe and OG's January reality check might be exactly what you need to start the year without the usual stress. FULL SHOW NOTES: https://stackingbenjamins.com/build-your-money-engine-mel-abraham-1790 Deeper dives with curated links, topics, and discussions are in our newsletter, The 201, available at https://www.stackingbenjamins.com/201 Enjoy! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

If you're making decent money but still feel like you're one bad month away from stress, this episode is for you. Joe Saul-Sehy, OG, and Neighbor Doug sit down with Mel Abraham to talk about something most Stackers think about but don't know how to start: creating income that doesn't depend entirely on showing up to work every single day. Not side hustle mania or get-rich-quick schemes. Just practical ways to build what Mel calls a "money engine" that makes your financial life steadier and way less stressful. Mel breaks down the different types of income streams, how they fit into real life (not just theory), and where to start if you're tired of feeling like your paycheck is the only thing keeping everything afloat. The goal isn't to quit your job tomorrow. It's to create options and breathing room so one surprise expense or career hiccup doesn't derail everything you've built. Then Joe and OG tackle the January financial to-do lists that flood your inbox every year. You know the ones: "15 money moves to make before February!" They separate what's worth your time from what's just financial busywork designed to make you feel productive without moving the needle. Because here's the truth. You don't need more financial homework. You need a few strategic moves that make 2026 feel more manageable from the start. What You'll Walk Away With: • How to think about building income beyond your paycheck without burning out • The different types of income streams and which ones fit your actual life right now • Where to start creating assets that work even when you're not clocking in • Which January money tasks are worth doing and which ones waste your time • How to prioritize your financial checklist for maximum impact with minimum stress • Simple ways to organize your money for the year without it becoming a second job This Episode Is For You If: • You're making decent money but still feel financially stressed • You want options beyond your paycheck but don't know where to start • You're tired of feeling like everything depends on your next paycheck • January financial advice usually overwhelms you more than it helps • You want systems that reduce anxiety, not add more tasks to your list Before You Hit Play, Ask Yourself: What's one income stream you'd love to build if you knew it wouldn't be complicated? If you only had one hour this month to improve your finances, what would you spend it on? Drop your answers in the comments or the Basement Facebook group because Mel's framework plus Joe and OG's January reality check might be exactly what you need to start the year without the usual stress. FULL SHOW NOTES: https://stackingbenjamins.com/build-your-money-engine-mel-abraham-1790 Deeper dives with curated links, topics, and discussions are in our newsletter, The 201, available at https://www.stackingbenjamins.com/201 Enjoy! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Holiday parties make you want to hide behind the cheese tray. Gift-giving season makes your budget cry. This episode is your survival guide for both. Joe Saul-Sehy, OG, and Neighbor Doug welcome Pulitzer Prize-winning author Charles Duhigg to turn holiday small talk from awkward endurance test into something you might actually enjoy. Whether you're facing the office party, a family gathering with that cousin who won't shut up about crypto, or the neighborhood potluck where you know exactly three people, Charles reveals how to walk into any room with confidence, even if you're an introvert who'd rather be home watching movies. The secret? Super communicators aren't the loudest people in the room. They're the ones asking better questions, reading the conversation correctly, and making others feel heard. Charles breaks down the skills that turn painful small talk into genuine connection, and why introverts actually have hidden advantages at holiday gatherings (yes, really). Then the crew tackles the other holiday stressor of gift-giving that doesn't demolish your December budget. Joe, OG, and Doug explore the rising trend of secondhand gifting. It's not just about saving money (though your wallet will thank you). It can be more meaningful, more creative, and kinder to both your finances and the planet. From thrifted treasures to thoughtful "found" gems, they share how to give smarter instead of just spending more. Plus, Doug's toilet paper trivia arrives right on schedule (because what's a holiday episode without something unexpected?), along with stories about neighbors behaving badly and a brief tour through apps you forgot you're still paying for. What You'll Walk Away With: • Charles Duhigg's framework for turning small talk into actual connection without feeling fake • Why introverts have secret advantages at holiday parties and how to use them • Smart, budget-friendly gifting strategies that feel thoughtful rather than last-minute or cheap • The case for secondhand gifts and how to do it in a way that feels special • How to avoid blowing your holiday budget without looking (or feeling) stingy • Creative ways to personalize gifts without overspending or resorting to gift cards • Why communication skills affect both your happiness and your financial decisions This Episode Is For You If: • Holiday small talk feels like torture and you'd rather shovel snow • You want to give meaningful gifts but refuse to wreck your January budget doing it • You're an introvert dreading the season of forced social interaction • You're tired of generic gift guides telling you to "just spend less" without actual ideas • You believe better conversations and smarter spending are both learnable skills Before You Hit Play, Ask Yourself: What's the most meaningful non-new gift you've ever given or received? Think about why it mattered. That's the kind of gifting Charles and the crew are talking about. Drop your story in the comments because we're building the anti-Amazon holiday gift playbook together. FULL SHOW NOTES: https://www.stackingbenjamins.com/how-to-actually-enjoy-holiday-small-talk-1771/ Deeper dives with curated links, topics, and discussions are in our newsletter, The 201, available at https://www.stackingbenjamins.com/201 Enjoy! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Holiday parties make you want to hide behind the cheese tray. Gift-giving season makes your budget cry. This episode is your survival guide for both. Joe Saul-Sehy, OG, and Neighbor Doug welcome Pulitzer Prize-winning author Charles Duhigg to turn holiday small talk from awkward endurance test into something you might actually enjoy. Whether you're facing the office party, a family gathering with that cousin who won't shut up about crypto, or the neighborhood potluck where you know exactly three people, Charles reveals how to walk into any room with confidence, even if you're an introvert who'd rather be home watching movies. The secret? Super communicators aren't the loudest people in the room. They're the ones asking better questions, reading the conversation correctly, and making others feel heard. Charles breaks down the skills that turn painful small talk into genuine connection, and why introverts actually have hidden advantages at holiday gatherings (yes, really). Then the crew tackles the other holiday stressor of gift-giving that doesn't demolish your December budget. Joe, OG, and Doug explore the rising trend of secondhand gifting. It's not just about saving money (though your wallet will thank you). It can be more meaningful, more creative, and kinder to both your finances and the planet. From thrifted treasures to thoughtful "found" gems, they share how to give smarter instead of just spending more. Plus, Doug's toilet paper trivia arrives right on schedule (because what's a holiday episode without something unexpected?), along with stories about neighbors behaving badly and a brief tour through apps you forgot you're still paying for. What You'll Walk Away With: • Charles Duhigg's framework for turning small talk into actual connection without feeling fake • Why introverts have secret advantages at holiday parties and how to use them • Smart, budget-friendly gifting strategies that feel thoughtful rather than last-minute or cheap • The case for secondhand gifts and how to do it in a way that feels special • How to avoid blowing your holiday budget without looking (or feeling) stingy • Creative ways to personalize gifts without overspending or resorting to gift cards • Why communication skills affect both your happiness and your financial decisions This Episode Is For You If: • Holiday small talk feels like torture and you'd rather shovel snow • You want to give meaningful gifts but refuse to wreck your January budget doing it • You're an introvert dreading the season of forced social interaction • You're tired of generic gift guides telling you to "just spend less" without actual ideas • You believe better conversations and smarter spending are both learnable skills Before You Hit Play, Ask Yourself: What's the most meaningful non-new gift you've ever given or received? Think about why it mattered. That's the kind of gifting Charles and the crew are talking about. Drop your story in the comments because we're building the anti-Amazon holiday gift playbook together. FULL SHOW NOTES: https://www.stackingbenjamins.com/how-to-actually-enjoy-holiday-small-talk-1771/ Deeper dives with curated links, topics, and discussions are in our newsletter, The 201, available at https://www.stackingbenjamins.com/201 Enjoy! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Black Friday's coming, your inbox is screaming deals at you, and you're trying to figure out: is this tech actually worth it, or will it be collecting dust by Valentine's Day? Joe Saul-Sehy, guest co-host CFP Anna Allem, and Neighbor Doug bring in Bridget Carey from CNET to cut through the holiday tech chaos. Bridget's spent her career testing gadgets, and she's here to tell you what's actually worth your money this season—from Nintendo's surprisingly strong lineup to handheld gaming devices like Steam Deck and Xbox Cloud that might replace your console. She also warns you away from AI-powered appliances that still feel like they're arguing with you instead of helping. Bridget breaks down the smart way to approach Black Friday and Cyber Monday without wrecking your December budget, which deals are real and which are manufactured hype, and why some tech gifts send a very specific message to your in-laws (and maybe not the one you want). Then the conversation shifts from tech temptations to investing platforms—specifically Robinhood. The confetti animations are fun, the interface is slick, but is it actually built for serious long-term investing? Joe and Anna dig into where Robinhood works, where it distracts, and why your retirement plan might need something more substantial than gamified stock trading and crypto side quests. Plus: Doug delivers Thanksgiving-adjacent trivia, and the crew takes a nostalgic detour through Skip-Its and Long Furbys that'll fuel your next holiday gathering conversation. What You'll Walk Away With: • Bridget Carey's insider guide to which holiday tech deals are legit and which are overhyped garbage • The best gaming and gadget gifts this season (from someone who actually tests this stuff for a living) • Why some AI appliances still feel like expensive beta tests you're paying to debug • Smart strategies for Black Friday and Cyber Monday that don't demolish your December budget • The honest truth about Robinhood: where it shines and where serious investors should look elsewhere • How investing platforms subtly influence your behavior—and whether that's helping or hurting you • How to stay grounded when shiny objects (tech or financial) start calling your name This Episode Is For You If: • You're staring at Black Friday ads wondering which deals are actually worth it • You want tech gift advice from someone who isn't trying to sell you something • You've been using Robinhood and wonder if it's actually helping your long-term investing goals • You're curious whether the flashy features on investing apps are making you a better or worse investor • You need a reality check before holiday spending turns into January regret Before You Hit Play, Ask Yourself: What's the worst tech purchase you've ever made? Bonus points if it broke before New Year's. Drop it in the comments—misery loves company, and we're building the ultimate "do not buy" list together. Deeper dives with curated links, topics, and discussions are in our newsletter, The 201, available at https://www.stackingbenjamins.com/201 Enjoy! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Black Friday's coming, your inbox is screaming deals at you, and you're trying to figure out: is this tech actually worth it, or will it be collecting dust by Valentine's Day? Joe Saul-Sehy, guest co-host CFP Anna Allem, and Neighbor Doug bring in Bridget Carey from CNET to cut through the holiday tech chaos. Bridget's spent her career testing gadgets, and she's here to tell you what's actually worth your money this season—from Nintendo's surprisingly strong lineup to handheld gaming devices like Steam Deck and Xbox Cloud that might replace your console. She also warns you away from AI-powered appliances that still feel like they're arguing with you instead of helping. Bridget breaks down the smart way to approach Black Friday and Cyber Monday without wrecking your December budget, which deals are real and which are manufactured hype, and why some tech gifts send a very specific message to your in-laws (and maybe not the one you want). Then the conversation shifts from tech temptations to investing platforms—specifically Robinhood. The confetti animations are fun, the interface is slick, but is it actually built for serious long-term investing? Joe and Anna dig into where Robinhood works, where it distracts, and why your retirement plan might need something more substantial than gamified stock trading and crypto side quests. Plus: Doug delivers Thanksgiving-adjacent trivia, and the crew takes a nostalgic detour through Skip-Its and Long Furbys that'll fuel your next holiday gathering conversation. What You'll Walk Away With: • Bridget Carey's insider guide to which holiday tech deals are legit and which are overhyped garbage • The best gaming and gadget gifts this season (from someone who actually tests this stuff for a living) • Why some AI appliances still feel like expensive beta tests you're paying to debug • Smart strategies for Black Friday and Cyber Monday that don't demolish your December budget • The honest truth about Robinhood: where it shines and where serious investors should look elsewhere • How investing platforms subtly influence your behavior—and whether that's helping or hurting you • How to stay grounded when shiny objects (tech or financial) start calling your name This Episode Is For You If: • You're staring at Black Friday ads wondering which deals are actually worth it • You want tech gift advice from someone who isn't trying to sell you something • You've been using Robinhood and wonder if it's actually helping your long-term investing goals • You're curious whether the flashy features on investing apps are making you a better or worse investor • You need a reality check before holiday spending turns into January regret Before You Hit Play, Ask Yourself: What's the worst tech purchase you've ever made? Bonus points if it broke before New Year's. Drop it in the comments—misery loves company, and we're building the ultimate "do not buy" list together. Deeper dives with curated links, topics, and discussions are in our newsletter, The 201, available at https://www.stackingbenjamins.com/201 Enjoy! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This one is personal.In this deeply honest episode, I sit down with my former co-host and dear friend, Pia for a conversation that goes beyond wellness trends — and into the reality of burnout, chronic anxiety, postnatal depletion, and how healing the gut became a path to reclaiming health, motherhood, and identity.We talk about the systems that are failing women, the inconvenient truths about convenience culture, and the radical changes required when your body — or your child's — is in crisis.From fermented foods and slow-cooked stews to saying no to hustle culture, this is a reclamation story — of health, motherhood, and self-worth.In this episode:What postnatal depletion and chronic fatigue really look likeThe connection between gut health, anxiety, skin issues, and burnoutWhy so many women live in a state of depletion without even realizing itThe hidden cost of “bouncing back” after birthHow Pia's child's illness became the catalyst for her own healingThe truth about convenience cultureHow to start healing your gut (and your child's) with foodThe link between autoimmune conditions, women's health, and generational depletionWhy animal fat is not the enemy — and might be your body's best friendChoosing presence over perfection, nourishment over noiseKey Questions to Ask Yourself:What beliefs about success are keeping me in burnout?What does nourishment really look like in my life?Your Next Steps:Choose real food over fast fixesQuestion the systems and norms you've inheritedLet go of performance — in motherhood, work, and healingMake your kitchen your medicine cabinetRemember: You are already enough.For information and resources, check out kayaramjee.com.And if this episode moved you — share it with someone who needs to hear: You're not broken. You're depleted. And you can heal.

