Podcasts about Bible Belt

Special Patreon Re-Release: Love and Loss with James Jetton   James 1:2-4 (NIV) "Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything."   **Transcription Below**   James Jetton's Bio: My name is James Jetton. I have and still do live a crazy beautiful, challenging, and blessed life. I am blessed to get to raise 4 beautiful children, and I have spent time getting to serve a fantastic community as a Recreation Minister, where I got to combine my love of Jesus, sports, and people. I served in this role for 13 years before my bride Kaetlin was diagnosed with Leukemia in 2020. Unfortunately, after an awe-inspiring journey with cancer, Kaetlin went to meet her Savior in January of 2022.   Clearly, this changed so much of my life trajectory. Currently, I'm working towards obtaining a Masters in Social Work to take the pain and experiences I have had to help others through their pain. Kaet and I were married in 2009 and built a beautiful life; we taught each other so much. So, I deeply desire to take everything we learned together and the lessons the Lord has taught me to help others.   I mentioned earlier that I have 4 exceptional children, Laken, 9, Isla Kaet, 7, Hattie, 6, and Ryder, 4. Laken is my go-getter; she is fearless, strong, and tough. Sweet Isla Kaet is a quiet thinker and planner and is often referred to as little Kaet. She cares deeply and is always looking for ways where she can help and take care of her family. Hattie is our child with special needs and has been diagnosed with GNB-1 Syndrome (a rare genetic disorder). Hattie will light up any room she is in; it's incredible that a child who only has a few words, uses a wheelchair, and is “limited” by our world's standards, can bring joy to people in a way that I never knew was possible. Ryder the caboose is a maniac, and his sisters affectionately call him “Wreck it Ryder” he has no fear and is a super extrovert; he keeps us all on our toes. He is what some would say, “all boy.”   This is a brief bio of me and our circus; through everything, we have found joy in all circumstances. Although there are exceptionally hard days as we have endured much grief, God has always provided, and I am thankful for the life God has given us.   Questions we discuss: Life took an unexpected twist in 2016. Will you catch us up on your discoveries that year? While many of us were in the midst of changing schedules and suddenly homeschooling children in May of 2020, your family was receiving even more news. Will you share that with us now? What is life like for your family these days, as grief likely comes at unexpected times?   Thank You to Our Sponsors: Chick-fil-A East Peoria and The Savvy Sauce Charities (and donate online here)   Connect with The Savvy Sauce on Facebook or Instagram or Our Website   Please help us out by sharing this episode with a friend, leaving a 5-star rating and review, and subscribing to this podcast!   Other Episodes from The Savvy Sauce of God's Faithfulness: 17 Being on Both Sides of Forgiveness with Adelle Dickie 18 Clinging to Jesus as I lived Through My Worst Nightmare with Angela Braker 19 Grief and Triumph and God's Pursuit Though it All with Julie Locke Moore 20 Joy in the Lord Even Through Tremendous Loss…Twice with Rachel Faulkner Brown 62 Unexpected Grief and What Helped Me Through It Can Help You Too with Singer and Blogger, Brittany Price Brooker 78 Parenting the Prodigal Child And God's Desire For Redemption With Mother-Daughter Duo, Claire Stanfill and Tindell Baldwin 79 Radical Business and Radical Parenting with Gary & Marla Ringger, Founders of Lifesong for Orphans 83 Miracles of God with Founder of Midwest Food Bank, David Kieser 120 Our Story for His Glory with Mercedes Cotchery 134 Fashion Meets Faith with Shari Braendel 141 Rescued from Poverty with Norah Birungi 143 Prodigal Story: Sexuality, Drugs, and Scripture with Dr. Christopher Yuan 160 Unleash This Generation with the Power of the Gospel with Greg Stier 161 God Redeems with Hettie Brittz 162 Healing from Spouse's Sexual Addiction with Jennifer Roush 174 Stories of God's Upside Down Economy with Kristen Welch 208 Tremendous Testimony and Adding Spark into Your Marriage with David & Teri Sumlin 223 Journey and Learnings as Former Second Lady of the United States with Karen Pence 229 Escape from Modern Day Sex Slavery with Rachel Timothy Special Patreon 28 Re-Release: What to Do When You Don't Like Your Story with Sharon Jaynes 231 Stories Series: Faith Building Miracles with Dave Pridemore 232 Stories Series: Testify to Glorify with Richard Gamble 233 Stories Series: Surprises from God with Tiffany Noel Special Patreon Re-Release: Patreon 30 Story of Perseverance with Jenny Boyett 234 Stories Series: Redemption From Sexual Sin in Marriage with Garrett and Brenna Naufel 235 Stories Series: Ever-Present Help in Trouble with Kent Heimer 236 Stories Series: God's Power and Light with Jaime Farrell 237 Stories Series: Prodigal and Redemption with Renee Endress Special Patreon Re-Release: Patreon 31 Unexpected Story of Trauma, Anxiety, Adoption, and Hope with Bettina Stevens 238 Stories Series: God Delights in His Children with Brad Habegger 239 Stories Series: Experiencing the Supernatural with Jackie Coleman 240 Stories Series: God's Rescue and Covering in Parenting with Brenda Dugger 241 Stories Series: From the Mission Field, Experiencing God in the Little and the Big with Patty Sommer 242 Stories Series: He Gives and Takes Away with Joyce Hodel 243 Stories Series: Angel Encounter and Hearing from God with Mary Beth Zimmerman 244 Stories Series: Medical Marvels with Carolyn Henricks 245 Stories Series: Miracles Big and Small with Dr. Rob Rienow 246 Stories Series: Experiencing God's Tangible Love with Jen Moore 247 Stories Series: Exciting Adventures Follow Radical Obedience with Susan Zobrist 248 Stories Series: Discipline of Celebration in the Midst of Unexpected Loss and Grief with Jonathan Pitts Special Patreon Re-Release: Patreon 49: Story of Healing from Sexual Betrayal in Marriage: An Interview with Bonny Burns 249 Stories Series Conclusion: Now What? Living as Global Christians with Todd Ahrend of The Traveling Team   Gospel Scripture: (all NIV)   Romans 3:23 “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,”   Romans 3:24 “and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.”   Romans 3:25 (a) “God presented him as a sacrifice of atonement, through faith in his blood.”    Hebrews 9:22 (b) “without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.”    Romans 5:8 “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”    Romans 5:11 “Not only is this so, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.”    John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”   Romans 10:9 “That if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”    Luke 15:10 says “In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”   Romans 8:1 “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus”   Ephesians 1:13–14 “And you also were included in Christ when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation. Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God's possession- to the praise of his glory.”   Ephesians 1:15–23 “For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is like the working of his mighty strength, which he exerted in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every title that can be given, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way.”   Ephesians 2:8–10 “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith – and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God – not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God‘s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.“   Ephesians 2:13 “But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ.“   Philippians 1:6 “being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”   **Transcription**   Music: (0:00 – 0:09)   Laura Dugger: (0:09 - 2:07) Welcome to The Savvy Sauce, where we have practical chats for intentional living. I'm your host, Laura Dugger, and I'm so glad you're here. I'm grateful for today's sponsor, Chick-fil-A East Peoria.   Check them out online to place your order for dining or catering, or to fill out an application to join their friendly team. Visit cfaeastpeoria.com. If you've been with us long, you know this podcast is only one piece of our nonprofit, which is The Savvy Sauce Charities.   Don't miss out on our other resources. We have questions and content to inspire you to have your own practical chats for intentional living. And I also hope you don't miss out on the opportunity to financially support us through your tax-deductible donations.   All this information can be found on our recently updated website, thesavvysauce.com. And now, I'm pleased to share this episode with you that used to only be available to paying patrons.    My guest for today is James Jetton.   Mark and I attended the same family camp as James in 2022. I observed a father who was very devoted to his children, and one of his precious daughters was in a wheelchair, which was always by his side. He was so tender with his children, and I just assumed his wife was resting while he was attending to the family.   I did not learn of his full story until after camp, and it was through a mutual friend, April Siervo. But then, after she shared a bit more of their story, I immediately reached out to James to request that he share his faith and testimony with us today. Here's our chat.   Welcome to The Savvy Sauce, James.   James Jetton: (2:07 - 2:15) I'm happy to be here. I'm looking forward to talking to you and just kind of sharing how God has moved in our lives the past few years.   Laura Dugger: (2:15 - 2:24) You have already lived through so much, but let's just start here. When did Jesus initially draw you to himself?   James Jetton: (2:26 - 3:25) Yeah, I think that's like, you know, it's a big question, right? But also, it shouldn't be. I think the first time I really just kind of came to know the Lord, I was in the eighth grade.   I had a retreat, and in that moment, for me, it was a situation of— it wasn't necessarily for me, but also just trying to do the right thing. I grew up in Birmingham, Alabama, so I was in the Bible Belt. I was like, this is what we're supposed to do.   We're supposed to give our lives to Jesus. But I would say probably going into my senior year of high school, I had some moments just kind of alone at a beach, actually. I was like, what am I doing with my life?   And I believe that that was kind of the first one real moment in my life where I decided, I think I'm going to actually follow the Lord now and not just do this, just to say I'm doing it. And so that was really the first time I really felt the Lord draw me to him. And then, of course, as time goes on, there's all these other little moments throughout where he's continually staying close and bringing me back to him when I feel like I'm drifting away and that sort of thing.   Laura Dugger: (3:27 - 3:39) Thank you for sharing that. And you've written before on your blog that, I'll quote, one of the best decisions I have ever made was when I persuaded Kaetlin to marry me, end quote.   James Jetton: (3:39 - 3:40) Yeah.   Laura Dugger: (3:40 - 3:43) James, how did the two of you meet and fall in love?   James Jetton: (3:44 - 5:30) Yeah, so we went to college together. We went to Troy University. I vividly remember a time where she was getting out of her car, and she didn't know me at this time.   But I remember seeing her. I think I met her maybe once or twice through some mutual friends. I remember seeing her get out of the car and literally, I'll never forget this moment.   I was like, man, if I could just have a girl like that. And it stuck with me. And I think the first time we met, I think I made some comments that she wasn't happy about, about some fraternity guys that were in a different fraternity than me that I didn't think too highly of.   But I didn't realize in that moment that she was actually the sweetheart of that fraternity. And so, we kind of got off to a little bad step there. But I remember she broke up with another boyfriend.   That was part of the reason I saw her. And I was like, I could never have a girl like that. All the girls like that are taken.   And so, she broke up with her boyfriend. I remember her best friend called me and was like, “Hey, can I bring her over to y'all's house? Because she just needs to laugh”.   I was like, “Well, we can do that. We can make sure she laughs”. And so, I think from there, we just kind of, I don't know, just we continued to talk.   And for some reason, she liked me a little bit and I liked her a whole lot. And we dated for about three years in college. And when we got out of college, we got married in May of 2009.   And so that was kind of where life began to speed up a lot at that point. But that was the first time I'll never forget those moments. And then there's other things throughout.   But I remember seeing her in the parking lot like that girl.   Laura Dugger: (5:31 - 5:43) So, I love that. And OK, so married in 2009 and then children came a little while later. So how many children did you add to your family?   James Jetton: (5:44 - 6:28) Yeah, we have four kids. Our first child was born in 2013. So, after we got married, we lived back here in Niceville for a little bit but then ended up moving.   She wanted to go to PA school, and I was working a job I didn't care too much for. So, I was like, how quickly can we go to school? And so, we moved to West Tennessee where she went to PA school.   And I ended up going to school there, too, because she studied all the time, and I was bored. And I was like, I guess I should do something productive as well. So that was 2009 and we had a lot of fun.   We love to travel, did a lot of fun things. And then in 2013, we had our first child, Laken.   Laura Dugger: (6:28 - 6:39) And then if you fast forward, life took an unexpected twist in 2016. So, will you catch us up on your discoveries that year?   James Jetton: (6:40 - 13:07) Yeah. So, we, you know, so we had Laken in 2013. Then, we had another part of our - we did have a miscarriage between Laken and Isla who was born in 2015. But then we had Hattie who was born in 2016.   And Hattie's our child with special needs. And she was born in - all of our pregnancies where we used to joke with people that could have babies and just bounce right back and have these beautiful, wonderful pregnancies. And they loved it.   That was not us. Every single one of our pregnancies brought some challenge within it. And so with Hattie, my wife started swelling a lot and kind of found out she had some clotting in her legs.   And so, we ended up having to induce labor for her with that happening. And, you know, when she my wife was also a PA in the ER. So, she understood medical things way better than I did.   I was kind of oblivious to a lot of things. So, she would probably say it was a little bit more scary than I realized it was when she was giving birth. But when Hattie came, like in some accounts, it just kind of seemed normal.   But she was having some trouble breathing. And so, she was in our hospital. In order to go to the NICU, you have to kind of get transferred out to a smaller hospital.   And so, they were keeping her under observation that night. And her breathing wasn't really getting a whole lot better. And they did x-rays and stuff like that, but couldn't really find much.   And then there was a morning where we were about ready to load up and send her to the NICU. And Kaetlin went and held her. And when she went and held her, she started breathing better.   And she calmed down. And it was kind of crazy. It was genuinely like the love of a mother.   Just like this connection seemed to just calm Hattie down. But we ended up finding out later, one of the nurses was amazing. And was like, I think that she has a broken collarbone.   They didn't see it on the x-ray at first because of the way her chin was turned. And so, when they went back and looked, they did another one. And sure enough, she did have a broken collarbone.   So, at the time, we kind of thought that was kind of the reason for her distressed breathing and that sort of thing. And she had trouble latching and sucking. And what we kind of came to find out later is she had what would be called hypotonia.   Which is basically where the best way to describe it in layman's terms is like a floppy baby. Like you hold her up and everything just kind of flops. And I remember Kaitlyn going to her four-month appointment.   And her being very concerned like, “Hey, Hattie's not meeting milestones. And I think that this isn't going to be a good appointment”. And sure enough, the doctor agreed.   We've always had amazing doctors around us. And so, he agreed. And so, we got referred to neurology.   And another just cool story about how God just provides. One of my best friends growing up, his dad was a neurologist in Birmingham. And so, I called him.   And he's like, all right, I got it. You're going to be here next Thursday. I'm like, oh, okay.   When we were kind of told like it's going to be like three or four months before we can even get you into a neurologist. And so, like God just kind of provided that. And we started that journey of trying to figure out what's going on.   And anyone who's ever had a special needs child, especially when you don't know what it is. Because there was nothing we could have done to foresee this happening. What Hattie had was called DeNovo, like just completely her.   Didn't come from me. Didn't come from Kaylin. And there's no other kids with special needs in our family.   It was just something we couldn't have expected or planned or could have even seen or anything like that. And so just kind of going through a lot of different doctors and tests and eventually getting referred to Johns Hopkins in Baltimore. Because at the time they thought it might be a neuromuscular thing.   And so, from there, they're like, oh, we don't think that's what it is. But then we ran a whole bunch of genetic panels. And like you're just going through all of that.   It definitely there's waves, right? Like it's like you want an answer, but at some level you're afraid of the answer. So, like each time we would do testing stuff before nothing would ever come back.   And so, it was like a relief. Okay, well, good. It's not that one.   Okay. Not that one. But then you're still like, well, what is it?   And so, after we went to Baltimore, they did much more extensive genetic testing. We found out she had this genetic disorder, or syndrome is what they're calling it now called GNV1. And it's crazy rare.   Like at the time, there were only 64 known cases. It was discovered in 2016. So, there's chances that there's other kids out there with it.   I think now there's a little over 100 that they know of. We're part of like a Facebook group where there's some of them in there. And so that's what we got the diagnosis for Hattie.   And so, what that means, I guess, probably no one knows what GNV1 is. Not even doctors. We go to doctors like, oh, can you tell us what this is?   We'll do our best. But it just starts out as hypotonia and global delay, which means every aspect of her is delayed from speech to gross and fine motor movements and all that kind of stuff. And also like with kids with special needs, it doesn't seem to affect any one of them the exact same way.   And so, but the thing about Hattie is like she has an infectious smile. She has this joy that is unreal. Like anybody that meets her just can't get enough of her.   And that is true in so many ways. Hattie uses a wheelchair to get around and Hattie's expressive language. So, her ways to communicate is behind.   But she understands everything. I mean, everything, which is pretty amazing, is my understanding. Not all the kids have that ability to receive and understand things as well as she does.   But she is an absolute joy. We used to always say and still do that Hattie's going to change the world. And we know the fact she's changed my world for sure.   And we know she's changed many others. But yeah, I could keep going on and on. But where we are today, like genuinely that she is a purpose and a reason why I've got to get up every single day.   Yeah. So, she's pretty amazing. Like I'm just yeah, I could go on and on about her.   