Stephen and Megan dive into the ideas behind Jonathan Haidt's bestselling book, The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood Is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness. Together, they unpack how the rise of smartphones and the decline of play-based childhood have shaped an entire generation.In this conversation, Stephen explains Haidt's core argument that childhood was “rewired” around 2012 — trading outdoor play, social learning, and healthy risk for screen-based connection, comparison, and constant distraction. They explore how this great rewiring has uniquely impacted both boys and girls, why young adults today are more anxious and lonely than ever, and how we can begin reclaiming what was lost.You'll walk away with practical ways to manage your attention, pursue real-world relationships, and rediscover presence in a digital world that never stops scrolling.Be sure to subscribe today so you never miss an episode!4 Key Takeaways:Own Your Attention. Recognize when your phone is managing you instead of the other way around. Create intentional phone-free times each day and reclaim your ability to focus deeply.Crave What's Real. Invest in embodied, face-to-face community — shared meals, conversations, and experiences that outlast the scroll.Curate Your Digital Life. Audit your apps and notifications. Keep what connects you, remove what consumes you, and let technology serve your goals — not shape them.Relearn Play and Presence. Step outside, try new hobbies, allow boredom, and take healthy risks. These real-world moments build the resilience and creativity we've lost in a screen-based world.Ask Yourself: What's one simple way you can limit distraction this week — and one real-world connection you can intentionally pursue?

You've got questions. We've got two CFPs and a former planner ready to hash it out. Joe Saul-Sehy, OG, Doug, and CFP Anna Allem tackle the money decisions you're actually losing sleep over—and here's the thing: they don't always agree on the answer. That's the point. Should you drain your emergency fund to pay off debt? Is whole life insurance for your kids a smart move or an expensive mistake? How much life insurance do you actually need (not what some calculator tells you)? And when life throws you a curveball—layoff, surprise expense, major purchase—what's the move? With Joe Saul-Sehy's 16 years in financial planning, OG's CFP perspective, and Anna's insights, you'll hear how experienced voices think through these decisions differently—and why your answer might be different than all of theirs. Because the real skill isn't finding THE right answer; it's learning how to make YOUR right call. This episode is for anyone who's ever stared at their bank account thinking, "I know I should do something... but what?" Plus: Doug delivers trivia about the first auto insurance policy (because of course), the gang weighs in on athlete endorsements and reverse mortgages, and there's a TikTok money tip that sparks some debate. What You'll Walk Away With: • How experienced financial minds approach the emergency fund dilemma differently—and what that means for your situation • The whole life insurance debate: when it makes sense for kids and when you're better off elsewhere • A framework for figuring out how much life insurance you actually need—and why the "rules of thumb" don't always work • What to do when your financial plan meets real life (layoffs, surprise bills, major purchases) • The confidence to make a decision even when experts would handle it differently Before You Hit Play, Ask Yourself: What's the one money question you keep Googling but still don't feel confident about? If you're second-guessing your emergency fund, your insurance, or a big financial move, this episode is your permission to stop spinning and start deciding. Got a question we didn't cover? Call in to the show! StackingBenjamins.com/Voicemail FULL SHOW NOTES: https://stackingbenjamins.com/answering-your-burning-financial-questions-1750 Deeper dives with curated links, topics, and discussions are in our newsletter, The 201, available at https://www.stackingbenjamins.com/201 Enjoy! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

You've got questions. We've got two CFPs and a former planner ready to hash it out. Joe Saul-Sehy, OG, Doug, and CFP Anna Allem tackle the money decisions you're actually losing sleep over—and here's the thing: they don't always agree on the answer. That's the point. Should you drain your emergency fund to pay off debt? Is whole life insurance for your kids a smart move or an expensive mistake? How much life insurance do you actually need (not what some calculator tells you)? And when life throws you a curveball—layoff, surprise expense, major purchase—what's the move? With Joe Saul-Sehy's 16 years in financial planning, OG's CFP perspective, and Anna's insights, you'll hear how experienced voices think through these decisions differently—and why your answer might be different than all of theirs. Because the real skill isn't finding THE right answer; it's learning how to make YOUR right call. This episode is for anyone who's ever stared at their bank account thinking, "I know I should do something... but what?" Plus: Doug delivers trivia about the first auto insurance policy (because of course), the gang weighs in on athlete endorsements and reverse mortgages, and there's a TikTok money tip that sparks some debate. What You'll Walk Away With: • How experienced financial minds approach the emergency fund dilemma differently—and what that means for your situation • The whole life insurance debate: when it makes sense for kids and when you're better off elsewhere • A framework for figuring out how much life insurance you actually need—and why the "rules of thumb" don't always work • What to do when your financial plan meets real life (layoffs, surprise bills, major purchases) • The confidence to make a decision even when experts would handle it differently Before You Hit Play, Ask Yourself: What's the one money question you keep Googling but still don't feel confident about? If you're second-guessing your emergency fund, your insurance, or a big financial move, this episode is your permission to stop spinning and start deciding. Got a question we didn't cover? Call in to the show! StackingBenjamins.com/Voicemail FULL SHOW NOTES: https://stackingbenjamins.com/answering-your-burning-financial-questions-1750 Deeper dives with curated links, topics, and discussions are in our newsletter, The 201, available at https://www.stackingbenjamins.com/201 Enjoy! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ever felt overwhelmed by emotions you don't fully understand — and then judged yourself for feeling them?In this raw, reflective episode, I take you inside two days of intense emotional waves — from heaviness and hopelessness to connection and clarity. I share the exact journal entries that helped me process big emotions, release shame, and remember that I'm never alone (and neither are you).This isn't an episode about fixing yourself.It's about learning how to stay with yourself.You'll hear how I moved through the inner chaos, the tools that supported me, and the quiet magic that unfolded when I told the truth — to myself, to others, and to God.Whether you're navigating grief, burnout, or just feeling like “too much,” this episode is your reminder that you're not broken — and you don't have to pretend you're okay to be worthy of love, connection, or support.

In our age of instant everything—instant texting, instant coffee, instant results—we've largely forgotten the power of the slow, steady work of faithfulness. We swipe when relationships get difficult, quit when jobs get challenging, and abandon commitments when they stop feeling convenient. We live in a culture that has trained us to expect immediate gratification and to move on the moment things require effort or sacrifice.Matthew 25:14-15Matthew 25:20-21Matthew 25:24-28I. FAITHFULNESS IS A CHOICE, NOT A FEELING"Now it is required that those who have been given a trust must prove faithful."1 Corinthians 4:2 Quoteable Statement: "Faithfulness isn't about feeling like it - it's about following through when you don't feel like it."Everyone wants to be a beast, but they don't want to do what beasts do….“It is required of a man that he be faithful, not successful.” Howard Hendricks, "Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much." Luke 16:10 Quoteable Statement: "God uses small tests to prepare us for big assignments. If you're not faithful with a borrowed car, why would He give you your own business?"Illustrations:Joseph was faithful as a servant before becoming prime ministerDavid was faithful with sheep before leading IsraelJesus was faithful to earthly parents as a carpenter before his heavenly missionGod called me to preach…. Where I am invited, if possible, I will go… Small stages lead to bigger ones.Three Areas Where Faithfulness Counts:Time - Are you on time? Do you keep your word about schedules?Money - Do you pay your bills? Return what you borrow? Give what you promise?Relationships - Do you keep confidences? Show up when promised? Follow through on commitments?Quoteable Statement: "Little acts of faithfulness are the building blocks of a trustworthy life." "His master replied, 'Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things.'"Matthew 25:21 -Quoteable Statement: "Faithfulness is the soil where God grows bigger opportunities."The Faithfulness-Fruitfulness Cycle:Faithfulness builds trustTrust creates opportunitiesOpportunities produce influenceInfluence generates impactBiblical Examples:Ruth's faithfulness to Naomi led to marriage with BoazDaniel's faithfulness in exile led to positions of powerMary's faithfulness to God's call led to mothering the MessiahModern Application: Every person of great impact started with small acts of faithfulnessQuoteable Statement: "God isn't looking for your ability - He's looking for your availability and reliability."Three Questions to Ask Yourself:What small thing is God asking me to be faithful in right now?Growth group….Where have I been unfaithful that I need to make right?What big thing might God be preparing me for through small acts of faithfulness?Final Quoteable Statement: "Your faithfulness today determines your fruitfulness tomorrow. Don't despise small beginnings - God doesn't."II. FAITHFULNESS STARTS IN THE SMALL THINGS (8 minutes)III. FAITHFULNESS PRODUCES FRUITFULNESS (7 minutes)IV The Faithfulness Test

The RealReal has become the world's largest authenticated luxury resale platform — with 38 million members, over 40 million items sold, and a brand people can't stop talking about. But how did they get here? And why are they winning the luxury resale game while so many others fade out?In this episode of That's What I Call Marketing, Caroline shares the creative strategies, brand values, and bold moves that have propelled The RealReal to the top. From her start in luxury hospitality at Ritz-Carlton to leading marketing for one of fashion's most disruptive players, she reveals what it takes to build trust, scale a community, and stand out in a crowded market.Inside this episode:

Happy Independence Day! In this inspiring episode, Lindsey connects the spirit of American independence to your personal freedom from disordered eating. Drawing from Stephen Covey's "Seven Habits of Highly Effective People," she breaks down the four human endowments that give us ultimate freedom: self-awareness, conscience, independent will, and creative imagination. If you're tired of living for everyone else's approval and ready to declare independence from your eating disorder, this episode will show you exactly how to break free using the power you already have within you. What You'll Learn The 4 human endowments that create ultimate freedom (from Stephen Covey) How your eating disorder hijacks your internal guidance system Why you get stuck in the "capacity to act" phase of recovery How to reconnect with your creative imagination and dreams The power of asking "What's the best that could happen?" How to put on your "full armor" against disordered eating The 4 Keys to Ultimate Human Freedom 1. Self-Awareness Allows you to think about your thoughts Key to taking responsibility for where you are and where you want to go Action Step: Write your Best Self Statement (Episode 51 reference) 2. Conscience Your internal guidance system for right and wrong Connects actions to your highest values (your "True North Compass") Gets jaded when eating disorder is in the driver's seat 3. Independent Will Your capacity to act and break patterns Where many people get stuck in recovery The part of you that's "starving for independence" 4. Creative Imagination Gives you purpose and dreams beyond current reality Hard to access when living "chained in the disorder" When attached to willpower, makes you unstoppable Key Questions to Ask Yourself "What's the best that could happen if..." I surrender control? I sit with my dreams and imagine life without unhealthy behaviors? I stop counting calories or weighing myself? I become the natural version of me I'm supposed to be? Powerful Episode Quotes "Independence is freedom from the need of everyone else's approval." "You have the key. No one else. Freedom isn't really free - it's won by you, but you don't have to go at it alone." "When your willpower is attached to your creative imagination, nothing can stop you." "Fears keep us stuck. The fear of weight gain is real... but it kept me stuck for so long. These are the handcuffs around you, and you have the key." Biblical Foundation - Ephesians 6:10-18 Lindsey references putting on the "full armor of God" to stand against the eating disorder, including: Belt of truth Breastplate of righteousness Shield of faith Helmet of salvation Sword of the Spirit Resources Mentioned Best Self Statement: Pinned in Her Best Self Society Facebook community Episode 51: "Why Some Find Freedom from Disordered Eating and Others Don't" Stephen Covey: "Seven Habits of Highly Effective People" Private Facebook Community: www.herbestselfesociety.com  Ready for Recovery Coaching? Lindsey offers personalized recovery coaching for women ready to do the work. If you're in the "messy middle" and feel stuck despite listening to inspirational content, working with someone who's walked the path could be your game changer. Next Steps: Visit www.herbestself.co  Fill out the client application See if you're a good fit for coaching If not the right match, Lindsey will connect you with other qualified coaches on her team or additional resources to support you along your journey to freedom Take Action This Week Practice self-awareness - Reflect on what you truly want vs. what your ED wants Honor your True North - Connect with your real values and conscience Exercise your independent will - Make one choice that goes against ED thoughts Use creative imagination - Dream about life without obsessive food thoughts Ask the key question: "What's the best that could happen?" Connect & Share Love this episode? Rate and review on Apple Podcasts Share with someone who needs to hear this message Join the private Facebook community for ongoing support Tag @thelindseynichol on social media with your independence declaration Independence Challenge: This week, declare independence from one ED behavior or thought pattern. Share your declaration in the Facebook community for support and accountability! xo, lindsey Coach with Me -＞Client Application * While I am a certified health coach, anorexia survivor & eating disorder recovery coach, I do not intend the use of this message to serve as medical advice. Please refer to the disclaimer here in the show & be sure to contact a licensed clinical provider if you are struggling with an eating disorder.