Laura Dugger: (13:08 - 18:15) I think you described her so well with an infectious smile and joy is the word that comes to mind when you see her. Yeah. And now a brief message from our sponsors.   I want to say thank you to our longtime sponsor Chick-fil-A East Peoria. I hope that you've already downloaded the Chick-fil-A app. Because did you know that with the app you can skip the line and have food ready for you when you arrive?   This is one of my favorite options when I'm taking my four daughters to Chick-fil-A East Peoria. Download the Chick-fil-A app today and start earning points toward free rewards that are fully customized to your preferences and tastes. Chick-fil-A was named as one of Glassdoor's best places to work in the nation.   That's a huge honor. And one team member even wrote, no comparison. This is a great job for a first job, extra money or for career advancement.   Such a loving environment, great management and fair pay. Chick-fil-A believes that the local and involved ownership ensures fostering an environment where you are known, challenged and cared for. So, if you're looking for a wonderful place to work, visit Chick-fil-A East Peoria or fill out an application online today at cfaeastpeoria.com.   Are you utilizing Savvy Sauce Charities to full capacity? Other than our special Patreon re-release episodes, our content is now available in video form in addition to our audio only. And we have written transcriptions for every episode.   Visit our website today, thesavvysauce.com, to access all these forms of interviews. And while you're there, make sure you sign up for our email list to receive encouragement, questions and recommended resources about once a month to promote your own practical chats for intentional living. 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Another way to find it is simply type in donate to the search bar on our website and just click the first picture shown. We are all about sharing around here, sharing resources, sharing joy, and sharing the good news about Jesus Christ.   We ask that you also will share by sharing financially, sharing The Savvy Sauce podcast episodes, and sharing a five-star rating and review. You can also share any of our social media posts on Instagram or Facebook. We are grateful for all of it, and we just love partnering together with you. Now, back to the show.    In a different season, when many of us were in the midst of changing schedules and suddenly homeschooling our children in May of 2020, your family was receiving even more news. So, will you share that with us now as well?   James Jetton: (18:16 - 22:36) Yeah. We did have our fourth kid, Ryder. He was born in 2018, and he is a wild man.   My wife and I used to always say, or people would tell us, you'll know when you're done. But we had him, and we were like, okay, we're broke. We're done.   No more. But he's awesome. But yeah, the move forward to then, you know, that COVID stuff was really hard.   It was really hard. I was working for a church, and I do sports and rec ministry, and also I was doing student ministry at the time. And so, for me personally, like, things just kind of got shut down.   No one was doing sports leagues, and student ministry looked weirder than ever. And then my wife, she was working in the emergency room as a PA, and so she was facing everything head on. And so, I guess that kind of started in March.   It's funny, just to kind of back up a little bit. We felt prior to that, probably February or March of that 2020, when things were kind of like exploding, we just felt the Lord doing something in our lives. We felt like He was preparing us for something.   We felt like it was going to be something just amazing. But then as we moved forward to try to understand what God is doing, what He was telling us, in May, my 4-year-old, she had her preschool graduation. And I'll never forget this day.   My wife was a go-getter. She's tough. She's strong.   And we had a super weird COVID graduation for Isla, my 4-year-old. And it was weird because it was a drive-through graduation, so we had to get up there early and go do it. So, my wife also, she would do work night shifts so that she could be home with the kids when I couldn't be there.   And so, it wasn't uncommon for her to have to sleep in some. But this was like she hadn't worked the night before, and she hadn't worked. And so, we'd been off for two days, but she was just so exhausted.   She had this terrible headache that morning. And for her to say, like, I can't go to the graduation, that was like, there's something significant here. And I told her, like, she had gone to the doctor about a week before and got on some antibiotics, but it wasn't doing anything.   And I was just like, hey, I think it's time to go back to the doctor because you're not any better. And I've got to take these kids to this graduation. So, I loaded up all the kids.   We went to the drive-through graduation. While I was there, she called and said that her sister was going to take her to the emergency room. So that was a long day.   At that time, COVID was full on, so she couldn't have visitors. No one could come in with her. She had to be dropped off and go inside.   One huge plus in that for our specific situation is that she was taken to her own emergency room. So, she still had her friends and what she would call family there as well. And so, she dropped her off.   My sister-in-law dropped her off and just kind of waited in the parking lot until we figured out what was going on. So, it kind of went throughout that whole day. And I remember that night, the school was doing another virtual graduation where they showed pictures and that sort of thing.   And she texted me and said, I need to talk to you now. I was like, okay, like right now? Because I'm home alone with all four of the kids.   She's like, yeah, and I need you to get away from the kids. I was like, this doesn't sound good. What could this be?   And so, we FaceTimed, and that's where she told me they think I have leukemia. And so then as things started speeding up, we sent out a message to our church asking for prayers. From there, I put the kids to bed.   I drove to Pensacola. She got transferred to Pensacola, and we started treatment there for leukemia. So that was what happened.   That was the big moment in May. And then from there, there's a whole lot more. And so, I'll share as you wish.   Laura Dugger: (22:37 - 22:54) Wow. Thank you for catching us up to that point, James. I can't even imagine the initial devastation that comes.   And as your journey unfolds, I remember seeing a post about leaving your light on.   James Jetton: (22:54 - 24:24) Yeah. Like I said earlier, my wife always did the night shift. And so, I always left the light on for her when she was at work and then turned it off when she came home.   And so, yeah, so early on, I said that I'm not turning the light off until you come home. And so, during that time, the first treatment, it doesn't seem like a lot now because she was in the hospital so much. We didn't know how long she'd be in there.   But the first initial treatment, they're like, you're going to be in for three weeks. And so, I knew that she wouldn't be home for three weeks. And I guess this is me just kind of realizing that was a long time for the kids.   I remember talking to a friend of mine who was leading a small group of high school boys. And I remember him telling them, like, how hard do you think it would be if your mom was gone for three weeks? I was like, yeah, it's not easy.   But so. So, yeah, so that was that was the reason. Just like my wife, one, she was a light in the midst of all the darkness that she was having to face.   And I just wanted to make a point that like, hey, we're leaving this light on for you until you come home. And in a lot of respects, you know, she did go home. Long, long story.   But, yeah, that that was the reason for the light.   Laura Dugger: (24:25 - 24:34) So, well, and the way that you describe her, it sounds like our mutual friend April said her joy was just out of this world.   James Jetton: (24:34 - 24:36) Yeah, that's true.   Laura Dugger: (24:36 - 24:49) It sounds like maybe the both of you share that, but you were not entering into a joyful season. So, what did the next few months and year even look like?   James Jetton: (24:49 - 30:47) Yeah. So initially, when things went down, my wife and I agreed that we would not let our kids lose both their parents. And so, I tried to make it a point to be home at night.   So, when we were in Pensacola, like I would stay with her some nights, but I would also be home at night to put the kids to bed or I would put the kids to bed and I'd drive over that night and come back in the morning or be with her during the day. Like, you know, it was just crazy stuff. One, you know, it happened at the end of the school year.   So, we have all the kids at home. We didn't get to send them off to school. We were blessed to have an amazing college student.   It was one of Kaetlin's girls that she got to mentor when she was in high school. She was an amazing girl. She decided she would be like our nanny that summer.   And so, she was with our kids all day, every day. So, I could go and be with Kaetlin during the day and come home at night. And so, we went through that.   We were here and we did the treatment in Pensacola. It didn't work. And so, the next step at that point was like, well, what are we doing now?   And on a Thursday, the doctor was like, I think we need to go to MD Anderson. We'll see if there's a spot. And then on a Friday, they had a spot.   And then on Monday, we were in Houston at MD Anderson. I went to MD Anderson with her. You know, COVID protocol there still.   I could only be with her for 14 days and inpatient. And then I had to leave as an inpatient. So, I can only go with her for 14 days in that initial time.   And so, we went there. She started a treatment plan. We found an apartment.   And then I left. And then her dad came. And her dad was huge in a lot of this stuff and was able to allow us to do things like me and be with the kids.   And so, I think I stayed there for 10 days. And then he came over to stay with Kaetlin to take her back and forth to the hospital, just receiving treatment. And then I came home, and I came back to Niceville.   And that was during the summer. July, we were at home. We stayed in Niceville just kind of waiting to see, like, is Kaet going to be there longer?   Or is she going to be coming back here? And that was a wild summer. And this is what I think I would tell a lot of people that are going through hard things.   Like just because you're going through hard things doesn't mean there's other hard things. They're just a part of life. And, you know, when you have four kids, stuff happens.   You know, like we had one of my daughters, Isla, she had to have eye surgery that summer. While Kaet was in Houston. So that was an interesting thing.   My four-year-old son, he busted his head open on the back of a step going outside. So, he had to have some stitches in his head. He's the second that has had stitches in our family.   And he was the youngest. So, then the treatment, the goal was to get her to a place where she could do a bone marrow transplant. And so, we got, they got her to that point.   Her leukemia cell counts were low enough that we're ready to do a bone marrow transplant. And at that point, you know, we decided we're going to move to Houston. Everything was virtual at that time.   And I just couldn't see any reason why we couldn't all be together in Houston. And so, we found an apartment, we hunkered down. It's a two-bedroom apartment.   We built some makeshift bunk beds. And so, we moved there in August. And the community we have here was unreal.   The support that we have. Like I didn't, we didn't have to make a meal for, I felt like six months, I think. Like it was just crazy.   And people were allowing it and giving us money. So, we didn't have to worry about these kinds of things and what we're doing. And from moving packing boxes, like, I mean, I can't, it's just unfathomable.   All the different things that were put in place for us to do, to do what we did. And I don't think it would have happened without the community that came around us and our church here was great, but I've got to see The Big-C Church. And, and, and it was, it was amazing.   And so, we ended up, we all moved to Houston, and we lived in a two-bedroom apartment. Part of that story is like, you know, it's like, all right, we're doing this. And then talk about kids.   My four-year-old, the one that had also had the eye surgery, she had broken her ankle on a scooter. Like a week before we're going, it was like, are you kidding me? How is this happening right now?   But we had some great friends like, you know, when your wife is involved in the middle of the medical world, it makes access to doctors and stuff a lot easier when you're in a small town, like we are. So, they got it taken care of, got her in a cast. I was like, yeah, but we can't return with this hard cast.   We're going to Houston. He's like, all right, we'll get her in a hard cast. And we'll put her in a boot for the rest of the time.   So, we moved there. And you know, the dreams of like riding scooters around downtown Houston and doing all this kind of stuff kind of went away a little bit with the kid. And so, he, but there was a pool there.   So, we went swimming, she could swim. And so, we, we just made the best of what we had. Like we, we had a lot of good memories in that little apartment, even though it was, it was tough.   I remember, we, Halloween wasn't too long ago. We had our own little Halloween party in that apartment where we all dressed up, even Kaet. Cause she ended up getting her bone marrow transplant that time.   And another aspect of where dad was so important is when you get in the bone marrow transplant, you cannot leave, and you can have one guest. And so, her dad came and he stayed with her. It was about 30 days of bone marrow transplant.   And so, he was there with her so I could be with the kids, doing the best I can with that virtual school and, and managing Ryder and Hattie in the midst of trying to do school work with the kids. It's nothing I ever want to go back to.   Laura Dugger: (30:48 - 31:03) Well, and not to mention you appreciate The Big-C Church, but Houston was not your long-term community. So, being here in this new place and all of these transitions, what were the results of her bone marrow transplant?   James Jetton: (31:04 - 40:17) Yeah. So, the bone marrow transplant, it ended up working. She went into remission and so we get to come home Thanksgiving of 2020.   We came home and that was awesome. It was like a huge homecoming. Finally got back home.   She's, she's in remission. We felt like we'd beaten this. We, you know, we got that Christmas here and we were back home.   We even, our family always loves to go, has always gone to North Carolina for vacation every year. And we didn't get to do that. But so, it was like, now we're going.   And so, in January we're like, all right, we're going kids. It was just me and the kids and Kaet and we wanted to go see snow. So, we went up there and we found a place to stay.   It was an awesome trip. Loved it so much. We, when we had to check out of our place, we found another house so we could stay in for a few more days.   And so, you know, at that time though, when we were doing that, she was kind of having these red bumps kind of popping up over her. We didn't really know what it was. It could have been a reaction.   We couldn't figure it out. Saw some doctors here locally. No one could really figure out what it was.   And I think fast forward, what we found out probably, I think it was February. She came out of remission and that was kind of the beginning signs of her coming out of remission. And so that's where, life sped up.   Like, I mean, if it wasn't already fast, it was, it was just unreal. It was like a whirlwind like it was because she had to fly to Houston to go and see her doctors. And so, she was in Houston by herself when she found out that she had come out of remission, and they were going to start immediately.   So, she stays, and she flies over on Friday and on Monday they got her back doing her treatment. And so, and I was like, well, it looks like we're moving to Houston. And I was like, but this time we're not staying in a two-bedroom apartment.   It's like we're going to make this a little bit more manageable for us. So, we had some great family. Kaetlin actually had a cousin who lived in Houston.   We found a house inside their neighborhood that we could rent. And this was, you know, more, more provision that he just continued to show. We found this house in like a week and we had people from our community boxing up everything in our house.   He's gotten a truck, and we thought that we'd all get everything in one truck. But we didn't get everything in one truck. We'd even hired the movers to load up the truck.   They couldn't get it all in there. So, I was like, y'all told me that it would all fit on this truck, but now it's not. And it's Friday at like 5 p.m. when we were supposed to leave tonight. So, we're not leaving. But my brother came down. I had another one of my best friends come down and they were like, we got to go, we're going to make this happen.   So that next morning, I'm not kidding. When there was like 20 to 30 guys in my house, a brother had gotten the truck. I hadn't even, they left early to go with the truck.   I'd come. And I was at the house with the kids at a friend's house. And when me and the kids showed up, these 30 guys had already loaded up the truck and we were ready to go.   Guy came and dropped off a big spread of McDonald's for everybody. We prayed over us and we headed out that morning. And so, it was just, I mean, just crazy that, you know, in one week we packed up a four-bedroom house, loaded up two trucks and drove to Houston and we're now unloading at a new house in Houston.   And, and that's where we were for a while. That was where Kaetlin, then we went back into the treatment more aggressively trying to get her back to remission. And so that was, when we moved there in March of 2021.   And that was kind of our place for a while. We actually thought we'd be there for a real long time. Kids had started school there, trying our best to get connected community there, but it's difficult, especially when you've come from a place where you feel so connected and then you're moving somewhere new where you don't really know anybody.   And then you're moving there in a time where the whole town shut down. It was tough, but we got the kids back in school. We tried to start getting them back into normalcy of life.   And there's all these new trials when you're going through this stuff every day, it seems like there's a new trial. MD Anderson is amazing. They treat each patient. It's like an individual.   So, every plan they have is just specifically for that patient. And so, they were going to try to do this CAR T-cell treatment. So, we'd kind of gone through the whole summer, and then we get to the point where she's going to do her CAR T-cell treatment.   Now, you know, we, we were hunkered down with this COVID stuff. Like we didn't, we didn't do much. We got really good at DoorDash and grocery delivery.   And we, you know, we masked up everywhere we could because Kaetlin's system was so immuno-compromised and we had done what we had thought was a very good job of keeping her safe, keeping everyone safe. Well, and then she got to the point where she was ready to start this new trial with CAR T-cell treatment. And she gets admitted that night and every time they go in and they give her a COVID test, well, that night she had COVID.   And it was, it was like, what? And she didn't feel bad. Her dad had gotten it too.   Like we, and I, so I remember getting that, it was like one o'clock in the morning. I was asleep. I remember it like blowing up my phone.   And I was like, I didn't realize it until later. And I talked to her. And that was definitely a tough conversation because she had to like get moved, packed up and moved out and moved to a different place and then treatment for the COVID stuff.   