Send us a textPlanning a summer trip to Walt Disney World? Wondering how families survive the Florida heat, long park days, and sticky strollers without losing the magic? In this episode of Well Hello Magic, I'm diving into everything you need to know about Cool Kid Summer—Disney's seasonal lineup of perks, entertainment, and character surprises happening now through early September 2025.I'm sharing our real-life Disney summer strategy that keeps our family of six (including a toddler) cool, happy, and meltdown-free—even on the hottest Florida days. You'll hear how we plan our days, which parks we prioritize in the morning, when we take our midday breaks, and why we always build in time for the pool, water parks, and rest.If you're a parent planning your first summer trip to Disney World or even a seasoned Disney goer wondering what's new this summer, this episode is packed with helpful tips, firsthand experience, and honest advice on how to make Cool Kid Summer work for your crew.We'll also talk about:What is Cool Kid Summer at Disney World?What special characters and surprises are happening at each park?What rides are open during Early Theme Park Entry?Why Early Entry is your best friend when it comes to beating the heatWhich Disney World resorts are offering extra character activities and poolside gamesThe water park perk that gives you a free park day without using a theme park ticketHow we plan 7 to 10-day trips to avoid burnout and keep the magic goingTips for staying cool and hydrated during peak summer monthsWhat to pack for a successful summer Disney tripHow to time meals, naps, and fireworks so no one ends up crankyOur four-parks-in-one-day summer challenge—and how we're doing it without the toddlerWhich rides to rope drop and which ones to save for laterIf you've ever googled “How hot is Disney in July?” or “Can you survive Disney World with kids in the summer?” this is the episode for you. I'm giving you all the practical advice I wish I had on my first summer visit with kids in tow.Ask Yourself…What's new at Disney World this summer for families?How do you meet characters without standing in line for an hour?Is it worth going to Disney in the summer heat?Which parks are best to visit in the morning vs evening?How can I keep my toddler cool at Disney World?What should I pack to survive summer at Disney?Is Cool Kid Summer worth planning a trip around?Are the water parks good for little kids?What's the best Disney resort for summer travel?Can I really do four Disney parks in one day?Tune in now and let's make your next summer trip to Disney a whole lot easier. Whether you're a Disney pro or just starting to plan, I've got your back—heat, crowds, and all. And for even more tips on minimizing parental stress at the Disney parks, make sur Support the showHey Welcome to Well Hello Magic! Well Hell Magic Website Instagram YouTube Pinterest Amazon Shop LTK Shop Ready to Plan your Disney Vacation? Free Planning Guide Join The Newsletter

In this episode of Do The Work | Mindset Mastery, I open up about something that we all carry but rarely stop to dissect: guilt. It's sneaky. It creeps in during the quiet moments after long work weeks, during family decisions, and when we feel stretched too thin. This episode wasn't just about a spontaneous trip to Universal Studios with my daughters. It was about understanding how guilt can distort our memories, cloud our judgment, and keep us from truly being present. But more importantly, it was about choosing what to do with that guilt right now. Over the years, I've told myself stories. That I worked too much. That I wasn't present enough. That I didn't have patience. And while I believed those things, my daughters remembered something different. They remembered the volleyball practices. They remembered Disneyland. They remembered me showing them how to edit on their iPads. And it made me realize how powerful our own stories can be and how wrong we are when we let guilt rewrite our legacy. I almost let my own guilt steal an opportunity to create a powerful memory with my daughters. I almost passed on a trip that turned into one of the best experiences we've had together. The reality is, we work hard to earn that flexibility, but if we don't take action in the present, guilt will always convince us we don't deserve it. This lesson isn't just for home it applies to business too. Guilt from not following up. Guilt from not posting. Guilt from not showing up strong for your clients. We sit in that space and call it accountability, but accountability without action is just self-punishment. You say you take responsibility but then what? What are you doing right now to change it? It's time to stop looking back at where we fell short and start doing something right here, right now. One call. One text. One post. One moment of presence. That's where expansion begins. And when you take that action now, it doesn't just shape your future. It transforms your past and your present too. Expansion grows every way, not just forward. The guilt doesn't have to weigh you down if you're willing to move. Ask Yourself What guilt have you been holding onto that's slowing down your growth or happiness? What is one action you can take today to move forward in your business or relationships? How might your story change if you stopped focusing on what you didn't do and started acting on what you can do now? Notable Quotes “We can all feel belittled by what we have. Or we can just think about what we can do right now to get a little closer to that bigger vision.” “Time doesn't necessarily mean quality. You don't have to sabotage one or the other. You can do both.” “Accountability without action is just self-punishment.”   Follow A.Z. Araujo on Social Media: Instagram: @azaraujo Facebook: A.Z. Araujo TikTok: A.Z. Araujo YouTube: Do The Work Podcast   For Real Estate Agents in AZ: Learn more about Do The Work Coaching and A.Z. & Associates: dothework.com/azaa   Upcoming Events: If you're a real estate brokerage owner, sign up for one of our upcoming events. Visit: dothework.com bigmoneybrokerage.com Join my mailing list for updates!   New Do The Work Gear: Check out the latest DTW and Do The Work Gear! Hats, shirts, journals, and more: shop.dothework.com

If you're a high-achieving woman who has built an empire of accomplishments but still feels like an outsider looking in, this episode will revolutionize everything you thought you knew about your relationship with food and your body. Today we're exposing the truth behind the staggering statistic that 91% of women diet to belong, and why your weight obsession is actually a belonging crisis in disguise. You'll discover the research-backed connection between restriction and worthiness, learn why your "disciplined" identity is actually a prison, and walk away with 4 revolutionary strategies to reclaim your power this summer. This isn't just another episode about food freedom—this is your call to revolution. What You'll Discover ✨ Why 91% of women use dieting as a belonging strategy (and why it backfires) ✨ The Harvard research that proves relationships matter 10x more than weight for happiness ✨ How your "disciplined identity" around food is actually keeping you small ✨ Why validation addiction through restriction is sabotaging your authentic connections ✨ The revolutionary truth about weight, worth, and belonging that changes everything ✨ 3 power practices you can implement this week to break free from the cycle Shocking Statistics Revealed The Belonging Crisis Numbers 91% of women surveyed on college campuses had attempted to control their weight through dieting 22% of women diet "often" or "always" (National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders) 95% of people struggling with food restriction report feeling "different" or "misunderstood" (Center for Mindful Eating) The Research That Changes Everything Harvard's Study of Adult Development: Quality of relationships determines happiness and health more than any other factor—not dress size, not workout routine 95% of diets fail long-term, yet women continue the cycle of restriction 85% of eating disorders start as "normal" dieting behavior Key Revelations The Belonging Wound Your obsession with weight has nothing to do with your weight and everything to do with your wounded belief that you don't belong. You've convinced yourself that belonging is conditional—requiring the right size, perfect discipline, most controlled relationship with food. The Identity Prison You've made restriction your religion and your body your altar. The identity keeping you "safe" from rejection is the same identity keeping you small. When you define yourself as "the disciplined one," you're not building strength—you're building a prison with bars made of other people's opinions. The Validation Addiction Every compliment about your discipline gives you a temporary hit, but validation addiction works like any other addiction—the highs get shorter and the lows get deeper. You need more external approval to feel momentarily worthy. Powerful Quotes to Remember "True belonging only happens when we present our authentic, imperfect selves to the world." - Brené Brown "The belonging you're seeking through their approval will never be sustainable because it's not real. Real belonging comes from the inside out, not the outside in." Your Belonging Revolution Toolkit: 3 Power Practices Practice 1: The Belonging Mirror Method Every morning before checking your phone, stand in front of your mirror and say: "I belong here. In this body, in this life, in this world. Not because of what I weigh, but because of who I am." Then name three things you're grateful your body can do. This rewires your brain from criticism to celebration. Practice 2: The Summer Freedom Food Challenge This week, choose one food you've been restricting and eat it mindfully in a social setting. Maybe it's ice cream on a date, bread at dinner with friends. The goal isn't the food—it's practicing belonging while nourishing yourself. Notice how no one cares what you're eating as much as you think they do. Practice 3: The Energy Reclaim Ritual Instead of over-exercising to earn belonging, move your body in ways that make you feel powerful. Dance in your living room. Walk in nature. Stretch on your porch. Ask: "How does my body want to move today?" then honor that answer. Transform movement from obligation to celebration. Bonus Practice: The Validation Redirect When you catch yourself seeking approval about food choices, body, or discipline—pause and ask: "What validation do I need to give myself right now?" Then give it to yourself. Out loud. With conviction. The Summer Revolution Challenge This summer, stage a revolution for your body, not against it. For freedom, not restriction. For your soul, not your size. Ask Yourself: What would it look like to show up to summer gatherings as the woman who belongs because she's claimed it through courage? What would it feel like to order what you want because you want it, not because you've "earned" it? What would it mean to wear the swimsuit because you realize your body was always perfect for living your life? Research Sources Brené Brown's belonging and vulnerability research Harvard Study of Adult Development (relationships and happiness correlation) National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders (dieting statistics) Center for Mindful Eating (restriction and social connection studies) Ready for Your Revolution? If this episode lit a fire in your soul and you're ready to stop earning worth through restriction and start claiming power through presence, it's time to take action. The belonging you're seeking isn't hiding in a smaller dress size or waiting at your goal weight. It's available right now, in this body, in this moment, as you are. Take the Next Step: Fill out a client application at www.herbestself.co to learn about my Breakthrough Experience and Freedom Formula programs. We don't just heal your relationship with food—we revolutionize your relationship with your worth. Your revolution starts now. Let's break the chains together. Connect With Lindsey