But the crazy part was, and it was kind of, you know, I wanted to get frustrated about things I could, but like, she had zero symptoms and she had just tested positive. And so, the next morning we all had to go get tested. And it was just the weirdest thing.   I know that COVID has been so devastating to so many people. But in that moment for us, it was like, we don't like, I was like, I ran nine miles yesterday and now I'm positive for COVID. I don't.   And so, but what it did was it kicked her out of the trial that she was on. And so, then she had to come home. The next process was just kind of getting her ready for that same thing.   Basically, what her doctor did was like, I'm not taking out, you're going to get kicked off the trial, but I'm just going to make you my own individual patient. We're going to do it that way. And so, we had some, we had some pretty high hopes for this.   Doctor seemed pretty optimistic about this plan. And so, we had been renting our house in, in Niceville. And with this new plan, I would have had Kaetlin there for like three years.   And so, we were like, you know, do we really want to rent our house anymore? It's like, no, we don't. All right, well let's sell our house.   So, we sold our house, and it sold in like less than 24 hours. And it's like $25,000 over asking price. It was like, well, okay, God, I feel like that's what we're supposed to do.   And so, she went in to get that treatment. And, and, uh, unfortunately, uh, we found out that didn't work. Uh, it was like, well, she can't remember coming home and saying like, well, I'm ready.   I want to go back home. I was like, what? We just sold our house.   We don't have a home right now. But God always makes a way and you always provide always. Um, and so we, you know, I was like, all right, we want to go home.   We're going to go home. And at first I was being very logical. I was like, well, let's let the kids finish out the semester.   Cause this was like around Halloween is when she realized it didn't work and we're going to come home. So, we were able to come home. We had some amazingly generous friends who they got us a private flight to come home for that Halloween.   And I guess when we were there, um, that's where we really just decided we need to be back. And, and so she, when we went back to talk to her doctors about managing her leukemia remotely. And so that was what the plan was.   So we, we moved back that Thanksgiving, uh, with all of our stuff and we were looking for a place to stay. It was actually kind of a fun month. We were living on the beach for a couple months or really from Thanksgiving to right before Christmas.   We had some pretty awesome things come available. We were able to live in a house on the beach. And so that was, that was mine and my wife's always kind of like a special place.   And so, we love the water, and we love the beach. And so that was an awesome place for us to be. And so, uh, coming back, it was tough.   She was getting out of the hospital a lot just with fevers and stuff like that. And then we got to have Christmas here that December. And then January 9th of this past year, she, she, uh, eventually passed away.   We weren't expecting, I mean, we knew that there would be an end, but I don't think we could have expected it to, um, happen then. And I think we kind of thought we'd have a little bit more time, but we didn't, but we were thankful. I'm thankful for my wife.   It was like we got to get back now because we knew that when an issue did pass that we needed to be in our hometown and not in Houston, where our community was much smaller.   Laura Dugger: (40:18 - 40:27) So, yeah. And so, you're together, you're celebrating Christmas. And then things suddenly turned unexpectedly.   James Jetton: (40:28 - 40:28) Yeah.   Laura Dugger: (40:28 - 40:31) And that led to losing her on January 9th.   James Jetton: (40:32 - 44:59) Yeah. You know, nothing really happened like, you know, in that leukemia world. And you know, a lot of cancers that give you like, you know, a prognosis like, you have three months, you have four months full, but blood cancer is very different.   And it kind of exacts you and, and there's no way to really know for sure, like, is this going to work or how long do we have and that sort of thing. And she was just in and out of the hospital so much. When we came back home, when you have leukemia, anytime you have a fever above a hundred point four, it's like you're immediately going to the doctor.   And so that's kind of how, you know, when she went in, like, there's still kind of an expectation that she would come home. But then those last few days, like, I just, I vividly remember as we're trying to figure out what to do, we're going to, are we going to go to a new treatment plan or we're going to try something else? Or, or is this kind of the end?   And her doctor here, he said, there was a plan that we possibly could have done, but he was like, they're saying this got a success rate of like, whatever, nine of 10 people went into remission with it. He's like, but when you look closer, they were only in remission for four weeks. And he was like, is this what we want to do?   Cause chemo just, it wipes you out. And it's like, there's no way to continue to live like this. But she, Kaetlin, she was, she just had a way of bringing a peace over everybody.   She had a way of like knowing exactly what everyone needed, I guess, in some respects. Cause I remember leaving the day we decided we would not do the treatment plan. And I came home, like I said, I always try to be home to put my kids to bed.   She said that the night before it kind of, she went downhill fast. She got up and walked around the hospital with her dad and told her dad like, “Hey, I think I'm going to do, I think I'm going to do it. I'm going to do the treatment plan.”   You know, I've talked to him about this, but I feel like that was almost like the piece he needed to go home. You know, when she passed, it was like, it was beautiful. Like it was, it was such a blessing that she was in her home hospital and that the doors, it was like a revolving door.   I remember Kaetlin told me once, she said, “when I pass or when I'm in the last days, don't tell anyone that they can't come see me.” And so, we were trying to figure out how we're going to do this. And I was like, well, she said that anybody who wants to come see me, let them come see me.   And so, we put a word out and there was like a revolving door of people just coming in and out of the room all day. Like the doctors, the ER told the front desk people, like, you know, technically, I guess you're only supposed to have like two visitors or something because of the COVID things. And she was like, anybody that comes in and says they want to see Kaetlin Jetton, you say, “Go on up”.   So it was, it was pretty awesome seeing all these people come in and see her. And we had already gotten to see the impact that she had made on so many people's lives for the past couple of years, but it was cool to see them all there doing that. And I remember the night she passed, I leaned over, I was heading home and two of my best friends since the ninth grade had come down and they were at the house with the kids and I was coming home to put the kids to bed.   And I leaned over and gave her a kiss and I said, don't wait on me. It's like, it's okay. It's time to go home.   And sure enough, that's, I left that night and I got a phone call about 11 from her dad and she had passed and that, and I think that, you know, in some respects, it's like, should I have been there? I was like, but I think that also was like, no, Kaet wanted you to be with your two guys. And Kayla knew that her family would be there with her.   And she did exactly what she wanted to do. You know, she always had a plan even from her like celebration service. She had everything written out.   Who's going to speak, what songs are playing, when are we doing this? And so it was, it was, you know, it was pretty cool seeing how many people just came in and out and how she just kind of felt like she knew what she was doing, even up in the last days. So.   Laura Dugger: (45:00 - 45:55) Do you love The Savvy Sauce? Do you gain anything when you listen? Did you know that the two ways we earn money to keep this podcast live is through generous contributions from listeners and from our paying sponsors.   That means we can promote your business and you're still supporting The Savvy Sauce. It's a win-win. Please email us today at info@thesavvysauce.com to inquire about pricing for sponsoring each episode. Thank you for your consideration.    Well, James, your perspective is incredible. And yet I'm so sorry, such a deep loss for your whole family.   And what is life like now for all of your family these days? Cause it's still very recent. And I'm wondering if grief still comes up at unexpected times.   James Jetton: (45:56 - 50:49) Yeah. You know, it's, you know, it's a day-to-day thing, I believe. I don't, and grief is certainly something that sometimes you don't see it coming.   And I'll say, I love bragging on this community. I love bragging on this town so much. So, my kids, they're all in school, you know, and I'm bragging on my kids too.   After she passed, the kids got to stay home for a couple of weeks, but then it was time to go back to school. My two girls go to one school where actually Kaetlin went to school from kindergarten all through. So, I felt like that was a very special thing for her and the kids could go to the same school that their mom went to.   But then Hattie goes to a different school because of her special needs. And then Ryder goes to a different school. He's in preschool.   And so, after she passed, like, so it was complicated in the sense of, I've got to get Hattie to school at 7:30. I've got to get Lincoln out of school by like 8:45 and then Ryder can go in before 9:00 a.m. So, I would usually drop him off on the way. But I say, I'd say like, what does life look like?   Well, after she passed, I knew like, how am I going to make this work? And that semester, there was somebody in my house every morning at 7:00 a.m. to sit with the kids, help with breakfast, and help finish getting them ready while I could take Hattie to school at 7:30. And then I would come back home and after they finished getting ready, then I would take them to school. So, I had someone in my house every morning at 7:00 a.m. after she passed, which was, you know, they were doing it for the kids, but they were doing it for me too. I knew that I couldn't just lay in my bed and let people just come on in and take care of my kids. Like I had to get up, take a shower, look like I'm somewhat presentable and go on. And that's kind of how that last semester was, just community and people with meals and then through all that, trying to get them engaged, get them back into doing some things that they love to do.   And yeah, I like to brag on my kids in a lot of ways, this perspective kind of dawned on me in the past couple of weeks of like, I sent them back into a new school where they know very many people. Everybody knows them. Not everyone.   I don't know everybody. And they had to go and do that a few weeks after their mom passed. Here I am trying to stay away from people and not have a whole bunch of conversations, but yet the kids are stepping up and doing their thing.   And man, it's just, it's pretty inspiring when I think of it in that respect as well. Nowadays we are blessed that we get to have a nanny and it's, that's a whole cool story in itself. And that she worked with me in student ministry, and I'd actually left to go be a nanny for some other people in Nashville.   And I was texting her trying to figure out, “Hey, I need some help. You got any friends down here that want to be a nanny? Cause it's hard to find.”   And she's like, “Actually, I would love to come back and do it.” And that was just a huge blessing. Cause it was like, at the time of us having all these new things, I was able to be able to have somebody that the kids already knew come in and be there.   And so, she helps in so many ways and allows the kids to do their tennis and their soccer and gymnastics or whatever it may be. And it allows me to get to, coach them and be a part of that, those aspects of life, which I love doing so much. And so, she's really helped.   So, in our day to day now, like it, it's a lot of moving pieces. I mean, just last week, we got to go to a widower's retreat and there was never a worry, never worry about who's taking care of the kids, that they're getting to where they need to be. So, it's a genuine, like I get to see how a village truly takes care of the kids.   And yes, there are days and it's hard. And some days it just kind of sucks and it sucks for them. It sucks for me.   But I have gotten to see how God still shows out through the difficult moments and how he still provides no matter how far away I am or how close I am. He still continually provides. And I know that, and I know that he will not let us down.   It's one day at a time. And as we approach these new seasons, there's always new seasons. You talk about grief and things pop up.   I think that holidays will bring up stuff they already have in some respects and my wife, you know, she was a medical professional. So, when kids get sick, it's different now. We go to the doctor more often because mom's not here to take care of them and call in medicine.   But I think that we do sense a void in that when kids are sick and that sort of thing. But, today, like things are okay. We're doing all right.   Laura Dugger: (50:50 - 51:07) Well, and James, you were a journalism major and you're a very gifted writer. So where would you direct us to get to read more about your family and stay current and hopefully find ways that we can further support you?   James Jetton: (51:08 - 52:18) Well, my wife and I, we started a blog called Our Hands Go Up, and it's OurHandsGoUp.com. And that's formed out of, started with Hattie. That's where the blog started because Hattie, we talked about that joy that she has, but our hands will always go up.   Like her hands go up all the time and it just seems so appropriate. And the picture of hands going up, there's so many things that go to that with our praise to God, our vulnerability and our sides. And there's just a lot that comes through that anyway.   But yeah, Kaetlin started writing on that and I wrote some in that. She spearheaded it because she's way more organized and detailed than I am. So, it looks a lot prettier than what I would have done, but here recently, like I've felt a calling to bring it back and revitalize it.   So as of right now, like there's, my wife wrote a lot, and she still has writings that she never shared with anybody. So, I've started revitalizing it by sharing some of her writings, but I will be writing in there as well. So that would probably be a good place or even, and then my, just my social media, James Jetton, you can always see some crazy stories of my kids.   Laura Dugger: (52:21 - 52:34) Oh, wonderful. We will link to both of those in our show notes. And are there any practical needs that you do have at this time or any specific prayer requests you would like to share with us?   James Jetton: (52:35 - 53:26) You know, I think the specific prayer requests are just for me and for my kids. So, things are going to look different for them for sure. And I know there's going to be some hard moments.   So, I guess the prayer would just be, you know, provision as God's always provided. And, you know, when I say that, I don't just talk about it in like a material way, but like He seems to provide us with feelings, emotions, people, support, all of that. And so just provision for my kids and just encouragement and support for them as we've kind of walked through these, these new firsts for the kids and, and that it will just, they will still have, find the joy that we always talk about choosing and, and that my wife did so well that we will continue to find that joy through these more difficult days ahead for sure.   Laura Dugger: (53:26 - 53:58) Yes, Lord may it be so. Well, James, you clearly just have so much wisdom to share and I appreciate you walking through so much of your personal journey. And I know that you also do have a lighthearted personality and we're going to end on a lighter note because you may know that we're called The Savvy Sauce because Savvy is synonymous with practical knowledge.   And so, as my final question for you today, what is your Savvy Sauce?   James Jetton: (54:01 - 54:51) You know, my Savvy Sauce, it's just, it's one day at a time. I think that we get overwhelmed with, you know, I joke with people, like it's a stupid joke. But hey, if God wanted to give us more than one day at a time, He would. So, we only get one day, and He doesn't give us two days at one time.   You know, just taking things as they come one day at a time. We all have our goals. We all have our plans, our dreams and aspirations, but leaving space for the Holy Spirit and how God moves is critical.   And when you're walking through grief and you're walking through hard stuff, like thinking about too much out there in front of you can be debilitating. And so just focus on what your next step, just take one more step. We can always take one more step.   And so just kind of day at a time and just take one more step.   Laura Dugger: (54:52 - 55:08) James, thank you for your faithfulness to Kaet, your faithfulness to our Lord, your faithfulness to your children. And we will all be praying for each of you in this coming season and beyond. And just really grateful for you being my guest today.   James Jetton: (55:09 - 55:26) Well, I'm really grateful to be here. This is great. I'm thankful for the chance to just share her story and share our story.   I feel God has just moved and worked through us in so many amazing ways. And anytime I can get a chance to share how God has moved and worked, I'm thankful. So, thank you for having me.   Laura Dugger: (55:26 - 58:42) It's been an honor. One more thing before you go. Have you heard the term gospel before?   It simply means good news. And I want to share the best news with you. But it starts with the bad news.   Every single one of us were born sinners, but Christ desires to rescue us from our sin, which is something we cannot do for ourselves. This means there is absolutely no chance we can make it to heaven on our own. So, for you and for me, it means we deserve death and we can never pay back the sacrifice we owe to be saved.   We need a savior. But God loved us so much, he made a way for his only son to willingly die in our place as the perfect substitute. This gives us hope of life forever in right relationship with him.   That is good news. Jesus lived the perfect life we could never live and died in our place for our sin. This was God's plan to make a way to reconcile with us so that God can look at us and see Jesus.   We can be covered and justified through the work Jesus finished if we choose to receive what He has done for us. Romans 10:9 says, “That if you confess with your mouth Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” So, would you pray with me now?   Heavenly Father, thank you for sending Jesus to take our place. I pray someone today right now is touched and chooses to turn their life over to you. Will you clearly guide them and help them take their next step in faith to declare you as Lord of their life?   We trust you to work and change lives now for eternity. In Jesus' name we pray. Amen.   If you prayed that prayer, you are declaring him for me, so me for him. You get the opportunity to live your life for him. And at this podcast, we're called The Savvy Sauce for a reason.   We want to give you practical tools to implement the knowledge you have learned. So, you ready to get started? First, tell someone.   Say it out loud. Get a Bible. The first day I made this decision, my parents took me to Barnes & Noble and let me choose my own Bible.   I selected the Quest NIV Bible and I love it. You can start by reading the book of John. Also, get connected locally, which just means tell someone who's a part of a church in your community that you made a decision to follow Christ.   I'm assuming they will be thrilled to talk with you about further steps, such as going to church and getting connected to other believers to encourage you. We wa

This episode features a conversation between John Pinna and Jeff Mitchell, an atheist and author of the book "Jesus Demigod (https://a.co/d/ddpkbqa)", which argues that Jesus did not exist. Mitchell shares his faith journey, having grown up as a Christian in the Bible Belt and later becoming an atheist after critically examining the Bible and Christian theology. The conversation explores topics such as the historicity of Jesus, the reliability of the New Testament, and the concept of truth. Mitchell argues that the evidence for Jesus is abysmal and that the stories about him are literary creations, while John Pinna shares his perspective as a person of faith, highlighting the importance of respectful dialogue and critical thinking. The discussion touches on the challenges of confronting uncomfortable truths, the value of life, and the need for civil conversations in the face of disagreement. Special Guest: Jeff Mitchell.

Nine days ago in Frisco Texas an altercation at a track meet shocked the nation. Austin Metcalf was a promising track and field athlete attending a championship competition when he got into a brief altercation with another athlete, Karmelo Anthony, over a tent. According to witnesses, in a matter of moments after the disagreement started, Karmelo took out a knife from his bag and stabbed Austin Metcalf in the heart. Austin died moments later in his twin brother's arms. This tragedy reopened the wound and division that has been present for nearly the entirety of our nation's history. Austin Metcalf is far from the first victim of black on white violence, bringing pressing and relevant questions about law, order, and race to the surface yet again. But as family and community mourn for Austin Metcalf and Karmelo Anthony is being held in jail on a one million dollar bond, hundreds of thousands of dollars have been raised by the black community for Karmelo Anthony, who they see as a victim in the encounter, despite him confessing to the stabbing. We are at the point where even the unjustified murder of a high schooler cannot be objectively condemned as a terrible tragedy by some sides of the aisle.At a certain point it's time to say the quiet part out loud. Why are Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont the safest states to live in and also, coincidentally, the least diverse? Why are black women more likely to commit murder than white men? And what are the implications of this in relation to what neighborhood you live in, how you protect your family, and even what sports you put your kids in? This episode is brought to you by our premier sponsors, Armored Republic and Reece Fund, as well as our Patreon members and donors. You can join our Patreon at patreon.com/rightresponseministries or you can donate at rightresponseministries.com/donate.Join us today as we unpack this important topic.*MINISTRY SPONSORS:**Reece Fund.* Christian Capital. Boldly Deployedhttps://www.reecefund.com/*Private Family Banking*How to Connect with Private Family Banking:1. Send an email inquiry to banking@privatefamilybanking.com2. Receive a FREE e-book entitled "How to Build Multi-Generational Wealth Outside of Wall Street and Avoid the Coming Banking Meltdown", by going to https://www.protectyourmoneynow.net3. Set up a FREE Private Family Banking Discovery call using this link: https://calendly.com/familybankingnow/30min*Squirrelly Joes Coffee - Caffeinating The Modern Reformation*Our audience can get a free bag of coffee (just pay shipping) by visiting ⁠https://squirrellyjoes.com/rightresponse ⁠

Dr. Gillian Frank continues to explore the progressive religious communities in conservative areas, focusing on the Unitarian Universalist ministers and LGBTQ couples who participated in same-sex marriage ceremonies in Birmingham, Alabama. The episode highlights Reverend Luna Jensen Borad's, detailing the political and religious struggles leading to and following the legalization of same-sex marriage. Personal stories from Kay and Andrew illustrate the impact of finding liberal religious spaces in a conservative environment. The episode examines the intersection of faith and social justice, unraveling the complex history of marriage equality and the enduring presence of liberal religion in the Bible Belt. Red State Religions is produced by the Institute for Religion, Media, and Civic Engagement with generous funding from the Henry Luce Foundation. Created by Dr. Gillian Frank Producer: Andrew Gill Executive Producer: Dr. Bradley Onishi Audio Engineer and Music: R. Scott Okamoto Production Assistance: Kari Onishi For more research-based podcasts and public scholarship visit www.axismundi.us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week we had to honor and privilege to interview Kait Ballenger, author of the recently released Original Sinners Series! This was a fun interview and we hope that you enjoy it!  A little about Kait: Kait Ballenger is an award-winning author of dark romantasy and paranormal romance. She is obsessed with tales of morally gray, sometimes villainous heroes and can't resist a spicy redemption arc. When Kait's not busy writing kinky paranormal fantasy, she can usually be found with her nose buried in someone else's naughty books. She lives in Florida's Bible Belt with her husband and two adorable sons—and will gladly use that belt to whip you.    Don't forget to follow all of our socials here!!

In the first episode of 'Red State Religions,' host Dr. Gillian Frank explores the progressive religious communities in conservative areas, focusing on the Unitarian Universalist ministers and LGBTQ couples who participated in same-sex marriage ceremonies in Birmingham, Alabama. The episode highlights Reverend Luna Jensen Boad's and Reverend Lne Broussard's roles in these historic events, detailing the political and religious struggles leading to and following the legalization of same-sex marriage. Personal stories from Kay and Andrew illustrate the impact of finding liberal religious spaces in a conservative environment. The episode examines the intersection of faith and social justice, unraveling the complex history of marriage equality and the enduring presence of liberal religion in the Bible Belt. 00:00 Introduction to Red State Religions 00:51 A Historic Day in Alabama 05:30 The Path to Marriage Equality 15:53 Personal Stories of Love and Struggle 25:27 Finding Community in Unitarian Universalism 33:10 Conclusion and Next Episode Preview Red State Religions is produced by the Institute for Religion, Media, and Civic Engagement with generous funding from the Henry Luce Foundation. Created by Dr. Gillian Frank Producer: Andrew Gill Executive Producer: Dr. Bradley Onishi Audio Engineer and Music: R. Scott Okamoto Production Assistance: Kari Onishi For more research-based podcasts and public scholarship visit www.axismundi.us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Monique Parks - Rome Experience Read More......Read Less Expectations vs. Reality of the Trip Initial expectations were based on idealized images of Italy, like those seen in Italian restaurants, with streams, boats, and picturesque scenes. The reality was different, with descriptions of the city as "dirty." Encounters with Missionaries and Refugees Visited missionaries and people he's been working with in Lebanon. Heard testimonies of people who went through hardships to find safety. Muslims had to hide their Christian faith to avoid being killed. "They had to hang on to bottoms of trucks, and somewhere safe, because if people knew that they were Christians, even if it was their own thing, we would have killed them" The experience made her feel inadequate in her own service to the Lord. "It made me feel this small, you know, because I don't do nearly enough for the Lord" Observations in Vatican City Felt a sense of unease in Vatican City. Felt that most people were "going to hell." Observed sadness, anger, and rudeness in the people encountered. "They all looked so sad. Sad or mad or just rude. They were very rude." Attributed this to a lack of faith in the Lord. "That's what you have when you don't have the Lord." Impactful Testimonies Hearing testimonies was the most impactful part of the trip. Met a man from the "Afghan house" who had been taking care of himself since age nine. He has been his main provider since he was nine years old. Reflected on how his own children could not handle such responsibility. "I can't imagine my kids even being 10 and 11 taking care of themselves" Realized her own selfishness and need to help others more. Commitment to Spreading the Word Determined to share her faith despite potential criticism. "I'm trying to get the word out there. No matter if people think I'm crazy or look at me funny, talk about me, whatever. There's worse things." Motivated by the belief that people are "facing hell." Discomfort with Public Transportation Experienced discomfort with public transportation due to being an introvert. "Anybody that knows me well, I'm not much of an outgoing person or a hickly person." Hoped that their positive attitude on public transport might have positively impacted others. "Just smiling and laughing and just trying to make the best of certain situations that hopefully that was a lie to somebody." Concerns for Victor's Ministry Expressed concern for Victor's ministry in Italy due to language barriers. "He doesn't know fluently Italian" Asked for prayers for Victor to learn Italian and effectively teach about the Lord. "Pray for him that he can learn what he needs to learn, but teach them about the Lord in, you know, whatever way that he can." Acknowledged the loneliness and barriers Victor faces. "Just being around people who had no idea what you were there for and seeing you walking down the street and just look at you funny" Observations on Local Churches Visited churches with small congregations of believers. "Maybe 40 of them all together that are trying to make it happen." Noted that many locals do not believe in the Lord and worship Mary and the saints. "They worship Mary and they worship, you know, the saints and things like that." Expressed hope for the churches to help the people. Reflection on Personal Responsibility Realized the need to be more active in sharing faith, especially compared to those in challenging situations. "We live in the Bible Belt. We don't even come out of our house to say anything to anybody." Recognized her own insignificance and limited thinking. "That showed me just how small I am on the spectrum and how little that I think." Pastor Tommy Read More......Read Less Rome Trip Overview

Shannon and Jason Fischer discuss what it's like to serve on the Kids ministry team with Heritage Church, through the experience having grown up in the church herself…in the Bible Belt of Texas no less.

Fear and hope! These are the two realities that are put before us by the writings of the fathers on the struggle with lust and fornication. They are hard stories to listen to for in them we begin to see the poverty of man and what we are capable of doing not only in our lesser moments, but when we turn away from God in the slightest fashion. Whatever one's religious identity might be or how vigorously one has embraced the ascetic life, what brings an individual to the depths of sin is hubris; trusting in our own understanding or following our own desires in such a way that we put ourselves in God to the test.  Thus, the stories should give rise to fear within our hearts in order that we might place our trust only in God and cling to him through constant prayer. However, we are also give that which provides hope of salvation through the very same stories. God does not abandon us even when we have turned away from him. He will use every means possible (other people or affliction) to draw us back to himself. He will turn the world upside down if it gives rise to a spirit of repentance within our hearts. It is this repentance that draws us out of the mire.  The fathers are quick to instruct us that we are not to abhor human sexuality or members of the opposite sex. However, we must respect the power of natural desire, especially when it is paired with concupiscence. The darkness brought to our minds because of our sin often leads us to objectify the other; to lose sight of their dignity and to focus simply on ourselves and the satisfying of our needs. The fathers would have us understand the great power of the demons. We are told in one story this evening where all of the forest in the place were consumed by the flame that came from the serpent being cast out.  We must understand, then, that we are not simply struggling with our natural defects and flaws but rather with principalities and powers.  Sin is a fearful thing and true faith allows us to see its ugliness and destructiveness. This same faith allows us to see the only source of our true hope – Christ. With humility let us cry out to him that he might show us his abundant mercy. --- Text of chat during the group: 00:38:06 Forrest Cavalier: Hard topic1 00:38:59 Forrest Cavalier: I've heard bits and pieces of what you have said, from different people, who were not prelates. The 1970's approach of trying a cure was disastrous. 00:54:15 Forrest Cavalier: Teach us to strive from the pulpit. Hebrews 12:9-12 Besides this, we have had our earthly fathers to discipline us, and we respected them. Should we not [then] submit all the more to the Father of spirits and live? They disciplined us for a short time as seemed right to them, but he does so for our benefit, in order that we may share his holiness. At the time, all discipline seems a cause not for joy but for pain, yet later it brings the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who are trained by it.e 00:59:41 Forrest Cavalier: A fire poker 01:00:43 Maureen Cunningham: If he would have fell and a chid would came then he could not be a church Father .  What would happen 01:04:32 Anthony: I worked for a firm that worked in divorces and in child protection....even in the Bible Belt, divorce is a SERIOUS problem. We don't have much understanding beyond flesh, and that is reinforced by ads and movies and cartoons and songs. 01:08:49 Maureen Cunningham: Always a Blessing  Thank You 01:09:36 ANDREW ADAMS: Thanks be to God! Thank you, Father! 01:09:36 Rebecca Thérèse: Thank you

In New York, there were the Stonewall riots. In the Bible Belt, there was steer roping. We'll hear the secret history of gay rodeo. Plus, the Washington Post's new managing editor on how his childhood in Phoenix shaped his journalism.