In the episode Kelly and Jessica are here to help you create the ultimate summer weekend — no flights, no big plans, just joy. Whether you're looking to enjoy time with family, relax solo, or plan something fun with friends, this episode is packed with inspiration for making the most of your weekends right where you are. From backyard ideas and low-key adventures to seasonal crafts and simple pleasures, you'll walk away with doable, feel-good ways to bring the getaway vibes home. Perfect for those craving ease, fun, and connection this summer.

Ever wondered why those killer self-promotion skills that got you promoted in corporate just aren't working for your coaching business? Sarah breaks down the fundamental difference between marketing yourself as an employee versus marketing your coaching services to clients. Spoiler alert: they're complete opposites!Key TakeawaysThe Visibility TrapYou know those colleagues who effortlessly climb the corporate ladder? They've mastered the art of staying visible and making their contributions known. While this skill is gold in the workplace, it's actually counterproductive when building a coaching practice.The Weighing Scales MetaphorThink of your coaching business like old-fashioned weighing scales:One side: All your delivery skills (coaching qualifications, certifications, NLP training, personality profiling tools, etc.)Other side: Your client acquisition skills (problem articulation, solution communication, visibility in the right places)The catch? These two sides are complete opposites and equally important for success.The Outcome-Focused ShiftInstead of showcasing how qualified you are, successful coach marketing focuses on:The specific problems your coaching solvesThe outcomes clients can expectHow working with you transforms their situationDitch the Coach SpeakTerms like "holding space" and "thinking partner" mean nothing to potential clients. Your marketing needs to speak their language, not coach language.The "Aha!" MomentMost coaches struggle with marketing because they're trying to use employee mindset skills in an entrepreneurial context. The skills that made you promotable won't make you profitable as a coach.Questions to Ask Yourself:What specific problem do I solve for my clients?How can I describe the outcome of working with me without using coaching jargon?Where does my ideal client spend their time, and am I visible there?Am I talking about my qualifications or my client's transformation?The Bottom LineYour coaching qualifications prove you can do the work, but your marketing skills determine whether you'll get the chance to. Master both sides of the scale, and you'll have a thriving coaching business.Have you enjoyed this episode? Find out more and take the FREE quiz at: ⁠⁠https://thecoachingrevolution.com/⁠⁠ Join the FREE Facebook group at: ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/buildacoachingbusiness⁠

In this episode of the Rocket Chiro Podcast, Jerry answers one of the most common questions in chiropractic business and marketing: "How do I get more new patients?" Instead of offering a simplified "just do this" solution, Jerry takes a realistic look at the challenges chiropractors face and offers a framework for creating a personalized strategy based on your goals, budget, skills, and opportunities. Whether you're just starting out or feeling stuck, this episode will give you clarity, direction, and a plan to move forward. What You'll Learn in This Episode: Why the typical "just do this" advice is usually misleading The connection between chiropractic marketing gurus and the broader "make money online" culture Why there's no one-size-fits-all approach to getting new patients Why it's okay (and normal) to get unbalanced results from your marketing efforts Why everything starts with reaching new people—and how to make sure you're doing it The Three Big Marketing Categories: 1. Online Marketing Websites, SEO, Google Ads, social media, email, and digital content creation 2. Offline Marketing Referrals, local networking, events, community outreach, print, and face-to-face marketing 3. Retention Onboarding, communication, patient experience, and follow-up systems that keep people coming back Foundational Steps to Get Started: Clarify your marketing message: Who are you, and how do you help? Build and maintain a professional website Set up and optimize your Google Business Profile Create and maintain relevant social media accounts Implement a simple, effective plan for gathering reviews and referrals Key Questions to Ask Yourself: What are my current skills? What are my interests? What are my available opportunities? What is my timeline? What is my budget? These questions will help you decide what to focus on next and avoid wasting time and money. Final Takeaways: Just get started, even if it's messy at first Don't take unnecessary financial risks Test and tweak your efforts—marketing is an ongoing process Be willing to change, but also be patient with your strategy Most importantly, be committed to excellence in everything you do Resources Business & marketing training for chiropractors: https://rocketchiro.com/join Free practice assessment: https://rocketchiro.com/chiropractic-practice-assessment Best chiropractic websites: https://rocketchiro.com/best-chiropractic-websites Google Ads Management for Chiropractors: https://rocketchiro.com/google-ads-management-for-chiropractors Chiropractic SEO: https://rocketchiro.com/chiropractic-seo

Feedback or Questions? Send us a text!Practical strategies to silence self-doubt, embrace your expertise, and lead with confidence.1 BIG Idea: Overcoming imposter syndrome starts by challenging your ABCs: Assumptions, Beliefs, and Conditioning — and the key to breaking free is my Identify, Acknowledge, Empower process.3 Ways to Apply This:Spot the Patterns: Pay attention to when self-doubt shows up — what triggers it?Reframe the Narrative: Challenge limiting beliefs by identifying the subconscious messages behind them.Build Your Confidence Bank: Create a ‘Proof Portfolio' to remind yourself of your wins, achievements, and positive feedback.3 Questions to Ask Yourself:What assumptions am I holding about success or leadership that may be limiting me?What subconscious message have I been carrying that no longer serves me as a leader?What's one belief about myself that I need to reframe to fully embrace my expertise?

To support the cause we accept love donation's on CashApp $Bohemianhipsters2021Follow us on Instagram and TikTok @VibingWithJazelPodcast Available on all podcasts platforms If you're trying to avoid “spinning the block” (going back to an old situation, relationship, or habit that no longer serves you), here are some solid strategies to stay firm in your decision:1. Remember Why You LeftWrite down or mentally revisit the reasons why you walked away in the first place. If the situation was toxic, stagnant, or unfulfilling, remind yourself that time away hasn't necessarily changed those core issues.2. Romanticizing the Past Is a TrapIt's easy to look back and remember the good times while ignoring the bad. Be real with yourself—was it really as great as your nostalgia is making it seem?3. Create Boundaries & Stick to ThemIf you truly want to move forward, set clear boundaries. This means limiting or cutting off contact, unfollowing them on social media if necessary, and avoiding places or situations that might tempt you.4. Find Closure Within YourselfSometimes, we go back because we feel like we need closure. The reality is, closure isn't always something we get from others—it's something we give ourselves. Accept what happened, make peace with it, and move on.5. Keep Yourself Busy & FocusedWhen you're leveling up, you don't have time to backtrack. Fill your time with things that contribute to your personal growth—whether that's work, hobbies, self-care, or new relationships that actually align with your goals.6. Accountability HelpsTell a trusted friend or someone who truly supports your growth about your decision to move forward. They can help check you if you start slipping.7. Ask Yourself: What's Really Changed?Before even considering going back, ask yourself: What has actually changed? Have they shown consistent, long-term growth? Have you? If the answer is no, then it's just a cycle waiting to repeat itself.8. Trust That Better Is ComingYou don't need to settle for the past when your future holds something greater. Stay patient and open to new opportunities instead of revisiting old, familiar disappointments.