Kristen Becker is a standup comedian and activist based out of Provincetown, Massachusetts. Becker also has a long history of touring, living, and organizing in the Deep South. In 2006, she founded the "Dykes of Hazard," an all-lesbian comedy group that toured the Deep South for a decade. In 2014, Becker testified before the Louisiana State Legislature in support of the Louisiana Non-Discrimination Act. From there, she set out on a tour called "Loosen the Bible Belt" with pastor Jay Bakker. In 2017, she founded "Summer of Sass," a nonprofit that hooks queer teens up with a job and housing, and flies them out to Ptown for a summer on the gay beach. More recently, she crashed out at a fancy party and secured $3 million worth of funding for her program. You'll have to stick around til the end for that story! Thank you for listening to Cruising Podcast! -Reviews help other listeners find Cruising! If you like what you hear, please subscribe and leave us a 5-star review! -For more Cruising adventures, follow us @cruisingpod on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook -Follow Kristen Becker @KristenBeckerComedy -Follow Summer of Sass @SummerofSass -Donate or find out more about Summer of Sass -Special thanks to this episode's sponsor, Olivia Travel -Discover Olivia at Olivia.com and save $100 on your next trip when you use promo code CRUISING -Support Cruising here! Cruising is an independent podcast. That means we're entirely funded by sponsors and listeners like you! -Cruising is reported and produced by a small but mighty team of three: Sarah Gabrielli (host/story producer/audio engineer), Rachel Karp (story producer/social media manager), and Jen McGinity (line producer/resident road-trip driver). Theme song is by Joey Freeman. Cover art is by Nikki Ligos. Logo is by Finley Martin. Support the show Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

pWotD Episode 2871: Alabama Welcome to Popular Wiki of the Day, spotlighting Wikipedia's most visited pages, giving you a peek into what the world is curious about today.With 153,554 views on Wednesday, 12 March 2025 our article of the day is Alabama.Alabama ( AL-ə-BAM-ə) is a state in the Southeastern region of the United States. It borders Tennessee to the north, Georgia to the east, Florida and the Gulf of Mexico to the south, and Mississippi to the west. Alabama is the 30th largest by area, and the 24th-most populous of the 50 U. S. states.Alabama is nicknamed the Yellowhammer State, after the state bird. Alabama is also known as the "Heart of Dixie" and the "Cotton State". The state has diverse geography, with the north dominated by the mountainous Tennessee Valley and the south by Mobile Bay, a historically significant port. Alabama's capital is Montgomery, and its largest city by population and area is Huntsville. Its oldest city is Mobile, founded by French colonists (Alabama Creoles) in 1702 as the capital of French Louisiana. Greater Birmingham is Alabama's largest metropolitan area and its economic center. Politically, as part of the Deep South, or "Bible Belt", Alabama is a predominantly conservative state and is known for its Southern culture. Within Alabama, American football, particularly at the college level, plays a major part of the state's culture.Originally home to many native tribes, present-day Alabama was a Spanish territory beginning in the sixteenth century until the French acquired it in the early eighteenth century. The British won the territory in 1763 until losing it in the American Revolutionary War. Spain held Mobile as part of Spanish West Florida until 1813. In December 1819, Alabama was recognized as a state. During the antebellum period, Alabama was a major producer of cotton and widely used African American slave labor. In 1861, the state seceded from the United States to become part of the Confederate States of America, with Montgomery acting as its first capital, and rejoined the Union in 1868. Following the American Civil War, Alabama would suffer decades of economic hardship, in part due to agriculture and a few cash crops being the main driver of the state's economy. Similar to other former slave states, Alabamian legislators employed Jim Crow laws from the late 19th century up until the 1960s. High-profile events such as the Selma to Montgomery marches made the state a major focal point of the civil rights movement in the 1950s and 1960s.During and after World War II, Alabama grew as the state's economy diversified with new industries. In 1960, the establishment of NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville helped boost Alabama's economic growth by developing a local aerospace industry. Alabama's economy in the 21st century is based on automotive, finance, tourism, manufacturing, aerospace, mineral extraction, healthcare, education, retail, and technology.This recording reflects the Wikipedia text as of 01:17 UTC on Thursday, 13 March 2025.For the full current version of the article, see Alabama on Wikipedia.This podcast uses content from Wikipedia under the Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License.Visit our archives at wikioftheday.com and subscribe to stay updated on new episodes.Follow us on Mastodon at @wikioftheday@masto.ai.Also check out Curmudgeon's Corner, a current events podcast.Until next time, I'm neural Matthew.

In Breath, Out Breath...Existence.Who am I? I am Love & I am Strong!Our guest this week was a Nature Spirit as a child, living on a farm and free to breathe the air, be with herself & the animals, experience the elements - the sky, thunder & lightening! Seeing a hologram of Jesus as a young girl was a pivotal experience then finding out later in the first grade who this guy Jesus was, oh - The Guy in her hologram!Moving to the Bible Belt of Louisiana added layers to the Spirit of Life as she knew it. Also leading to the asking of a whole lot more questions as to the meaning of life as an inquisitive, sensitive, energy field open wide young person. Her curiosity about the spiritual side of life, the supernatural & miracles led her to major in Religious Ed in College to support her calling to be of service and explore these mysteries of Spirit further.Serious health challenges with no relief from the suitcases of medications prescribed + with the addition of their myriad of side effects to deal with, led her to take up the recommendation of a friend to see a new Doctor. One who focused on her mind, her life, her beliefs and the ENERGY of this. Life Changing.Dr. Sharnael Wolverton Sehon is a captivating multidisciplinary professional who seamlessly blends being a Naturopathic Doctor, with Spirituality & Quantum Science, to being a Teacher empowering individuals on their journey to wholeness. She is host of True TV and has authored 5 activating books.Her calling in being of service is to illuminate truths through her world wide work = Truth TV and helping people to be LIVING with true wellness. The Work leads her to 1:1 with individuals as her schedule allows. With community including Soul Audits, Biofeedback Scans (for humans, cats, dogs and horses), workshops and global interviews...such as sitting with us today on Girl Awakening!In Dr Sharnael's words;" I'm here to remind you that perfect DNA is in you, miracles are in you, and birth right abundance is in you.These foundations of your grand design are already in you. You don't need to go find them. You just need to ACTIVATE them. It's time to Re-Member who you are, Re-Code, and Re-Direct blocks and energy interferences. I am honoured to help you do this."She is not afraid to ask the big questions...Am I consciously creating something positive or am I in default?" Dr Sharnael is bold in her ways of choosing to answer, being open to remembering and creating consciously within and reverse engineering the way out! Her Science of Miracles Toolkit is one for now and one that brings the future of Wellness to the NOW!We are so honoured to sit with Dr. Sharnael - may we say, a real life Joan of Arc and inspiration to the power of leaning into love. This is an episode you will listen to more than once!!!And yes, you can leave a comment or message if you want to find out the ending of her love story.Much Love & JoyAmanda & Jo xxGirl AwakeningFind out more about Dr. Sharnael Wolverton Sehon here:Website: https://www.drsharnael.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drsharnael/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Drsharnael/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCasx8SPRm85AoQcwZNaH2UwTruth TV: https://www.drsharnael.com/true-tv#girlawakening #girlawakeningpodcast #girlawakeningyoutube #awakening #divine #divinefeminine #divinemasculine #soulawakening #podcast #spirituality #spiritualawakening #lovelanguage #marriage #lovestory #intuitive #awakenedwoman #DNA #soulactivation #awareness #letthatshitgo #alignment #divinetiming #source #intuitivehealer #truthmatters #truth #selfawareness #sensitive #soulgrowth #stayinyourlane #grounded #miracles #miracleseveryday #frequency #energy #quantum #sacredfeminine #quantumhealing #survivalkit #toolkit #supernatural #wellness #wellnessjourney #naturopathicdoctor #activation

In this podcast interview, John Pinna speaks with Michael Barton, a Muslim revert from Wichita, Kansas who converted to Islam in 2006. Barton discusses his journey from Methodism to Islam, describing how he felt disconnected from his Christian upbringing despite a strong belief in God. He shares how his college anthropology studies and encounters with Muslim students sparked his interest in Islam, particularly when he discovered Islam's connection to biblical prophets and its pure monotheistic concept of God that resonated with his own beliefs. Barton details his gradual immersion in the Muslim community, from his first visit to a mosque to taking his Shahada during Ramadan, through his struggles balancing his new faith with old habits, to eventually becoming a principal at an Islamic school. He now actively shares his faith through TikTok and other social media platforms while reflecting on the challenges of being a Muslim in America's Bible Belt and the importance of presenting Islam with knowledge, nuance, and cultural sensitivity appropriate for the American context. https://linktr.ee/MichaelBarton

A new study shows a decline in the number of Tennesseans who have an active faith. Plus, the local news for March 4, 2024 and this week's edition of What Where Whens-Day. Credits: This is a production of Nashville Public RadioHost/producer: Nina CardonaEditor: Miriam KramerAdditional support: Mack Linebaugh, Tony Gonzalez, Rachel Iacovone, LaTonya Turner and the staff of WPLN and WNXP

Historicus en publicist Bart Jan Spruyt belicht de eerste maand van president Donald Trump vanuit christelijk perspectief. Een theoloog riep zijn volgers op om het sociale medium X te verlaten. Spruyt legt uit waarom hij wél op X blijft. En agnost Jonah Falke leerde de Biblebelt beter kennen en deelde zijn bevindingen. Reden voor Spruyt om als reformatorische christen de vlag uit te hangen?

     This week- we celebrate our 400th episode with a four pack of films, each tailored to our individual tastes. Apparently, we all like crime. A lot.     When Drew returns home after a long time away, this adoptive sister lover concocts a plan to escape with the addict of his eye. Even if it means murdering their adoptive father. Unfortunately, Papa isn't as slow as everyone else and makes plans of his own. An early film from John Swab, a favorite filmmaker of Tyler's, about existential criminal crisis in the Bible Belt- Let Me Make You a Martyr.     Cerebral and coolheaded Detective Somerset is looking forward to retiring at the end of the week. His replacement, young and brash Detective Mills, arrives just in time for a little touch passing and training. Unfortunately for them both, this all happens just as a serial killer with a religiously inspire masterplan announces his arrival in sadistic fashion. Both a number close to Kevin's heart and widely considered on of director David Fincher's best films- Seven.     In 1964, Johnny Bartlett was executed for killing 12 people at the local hospital. In 1990 Frank Bannister's wife died under mysterious circumstances with the number "13" craved into her forehead. The trauma leaves Frank with the ability to communicate with ghosts. Now Frank leads a pack of spirited haunters and is about to learn that Bartlett's rampage might not be as far in the past as everyone assumes it it. An uneven goofy romp with deeply disturbing meta undertones, just like Dave, and the first major effects project helmed by Peter Jackson- The Frighteners.     Gal and his wife have long since left their seedy London criminal origins for a nice quiet life in Spain. When they get the news that an old psychotic associate, Don, will soon be arriving with a job offer. Unwilling to take no for an answer and with a violent temper that knows little restraint, Gal just might find himself back with the gang for one more heist. The first feature from Craig's favorite director and costarring a fistful of his favorite actors- Sexy Beast.     All that and a twist ending that leaves three of the Raiders devastated. Join us, won't you?  Episode 400- 400 (Unsimulated) Blows

Jonah Falke is schrijver en kunstenaar. Falke maakte naam als kunstschilder en als frontman van de band Villa Zeno. In 2016 verscheen zijn debuutroman ‘Bontebrug', gevolgd door titels als ‘De mooiste vrouw van de wereld', ‘Dagboek uit Zundert' en ‘De geschiedenis van mijn sok'. Voor ‘Dagboek uit Zundert' verbleef Falke op de geboortegrond van Vincent van Gogh en maakte hij verschillende schilderijen. In zijn nieuwste boek, getiteld ‘Bible Belt', probeert Falke als ongelovige door te dringen tot het dagelijks leven in de Bible Belt. Daarvoor bezoekt hij kerkdiensten, studiedagen, gevangenissen en uitvaarten en logeert hij bij een gereformeerd gezin in Zeeland. Femke van der Laan gaat met Jonah Falke in gesprek.

***Content note: mention of drug use, sexual assault, overdose, and domestic violence*** Anisa had a typical millennial childhood in the Bible Belt, but as a teen she experienced a sexual assault and ultimately in adulthood lived through a life threatening meth addiction. Listen to the story of how she found and fought for recovery to finally live free and fully as herself.Celebraterecovery.com

Jonah Falke kreeg toegang tot het meest orthodoxe, streng gereformeerde deel van Nederland: de Bible Belt. Hij doet verslag van zijn waarachtige zoektocht naar wat godsbesef is. Uitgegeven door Thomas Rap Spreker: Simon Zwiers

Salespeople often miss the point. They are brilliant on telling the client the detail of the product or service. When you think about how we train salespeople, that is a very natural outcome.  Product knowledge is drummed into the heads of salespeople when they first join the company.  The product or service lines are expanded or updated at some point, so again the product knowledge component of the training reigns supreme.  No wonder they default to waxing lyrical about the spec.  These discussions, however, tend to be technical, dry, unemotional and rather boring.  This is ridiculous, because we know we buy on emotion and justify with logic.  If we know that, then why are we spending so much time on the logic bits?  Finding relevant stories to wrap the product or service up inside is the answer to getting clients emotionally involved.  For example, I could say, “Dale Carnegie has an excellent sales programme that is very complete and comprehensive”.  All true but very dry in the telling.  Or I could say, “In 1939 Dale Carnegie decided to revolutionise sales training.  In those days, if your company provided sales training you were trained, but if they didn't, you had to work it all out for yourself.  Dale Carnegie introduced the first public training classes for salespeople. He created the material with Percy Whiting, one of the top securities salesmen in America at that time”.  The second telling is through a story and more engaging and memorable.  It adds impressive elements about Dale Carnegie's thought leadership about sales training, his partnership with an expert salesman to create the programme and the longevity of the training methodology.  These are all USPs or unique selling propositions wrapped together in a story.  In this way they are more easily absorbed by the listener.  We think in pictures, so we need word pictures to be employed in our storytelling.  When we read books, we tend to best remember the stories being told.  We all grow up listening to stories, so our brains are hard wired to remember them with just one exposure.  A famous American sales trainer Charlie Cullen in the 1950s was one of the first to record his sales training on vinyl LPs.  His recommendations on what salespeople should do, were all backed up by examples conveyed through stories.   In more modern times, Zig Ziglar's whole approach to sales training was telling a series of parables for sales.  Growing up in America's Bible Belt, perhaps lessons communicated through parables came natural to him because of the culture of bible study in those regions. Brian Tracy, another great sales trainer is constantly mixing science and psychology with storytelling to get his point across.  Gary Vaynerchuk, the modern marketing guru and entrepreneur is a master storyteller.  They are almost exclusively about himself, but that is his style – supremely confident, self-opinionated, self-absorbed and constantly drawing on his own experience.  He has a huge following of fans, including me.  What he teaches is easy to follow because of the way he employs stories to get his key messages across. So look into your line-up of products or services and pick out the stories that go with each item.  It may come from the history.  Or it may be the technology.  It may be client stories about users and we relate what happened to them.  We need to look for an angle that will make the story interesting for the buyer. It should bolster the USPs of the offering and project pots of value.  We don't necessarily need a Hollywood production here in the storytelling.  It doesn't have to be War and Peace either. Let's keep them brief and to the point. If we can engage the listener's emotions and bring them into the story, then we are succeeding.  Can the buyer visualise what we are describing in their mind's eye? This takes some work and some creativity.  This is why it is often a good practice to involve everyone in the sales team to work together to curate some great stories and case studies of satisfied customers.  There is no doubt stories work.  When I record my own sales talk, I realise how many stories I am employing.  When I listen to the gurus of sales training, their whole underpinning platform is built on stories.  Stories work, so let's start creating them and using them with our buyers. We have tons of them, in fact.  All we have to do is collect them and arrange them to match the industry or industry segment of the buyer. Buyers want proof and stories are a way of delivering that proof. Don't forget that stories need data and data needs stories.