In this episode of Healthy Mind, Healthy Life, host Avik Chakraborty sits down with Dr. Travis Parry, PhD in Family Relations, bestselling author, and founder of the Make Time Institute. They discuss how to break free from limiting beliefs, achieve real balance without burnout, and grow both personally and as a couple. If you've ever struggled with work-life balance, felt stuck in self-doubt, or wondered how to align your financial goals with your partner, this conversation is packed with game-changing insights.   About the Guest – Dr. Travis Parry   Dr. Travis Parry is a bestselling author of Achieving Balance and Marry and Grow Rich, a sought-after international speaker, and the founder of the Make Time Institute. His research and coaching help business owners and couples build success without sacrificing their health, happiness, or relationships. He's also a husband of 22 years and a father to 8 children, bringing real-world experience to the principles he teaches.   Key Takeaways:  

Feedback or Questions? Send us a text!1 BIG Idea:Your leadership legacy isn't just about what you accomplish—it's about who you are, why you lead, and how you impact others. It all starts with knowing your why.3 Ways to Apply This:Clarify Your Core Values – Your why is rooted in what truly matters to you. Identify your values and ensure they align with your leadership.Define Your Leadership Legacy Statement – Write down the impact you want to leave behind and how you want to be remembered as a leader.Live Your Why Daily – Your leadership legacy isn't built at the end of your career; it's shaped in every decision, conversation, and action you take today.3 Questions to Ask Yourself:What do I want people to say about my leadership when I'm not in the room?How does my why influence the way I show up and lead right now?What steps can I take today to align my leadership with the legacy I want to leave?Resources & Next Steps:Join the Core Values Coaching Program (Beta): Get personalized support in aligning your leadership with your Core Values. (Limited spots available!)Core Values Course: A self-paced guide to uncovering your unique values and living with intention. Free Core Values Exercise – Start identifying what truly drives your leadership.Let's continue the conversation! DM me on Instagram or LinkedIn @theintentionaloptimist or email me at andrea@theintentionaloptimist.comCheck us out on YouTube: https://youtu.be/GwYgi5x_edw For a deeper discussion, DM me @theintentionaloptimist (IG or LI) or email me at andrea@theintentionaloptimist.com. Please leave us a rating and review!Apple: scroll to the bottom, choose a rating, and write a review.Podchaser (Android): you can go to this link here and leave a rating and review! https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/intentional-optimists-unconven-1406762  Skillshare: Spark your creativity.Get 40% Off Annual MembershipDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

Episode 140: Leadership, Self Energy, & the Internal Family Systems Model with Rachel Bentley As therapists, business owners, and leaders, we often feel pressure to have all the answers. But what if the most impactful leadership doesn't come from perfection—but from embracing our humanity and ongoing growth? That's exactly what I explored in my conversation with Rachel Bentley on The Innovative Therapist Podcast (Episode 140). Rachel is an Internal Family Systems (IFS) Level 2 trained therapist, group practice owner, and business consultant. She leads a 40-clinician practice with locations in Michigan and helps therapists navigate leadership, self-energy, and sustainable business growth. In this episode, we dive into: How Internal Family Systems (IFS) can transform therapist leadership The role of self-energy in decision-making and leadership Overcoming imposter syndrome & self-doubt Why creativity and the Zone of Genius matter for therapists How to build a leadership team without burning out The Power of IFS in Therapist Leadership Rachel shared how IFS has revolutionized her leadership as a group practice owner. Instead of leading from a place of control or fear, she now understands how her internal parts—the ones managing decision-making, leadership stress, and self-doubt—can work together. Why Self-Energy is the Key to Effective Leadership IFS isn't just a clinical tool—it's a leadership framework. Rachel discussed how recognizing and working with her own parts has helped her: ✅ Lead with more confidence and clarity ✅ Trust her intuition in making business decisions ✅ Navigate the challenges of growing a large team ✅ Avoid burnout by recognizing protective parts before they take over Many therapists struggle with imposter syndrome, especially when running a business. Rachel's insights show that leading with self-energy—rather than fear-based parts—creates a more sustainable and authentic business. Creativity & the Zone of Genius for Therapists One of the most exciting parts of our conversation was Rachel's journey with creativity. Like many therapists, she didn't initially consider herself creative. However, she's discovered that creativity isn't just about art or music—it's about problem-solving, visioning, and innovation. What is the Zone of Genius? The Zone of Genius is the space where your natural talents and passions intersect. It's where work feels energizing instead of draining. Rachel and I explored how therapists can identify their Zone of Genius and lean into work that truly excites them. Ask Yourself: What part of your work lights you up the most? Where do you feel the most “flow” and self-energy? Creating Spaces Where We Don't Have to Prove Ourselves Therapists often feel pressure to appear “perfect”—as if we should always have it all together. But true leadership comes from embracing vulnerability and authenticity. Rachel and I discussed the importance of creating spaces where therapists can show up without unrealistic expectations. Whether it's within group practices, consulting, or therapist communities, we need places where: ✔️ We can ask questions without judgment ✔️ We don't have to prove our worth ✔️ We can be real about struggles and challenges Thinking About Starting a Group Practice? Read This First. A key topic we covered was how therapists can decide whether group practice ownership is right for them. Rachel often works with therapists navigating the solo-to-group transition, helping them consider: ❓ What is your why for starting a group practice? (Curiosity vs. Judgmental Why) ❓ Are you comfortable with leadership & delegation? ❓ Do you understand the realities of scaling a business? ❓ Are you willing to work through your own parts and fears? Join the Conversation & Build a Meaningful Practice This episode is packed with insights for therapists looking to lead with self-energy,

Feedback or Questions? Send us a text!In this episode, we explore how to lead authentically in a world full of expectations. As a purpose-driven female leader, you face external pressures and societal norms that may pull you away from your true leadership style. The key to thriving as an authentic leader lies in knowing yourself and embracing your unique approach, regardless of what others expect from you.1 BIG Idea: Leading with authenticity is not just about being true to yourself but creating a leadership style that aligns with your core values, even when external expectations try to steer you off course.3 Ways to Apply This:Anchor in Your Core Values: Identify and align with your personal values to guide your leadership decisions and actions.Embrace Authentic Leadership in Action: Lead confidently by being consistent in your actions, language, and decisions. Authentic leadership isn't just a mindset—it's about showing up as you truly are.Break Free from the Mold: Challenge societal norms and expectations that don't serve your leadership. Lead in a way that feels true to you, even if it means stepping outside traditional boundaries.Write Your Leadership Manifesto: To make your leadership authentic, take action by writing your personal leadership manifesto. This manifesto will serve as a tangible tool to keep you grounded in your core values and leadership style—especially when external pressures arise. It's a powerful way to solidify your commitment to leading with integrity.3 Questions to Ask Yourself:What are the core values that have guided me throughout my life?How can I incorporate my authentic leadership style into my daily actions?Where do I feel pressure to conform, and how can I break free from these expectations to lead with integrity?If you're ready to step into your authentic leadership and create a positive impact, this episode will give you practical steps to break free from expectations and lead your way.Tune in now to discover how purpose-driven women like you can confidently navigate unexpected leadership moments by staying adaptable and rooted in your Core Values.Links & Resources Mentioned:Core Values Coaching Program (Beta): Discover your unique values and integrate them into every aspect of your life. Core Values Course: A self-paced guide to uncovering your unique values and living with intention. Check us out on YouTube: https://youtu.be/RSWbK0nyjfI For a deeper discussion, DM me @theintentionaloptimist (IG or LI) or email me at andrea@theintentionaloptimist.com. Please leave us a rating and review!Apple: scroll to the bottom, choose a rating, and write a review.Podchaser (Android): you can go to this link here and leave a rating and review! https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/intentional-optimists-unconven-1406762  Skillshare: Spark your creativity.Get 40% Off Annual MembershipDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

Kristin was asked the question a lot of podcasters eventually face: “but what if I want to quit?”If you're feeling burnt out, discouraged by download numbers, or questioning if it's worth it—you're not alone. The reality is, most podcasters hit a wall long before they hit their goals. So, how do you avoid being part of the 95% who walk away before reaching 100 episodes?Ask Yourself:What's happening in your life? If everything feels overwhelming, your podcast is likely reflecting that.Where are you finding rest? Unplugging for a week won't make or break your show—but it might give you the clarity you need.What can you take off your plate? Buying back time might mean outsourcing, simplifying your process, or saying no to things that drain you.Where can you find support? Podcasting can feel isolating, but it doesn't have to be. A membership, a mastermind, or even a group of like-minded creators can make all the difference.If you're feeling resentful, exhausted, or like you have nothing left to give, pause before you quit. These stats are a wake-up call, but they don't have to be your story. Keep showing up—but on your terms.Listen to Episode 178 to hear the 2025 Podcast TrendsStay Connected:https://www.facebook.com/kfchadwick/https://www.instagram.com/kristinfieldschadwick/https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCb_J0K0X83tSSYLZF7C56lghttps://www.linkedin.com/in/kristin-chadwick-44258416b/

What if the biggest thing holding you back from success isn't skill, talent, or resources—but what you believe is possible?In this episode of Brewing Success, we're diving into The Certainty Factor—the four levels of belief that shape your actions, determine your outcomes, and ultimately, decide whether you win or stay stuck.Here's the truth:Your level of certainty—how strongly you believe in your success—directly impacts your effort, consistency, and resilience. And most people? They're operating from Unlikely or Possible, which keeps them stuck in hesitation, doubt, and inaction.But what happens when you shift your certainty to Inevitable?That's when momentum kicks in, fear takes a back seat, and success becomes non-negotiable.What You'll Learn in This Episode:The 4 Levels of Certainty and how they control your actions and resultsWhy most people get stuck at Possible and how to break through to InevitableHow to rewire your mindset and stop letting fear run the showThe simple, repeatable system that builds confidence and drives successHow to take massive action without overthinking, hesitating, or doubting yourself Ask Yourself: What level of certainty am I operating from? How would my business, leadership, and life change if I approached every challenge with the mindset that success is inevitable?Tune in now for a mindset shift that will change the way you show up, take action, and win!

Most people never reach their next level—not because they aren't capable, but because they refuse to make ONE brutal decision. What is it? You must kill the old version of you. In this raw and unfiltered episode of Level Up and Live, we break down why your current mindset, habits, and identity—the very things that got you here—are now the biggest obstacles holding you back. If you're feeling stuck, plateaued, or frustrated in business, fitness, or life, this episode is your wake-up call.

Feedback or Questions? Send us a text!1 BIG Idea: Embracing your leadership role by taking full responsibility not only builds your confidence but also strengthens trust and accountability within your team.3 Ways You Can Apply This:Conduct a Responsibility Inventory: List out all your leadership responsibilities, including the often-overlooked tasks.Develop an Action Plan: Prioritize your responsibilities and outline specific steps to address them effectively.Utilize Tools and Resources: Incorporate journaling, task management systems, or seek coaching to manage and reflect on your leadership journey.3 Questions to Ask Yourself:What are my key responsibilities as a leader, and have I taken full ownership of them?How can I create a practical action plan to address these responsibilities?What tools or support systems can I leverage to enhance my leadership effectiveness and confidence?Podcast Episodes Mentioned:Episode 103 - Personal Responsibility As Self-Care Other Resources MentionedLive2Lead LeaderPass: Access inspirational content from world-renowned speakers. Live2Lead Lynchburg: January 31, Lynchburg, VACore Values Coaching Program (Beta): Discover your unique values and integrate them into every aspect of your life. Core Values Course: A self-paced guide to uncovering your unique values and living with intention. Check us out on YouTube: https://youtu.be/7fapEtBT-Ng For a deeper discussion, DM me @theintentionaloptimist (IG or LI) or email me at andrea@theintentionaloptimist.com.Please leave us a rating and review!Apple: scroll to the bottom, choose a rating, and write a review.Podchaser (Android): you can go to this link here and leave a rating and review! https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/intentional-optimists-unconven-1406762  Skillshare: Spark your creativity.Get 40% Off Annual MembershipDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

Feedback or Questions? Send us a text!1 BIG Idea:Reflection is essential for authentic leadership, helping you clarify your values, enhance decision-making, and grow continuously.3 Ways You Can Apply This:Set Regular Reflection Times: Dedicate time each week to reflect on your leadership actions and decisions. Journaling can help uncover valuable insights.Align Decisions with Core Values: Use reflection to ensure your decisions stay true to your core values, reinforcing authentic leadership.Adapt and Evolve: Reflect on past challenges and successes to continuously learn and grow as a leader.3 Questions to Ask Yourself:What recent leadership decisions reflect my core values?How has reflection helped me navigate challenges or change?In what ways can I improve my reflective practices to enhance my leadership?Special Resource: Rhythms of Reflection DownloadPodcast Episodes Mentioned:Episode 47 - The Process of Regular Reflection Episode 48 - The Results of ReflectionEpisode 89 - The Rhythms of ReflectionOther Resources MentionedThe 15 Invaluable Laws Of Personal Growth, by John MaxwellLive2Lead LeaderPass: Access inspirational content from world-renowned speakers. Live2Lead Lynchburg: January 31, Lynchburg, VACore Values Coaching Program (Beta): Discover your unique values and integrate them into every aspect of your life. Core Values Course: A self-paced guide to uncovering your unique values and living with intention. Check us out on YouTube: https://youtu.be/DgQW4_f4MjkFor a deeper discussion, DM me @theintentionaloptimist (IG or LI) or email me at andrea@theintentionaloptimist.com. Please leave us a rating and review!Apple: scroll to the bottom, choose a rating, and write a review.Podchaser (Android): you can go to this link here and leave a rating and review! https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/intentional-optimists-unconven-1406762 Skillshare: Spark your creativity.Get 40% Off Annual MembershipDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

Feedback or Questions? Send us a text!1 Big Idea:Authentic leadership is about who you are, not just what you do.5 Ways You Can Apply This:Clarify Your Strengths - Recognize natural leadership abilities and take assessments like Strengthsfinder or DISC.Identify Gaps - Reflect on areas for growth in knowledge, communication, experience, and motivation.Align with Purpose - Define your leadership purpose and ensure it honors your Core Values.Integrate Life Principles - Apply aspirational traits like Intentional Optimism to improve leadership.Address Challenges - Use Core Values and DISC insights to navigate leadership challenges effectively.3 Questions to Ask Yourself:What are your top three leadership strengths?Which skills do you want to develop this year?How do your Life Principles guide your leadership decisions?Special Resource:Download the Leadership Self-Assessment to reflect on your strengths, gaps, and Core Values. Set actionable steps for growth over the next 30 days.Download the Self-Assessment Here https://www.theintentionaloptimist.com/leadershipassessment Podcast Episodes Mentioned:Embrace Your Working Genius: Unleash Your Best Self with Charity MedinaDiscovering Your Unique Strengths: Navigating CliftonStrengths with Allegra SteinNeed a Set of Life Principles? Discover the Power of Intentional OptimismOther Resources MentionedGallup Clifton Strengths 34 - $59.99, but the best strengths assessment I know.DISC Products PageThe One-Minute Manager, by Ken Blanchard and Spencer JohnsonLive2Lead LeaderPass: Access inspirational content from world-renowned speakers. Live2Lead Lynchburg: January 31, Lynchburg, VACore Values Coaching Program (Beta): Discover your unique values and integrate them into every aspect of your life. Core Values Course: A self-paced guide to uncovering your unique values and living with intention. Check us out on YouTube: https://youtu.be/j00ssr6pzkw For a deeper discussion, DM me @theintentionaloptimist (IG or LI) or email me at andrea@theintentionaloptimist.com.Please leave us a rating and review!Apple: scroll to the bottom, choose a rating, and write a review.Podchaser (Android): you can go to Skillshare: Spark your creativity.Get 40% Off Annual MembershipDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

Welcome back to the Wildly Wealthy Woman Podcast! In this episode, Jackie dives into her mantra for 2025: "Less of Them, More of You." This episode is a must-listen for ambitious women ready to step into their unique power and make their biggest dreams a reality, using the transformative tool of EFT tapping. Jackie shares personal reflections, lessons from her experiences in high-level mentorship spaces, and how she's embracing simplicity, self-trust, and energetics to take her life and business to the next level. She also introduces the Make It Happen 10-Day Tapping Challenge, designed to help you tap into your goals and start the year with unstoppable momentum. Whether your goal is to manifest more money, create a dream business, or call in the love of your life, this challenge offers tools, affirmations, and tapping techniques to help you make it happen. What You'll Learn in This Episode: Why overconsumption can lead to self-doubt and how to trust your unique path. Jackie's journey of simplifying her business and reclaiming the reins. The three truths about making your big dreams happen: it's messy, it's misunderstood, and it's magical. How EFT tapping accelerates healing, manifestations, and personal growth. Why 2025 is the year to double down on your ideas, your intuition, and your voice. Highlights: Self-Trust as the Key to SuccessJackie explains why self-trust is one of the most important aspects of achieving success in life, health, and business. She shares how tapping can help clear the beliefs that make you feel like your way isn't enough. The Power of Energetics and TappingLearn how Jackie is focusing on energetics and tapping as her foundational tools for personal and business growth. She reveals how they create quantum leaps and help heal the parts of you that feel stuck. Making It Happen with EFTJackie introduces the Make It Happen 10-Day Tapping Challenge, starting January 15th. She describes the structure, the results you can expect, and why this challenge is perfect for anyone ready to take bold action toward their dreams. Balancing Life's Challenges with FunJackie gets real about navigating hard moments in life while staying productive, focused, and joyful. She shares personal stories that inspire and remind us that two things—challenge and celebration—can coexist. What's Included in the Make It Happen 10-Day Tapping Challenge: Daily Tapping Practices: 20-minute live tapping sessions Monday through Friday. Affirmation Audios: Guided tapping audios with music to listen to during walks, mornings, or before bed. Results You Can Expect: A consistent tapping practice. Rapid manifestation of people, opportunities, and experiences. A lighter, more aligned approach to your goals. Key Questions to Ask Yourself: What do I want to make happen this year? What would I love to celebrate by the end of January? How can I double down on my unique ideas and talents? Join the Challenge: The Make It Happen 10-Day Tapping Challenge begins on January 15th. For just $33, you'll experience the transformational power of EFT tapping to unlock your potential and make 2025 your most impactful year yet.

This episode is brought to you by Patrice's mastermind, Mastery + Momentum. Visit here for more details! Tune in this week as Patrice encourages listeners to reconnect with their ability to dream, further exploring the deeper meaning of wealth beyond just money! Patrice shares key insights from the recent Redefining Wealth Live event, highlighting the importance of alignment and authenticity in creating a fulfilling life. She also discusses the common feelings of being stuck, whether in career or personal growth, and introduces three essential steps to help listeners dream anew! By embracing honesty about their current reality, they can envision what truly brings them joy and fulfillment. Tune in for practical tools and inspiration to help you step into your potential and redefine what wealth means for you. Don't miss out on her weekly affirmation and transformative insights! Questions to Ask Yourself: What dreams or aspirations have you set aside, and why? How can you embrace the lessons from your past experiences to shape your future? Which pillars of well-being (physical, mental, relationships, etc.) need more attention in your life? How can you visualize your success and the emotions tied to achieving your dreams? What steps can you take today to align your actions with your long-term vision? What fears are holding you back from dreaming new dreams? Resources Mentioned: Mastery + Momentum How to Redefine Wealth for Yourself

This episode is brought to you by Redefining Wealth Live, October 6-8, 2024 in Atlanta, GA. Tune in to this episode of Redefining Wealth as Patrice shares her journey leading up to the second Redefining Wealth live event in Atlanta! Reflecting on a challenging period, she discusses how stepping back from her successful programs led to valuable insights and the birth of new masterclasses. She also explores the concept of “bow and arrow seasons,” emphasizing that moments of retreat can be crucial for personal and professional growth and highlighting the importance of deconstruction over destruction. She encourages listeners to embrace these phases as necessary steps toward alignment with their true desires, and as she prepares for the upcoming event, Patrice invites you to consider what you're willing to release to achieve your goals. Join Patrice for her transformative insights and authentic alignment tools designed to empower you on your journey of redefining wealth!   Questions to Ask Yourself: What are you willing to let go of in your life to align with your true desires? How can you distinguish between destruction and deconstruction in your journey? In what ways can you embrace your current "bow and arrow" season as a time for preparation? What do you genuinely want in your heart of hearts, free from external expectations? How can you develop a clearer vision for your future? Are you ready to release attachments that no longer serve your growth and purpose?   Resources Mentioned: Redefining Wealth Live   How to Redefine Wealth for Yourself

"Eternal Life" Watch Here: https://youtube.com/@GodSexandLove?sub_confirmation=1 Listen Here: https://anchor.fm/godsexandlove Supporting Verses: John 3:6, Romans 6:23, John 11: 25- 26 Go Deeper: 1 Corinthians 15:20 22 Ask Yourself: What do I believe happens after death? Do I feel confident in my understanding of eternal life and my relationship with god? Am I actively seeking him and living according to his teaching? Bible Verse of the Day: psalm 51:10 GodSexandLove.com Support Us! https://anchor.fm/godsexandlove/support --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/godsexandlove/support

This episode is brought to you by our FREE Training, Speak with Purpose.   Join Patrice this week as she highlights the significance of giving voice to one's truth, challenging us to consider the personal and professional costs of not using our voice. She explores how silence can impact relationships and goals and draws insight from studies showing that many people feel unheard and misunderstood, highlighting the necessity of being honest with oneself before advocating for oneself on an external level. Patrice also illustrates how being truthful and being transparent can help build trust, leading to both meaningful connections as well as personal growth.    Questions to Ask Yourself: What is not using your voice costing you both personally and professionally? How has staying silent affected your relationships and your ability to achieve your goals? What fears prevent you from expressing your truth? How would your life be different if you communicated with boldness and authenticity? Listen until the end and apply Patrice's guidance to have your own Redefining Wealth breakthrough. Resources Mentioned: FREE Training - Speak with Purpose: How to Move Any Audience to Transformation Anytime Patrice Washington: Ladies ask for the raise (from STEVE HARVEY) VIP Private Intensive Mentorship Day   How to Redefine Wealth for Yourself

Today's episode is the mid-year game changer. The 5 Questions to Ask Yourself:What are the best things that have happened to me each month of this year?What do I need to stop doing or let go of?What do I need to start doing?What are my 3 non-negotiables for the rest of this year?What do I want the rest of this year to FEEL like?Products mentioned:My 90-day Accountability/ Action Planner linked hereDownload the Future Self Activation Guide if this episode resonates with you and do the inner work as I guide you page by page (FREE DOWNLOAD).I am so excited to announce the launch of Becoming Her, a transformational coaching program designed to help women transform their lives and rediscover their true selves, and unleash their full potential in life, business, and career.CLICK HERE to be added to the Becoming Here waitlist!If you liked this episode I would love a 5-star rating on apple podcast, thank you so much for all the love and support in this journey! Make sure to post and share the episode so I can repost you on The Motivation Babe Instagram @themotivationbabe.co YOU GOT THIS BABE!

The Lord gave another message to Jeremiah. He said, “Go down to the potter's shop, and I will speak to you there.” So I did as he told me and found the potter working at his wheel. But the jar he was making did not turn out as he had hoped, so he crushed it into a lump of clay again and started over. Then the Lord gave me this message: “O Israel, can I not do to you as this potter has done to his clay? As the clay is in the potter's hand, so are you in my hand.” Jeremiah 18:1-6 NLT 1. Jeremiah saw the potter Remember, I pray, that You have made me like clay. Job 10:9 NKJV In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. Genesis 1:1 NLT In the beginning the Word already existed. The Word was with God, and the Word was God. He existed in the beginning with God. John 1:1-2 NLT 2. Jeremiah saw the wheel And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them. Romans 8:28 NLT 3. Jeremiah saw the clay Sin is simply when we resist God's Will. ​​In a well-furnished kitchen there are not only crystal goblets and silver platters, but waste cans and compost buckets—some containers used to serve fine meals, others to take out the garbage. Become the kind of container God can use to present any and every kind of gift to his guests for their blessing. 2 Timothy 2:20-21 MSG LIFE WILL NEVER MAKE SENSE UNLESS YOU LIVE A LIFE BIGGER THAN YOURSELF For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth) and find out what pleases the Lord. 5:8-10 NIV 1. ASK YOURSELF “What should I STOP doing” Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them… Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise… Ephesians 5:11;15 NIV Behind your darkness is God's purpose for your life. Don't copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God's will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect. Romans 12:2 NLT Look straight ahead, and fix your eyes on what lies before you. Mark out a straight path for your feet; stay on the safe path. Don't get sidetracked; your feet from following evil. Proverbs 4:25-27 NLT 2. ASK YOURSELF “What should I START doing” Making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord's will is. Ephesians 5:16-17 NIV Remember, it is sin to know what you ought to do and then not do it. James 4:17 NLT “Give your entire attention to what God is doing right now, and don't get worked up about what may or may not happen tomorrow. God will help you deal with whatever hard things come up when the time comes.” Matthew 6:34 MSG 3. ASK YOURSELF “What AM I WAITING FOR” I tell you, now is the time of God's favor, now is the day of salvation. 2 Corinthians 6:2 NLT People that procrastinate talk about a life of purpose. People who take initiative live a life of purpose. Why do you Matter? 1. You Matter to our Church God is looking for passionate disciples. I was glad when they said to me, “Let us go to the house of the lord.” Psalms 122:1 NLT But the time is coming—indeed it's here now—when true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and in truth. The Father is looking for those who will worship him that way. John 4:23 NLT God is looking for compassionate disciples. For “Everyone who calls on the name of the lord will be saved.” But how can they call on him to save them unless they believe in him? And how can they believe in him if they have never heard about him? And how can they hear about him unless someone tells them? And how will anyone go and tell them without being sent? That is why the Scriptures say, “How beautiful are the feet of messengers who bring good news!” Romans 10:13-15 NLT 2. You Matter to our Community Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. James 5:16 NLT Well our Church must become larger and smaller at the same time Small groups create 3 things we all need A place to Connect A place to Protect A place to Grow 3. You Matter to God There are different kinds of spiritual gifts, but the same Spirit is the source of them all. There are different kinds of service, but we serve the same Lord. God works in different ways, but it is the same God who does the work in all of us. A spiritual gift is given to each of us so we can help each other; But our bodies have many parts, and God has put each part just where he wants it… 1 Corinthians 12:4-7;18 When you live beyond yourself the meaning of life comes into focus and life has purpose! But my life is worth nothing to me unless I use it for finishing the work assigned me by the Lord Jesus—the work of telling others the Good News about the wonderful grace of God. Acts 20:24 NLT