Hard werken moet weer lonen, zeggen Jimmy Dijk van de SP en Dilan Yeşilgöz van de VVD eensgezind. Maar krijgen we dat voor elkaar? Daarover staan ze lijnrecht tegenover elkaar. En schrijver, journalist en agnost Jonah Falke dompelde zich onder in de Biblebelt. Hij vond het een verademing. Collega auteur Franca Treur las zijn boek, zij maakte juist de omgekeerde beweging, weg van die Biblebelt.

This week, we're in Tennessee discussing how a classroom of teens solve a string of murders. Then, we'll talk about an accidental death or foul place. Buckle up and join us on this dark and twisted ride through the Volunteer State. You may now join us on⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠buy us a ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Cocktail⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Be sure to subscribe on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Apple⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and leave a review, or, email us at unitedstatesofmurder@gmail.com Follow us on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, and⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Be sure to check out the Murder 101 Podcast! Sources: Red Headed Murders, The 74 Million, The New York Post, Oxygen, WZTV, In Loving Memory of Lauren Taylor Agee, Medium, Justia Law Music by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Pixabay⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

In the 1980s, women with red hair began vanishing along highways in the Bible Belt, their bodies discarded in shallow graves or along desolate roads. Truck driver Jerry Leon Johns was arrested after his brutal attack on a young dancer went awry, linking him to at least one of the infamous "Redhead Murders." Spanning six states, 14 victims, and decades of unanswered questions, this chilling true crime saga explores the patterns of a predator, the lives of the victims, and the enduring mystery: Was Johns the Redhead Killer—or is he still out there? Tune in to Crime After Dark here:  Spotify Apple Podcasts Author: Mike Colucci Huge thanks to our sponsors: Acorns: Head to acorns.com/crimehub or download the Acorns app to start saving and investing for your future today! Acorns Early: Head to acornsearly.com/crimehub or download the Acorns Early app to get started. Sign up now and your first month is on us! SelectQuote: Go to SelectQuote.com/crimehub today to find the right life insurance for you. Shopify: Go to shopify.com/crimehub to take your retail business to the next level today. * * * DISCLAIMER: This episode contains explicit content. Parental guidance is advised for children under the age of 18. Listen at your own discretion. #crimehub #truecrime #truecrimepodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How should Christians respond to natural disasters - with judgment or compassion? From their unique perspective as pastors in California, Ron and Hope Carpenter tackle the devastating LA wildfires and challenge misconceptions about God's judgment. Drawing from their transition from the Bible Belt to the religiously diverse Bay Area, the couple shares profound insights about representing Christ in a secular culture, loving those who think differently, and seeing tragedy as an opportunity for revival.   Whether you're struggling to understand God's role in natural disasters or wanting to make a difference in times of crisis, this raw and relevant episode of Ron + Hope: Unfiltered offers a powerful perspective on being God's ambassadors of hope in a hurting world. Thank you to our partners HelloFresh - Get up to 10 FREE meals and a free high protein item for life at HelloFresh.com/ronandhope10fm. One item per box with active subscription. Free meals applied as discount on first box, new subscribers only, varies by plan.   S4E2 (#152)   Are there any topics you'd like us to discuss? Do you have any questions you'd like us to answer? Send them to unfiltered@ronandhope.com.   Follow Ron Carpenter at https://www.instagram.com/ron.carpenter/ Follow Hope Carpenter at https://www.instagram.com/pastorhope.carpenter/   Subscribe to Ron's YouTube page at https://www.youtube.com/user/pastorroncarpenter Subscribe to Hope's YouTube page at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1TUxyS_-elLEOORZ2YiunA Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode dives into the complexities and quirks of gambling legislation in Alabama, with investigative journalist Josh Moon sharing insightful stories and sharp commentary. Josh and host Jon (Fintan was away today) have a wide-ranging discussion, from the history of gambling in Alabama to the potential for transformative legislative changes. Josh Moon is an investigative journalist with the Alabama Political Reporter who loves tackling the tough questions and digging into the heart of the matterBig thanks to Optimove for sponsoring us! They're the maestros of marketing, orchestrating campaigns that hit all the right notes and resonate with customers. Optimove, we couldn't do this without your support, and we're so glad to have you on board.Clarion Gaming, you legends! Thanks for sponsoring us and being the champions of the gaming world. From live events to digital connections, they've got the network, the know-how, and the mojo to tackle anything the gambling industry throws at them.A huge shout-out-you to OddsMatrix Sports Betting Software Solutions for sponsoring our little show! EveryMatrix brings us real-time betting data so reliable, we're thinking of hiring them as our personal life coaches. OddsMatrix, you're the best wingman we could ask for in the gambling world.This episode (The Gambling Files RTFM 193) in a nutshell:* Gambling in Alabama, including dog tracks, electronic bingo, and the impact of religious influence on Alabama's gambling legislation.* Competing interests among private casinos, Native American tribes, and other stakeholders.* Stories of underground gambling operations and the sheer scale of untaxed cash flows.* The rise of neighboring states' lotteries and casinos pulling money out of Alabama.* Insights into the politics and lobbying efforts shaping Alabama's gambling landscape.* The Poarch Band of Creek Indians' growing influence in the gambling sector.* Broader cultural observations about Alabama's relationship with gambling and change.A quote by Josh Moon: “In Alabama, there's so much money being made under the table [with illegal gambling] and the laws are so screwed up that it incentivizes people to keep doing the illegal stuff instead of properly taxing everything.” Thanks to Josh Moon for being on the show! Read Josh's articles at https://www.alreporter.com/author/j-moon/ Follow Josh at Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/joshmoonal.bsky.social The Gambling Files podcast delves into the business side of the betting world. Each week, join Jon Bruford and Fintan Costello as they discuss current hot topics with world-leading gambling experts.Website: https://www.thegamblingfiles.com/Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3A57jkRSubscribe on Spotify:

It's Monday, December 23rd, A.D. 2024. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes written by yours truly and heard on 125 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com.  Filling in for Adam McMannus I'm Ean Leppin. Attack on a Christmas market in Germany Fox News reported on Friday that a festive Christmas market in Eastern Germany erupted into chaos when a car was driven into a group of people in the city of Magdeburg.  Between 60 and 80 people have been injured and at the time of this report 2 had been killed including a child.  The Associated Press reports that the suspect is a 50 year old Saudi doctor who came to Germany back in 2006.  German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said, ‘My thoughts are with the victims and their families.  We stand by their side and by the side of the people of Magdeburg.' Pray for all of the people involved that God will bring comfort and peace in this tragic time. Psalm 34:18 - The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed spirit. Pray for Believers in Nigeria as Christmas Day Approaches  As reported by Mission Network News Christians in Nigeria are facing an increased level of persecution for the upcoming Christmas holiday.  The terrorist group Boko Haram has historically attacked during past Christmas celebrations.  Darrel Templeton with Megavoice comments on the threat. TEMPLETON: "They're trying to scare and terrorize the Christians, to keep them from being bold in their faith, in gathering and in exercising their religious freedoms." Templeton goes on to report that the military and police force in Nigeria sometimes act more as accomplices than as watchguards.  Nigeria is currently number 6 on the list of countries where it is most dangerous to be a Christian according to Open Doors. Boko Haram isn't the only group that persecutes believers.  The climate in Nigeria is currently an open season on believers.  It has been reported that homes are looted and buildings have been burned. Word from missionaries on the ground in Nigeria report that believers there recognize the blessing of suffering in relation to their faith.  Templeton with Megavoice tells us how we can pray for our brothers and sisters in Christ. TEMPLETON: "They're not praying, or asking us to pray, that they be taken away from this, but they ask for protection and they ask for boldness." 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 But He said to me, My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.  Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.  For the sake of Christ, then I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities.  For when I am weak, then I am strong. Georgia Supreme Court to consider an abortion ban As documented by the Center for Reproductive Rights. In July 2022 a court case in Georgia, SisterSong v the State of Georgia sought to block HB 481, which bans abortions after approximately 6 weeks.  On November 15th 2022 Judge Robert McBurney of the Superior Court of Fulton County struck down the ban as void.  He further found that a subsequent change in Federal constitutional law, the overturning of Roe v Wade, does not revive the ban.  Instead, if the legislature wishes to ban abortion, it must pass a new law.  Just a week later on Nov 23rd the Georgia Supreme Court granted an emergency stay of the injunction, allowing the ban to take effect once again while the state's appeal continued.  As of October 7th of this year The Supreme Court of Georgia issued a ruling staying the trial court decision striking down HB 481.  This reinstated the abortion ban while the appeal proceeds at the Georgia Supreme Court. In response The Alliance Defending Freedom Senior Counsel Erik Baptist who is also director of the ADF Center for Life has filed a brief on behalf of the Alliance for Hippocratic Medicine asking the court to reverse the lower court ruling that permanently blocks Georgia's pro-life Living Infants Fairness and Equality Act or LIFE Act.  The LIFE Act protects the life of an unborn child when a fetal heartbeat is detected. Erik Baptist is quoted as saying, ‘The Georgia Superior Court made a critical error when it pitted the interests of a mother against those of her child as a reason for ruling the LIFE Act unconstitutional. The Alliance for Hippocratic Medicine has a vested interest in holistic care for both mother and child, and we are urging the court to reverse the lower court's decision and follow U.S. Supreme Court precedent that allows states to enact and enforce pro-life laws.' Hope Being Delivered Through Chainsaws for Christ in North Carolina Hurricane Helene devastated Western North Carolina earlier this year.  CBN News reports that some 120,000 homes were damaged or destroyed.  As temperatures have dropped and winter is settling in, displaced families are facing desperate situations and continuing to rely on the churches and faithbased community for help.  Reverend Scott Rogers with the Asheville Buncombe Community Christian Ministry says The churches are the heartbeat of this effort… ROGERS: "The churches are the heartbeat, and, if you will, the nervous system, the spinal cord, that gets the message of the needs to the churches, back to our central support systems, and that's what God's people do.  That's what the Bible Belt is all about." This Christian Ministry unites 300 churches and 5000 volunteers to provide temporary shelter, food, clothing and long term recovery assistance.   Another ministry that has been helping out in North Carolina is Chainsaws for Christ. (Facebook link here) It's founder Brent Allmon talks about what motivates him to serve. ALLMON: "And I just want to help them.  People help me, and God loves me.  He loves you.  He loves everyone that's listening to this.  I just want them to know that there is peace and hope in the name of Jesus Christ." Literally everything that Brent and Chainsaws for Christ brings has been provided by the Lord through donations.  The chainsaws, tools, food, volunteers, RV that he sleeps in to the Christmas toys they are providing to the community.   So what does Brent charge to those receiving services from Chainsaws for Christ? ALLMON: "For us, zero.  The Lord paid it over 2000 years ago, and we get the opportunity to give back just a little bit." If you would like to give to help the victims of Hurricane Helene you can give to  Samaritans Purse Hurricane relief effort or visit the facebook page of Chainsaws for Christ find the links in our transcript at theworldview.com Close And that's The Worldview on this Monday, December 23rd, in the year of our Lord 2024. Subscribe by Amazon Music or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com. Or get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Ean Leppin (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

Pro-Wrestling and Sports Entertainment have walked a fine line with The Adult Entertainment Industry since The Monday Night Wars between WWF and WCW. Not only did the two biggest companies in pro wrestling implement adult entertainment and entertainers, but ECW during that time would as well. TNA even used Chyna for a match even after she started her adult film career. Even recently, Matt Riddle was on MLW talking about being at the AVN Awards. So, why is it in 2024 is being an adult entertainer, and being an indy wrestler an issue?Tonight's guest is indy wrestler and adult entertainer, Nadia White. They express the difficulty they've had recently with promoter's booking them, only to cancel AFTER the promoter looks them up while knowing many wrestlers now-a-days have OnlyFans Accounts. Nadia expresses their frustrations and even shares a story about how they almost didn't even get to have their first match!Nadia also expresses the sexism within pro-wrestling as we've seen male wrestlers portray adult film stars, become adult film movie directors, and while they can still get booked, Nadia expresses its more difficult for them. During the interview, we also learn who Nadia enjoyed watching when they were growing up and who they would watch wrestling with as well. Nadia also discusses training, keeping their adult entertainment name the same as their wrestling name and what's in store for Nadia White in 2025!!Nadia White's Social MediaInstagram: @NadiaWWrestlingTwitter: @NadiaWWrestlingPro Wrestling Tee's: https://www.prowrestlingtees.com/wrestler-t-shirts/nadiawhite.htmlTime Stamp00:00 Intro00:16 We've seen professional wrestlers come from all walks of life Finn Balor once had a Balor Club is for everyone shirt, AEW had a motto that wrestling is for everyone. Today I am sitting down with Nadia White an independent pro wrestler who is also an adult film star who's faced many challenges in there journey as a professional wrestler00:32 Nadia how are you today?00:58 Were you a fan growing up? 01:17 who were some favorites?02:17 How was it being trained by Davey Richards and Team Ambition?03:43 READ Nadia's TWEETS. 04:43 Pro-wrestling and adult film industry go hand-n-hand0006:49 How often does a promoter cancel and what have they said to you?07:52 Did your original opponent for your first match still work that show after refusing to work with you?08:16 They call out female wrestler who refused to wrestle them08:51 the excitement of the first match, didn't know her but messaged her about the match prior09:35 Advice from pro wrestlers like Jerry Lynn11:11 Keeping her adult film name same as wrestling name (advised to change it)12:11 Being Banned from Nathen's Hotdog Eating Contest because they are an adult film star.13:50 Any issues in the locker room or at shows? "Kids love me at shows."15:00 Promotions, wrestlers who've had issues are at the "Bible Belt of The USA" and not researching them happened last week going on for two years not getting booked for being an adult film star17:45 Has her husband faced any backlash? Wrestling being sexist 18:20 but its okay for Matt Riddle on MLW to joke about going to AVN awards19:00 Talks on Triple H not wanting Chyna in the WWE HOF for doing porn, X-Pac shouldn't be in to.21:00 How are promoters when they cancel on them26:10 What's in store for pro wrestling and Nadia in 202526:55 "I just want to wrestle"27:11 Is their anyone they want to work with or a company to work in. "AEW. TNA." "Go to Japan"29:00 What they want the fans or promoters to know about them#WrestlingCommunity #indywrestler #SupportIndyWrestling #TNA #AEW #NadiaWhite #WrestlingNews #DarkSideOfTheRingSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/perchedonthetoprope/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Pro-Wrestling and Sports Entertainment have walked a fine line with The Adult Entertainment Industry since The Monday Night Wars between WWF and WCW. Not only did the two biggest companies in pro wrestling implement adult entertainment and entertainers, but ECW during that time would as well. TNA even used Chyna for a match even after she started her adult film career. Even recently, Matt Riddle was on MLW talking about being at the AVN Awards. So, why is it in 2024 is being an adult entertainer, and being an indy wrestler an issue?Tonight's guest is indy wrestler and adult entertainer, Nadia White. They express the difficulty they've had recently with promoter's booking them, only to cancel AFTER the promoter looks them up while knowing many wrestlers now-a-days have OnlyFans Accounts. Nadia expresses their frustrations and even shares a story about how they almost didn't even get to have their first match!Nadia also expresses the sexism within pro-wrestling as we've seen male wrestlers portray adult film stars, become adult film movie directors, and while they can still get booked, Nadia expresses its more difficult for them. During the interview, we also learn who Nadia enjoyed watching when they were growing up and who they would watch wrestling with as well. Nadia also discusses training, keeping their adult entertainment name the same as their wrestling name and what's in store for Nadia White in 2025!!Nadia White's Social MediaInstagram: @NadiaWWrestlingTwitter: @NadiaWWrestlingPro Wrestling Tee's: https://www.prowrestlingtees.com/wrestler-t-shirts/nadiawhite.htmlTime Stamp00:00 Intro00:16 We've seen professional wrestlers come from all walks of life Finn Balor once had a Balor Club is for everyone shirt, AEW had a motto that wrestling is for everyone. Today I am sitting down with Nadia White an independent pro wrestler who is also an adult film star who's faced many challenges in there journey as a professional wrestler00:32 Nadia how are you today?00:58 Were you a fan growing up? 01:17 who were some favorites?02:17 How was it being trained by Davey Richards and Team Ambition?03:43 READ Nadia's TWEETS. 04:43 Pro-wrestling and adult film industry go hand-n-hand0006:49 How often does a promoter cancel and what have they said to you?07:52 Did your original opponent for your first match still work that show after refusing to work with you?08:16 They call out female wrestler who refused to wrestle them08:51 the excitement of the first match, didn't know her but messaged her about the match prior09:35 Advice from pro wrestlers like Jerry Lynn11:11 Keeping her adult film name same as wrestling name (advised to change it)12:11 Being Banned from Nathen's Hotdog Eating Contest because they are an adult film star.13:50 Any issues in the locker room or at shows? "Kids love me at shows."15:00 Promotions, wrestlers who've had issues are at the "Bible Belt of The USA" and not researching them happened last week going on for two years not getting booked for being an adult film star17:45 Has her husband faced any backlash? Wrestling being sexist 18:20 but its okay for Matt Riddle on MLW to joke about going to AVN awards19:00 Talks on Triple H not wanting Chyna in the WWE HOF for doing porn, X-Pac shouldn't be in to.21:00 How are promoters when they cancel on them26:10 What's in store for pro wrestling and Nadia in 202526:55 "I just want to wrestle"27:11 Is their anyone they want to work with or a company to work in. "AEW. TNA." "Go to Japan"29:00 What they want the fans or promoters to know about them#WrestlingCommunity #indywrestler #SupportIndyWrestling #TNA #AEW #NadiaWhite #WrestlingNews #DarkSideOfTheRingSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/perchedonthetoprope/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Bodies begin turning up along interstate highways in the Bible Belt. The victims all have one thing in common: beautiful red hair. For years the police cannot catch the killer and the body count continues to rise. Who is murdering redheaded women and why?Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/dark-hearts-with-stacy-lee-podcast/donations

We have a 10 Commandment fight that has broken out in the Bible Belt, and a victory — although likely short term — for religious freedom. Michael Popok breaks down a new emergency order from an Louisiana Federal Judge blocking the MAGA Louisiana Governor and Legislature from compelling that every public class room display a giant 10 Commandment poster, and why Justice Alito — an arch conservative Christian — will likely overturn it on the way to the Supreme Court. Ollie: Head to https://ollie.com and use promo code: LEGALAF to receive 60% OFF your FIRST BOX of meals when you subscribe today! Join the LegalAF Patreon: https://Patreon.com/legalAF Remember to subscribe to ALL the MeidasTouch Network Podcasts: MeidasTouch: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/meidastouch-podcast Legal AF: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/legal-af MissTrial: https://meidasnews.com/tag/miss-trial The PoliticsGirl Podcast: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/the-politicsgirl-podcast The Influence Continuum: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/the-influence-continuum-with-dr-steven-hassan Mea Culpa with Michael Cohen: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/mea-culpa-with-michael-cohen The Weekend Show: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/the-weekend-show Burn the Boats: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/burn-the-boats Majority 54: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/majority-54 Political Beatdown: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/political-beatdown Lights On with Jessica Denson: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/lights-on-with-jessica-denson On Democracy with FP Wellman: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/on-democracy-with-fpwellman Uncovered: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/maga-uncovered Coalition of the Sane: https://meidasnews.com/tag/coalition-of-the-sane Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome back to Lez Hang Out, the podcast that wants to travel the world with you! This week Leigh (@lshfoster) and Ellie (@elliebrigida) hang out with Allyssa Leaton (@thelesbianpassport), a lesbian travel content creator, and talk about her experiences traveling as a solo queer woman. Allyssa grew up in the Bible Belt not knowing the word ‘lesbian', let alone what it meant. Now she proudly serves as much-needed queer representation in the travel space, inspiring hopeful LGBTQ+ travelers and finding all the best gay hotspots around the world.  Although Allyssa has visited more than 20 countries at only 25 years old, she does not make her travel decisions with ticking boxes in mind. Instead of always going to a new country, she has made repeat trips to her favorite places, including Buenos Aires (the city she credits as having the most sapphic-inclusive queer scene) and Iceland (a place where being gay was such a nonissue that Allyssa felt cultural whiplash). As an introvert, Allyssa has found herself thriving as a solo traveler, loving the freedom provided by solitude. We talk with Allyssa about the safety of traveling alone as a lesbian, tips for finding queer spaces and making friends in a new place, and the challenges of traveling full-time.  Check out Everywhere is Queer for a simple way to find queer spaces all over the world.  If this chat inspired you to take a BIG, GAY trip, you can find more information about our next Big, Gay trip on our website.  You can support Lez Hang Out while unlocking a bunch of exclusive perks including access to our Discord channel, 23 and counting full-length bonus episodes, weekly ad-free episodes, and more by joining us on Patreon. You can also support the podcast by buying our original merch at bit.ly/lezmerch and purchasing our original Lez-ssentials songs for as little as $1 each on Bandcamp. You can give us your answers to our Q & Gay questions on Twitter @lezhangoutpod and follow along on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook. Ellie (@elliebrigida) and (Leigh @lshfoster) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"Everyone hates my politics because I hate everybody." On this episode, your hosts Martyr (@dragthemartyr) and Cate (@ctepper) sit down with Drag Queen Extraordinaire and Legendary Entertainer - Lady Bunny! First, Cate and Martyr catch up over election results. Then, Lady Bunny joins them to discuss her thoughts on drag queen story hours, performing in the Bible Belt, Beyonce, being a "bleeding heart progressive,"  and the country's current state of affairs. Later, we hear more about her parody song process and her new show touring North America - the comedy and cabaret experience "Don't Bring The Kids!" Tour! + Follow our guest: Instagram: @official_lady_bunny, X/Twitter: @ladybunny77, Website: www.ladybunny.net + Get tickets to see Lady Bunny live for her “Don't Bring The Kids!” Tour: https://www.vossevents.com/tour/lady-bunny-dont-bring-the-kids/ ~ tinyurl.com/wiggingoutpodcast This episode is proudly sponsored by MOTTO- the new queer dating app! Tired of the endless scrolling? With Motto, Motto sends you daily matches of people who match your interests and kinks. There are no fees, no ads, and no nonsense. Use invite code: ZVOGS when signing up. ~ Follow the pod on Instagram and Facebook @wiggingoutpodcast and on twitter @wiggingoutpod Thots, comments, and dick pics? Please send to dragthemartyr@gmail.com Cover art: @glitterbabyonline Music: “Club” by Andrew Huang (www.youtube.com/channel/UCdcemy56JtVTrsFIOoqvV8g) under Creative Commons. Edits by C.Tepper

Teach me Sweden är en podcast om svensk historia med komikerna Jonathan Rollins (US) och Erik Broström (SE). Varje vecka läser en av dem för den andra om en händelse i svensk historia som förmodligen ingen av dem hört tidigare.In this episode, Erik teaches Jonathan about the shining city of Jönköping that is most associated with being a part of Sweden's "Bible Belt". Enjoy!Support this podcast at www.patreon.com/teachmesweden Get bonus content on Patreon Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on the Really Awful Movies Podcast, another sequel in a well-known horror franchise: Children of the Corn II: The Final Sacrifice. Time for some hicksploitation... And it comes in the form of a "corny" sequel to an 80s quasi-classic, featuring a bunch of rustic, Bible Belt folk. Tune in, and subscribe! (if you're interested in a discussion of the first Children of the Corn, give it a listen)

The ghosts in the South are different from other ghosts. They're just a little bit closer to the living, just a little more noticeable, and just a little more up in your business.And if you're looking for ways to bring echoes of the South into your spooky practice, the decks by Stacey Williams-Ng may be just the right gateway to peruse. Not only do her cards connect in a visceral way with the history of the South, but she's used them to talk to spirits herself. And she's here to tell you all about how you can do the same.Check out The Southern Gothic Oracle Deck and other amazing decks at https://lapantherestudio.com/Tired of websites that have been Frankensteined together using subpar body parts? Check out Becky and Diana's digital media and web design company, The Concept Spot, and let's make some digital spookiness together! theconceptspot.comSupport the show

Edward Stourton presents a special US edition of 'Sunday' from Atlanta, in which he reports on the religious vote from the Bible Belt battleground state of Georgia. With unique access to a broad spectrum of faith communities, he gets analysis on the role of religion in the election.Producers: Dan Tierney (in Atlanta) Catherine Murray Peter Everett Saba ZamanStudio managers: Amy Brennon John Cole Jack MorrisEditor: Tim Pemberton

A non-binary punk-rock poet with style an exec once described as “Aaron Sorkin on acid,” Frankie specializes in writing dark comedies about deeply flawed losers struggling to reinvent themselves in stories packed with punchlines taking bold swings towards silly and surreal. A New Jersey native raised in the Bible Belt, Frankie Campisano now calls Los Angeles their home. A non-binary punk-rock poet with a style an exec once described as “Aaron Sorkin on acid”, Frankie specializes in writing dark comedies about deeply flawed losers struggling to reinvent themselves in stories packed with punchlines taking bold swings towards silly and surreal. Frankie has worked in the entertainment industry for over ten years, including at NBCUniversal, Sony Pictures Classics, and Fox Broadcasting Company. They are freelance script development analysts, covering comedy pilots and features for production companies, contests, and film festivals, including the Austin Film Festival and the Boston Film Festival. Frankie graduated from Elon University (…no relation) in Elon, North Carolina (…again, no relation), where they studied screenwriting and poetry. As one of Elon's inaugural Alumni Production Fund winners, Frankie partnered with students and alumni to produce an experimental comedy/horror short, SECRET MENU BEAUTY PAGEANT, currently on the festival circuit. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/experimentalfilmpodcast/support

How does a woman with schizophrenia manage life as an entertainer, stuntwoman, and podcast host all while managing a severe mental illness? In this episode, Rachel Star Withers shares her intense and often shocking journey—from growing up in the Bible Belt believing her hallucinations were demons, to undergoing an exorcism before finally receiving a medical diagnosis of schizophrenia. She candidly discusses the stigma she faced, including being told she was "choosing Satan," and how she overcame it to become a thought leader in schizophrenia advocacy. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in psychology, mental health advocacy, or learning more about Rachel's badass life as a stunt performer in blockbuster movies like Black Panther. Rachel's story is a testament to resilience, and she opens up about what it truly means to live with schizophrenia while pursuing your passions and defying expectations. Hit play to learn more about this inspiring story of strength and survival and how you can help yourself – or your loved ones – do the same. “You know, I always think every thought that I have is dipped in schizophrenia. It's all I've ever known. I grew up seeing monsters. It's not something that I've ever lived without. There's monsters with me right now. I hallucinate a good 90% of the time. I'm always kind of not 100% sure if something I saw or experienced is all real. It's very much a part of me. For me, this is part of who I am.” ~Rachel Star Withers To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page. This episode is sponsored, in part, by Cornbread Hemp. They produced the first-ever USDA-certified organic CBD and THC gummies in America. Save 30% on your first order using code "Inside30." Our guest, Rachel Star Withers, creates videos documenting her schizophrenia, ways to manage and let others like her know they are not alone and can still live an amazing life. She has written Lil Broken Star: Understanding Schizophrenia for Kids and a tool for schizophrenics, To See in the Dark: Hallucination and Delusion Journal. Fun Fact: She has wrestled alligators. Rachel grew up seeing monsters, hearing people in the walls, and having intense urges to hurt herself. She creates videos documenting her schizophrenia and ways to manage and let others like her know they are not alone and can still live an amazing life. To learn more about Rachel, please visit her website, RachelStarLive.com. Our host, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. Gabe makes his home in the suburbs of Columbus, Ohio. He lives with his supportive wife, Kendall, and a Miniature Schnauzer dog that he never wanted, but now can't imagine life without. To book Gabe for your next event or learn more about him, please visit gabehoward.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Do you have a dream to reach people with the gospel, but feel stuck? There is hope for you. Join us on an incredible learning journey to discover, develop, and deploy your calling to bless the world around you with the love of Jesus! All NEW ULC Missions ClassFor a 10% off discount - use code LEADTIME10 For a 25% off discount - join our LeadTime Email List!! Kairos Network: Missionary Pathway Discover the transformative power of Lutheran theology with Pastor Matt Peoples as we explore the importance of adopting a missional hermeneutic to engage lost communities. We promise to equip you with insights on how the rich tenets of grace and justification can resonate deeply when contextualized thoughtfully. Guided by Matt's personal journey, we wrestle with the challenging balance between retaining essential theological elements and adapting cultural aspects. Our conversation shifts the traditional perspective, suggesting that it should be the church that adapts to the cultural landscape to truly connect with those they seek to reach.We also spotlight equipping leaders for effective gospel sharing and delve into what makes Lutheran church planting distinctively impactful. Amidst declining church attendance, we discuss the potential for mission by meeting people where they are, addressing felt needs, and building relationships outside conventional settings. The episode highlights exciting developments within the Kairos Network and the Missionary Pathway's expansion, emphasizing the need for training everyday missionaries across diverse cultural contexts. Whether it's navigating the Bible Belt or engaging in post-Christian regions, our discussion provides practical insights for anyone passionate about the potential of Lutheran theology in today's mission work.Support the showJoin the Lead Time Newsletter! (Weekly Updates and Upcoming Episodes)https://www.uniteleadership.org/lead-time-podcast#newsletterVisit uniteleadership.org

Whitney Shanahan is a national pro choice advocate and former Democratic Congressional candidate in California. However Whitney grew up conservative Christian in the Bible Belt. She left the Republican Party and her conservative upbringing after Trump won the presidency. While pregnant with her son in 2019 Whitney was questioned about what she had done to cause possible pregnancy complications - while seeking help in the ER. Because at that time, the red state she was living in was working to pass a 6 week abortion ban. Whitney went home from the ER shaken and scared - she researched and found that hundreds of women had been arrested and detained for their pregnancies and miscarriages. Whitney immediately became an activist. Whitney has led hundreds of pro-choice rallies across the country, launched a petition to defend abortion rights with over 270,000 signatures, and built an engaged community of over 500,000 followers on TikTok, and 40,000 on instagram- including pro choice celebrities like Rosie O'Donnell. In 2024 Whitney ran for US Congress in California and plans to run again. In this episode, we discuss Whitney's story, common misconceptions around late term abortions, what women need to know about no fault divorces, and so much more!   Time Stamps:   (0:40) Whitney's Bio (4:20) Becoming a Congressional Candidate (14:03) Abortion and Access (19:10) Common Misconceptions Around Late Term Abortion (23:35) A State Issue vs Federal Issue (31:55) No Fault Divorce (35:10) What Is A No Fault Divorce? (39:05) Changes and Evolution (48:15) How To Get Involved --------------------- Connect with Whitney Shanahan: @prochoicewithheart Receive access to reproductive healthcare in any state: aidaccess.com --------------------- Stay Connected: Instagram: @alyciaisrael Facebook: Alycia Israel Apparel: Be Your Own Daddy

In this episode of TheNo More Wasted Days' podcast, Sara interviews Kyle, who shares his journey of becoming nearly seven months alcohol-free. Kyle's path began with a 30-day alcohol-free challenge to prove to himself that he didn't have a problem. As a member of the Day Makers community, Kyle faced numerous challenges stemming from his upbringing in the Bible Belt and his struggles with anxiety and depression. He discusses how his relationship with alcohol evolved, starting from late college years to realizing his dependency. With support from his wife, AA, and the Day Makers community, Kyle made a firm decision to quit drinking and drastically improved his mental health and overall quality of life. This episode highlights his transformational story and offers advice for others considering a similar journey.   00:00 Introduction and Guest Overview 00:46 Kyle's Early Life and Influences 04:28 College Years and First Encounters with Alcohol 06:48 Struggles with Alcohol and Mental Health 10:21 The Turning Point and Seeking Help 13:07 Joining the 30 Day Challenge and Daymakers 23:34 Life After Quitting Alcohol 25:24 Reflections and Advice 37:05 Conclusion and Podcast Wrap-Up   Resources Mentioned: Join The Daymakers Community for personalized support and real-time interaction on alcohol-free topics. One-on-one coaching spots available with Heather. Join the Sober October Challenge — Use the coupon code "PODCAST" for 10% off your enrollment. CLICK HERE to find a local AA Meeting near you. ************************************************   Looking for support on your alcohol free journey? Consider joining us in the Day Makers Community.  CLICK HERE for all the details. Want some 1-on-1 support on your alcohol free journey?  Work with Heather as your alcohol free coach.  CLICK HERE to start working with Heather today.   Ready to take a break from alcohol to see what an alcohol free life feels like? Join the Sober October 30 Day Alcohol Free Challenge.  CLICK HERE to join, and remember to use the coupon code PODCAST to save on your enrollment. ************************************************ Follow the podcast on Social Media: IG: @nomorewasteddays.pod   Follow Sara on Social Media: IG: @no_more_wasted_days TikTok: @no_more_wasted_days Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NoMoreWastedDaysOfficial   Follow Heather on Social Media: IG: @theheatherleecollective TikTok: @thealcoholfreecoach

Please be aware that this content is not suitable for young children. George Carneal grew up in the '70s, raised by a Southern Baptist minister in the ultra-conservative Bible Belt where his world revolved around the church, country fried chicken and trying to fit in with other boys. As disco music pulsated through the speakers in his bedroom, he plotted his escape from the misery and boredom of Southern suburbia before landing in Los Angeles; a city of glitz and hedonism. Much like Alice as she traveled through the looking glass, this is George's journey through a queer culture fantasyland filled with drag queens, drugs and dangerous situations before discovering healing, joy and peace in Christ. In this episode, George, author of the book From Queer to Christ, shares his painful journey through a secular world at odds with homosexuality, in addition to a religious world that is hostile to homosexuals. He is hopeful that sharing his story through the eyes and mind of a confused child dealing with a same-sex attraction will give some insight into the pain and difficulty of navigating those two worlds. After 25 years of living as a gay man God brought him out of that lifestyle and into His glorious truth. His story will help parents of children of all ages understand how best to influence them for God, as well as teens and adults who are struggling with the LGBTQ agenda in their own lives. George says that he wrote the book for three reasons: To give Christians insight into what it's like for someone dealing with same-sex attraction and their struggle with faith   To give hope to parents who have children in the LGBTQ lifestyle   To give LGBTQ individuals who are struggling with this lifestyle to understand that there's a different narrative and that they are being lied to and expose those lies and find peace and give them hope George has been out of that lifestyle for almost 17 years now and has a passion to help others learn the truth. Through his testimony he wants others to know that deliverance from bondage is possible and there is hope in Christ. Go to CarolRoper.org/Podcast for shownotes GeorgeCarneal.com for George's website George's book From Queer to Christ

Ever wondered how to transform a relationship crushed by unmet expectations and traditional gender roles into a balanced, collaborative partnership? In this episode, relationship coach Sharon Costanzo joins Dr. mOe Anderson to share practical strategies for effective communication and equitable relationships. Sharon's journey from marital struggles to relationship coaching provides valuable insights into navigating tradition and change in modern marriages.Memorable Quotes:"It's not about the laundry list of complaints; it's about envisioning a balanced future together." – Sharon CostanzoKey Points:Sharon Costanzo's personal journey from marital frustration to relationship coaching.The impact of traditional gender norms, especially in the Bible Belt and Mormon communities.Strategies for fostering collaborative conversations and moving from complaints to future-oriented discussions.The importance of gratitude, acknowledgment, and pre-planned discussions in building equitable partnerships.Common mistakes in relationships and how to avoid them.Chapter Breakdown:(0:00:03) - Transforming Relationships Through Communication:Sharon Costanzo shares her journey from marital struggles to becoming a relationship coach, emphasizing the importance of self-advocacy and developing communication skills.(0:08:30) - Challenging Gender Norms in Relationships:An exploration of traditional gender roles, particularly in the Bible Belt and Mormon communities, and strategies for women to advocate for more equitable partnerships.(0:19:13) - Navigating Collaborative Conversations for Success:Practical advice on setting up future-oriented discussions, the value of optimism and gratitude, and common mistakes to avoid in relationships.Connect with Sharon for expert advice and a free introductory call on her website (https://www.respectedandconnected.com/contactSubscribe now and let's ignite your personal growth journey together, one empowering conversation at a time!     There are multiple great ways to support this indie, woman-owned, small business providing free educational and inspirational content. Join Dr. mOe's supporters' Club! By becoming a monthly supporter of the podcast, you can gain access to exclusive content and play an active role in producing educational and entertaining content!  Join HERE ORUse one of these secure, fee-free ways to show some one-time appreciation: 1.☕ Buy Me a Coffee: Click Here2.

As Election Day approaches, both candidates focus on campaigning in crucial battleground states like Georgia, and North Carolina. The Bible Belt region will play a critical role in determining the next president. Georgia is considered a "purple" state following President Joe Biden's win in 2020, and former President Donald Trump is striving to win it back. Tia Mitchell, Washington Correspondent for the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, joins to discuss what each candidate needs to do to win over voters in the Peach State and why the economy is such an important issue for its residents. The Sunbelt states of Arizona and Nevada will be crucial players in determining the winner of the 2024 election. With top issues like the border being prominent in the region -- where are voters standing now that the race is between former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris? And how will both candidates embracing the 'no tax on tips' proposal impact voters in cities like Las Vegas, where the service and hospitality industries have major influence? The Hill National Political Reporter Julia Manchester breaks down the political dynamics in the region, the ways Republicans and Democrats are aiming to make their case to Sunbelt voters, and how other issues like abortion play heavily in states like these. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This is a Grave Talks CLASSIC EPISODE! Growing up in an area of the country with more churches than stoplights can be a happy and peaceful setting for some. That is unless you don't ‘fit in' or follow the beliefs of everyone around you. No, if you happen to think differently or sense differently, it can be a complicated, even traumatizing, existence. That is the life Melinda Williams experienced growing up in the Bible Belt. Because of her sensitivity and gifts, many of the people she thought of as family would eventually shun her, calling her evil or worse… the devil himself. Melinda knew better. She wanted nothing to do with negativity, evil, or the devil. No, she was more of the light, and as it turned out, those who claimed to be of the light were, in fact, the very “dark” and negative beings that they so feared. Melinda would find a path to practice her beliefs and share her gifts of positivity with the world. This is Part One of her story today on The Grave Talks. Become a Premium Supporter of The Grave Talks Through Apple Podcasts or Patreon (http://www.patreon.com/thegravetalks) There, you will get: Access to every episode of our show, AD-FREE! Access to every episode of our show before everyone else! Other EXCLUSIVE supporter perks and more!

This is a Grave Talks CLASSIC EPISODE! Growing up in an area of the country with more churches than stoplights can be a happy and peaceful setting for some. That is unless you don't ‘fit in' or follow the beliefs of everyone around you. No, if you happen to think differently or sense differently, it can be a complicated, even traumatizing, existence. That is the life Melinda Williams experienced growing up in the Bible Belt. Because of her sensitivity and gifts, many of the people she thought of as family would eventually shun her, calling her evil or worse… the devil himself. Melinda knew better. She wanted nothing to do with negativity, evil, or the devil. No, she was more of the light, and as it turned out, those who claimed to be of the light were, in fact, the very “dark” and negative beings that they so feared. Melinda would find a path to practice her beliefs and share her gifts of positivity with the world. This is Part Two of her story today on The Grave Talks. Become a Premium Supporter of The Grave Talks Through Apple Podcasts or Patreon (http://www.patreon.com/thegravetalks) There, you will get: Access to every episode of our show, AD-FREE! Access to every episode of our show before everyone else! Other EXCLUSIVE supporter perks and more!

The “Bible Belt” is that mythical part of the United States with the highest per capita church attendees. Thom and Jess look at the major shifts in the region and predict whether there will still be a Bible Belt in ten years. The post Is the Bible Belt Disappearing? appeared first on Church Answers.

Kam Waters, co-creator of the documentary film soon to be released, Christspiracy, sits down with Tony Jones from The Reverend Hunter Podcast to debate if Jesus was actually a vegan. The Film “Christspiracy” documents Kam's personal quest, as a lover of Christ, across the globe to answer the question “is there a spiritual way to kill an animal?” interviewing theologians, archeologists, Christian farmers and more. Kam grew up in the Bible Belt, was born and raised in the Christian church, and began questioning his traditions' position on animal ethics when he realized there was more to the story than he had been told. Tony Jones is a writer, theologian, outdoorsman, and passionate hunter who believes the lack of people currently killing and butchering their own animals for food “is one of the most primal aspects of religion that has been lost.” He's written many books including his latest “The God of Wild Places: Rediscovering the Divine in the Untamed Outdoors.” He teaches at Fuller Theological Seminary and lives in Minnesota with his wife, kids, and dog. Both of these men are passionate about their cause.  Kam and the Christspiracy team are shaking up the common narrative, but Tony comes in sharing where he thinks they go wrong. Did God put animals on this earth for us to eat and use how we see fit? What does “dominion over the animals” really mean? And what does it mean on a broader scale if Jesus really did advocate for compassion for animals? Or is eating animals without boundaries, a God - given right that is good? WHERE TO FIND TONY Website: https://reverendhunter.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thereverendhunter The Reverend Hunter Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-reverend-hunter-podcast/id1500247799 WHERE TO FIND KAM Christspiracy: https://www.christspiracy.com/Christspiracy Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/christspiracy Kam's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kameronwaters/ SPONSORS: Anima Mundi Herbals: Get 20% off with my code ELLENFISHER20 https://glnk.io/106o3/ellen Cozy Earth: Enter COZYELLEN for 30% off your order https://cozyearth.com/ellenfisher OSEA: enter the code  ELLEN_10 for 10% off your order https://oseamalibu.com/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=influencer&utm_campaign=062024_EVG_ELLENFISHER WHERE TO FIND ME  Get The Empowered Pregnancy & Birth course: https://go.theempoweredbirth.com/ellen Get my ebooks: https://www.ellenfisher.com/ebooks My instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ellenfisher/ LISTEN to these episodes on Apple Podcast or Spotify: https://link.chtbl.com/ellenfisherpod Elevate your videos with record-label quality music from Musicbed: http://share.mscbd.fm/ellenfisher

In this episode I want to erase the myth and polarization of selflessness. I grew up in the Bible Belt and heard so much about dying to self. Altruism and serving others was held up as the holy grail of human achievement. I and so many others got the message that if an action or activity gave you any joy it was selfish and the goal was to abstain from any desire and only fulfill the desires and needs of others. My experience is this made for a lot of guilty people, and I now believe we translated it wrong. This is not what I see from Jesus, and the most giving and fulfilled people I know are very joyful in fulfilling their own pleasures as well. I want us all free to understand what fulfills us, fulfills others better than “dying to self” does. Does this concept concern you? Drive with me a moment to unpack it and see if you don't agree and feel incredibly empowered in a new perspective on so called selflessness. Got a comment or question about an episode? Want to ask a question about your drive? Email me. I don't want to just talk to you here, I want to talk with you. kmiller@kevinmiller.co. Head to airdoctorpro.com and use promo code KEVIN and depending on the model receive UP TO 39% off or UP TO $300 off! Sign up for a one-dollar-per-month trial period at shopify.com/kevin Go to shipstation.com and use code KEVIN to sign up for your FREE 60-day trial. For comprehensive financial news and analysis, visit YahooFinance.com Sign up for AromaTru's Insider Club and today you'll receive a FREE Waterless Oil Diffuser and a FREE lemon eucalyptus oil - that's over $200 in savings. Head to aromatruorganics.com/kevin to take advantage of this exclusive offer.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices