Podcasts about Chick

Southeastern 16's Jay Greeson and Chris Lee preview and predict an outcome on the Indiana-Oregon rematch in the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl as part of the 25-26 College Football Playoff semifinals. Topics include: Indiana won the first game, 30-20, and did it on the road. Neither team dominated the offensive stat sheet. The first one was outdoors; this one wil be indoors. Both teams have elite coaches; Dan Lanning spent time at Georgia and has built an elite program in Eugene, while Indiana's Curt Cignetti has engineered a stunning turn-around that's the talk of college football. Indiana had a star-studded cast of all-Americans all over the field. That included Heisman-Trophy-winning quarterback Fernando Mendoza, left tackle Carter Smith, defensive tackle Tyrique Tucker, defensive end Stephen Daley, linebacker Aiden Fisher, cornerback DeAngelo Ponds and safety Louis Moore. The Hoosiers were also great on special teams. Kicker Nicolas Radicic hasn't missed a kick in college and Indiana also returned a couple of punts for scores. Oregon has stars in its own right. Quarterback Dante Moore is the top NFL prospect in some circles. Tight end Kenyon Sadiq is versatile and perhaps the top NFL prospect at his position. Offensive lineman Emmanuel Pregnon and Iapani Laloulu were also all-American picks and combined with Sadiq, make Oregon nasty in the trenches. Defensive back Dillon Thineman was also an all-American pick and freshman defensive back Brandon Finney was elite, too. Each team gained 2.5 yards more per play than it gave up. Oregon was great in the turnover battle (forced turnovers on 2.6% of snaps, gave it up at a 1.3% rate) while Indiana (forced them on 3.4% of snaps, gave them up 0.9% of the time) was exceptional. &COLLAR Use promo code SEC16 for 16% off! YEARLY CO Use promo code SE16KIT for a free sizing kit! https://yearlyco.com/ ROKFORM Use promo code SEC25 for 25% off! The world's strongest magnetic phone case! https://www.rokform.com/ JOIN OUR MEMBERSHIP Join the "It Just Means More" tier for bonus videos and live streams! Join Link: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCv1w_TRbiB0yHCEb7r2IrBg/join FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA Twitter: https://twitter.com/16Southeastern ADVERTISE WITH SOUTHEASTERN 16 Reach out to caroline.bellcow@gmail.com to find out how your product or service can be seen by over 200,000 unique viewers each month! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Introducing my brand new radio show out on Select Radio.  Today's the first day of, what we hope to be, a long and fabulous relationship together.  The show is filled with tracks as wonderful as ever and brings you the weekend vibes live on a Friday morning to set you up for the days ahead. 1) Things will get better (Moodena Remix) - Michelle Weeks, Luke Delite 2) The get down - Sammy Deuce 3) Free - Mark Whites 4) Dance with us (Mannix Crystal Disko Vocal) - Jamie Lewis , Michael Watford 5) Pages - Discogram 6) Disco's Finest - Harvey Ross 7) I love you so much - Alex Raimondi 8) Love tonight (Knee Deep mix) - Chick 2000 9) Bon Voyage - Zoo Phonic 10) It's the pride - Old Chap 11) Don't say goodnight (Minister Ballantine's Disko Slap) - First Love 12) Supernatural Funk - Eugenio Fico 13) Piano Groovin' - Da Funk Junkies 14) Don't you want my love (Full intention extended disco mix) - Debbie Jacobs 15) Rolling in the deep (Lars Delfstein Disco edit) - Adele

Is your practice patient- or production-driven? The answer should be purpose-driven. Kiera talks about how shifting your core values in a certain way can actually grow everything else. Episode resources: Subscribe to The Dental A-Team podcast Schedule a Practice Assessment Leave us a review Transcript: The Dental A Team (00:00) Hello, Dental A Team listeners. This is Kiera and I am excited. This is a podcast built just for you by you. If you ever want me to make a podcast for you, just email in Hello@TheDentalATeam.com or go to our website, TheDentalATeam.com and click on the podcast tab. You can submit topics for me to record for you. And today is a great one and I'm super excited about it. Someone asked production focus versus patient focus striking the right balance.   Does it have to be both? So is your practice driven by numbers or by people? And does it have to be a choice? I'm super jazzed. I'm super excited because this is the type of juicy stuff I like to get into because this is what offices talk about all the time. Oh my gosh, we're production focused. Well, that means you're not patient focused. Oh my gosh, you're patient focused. That means you're not production focused. Does it have to be? There's tension. It's tension. It's like, are you on the right side or the left side? Are you blue or are you Which side are you on?   Like there's tension here, production focus versus patient focus. Does it really have to be this debate? So I love this. Email me. You guys are love a good pen pal. Hello@TheDentalATeam.com. I like pen pals. You guys remember that? If you want to write me a letter, you can send me a letter. It's in Verdi, Nevada on the website, P.O. Box. I think it's 635 Verdi, Nevada. No clue what it is, but I will get it and I'll send you a postcard back. So pen pal for real, email us.   You guys, really do love a good pen pal. I will seriously send you a letter back. So ⁓ write me. I would love to hear from you. But I'm curious, does it have to be production focus or patient focus or can it be both? Is it the chicken or the egg? I definitely think that there has to be a way because the most successful practices integrate production and patience. So the answer is yes, it can be both. And I don't care what side of the coin you're on. I'm gonna teach you that you can actually be on both sides of the coin and still maintain your ethics.   like your ethical integrity, all of that. You guys, this is the Dental A Team. I'm obsessed with dentists. I'm obsessed with dental teams. I'm obsessed with making you happy. I'm obsessed with positively impacting this world in the greatest way possible. And that's why we built this podcast free for you to give you all the tips and tricks. And all I ask in return is that you leave us a review and share this with somebody that can change their life. My goal is to have this podcast into the hands of every single dental office out there. And guys, you are crushing it. We are in the millions of downloads and I can't do that without you. So please today.   share, download, or leave us a five star review. That means the world to me and I do read those reviews. So thank you. Thank you for everybody who reads those reviews. I appreciate each of you. So today I want to talk about patient focused version of production focused because you know, I got a pen pal out there. production focused means that we're focused on high volume, goal driven, and we're going to probably have burnout. Like that's the drive. It is a lot of times ego. That's okay. So when I'm talking to you.   You can test yourself right now. Are you ready? I'm gonna say, hey, what is your production? Now, to answer that, what's your production? If you just told me your number in gross, you're a little ego driven and I love you for it. And I'm gonna tell you that that is one of the worst things to do because there's no way for us you to ever collect it. I was talking to a practice the other day and they're like, yes, Kiera, we are a $7 million practice and we had a million dollars worth of write-offs. And I was like, well, shoot. So.   You're actually, think they actually have two million. So you're not a seven million, you're a five million. That's a bit of a minute. So you're actually a five million dollar practice and I'd rather talk about real numbers because then I can actually truly get you to seven million rather than feeding your ego at this. So that tends to be the case where you're, if you, you might be a bit production. If you're presenting those in gross, ⁓ present them in, it's okay to your buddies. You can present in gross. To me, to here, to this conversation in real life.   please, please, please present them in net, what you can actually collect. Now, if we're too patient focused, we tend to run at a slower pace, high trust, but we risk a lot of inefficiency and you actually risk the, like, you really do run a risk of you're not looking at the numbers and you actually can create a really, really, really scary spot where you actually are in like profit row where you have no money. ⁓ And so you gotta have both.   We've got to have production where we're able to serve our patients and we've got to care about our patients. We've got to make sure that both of those come together because that's a true business. This is what we're looking for. So I just want you to look at yourself right now and I want you to audit you and your practice. Where do you lean more? Okay. So do you lean a little more left? Do you lean a little more right? Do you lean a little more production focused or do you lean a little more patient focused? It's okay. There's no right or wrong. I just want you to like really look at yourself and assess what route do you fall?   because it's gonna help you, okay? So where are you? We're not like all patient or all production, but which way do you lean? I want you to answer that. You can pen pal me. Remember, I got pen pals out there. So be another pen pal for me. And then step two is I want you to marry metrics with meaning, which isn't that cute? Yes, chat GPT helped me on that one. Marry metrics with meaning, I love that. I was like, that is such a good way to bring this to the table. So we want you guys to be like in the middle, we're not production, we're not patient, we're purpose.   Did you love that? Another P, we're not patient, we're not production, we're purpose driven. So what this is going to be is you can actually like increase case acceptance to outcomes, not quotas. So it's not like we need 20 crowns, we need to help this many patients. help team members see, like I love Tiff, she said this, she was like, production is the measuring stick to see how many patients we're serving. That feels so much better than like we got to hit 150,000.   No, 150,000 shows is how many patients were able to serve. Let's quantify that up to how many patients and now let's put that up to 200,000 and serve that many patients. So we'll help you guys see that like this is a reflection of care. It's not like just, I don't know, like a number on a scorecard. It's people. You guys, all that production was people that we were able to change their lives. That's what we do in Dental A Team. I literally like, when we talk about our numbers, for a while I put up numbers and it was just a number.   So you can tell it's a little bit more production focused rather than patient focused. And it didn't matter to me. And then when I was like, okay, we're going to go out and I want to serve, like I want Dental A Team to serve 500 dental practices. Like in one year, I want us to have that many that to me, like think of how many lives we're going to change. Cause my ultimate goal is impact to possibly impact this world in the greatest way possible. So I was like, all right, let's put an audacious goal out there. I want to serve 500 offices. Yeah, you can join us. Yes, of course.   And like now it became funds. Like the number is tied to people. Cause I ultimately care about people. care about impact. Money can have impact, but it doesn't drive me. What drives me is changing people's lives. Life is my passion, dentistry is my platform. So how can you help your team see that? So we have to help them see like for me with teams, case acceptance, I'm just saying like that's how many smiles you were able to like truly benefit. There's so many lives you're able to change. I believe the case acceptance is life changing. I was the patient on the other side of that coin.   who literally had my life changed by identities. So when we shifted like KPIs are metrics, yes, but metrics have meaning and their purpose. So what does this case acceptance actually reflect? What does this production actually reflect? What did these new patients numbers actually reflect? And when we look at it as this like patient centric, it becomes so much more fun. I did this in a team meeting the other day where, gosh, we were sitting there and I was like, all right, rattle off to me like why you guys go to Chick-fil-A? And they're like talking about it. Not one of them said price.   Not one of them. Not one of them when I talked about McDonald's said price. So when I looked at this, I thought, okay, people go to Chick-fil-A for the experience. And I thought, how can we become a more patient centric practice that uses metrics to see how we're doing of serving those patients? That's what it is. That's how you marry metrics with meaning. These numbers on a KPI scorecard are telling me the vitals of how good we're serving our patients.   So when I look at our hygiene, I wanna know, are we diagnosing perio or are we doing bloody profies? When I look at Florida, you guys, I'm a huge proponent of Florida. If you're not, that's okay, we can still be friends. I'm here to also teach you holistic. I love Florida. Florida changed my life. It prevented so many cavities for me, like truly was life-changing. So I'm like, absolutely, give it to patients. So when I look at your hygiene numbers, I'm not looking at like, did you get your eight out of eight today? I'm looking at like, did you help proactively prevent decay on all of your patients today?   Of course, if they don't want it, that's fine. But like, let's use our words, words are free. Let's set it up in a way to help more patients say yes. I am patient centric with production numbers and using words to get the results I'm looking for. I'm looking for outcomes, not effort. One of my favorite, favorite, favorite lines, and it's probably gonna become like a core value. My team doesn't know this, you guys, is we measure our, we measure by outcomes, not activity. ⁓ we measure it by outcomes.   not activity because I can sit here and say, I served this many patients, but if I didn't close any cases, I did not get the outcome of helping truly get them the smiles and the health that they deserve. Bottom line. So then step three is you got to change your culture. You got to have a culture that supports both. It's got to be efficiency and empathy. It's got to be production and patient. It's got to be like truly driven. And I've got so many offices like Kiera, I don't want to my team about the numbers. That's fine. You don't have to.   But can't we also help them see that the numbers are helping more patients? Every team I've ever gone into has told me the reason they're in tennis tree is to help change patients' lives. That's why they're here. So when I look at this, I'm like, okay, if that's why we're all here, how do we know that we're actually helping the number of patients that we could? Like genuinely somebody tell me, how do we actually know in a tangible, non-emotional way? How do I know? So we've got to help people see that like, okay, fantastic. We have a culture where when we hit our numbers,   We know we serve the patients that we're set here to serve. Period. You're not gonna go away from that and helping people see that numbers equate the outcomes we're looking for. Numbers help us serve patients. And on the flip side, when we, like you guys, there's a book called Unreasonable Hospitality. Have your team do fun things like that where we celebrate the birthdays, the weddings, the anniversaries, the celebrations. We have like a little gift basket on the side where we can quickly go and have some fun with those people to make this magic moment for our patients.   have magic moments that produce results. Team training, we gotta do patient and production language. We've gotta be empathetic. So for me to say like, my gosh, I'm so excited that you don't work with Dr. Jones. Dr. Jones is incredible. They're gonna take great care of you. Let's get you scheduled for this appointment. I know Dr. Jones definitely wants to get you back. I've got Monday or Wednesday, which works best for you. That was patient and production centric, both in the same exact equation.   when I talk to them about case acceptance, it's like, perfect. So here's the treatment that Dr. Jones diagnosed for you. This is your total out of pocket. This is your insurance estimate. This will be your total when I see you on Wednesday. What questions do you have for me? I want you to be rock solid moving forward. Again, production and patient focus. I want them to be so solid. I'm genuinely so concerned about them. I really want them to be solid. If they tell me they got to talk to their spouse, absolutely, 100%. I want you to talk to your spouse.   Help me what questions they're going to ask. That way I can make sure you're fully prepped when you chat with them. That's production and patient focused. A cancellation calls in. my gosh, what's going on? Tell me, like, ⁓ I've been so worried about you. Like help me understand where you at, what's going on. Like, are you okay? Tell me like, you're sick. Like, my gosh, what's going on? I know there's been a bug going around. Someone says I can't make it from work. my gosh. Like, I'm so sorry to hear that. Tell me what's going on. Let's find a solution. I know Dr. wanted to see you.   I can't wait to see you and I know there's gonna be a solution for us. Production and patient focus. And I think when teams see that you don't have to be one or the other, production focus can come across aggressive, patient focus can come across non-aggressive and very like twiddling my thumb sometimes. And so I'm like the true win is the middle ground. The true win is where we see that patients need to feel loved.   and important and that they're humans. And they also need to see that we love them so much. And we're going to make sure that they get the treatment that they need to get done. And we're going to help use our words to make sure it's easy for them to say yes. Both are doable. Both are right. Both are necessary. This is how you guys are able to have it. And so I think you guys can have conversations with the team. How can we be patient and production focused? How can we marry the two because we know the best practices are both.   They are, there's not one lever that's stronger than the other. Both are married together as a perfect whole, two perfect complete whole. How can we be more, if you know from, remember we did an audit, if you know you're a little more production focused, how can you be a bit more patient focused? Have that come up in the team. If you know you're a bit more patient focused, how can we be a bit more production focused? And I know you might be bristling on both sides. Production focused people might think that, my gosh, it's a complete waste of time to be patient focused.   Patient focused people, they're like, my gosh, you'll maybe be aggressive and like force these people into treatment. The answer is no to both of those. Us treating people like human beings, production focused teams will actually make those patients want to be here more. Our teams that are more patient focused, turning more production focused, it's gonna help us make sure that we're not missing things on the patients, that we're not doing inadequate care. And that actually that patient's not leaving confused and that they truly know what they need to do. And it's very clear of next steps for them.   Clear is kind. Being direct is kind. Loving people as people is kind. So I'd really encourage you to adopt this into your practice. And if you struggle with this, if your doctor is like, ⁓ I am not having that team meeting, I'm not having that conversation, great. That's why we have a job. That's what we love to do. Our job is to align doctors and team members to help team members see that production is patient focused and to see that patient focus is production focused. Both sides are necessary.   You need both of them. And so to be able to help you and your team get there, I think is a beautiful thing. So I would really, really, really encourage you to be patient and production focused, both of them. Look to see where you could be a little bit more on whichever side you don't naturally lean to. I know you can already do more on the side that you naturally lean to. Go the other side. I want you to think about it. I want you to bring that into your culture. And I'd really encourage you. And if you struggle with this or you're like, I don't really know how to do this, reach out. Hello@TheDentalATeam.com.   It's not just about this. It's about other goals. It's about other spaces. It's about other awkward conversations that you just don't know how to navigate. It's about getting your team and you doctors rowing in the exact same direction. And that's what we're here to do. So reach out. Hello@TheDentalATeam.com. And as always remember, patient and production is purpose driven dentistry. And that's what you're here to do. And I know that you're here for that. I know that you care so much about your patients and that's why I wanted to really bring this up. So thanks for the pen pal. Thanks for writing. I'd love to hear from more of you. Hello@TheDentalATeam.com.   Go to our website, give me some more topics and reach out. I'd love for you to be one of our 500 practices. We get to help love serve and have that be the purpose to positively impact and change your life for the better. Not just your practice, but you as a person. Because at the end of the day, I care about you as a human being. I care about you thriving. I care about you having the practice of your dreams and having the team of your dreams because I care about you as a human. So reach out and as always know that I'm rooting for you. Know that I care about you.   Know that I adore you as always. Thanks for listening. I'll catch you next time on the Dental A Team Podcast.  

What sets great leaders apart in times of crisis and change? In this week's episode, John shares a powerful insight he gained from Chick-fil-A chairman Dan Cathy on the importance of self-awareness and situational awareness for leaders — especially in tough times!  After his lesson, Mark Cole and Chris Goede discuss practical ways to cultivate these awarenesses as a leader. They explore how seeking honest feedback, asking thoughtful questions, and learning from role models can expand your leadership capacity. Key takeaways:  Self-awareness doesn't happen in isolation—it requires the courage to invite feedback from others and the humility to receive it.  Before you can lead yourself effectively, you must first know yourself authentically. Self-awareness precedes situational awareness.  Situational awareness grows through experience, but you can accelerate it by asking "What would a leader I admire do in this situation?" and seeking input from trusted mentors. Our BONUS resource for this episode is the Why Self-Awareness Sets Great Leaders Apart Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John's teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting MaxwellPodcast.com/SelfAware and clicking "Download the Bonus Resource." Take the next step in your growth journey and become a Maxwell Leadership Certified Team Member. Click here to speak with a Program Advisor today! References:  Watch this episode on YouTube!  Accelerate your growth with the Maxwell Leadership App (start your 7-day free trial today with code PODCAST7!)  The Value of Going First Podcast Episode  Join the Maxwell Leadership Certified Team 

Hey, y'all we're off until January 5th! If you're looking for some Chick content we've got a treat for you.In this episode from June of 2024 The Chicks sit down with Glenn Beck to discuss his new book, Chasing Embers, and its relevance to our current dystopian world. Glenn shares his tips for staying grounded and hopeful amidst the chaos, and reveals how his personal experiences have led him to embrace vulnerability and authenticity with his audience. His passion for history and storytelling shines through the whole, must-see conversation. SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS TO SUPPORT OUR SHOW!Give your dog great health this holiday season. Get a FREE Jump Start Trial Bag—just covershipping. Visit https://RuffChicks.com and use promo code CHICKS.Get back to basics with Bulwark's Know Your Risk Portfolio Review—don't put it off, go tohttps://KnowYourRiskPodcast.com today.Subscribe and stay tuned for new episodes every weekday!Follow us here for more daily clips, updates, and commentary:YoutubeFacebookInstagramTikTokXLocalsMore Info

Hey, y'all we're off until January 5th! If you're looking for some Chick content, we've got a treat for you. In this episode from June of 2024, The Chicks sit down with Glenn Beck to discuss his new book, Chasing Embers, and its relevance to our current dystopian world. Glenn shares his tips for staying […]

Hey, y'all we're off until January 5th! If you're looking for some Chick content we've got a treat for you. Here's a look back at an episode that will help you get to know Daisy a little bit better. Enjoy! VISIT OUR WEBSITE DAILY! https://chicksonright.com Subscribe and stay tuned for new episodes every weekday! Follow […]

Top Stories for December 30th Publish Date: December 30th From the BG AD Group Studio Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast. Today is Tuesday, December 30th and Happy Birthday to Sandy Koufax I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by KIA Mall of Georgia. Georgia State Parks offering First Day Hikes You can ring in the New Year early with your kids at Stone Mountain Park Registration for Georgia Rivers spring events now open All of this and more is coming up on the Gwinnett Daily Post podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen daily and subscribe! Break 1: Kia Mall of Georgia - Sugar Hill Ice Skating Rink STORY 1: Georgia State Parks offering First Day Hikes Kick off 2026 with a breath of fresh air—literally. Georgia State Parks are bringing back their First Day Hikes tradition on New Year’s Day, offering guided adventures for everyone, from casual strollers to hardcore hikers. Bonus? You’ll snag a First Day Hikes sticker to prove you started the year on the right foot. At Indian Springs, choose between a three-mile trek at 10 a.m. or a laid-back “Easy Breezy” hike at 1 p.m. High Falls? Two hikes, coffee, Chick-fil-A, and even a K-9 demo. Amicalola Falls adds a Birds of Prey show. Parking fees apply—call ahead to register! STORY 2: You can ring in the New Year early with your kids at Stone Mountain Park Stone Mountain Park’s got your New Year’s plans covered—especially if you’ve got kids (or just don’t want to stay up ‘til midnight). On Dec. 31, they’re doing an early countdown at 9 p.m., complete with fireworks and even snow. The fun kicks off at noon with Stone Mountain Christmas attractions, but the real magic happens at 8 p.m. Princess Aurora’s Light Spectacular and the Christmas Drone Show take center stage—this year with fire drones. Yep, drones that shoot fireworks. Think Santa’s sleigh launching sparks. Afterward? Music, dancing, and that 9 p.m. countdown. Who needs midnight anyway? STORY 3: Registration for Georgia Rivers spring events now open Ready to paddle into 2026? Georgia Rivers just dropped its adventure-packed schedule, and it’s a dream for river lovers—whether you’re a seasoned kayaker or just figuring out which end of the paddle goes in the water. From the Okefenokee Swamp to the Toccoa’s whitewater, there’s something for everyone: weekend camping trips, kayak fishing classes, even beginner-friendly “Kayaking 101” sessions. Oh, and don’t miss the America250 trips—history lessons on the water. Scholarships are available, too, because everyone deserves a chance to explore Georgia’s rivers. Check out the full lineup at garivers.org and start planning your next adventure. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.874.3200 for more info. We’ll be right back Break 2: Ingles Markets STORY 4: In Gwinnett, it’s hard to afford housing on less than $75,000 a year Jeannie Johnson works two full-time jobs. At 54, she’s still chasing the dream most people take for granted—owning a home. “I’ve never bought a house. Never even had a brand-new car,” she says, standing on the back porch of her rented townhome in Lawrenceville. Her kids, grown but not gone, help with rent and groceries. Anayah, her daughter, once thought about moving out—until she saw the prices. “She said, ‘Yeah, I think I’ll stay home a little longer.’” Rent’s nearly doubled in recent years, from $785 to $1,485. Saving? Forget it. “Maybe someday,” Jeannie says. STORY 5: Lanier Islands Resort offers two ways to ring in the New Year Looking for a New Year’s Eve plan that works for everyone? Lanier Islands Resort might just have you covered. Whether you’re chasing a family-friendly evening or a grown-ups-only Havana Nights bash, they’ve got something for both vibes. For the kids (and parents who’ll probably be in bed by 10), there’s a celebration at Game Changer—think arcade games, duckpin bowling, axe throwing, and a sparkling cider toast at 7 p.m. Free to get in, but activities are pay-as-you-go. Meanwhile, the 21+ crowd can party in style with cocktails, a gourmet buffet, live music, and a champagne toast at midnight. Break 3: DTL HOLIDAY INTERVIEW - MARK BERENS - BERENS FROZEN CUSTARD STORY 6: Gwinnett County Public Library earns North American Innovation award for Hooper-Renwick Themed Library The Gwinnett County Public Library just snagged a huge honor—it’s been named a Top Innovator for 2025 by the Urban Libraries Council. Why? Their new Hooper-Renwick Themed Library in Lawrenceville, a space that’s all about equity, inclusion, and honoring history. “This award means the world to us,” said Charles Pace, GCPL’s executive director. “In a time when libraries face so many challenges, it’s a reminder of why we do what we do.” The library, built on the site of Gwinnett’s only pre-desegregation Black high school, blends history with modern resources, showcasing memorabilia and stories that deserve the spotlight. STORY 7: Lawrenceville's Baggett Elementary is GCPS's lone elementary school offering organized sports At Baggett Elementary, sports aren’t just about the game—they’re about giving kids a place to belong. Even though organized sports don’t officially start in Gwinnett County until middle school, a group of passionate teachers and staff decided to change that. It all started four years ago with basketball. Now? They’ve got T-ball, flag football, soccer, and cheerleading too. “We’ve basically built our own league,” said Jasmin Riley, the school’s PE teacher. The games are in-house—Baggett Blue vs. Baggett Red—but the energy is real. We’ll have closing comments after this Break 4: GCPS Hiring Signoff – Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.gwinnettdailypost.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com www.kiamallofga.com Ice Rink – Downtown Sugar Hill Holiday Celebration 2025 – City of Sugar Hill Team GCPS https://www.downtownlawrencevillega.com/ NewsPodcast, CurrentEvents, TopHeadlines, BreakingNews, PodcastDiscussion, PodcastNews, InDepthAnalysis, NewsAnalysis, PodcastTrending, WorldNews, LocalNews, GlobalNews, PodcastInsights, NewsBrief, PodcastUpdate, NewsRoundup, WeeklyNews, DailyNews, PodcastInterviews, HotTopics, PodcastOpinions, InvestigativeJournalism, BehindTheHeadlines, PodcastMedia, NewsStories, PodcastReports, JournalismMatters, PodcastPerspectives, NewsCommentary, PodcastListeners, NewsPodcastCommunity, NewsSource, PodcastCuration, WorldAffairs, PodcastUpdates, AudioNews, PodcastJournalism, EmergingStories, NewsFlash, PodcastConversations See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hey, y'all we're off until January 5th! If you're looking for some Chick content we've got a treat for you. Here's a look back at an episode that will help you get to know Daisy a little bit better. Enjoy!VISIT OUR WEBSITE DAILY! https://chicksonright.comSUPPORT OUR SPONSORS TO SUPPORT OUR SHOW!Save 25% now off the Red-Light Face Mask and more at https://BonCharge.com/Chicks — yourcode is automatically applied! Don't wait—grab the perfect holiday gift before this deal ends onDecember 31.Subscribe and stay tuned for new episodes every weekday!Follow us here for more daily clips, updates, and commentary:YoutubeFacebookInstagramTikTokXLocalsMore Info

Check out this Encore show from August 30, 2024 (2:30) Bible Study: 1 Cor 1:17-25 Father sheds some light on Paul. Mt 25:1-13 Father goes through this passage step by step. (20:21) Break 1 (21:27) Letters: Father answers what the best text for the bible is and other word plays from words from Chick-fil-A to Adultery. Strange conversation, but fun! Break 2 (39:05) Word of the Day: Foolishness (40:26) Phones: Joseph - how can we love our priests better and not just see them as sacrament dispensers? Therese - Is it true that divine mercy is the sacrament of Confession? Young Thomas shares an email asking about the psalms and Vatican 2

Chick and Jim break down a Bengals victory and take your calls.

Chick talks UC football with Scott Springer. We preview Bengals-Cardinals with Mike Petraglia. And the Reds make a couple of moves. Do they move the needle with you?

Hey, y'all we're off until January 5th! If you're looking for some Chick content we've got a treat for you.In this episode from July The Chicks sit down with Dave Rubin — and he gets brutally honest. In this fiery sit-down, he breaks down the conservative movement divide and names get dropped! Tucker Carlson, Candace Owens, the Hodge Twins, and even Andrew Tate come up as examples of how clicks, ego, and a thirst for virality might be driving people off the deep end. Dave opens up about his personal history with some of these figures and the troubling rise of antisemitism he's seeing from within the right itself.Also discussed:- Why JLo's sexy dance is now “grandma cringe”- Whether the Daily Wire is under attack from Tucker's network- Dave's theory on why the algorithm is breaking our brains- Why success—not rage—is the antidote to chaos- And yes... Dave Rubin's new tequila line with AI-generated bottles!SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS TO SUPPORT OUR SHOW!Get 60% off Webroot Total Protection at https://Webroot.com/Chicks to protect against holidaycybercrime.Subscribe and stay tuned for new episodes every weekday!Follow us here for more daily clips, updates, and commentary:YoutubeFacebookInstagramTikTokXLocalsMore Info

Hey, y'all we're off until January 5th! If you're looking for some Chick content we've got a treat for you. In this episode from July The Chicks sit down with Dave Rubin — and he gets brutally honest. In this fiery sit-down, he breaks down the conservative movement divide and names get dropped! Tucker Carlson, […]

Grab our breakdown of the 5 Low-Cost Businesses That Make $1 Million: https://www.franchiseempire.com/lowcost?utm_source=TJJan032025If you liked this video, but want to learn about franchises with higher profit margins check out this video next: https://youtu.be/voDIBiM58awThinking about investing in a Culver's franchise? In this breakdown, I cover startup costs, royalty fees, average sales, and why it might not be as profitable as it looks. We'll also talk about scalability, margins, and whether it's a smart move going into 2026. You'll also learn more about the brand's history and how it has grown so quickly in some parts of the US. Make sure you watch before you invest!------------------Considering Investing In A Franchise?

Wil peaks with Enga Stanfield, co-owner of multiple Mattenga's Pizzeria in San Antonio and Head of Community at Owner.com. Enga, an Iranian-born former engineer with no prior restaurant experience, shares how she and her husband Matt transitioned from engineering to restaurant ownership in 2014 by purchasing a struggling pizzeria, initially losing significant money due to inexperience. Through relentless grassroots marketing, obsessive cost control, data-driven location selection, and frugal self-funded growth, they turned the business around, expanded to multiple locations, achieved consistent strong sales growth, and built a profitable family-oriented operation that prioritizes community giving, strong systems, and work-life balance while preparing for potential franchising.10 Takeaways No experience required, but commitment is essential: Enga and Matt had zero restaurant or business background yet succeeded through sheer passion, grit, and a willingness to learn from expensive mistakes.  Obscurity is the biggest enemy: The real problem isn't perfect recipes or discounts, it's getting known. Aggressive, consistent marketing (guerrilla tactics, drop-offs, parades, costumes) is the owner's primary job.  Babysit numbers, not people: Obsess over P&L, labor percentages, food costs, and sales forecasting—small percentage improvements on large volumes create massive profit impact.  Hustle beats excuses: External factors (bad location, competition like Chick-fil-A) are irrelevant; successful owners take full responsibility and aggressively pursue customers.  Give to receive: Donating hundreds of pizzas monthly, supporting schools with spirit nights, and community involvement builds loyalty and drives long-term growth.  Location math matters: Use free tools like USPS Every Door Direct Mail to analyze household density, income levels, and demographics to ensure a site can support target sales and profit margins.  Break growth into simple math: Reverse-engineer sales goals into daily orders needed, then create targeted marketing plans to acquire and retain those customers.  Build systems and people, not just rockstars: Strong operational systems and deliberate team development allow scalability. Doing $15/hour tasks yourself prevents building a real business.  Negotiate everything: Leases, vendor prices, contracts: always ask, build in exit protections, and never sign desperate deals. Walking away power is crucial.  Profitability enables generosity: Running a tight, systematic, profitable operation allows you to pay people well, give back to the community, and maintain a thriving family life.

The Financial Chick 12-26-25 by JVC Broadcasting

In this episode, Carl Jackson dives deep into the controversial topic of election integrity, focusing on the 2020 Georgia election and the subsequent fallout. He discusses the allegations surrounding Rudy Giuliani, the media's portrayal of events, and the broader implications for American democracy. Carl also touches on the Somali welfare scandal in Minnesota, highlighting the political and social dynamics at play. Join Carl as he unpacks these complex issues with his signature candidness and insight. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/carljacksonradio Twitter: https://twitter.com/carljacksonshow Parler: https://parler.com/carljacksonshow Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecarljacksonshow http://www.TheCarlJacksonShow.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Carl Jackson dives deep into the controversial topic of election integrity, focusing on the 2020 Georgia election and the subsequent fallout. He discusses the allegations surrounding Rudy Giuliani, the media's portrayal of events, and the broader implications for American democracy. Carl also touches on the Somali welfare scandal in Minnesota, highlighting the political and social dynamics at play. Join Carl as he unpacks these complex issues with his signature candidness and insight. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/carljacksonradio Twitter: https://twitter.com/carljacksonshow Parler: https://parler.com/carljacksonshow Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecarljacksonshow http://www.TheCarlJacksonShow.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hey, y'all we're off until January 5th! If you're looking for some Chick content we've got a treat for you.In this episode from 2023 The Chicks discuss politics, culture, comedy, and the Republican primary race with the fellas from The Ruthless podcast. They dive deep into their mission of bringing politics to normal everyday consumers and give some hotakes on the upcoming election. Plus they talk about their background which is eerily similar to The Chicks!SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS TO SUPPORT OUR SHOW!Save 25% now off the Red-Light Face Mask and more at https://BonCharge.com/Chicks — yourcode is automatically applied! Don't wait—grab the perfect holiday gift before this deal ends onDecember 31.Give your dog great health this holiday season. Get a FREE Jump Start Trial Bag—just covershipping. Visit https://RuffChicks.com and use promo code CHICKS.Subscribe and stay tuned for new episodes every weekday!Follow us here for more daily clips, updates, and commentary:YoutubeFacebookInstagramTikTokXLocalsMore Info

Hey, y'all, we're off until January 5th! If you're looking for some Chick content, we've got a treat for you. In this episode from 2023, The Chicks discuss politics, culture, comedy, and the Republican primary race with the fellas from The Ruthless podcast. They dive deep into their mission of bringing politics to normal everyday […]

Hey, y'all we're off until January 5th! If you're looking for some Chick content we've got a treat for you. In this throwback podcast The Chicks talk to Congressman Burchett. From hilarious Capitol Hill stories and surprise call-ins to serious hot takes on Ukraine, China, government spending, and staffer influence Tim delivers it all with honesty, humor, and that unmistakable Southern charm. You'll laugh, you'll shake your head, and you might even feel a little hopeful about the future.SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS TO SUPPORT OUR SHOW!Try Masa or Vandy chips and get 25% off your first order—just use code CHICKS at https://Masachips.com or https://Vandycrisps.comGet back to basics with Bulwark's Know Your Risk Portfolio Review—don't put it off, go to https://KnowYourRiskPodcast.com today.Subscribe and stay tuned for new episodes every weekday!Follow us here for more daily clips, updates, and commentary:YoutubeFacebookInstagramTikTokXLocalsMore Info

Hey, y'all we're off until January 5th! If you're looking for some Chick content we've got a treat for you. In this throwback podcast The Chicks talk to Congressman Burchett. From hilarious Capitol Hill stories and surprise call-ins to serious hot takes on Ukraine, China, government spending, and staffer influence Tim delivers it all with […]

Jim and Chick are taking your calls after a Bengals win.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jim and Chick are taking your calls after a Bengals win.

Introduction: I Want to Belong to Jesus… (John 1:4–13) Because He gives me an UNBEATABLE HOPE. (John 1:4–5) Because He gives me a MEANINGFUL MISSION. (John 1:6–8) Isaiah 40:3 – A voice cries: “In the wilderness prepare the way of the LORD; make straight in the desert a highway for our God.” John 3:30 – He must increase, but I must decrease. Because He gives me a SPOT IN HIS FAMILY THAT I CANNOT EARN. (John 1:9–13) John 3:19–20 – And this is the judgment: the light has come into the world, and people loved the darkness rather than the light because their works were evil. For everyone who does wicked things hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his works should be exposed. Sermon Notes (PDF): BLANKHint: Highlight blanks above for answers! Small Group DiscussionRead John 1:4-13What was your big take-away from this passage / message?Who or what do you often set your hopes on? Why can't these people and things satisfy you as Jesus can?What excuses are holding you back from bearing witness to the light? How will you bear witness to the light this week and next?How does Jesus give us the right to become children of God? Why can't this right be deserved or earned?BreakoutPray for one another. AUDIO TRANSCRIPT Well, as you turn to John chapter one, I want to ask you the same exact question that youjust heard in the video.I want to ask you a question that Pastor Jeff brought to your attention last week in hismessage.It's probably a question that you're tired of hearing and asking this holiday season.What do you want for Christmas?With Christmas being so close, you have asked and heard the answer to that question manytimes over the past several weeks.The questions you've, the answers you've heard and the answers you've given include an O'Wallahwater bottle.Isn't that popular?That's still popular.I don't really know.A red light therapy mask.Anybody want that?That's popular on Instagram, isn't it?A massive Lego set, a Nintendo switch to new AirPods, a smart ring, which I guess is kindof like an Apple Watch, but a ring on your finger.I don't really know.Or fancy golf clubs.But there are many things that you want for Christmas that you cannot write down on a wishlist.There are many things you want for Christmas that cannot be bought or wrapped.Maybe you want that big promotion.Maybe you want that bonus this year that you aren't sure is coming.Maybe you want healing in your own body or in the body of a loved one.Or here's a big one.Maybe you want to feel like you belong.You want to not be rejected.That is a desire that every single person in this room shares.It's a desire that starts when you're young and it continues on for the rest of your life.As a kid and then a teenager, every single one of us was desperate to fit in and havea group of friends to belong to.Rejection is painful.It leaves lasting memories, especially when you're a kid.You know, growing up, my friends and I used to have a sleepover almost every single Fridaynight.And during 11th grade, there was a month-long stretch where there was no sleepovers.And I was really confused.I didn't know why this routine had been broken.So one day at the lunch table, I said to my friends, "Hey, guys, we haven't had a sleepoverin a while.Do you guys want to come to my house this Sunday?"And whenever I said that, everyone at the table erupted in uncontrollable laughter.And I was, again, just very, very confused.After they were all done and calmed down, I said, "What's so funny?"They then proceeded to tell me that they thought it would be hilarious to not invite me tosleepovers for a while to see how long it would take me to notice and say something.I missed a whole month of sleepovers with my friends.And to be honest, in that moment, externally, I tried to laugh it off.I tried to act like it wasn't a big deal.But internally, I felt rejected.I felt like I didn't belong.You ever felt that way before?A friend stopped talking to you.A family member cut off communication for seemingly no reason.A boyfriend or girlfriend ended the relationship without warning.Your spouse chose to give up on the marriage and leave.You have felt rejected before.You have felt like you don't belong.You feel that way right now?Maybe you couldn't care less about what gifts you're going to get under the Christmas treethis year.Maybe you don't want anything from Amazon or the mall.More than anything this year, you just want to experience that sense of belonging.You want to know that there are people who love you, who care about you, and will neverlet go of you no matter what you do.I can't guarantee you that sense of belonging with your family and with your friends thisChristmas.I wish I could, but I can't.But I can guarantee there is someone infinitely greater who will give you that sense of belonging.I can guarantee there is someone who will not reject you, who will not turn away fromyou if you truly turn to him.That person is Jesus Christ.There is no one better to belong to.There is no one better to be loved by.There is no one with a tighter grip in all of existence than him.I want you to walk out of this service this morning if you're a believer with a greatersense of confidence that you were loved by Jesus Christ.That you are safe and secure in his steady hands.There is no better gift than that.And if you're not a Christian this morning, I want you to know that the invitation hasbeen extended to belong to Christ.He commands you to follow him.He invites you to enjoy his acceptance and not fear others' rejection.More than anything, I want all of you in this room to want to belong to Jesus this Christmas.So before we continue any further, let's go to the Lord and ask for His help.Please pray for me that I will faithfully represent God's Word and I will pray for youthat you will faithfully receive it.Father, we come to you and we bring all of our pain to you.All of our fears are all of our deepest, darkest worries that we're afraid to admit to otherpeople.Lord in this room, I'm sure there's many, many stories of rejection.Many, many stories of feeling like we don't belong and I'm sure if we brought everybodyup on stage to share how they feel that there wouldn't be a dry eye in the house today.Lord, we ask that you bring the comfort that only you can.That you would challenge us, you would tear us down so that you can build us back up again.Lord, I do ask for myself, Lord, your Word is perfect, but I am not.I do not feel up to the task of proclaiming such a glorious passage, but Lord, give meyour strength, give me your wisdom.I pray for everyone in this room that you would give them the faith to receive your Wordtoday.I pray that you would seek and save the lost.Thanks for the rest of us, Lord.We would walk out of this room with a greater sense of confidence in who we belong to.We ask all this in Jesus' mighty name.Amen.Was a quick refresher.Let's reread the verses that Pastor Jeff covered last week.This will set the table and help us to understand the context of our passage this morning.So John chapter one, verses one through three.In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.He was in the beginning with God.All things were made through Him, and without Him was not anything made that was made.These verses are all about who Jesus is.He is the Word of God who created all things.Without Jesus, this universe would not exist.This world would not exist.You would not exist.Jesus is the source and sustainer of everything that you can see and everything that you cannotsee.Jesus isn't just the Word of God.John says that He is God Himself.Verses one through three focus on who Jesus is, while verses four through thirteen focuson what Jesus gives.If you properly understand who Jesus is and what Jesus gives, you will want to belongto Him.You will want to belong to Him because no one can compare to who Jesus is, and nothingcan compare to what Jesus gives.So outline for this morning, I want to belong to Jesus.I want to belong to Jesus, first reason, because He gives me an unbeatable hope.Because He gives me an unbeatable hope.Let's read chapter one, verse four.In Him, in Jesus was life, and the life was the light of men.Life was and is found in Jesus and Him alone.As we already discussed, Jesus made all things.He is the source of all life on earth.He is the cause of everything.But He's not just the cause of physical life.He is the only supplier of eternal life as well.There is no other viable option to turn to or to search for besides Jesus.But that doesn't stop us from trying, does it?Millions have tried, and billions have failed in trying to find true life apart from Jesus.And you and I have tried our hand at this pointless search as well.Trying to find life in our jobs, in our finances, in our status, our stuff, and even our families.Life cannot be found in your job.You realize that one day you will have to retire.You may let go from that job.One day that job will belong to someone else.Your life is not found in how much money you have.Let me ask you a question.How much of the money in your various accounts will you be able to take with you when youdie?Do we not know the answer?Not a single dime.Life is not found in your status and popularity.There will always be someone bigger and better than you.In 150 or 200 years, how many people on this planet will be thinking about you?The most likely answer is not a single soul.Life is not even found in your family.As great as your spouse, your kids, your relatives might be, they cannot meet the deepest needsof your soul.Can your spouse forgive you of your sins?Can your kids give you that unbeatable hope that you're looking for?No.Can your family guarantee your eternity?No.All of those needs can only be met by Jesus Christ, who is the only source of life.And John goes on to say that this life was the light of men.That sounds pretty cool, right?But what does that actually mean?The life was the light of men.I'm no scientist, but let me give you a quick pop quiz in astronomy.What do all the plants in this solar system orbit around?You're all really tired this morning.What is it again?All right, very, very good.Could we survive without the sun?What does the sun do for us?Is the major source of life because it is the major source of light and heat on thisplanet without the sun shining as it does, we would all freeze to death without the sunshining as it does.We would not be able to see anything.We would be lost in the darkness without the light of Christ shining as it does.We would not be able to see and understand the truth without the light of Christ shiningas it does.We would not know how to be saved.We would not know how to have a relationship, a friendship with God without the light ofChrist shining as it does.We would be hopeless and lost in the darkness of our sin without the light of Christ shiningas it does.None of us would have any spiritual life.Who is the light of the sun offered to?The 8.3 billion people on this planet.Who is the light of the sun of God offered to?Same exact answer, the 8.3 billion people on this planet.As we'll see in a few minutes, many choose to hide from this light and by doing so, theymiss out on the life that he offers.But that does not stop Jesus from shining his light, which we see in verse 5.Read that with me."The light shines in the darkness and the darkness has not overcome it."The word "overcome" in this verse can also be translated as "comprehended" or "understood."And many scholars believe that John picked this word for a very specific reason.He chose this word because it has a double meaning.Each of these words makes sense in context or flip sides of one another.Let's cover one side of the coin first.Let's cover the light, shines in the darkness and the darkness has not overcome it.I walk my dog Murdoch almost every single night at 10 p.m. after the family is asleep.And my wife hates this plan because she thinks I'm going to get pan-kicked by a car.It hasn't happened yet, so please just pray for me that this trend continues and I'm ableto be safe.But there is this one house in my neighborhood that fascinates me.This house has a lamppost in the front yard that shines brightly for about 10 to 20 seconds,then it just shuts off.And it comes back on a few seconds later and it happens every single night for the pastyear.And this may sound strange to you, but I think about that lamppost almost every single day.Every single time I exit the house to go take Murdoch on this walk, I wonder, is tonightgoing to be the night when that light is extinguished?Is tonight the night when darkness will overcome that person's yard?Because there's something wrong with that lamppost.There's something wrong with the bulb.There's something wrong with the wiring.It's just a matter of time.I don't have much faith in that lamppost.I don't think you would have much faith in that lamppost if you took a field trip tomy neighborhood and drove past it.But do you know who you should have total and complete faith in?Do you know whose light you should never wonder or worry about being extinguished?Jesus Christ.The light of His glory never flickers.The light of His gracious love never turns off.He is the same yesterday, today, and forever.No matter how dark this world gets, no matter how bleak your life looks, Jesus Christ isshining just as brightly as He always has.Sin, injustice, and evil cannot lower the intensity of who He is and what He has done.Nothing and no one can turn the dimmer switch down on the light of the world.Let's flip over to the other side of the coin.The light shines in the darkness and the darkness has not understood it.You know, Satan and his demons are crafty.I'll give them that.They are intelligent.But at the same time, these evil forces are complete morons in comparison to the all-knowingall-wise God of the universe.The devil and his demons are fighting a losing battle because they cannot figure out a wayto extinguish the light of Christ.They're like a bunch of roided-up bodybuilders trying to push over a mountain with theirbare hands.It's just not going to happen.Their attempts to snuff out the light only fan it into flame even more.The harder they try, the harder they fail.No matter what they do, Jesus keeps forgiving more and more people.No matter what they try, the church keeps getting built up.No matter what scheme they hatch, the kingdom of God keeps advancing.Satan and his workers have already been defeated by the life, death, and resurrection of Christ.They know that eternal judgment awaits them.Are they going to go quietly without a fight until Jesus returns?No, they are kicking and screaming like bratty children.And I know that they're kicking and screaming causes a lot of pain and hardship to everysingle person in this room.But they cannot change the ending that God has already written.The light will win because the darkness cannot overcome it or understand it.That is certain.That is a fact.Maybe you've been a believer for months, for years, and maybe even for decades.And you know the truths of verses four and five intellectually.You have a very hard time believing these truths emotionally and experientially.You're in a tough season right now and you feel like the darkness is winning.You feel like the light is losing.You feel like the darkness understands how to overcome the light just fine.You feel like you cannot have victory over that sin pattern in your life.You feel like there is more sin in you than there is mercy in Christ.You feel helpless.You feel hopeless.If that's how you feel right now, my heart goes out to you because I've been there before.And I'm sure I'll be there again.If that's how you feel, I want to challenge you to stop looking at you.Stop looking at your circumstances.Fix your eyes on Jesus.Focus your attention on what He has given to you.Root your confidence in the new and everlasting life that has been given to you.Ask the Holy Spirit to re-energize you with the light you see when you open up the pagesof this book during your daily quiet time.You understand your hope is not found in you.You understand that your hope is not even found in your circumstances changing.Your hope is found in belonging to Christ.When you belong to Christ, you are given an unbeatable hope from an unbeatable Savior.I want to belong to Jesus because He gives me an unbeatable hope.I want to belong to Jesus because He gives me a meaningful mission.That's the second reason on your outline, because He gives me a meaningful mission.In verses 4 through 5, John talks about the message of the light.In verses 6 through 8, John talks about the messenger of the light.Let's read these verses together.There is a man sent from God whose name was John.He came as a witness to bear witness about the light that all might believe through Him.He was not the light that came to bear witness about the light.To be clear, John is referencing a totally different John here.It's kind of confusing.What John is he talking about?John the Baptist.Why couldn't they have had a different name?Why couldn't it have been like Bill the Baptist or Baron the Baptist or whatever?Why did it have to be John?Well, don't worry.We'll make it work.We'll deal with it.John the Baptist was sent by God as a messenger to prepare the way for the promised Messiahand Savior who was prophesied about all throughout the Old Testament.John was prophesied of in the Old Testament as well.Isaiah 40 verse 3, "A voice cries in the wilderness, 'Prepare the way of the Lord,make straight in the desert a highway for our God.'Malachi 3, 1, 'Behold, I send my messenger, and he will prepare the way before me.'"John the Baptist came to roll out the red carpet for the coming king.He didn't come so that others would believe in him and believe in his greatness.He came so that others might believe in Christ through him.John the Baptist's followers once came to him to give him the news that a lot of peoplewere following Jesus.He was getting more popular and his disciples were even baptizing people, which is kindof like John's main thing.It's his name, right?John the Baptist.Like, John, don't you realize that all this is happening?Jesus is getting more popular than you.Is this frustrate John?Was he jealous?Not at all.He was actually really, really excited because he was successfully carrying out the meaningfulmission that God had entrusted to him.Here's the response he gives his disciples.He says, "He, Jesus, must increase, but I must decrease."That was the slogan of John's life in ministry.That should be the slogan of your life in ministry as well.He must increase, but I must decrease.You realize you're not the point of anything.Jesus is.John the Baptist wasn't the point of anything either.Jesus was.His mission was to point everyone to Christ, to bear witness to his light.I know what some of you serious students of the Bible may be thinking right now.You're internally objecting a bit.Hold on a minute, Pastor Taylor.You're saying that Jesus is the light and John the Baptist wasn't.But later on in this gospel, didn't Jesus say that John was like a lamp that was shining?And doesn't Jesus tell us that all Christians are the light of the world?How does this all make sense?Yeah, Jesus does say that in Matthew 5, 14, and then John 5, 35.To help answer those great questions, let me slip on my lab coat again and give you anotherpop quiz in astronomy.When you look up in the night sky and you see the moon shining bright.Does that moon actually have any light of its own?Where does its light come from?The sun, the light of the moon is shared and reflected.It's the same for John and it's the same for you and me.We have a shared and reflected light that is given to us by Jesus Christ.All throughout John chapter one, verses four through 13, the Greek word "phos" is usedin reference to Christ and "phos" is the essence of light.In John 5, 35, the Greek word "looknos" is used to describe John.A looknos is a portable lamp.Jesus is the light while John is the lamp that displays the light.A candle cannot shine on its own.It needs to be given the light of a flame.A lamp in your house cannot shine on its own.It needs to be given the light of a bulb.Jesus Christ is the sun and you are the moon.Jesus Christ is the flame, you are the candle.Jesus Christ is the bulb and you are the lamp.You are here on this earth to display His light to everyone, to shine His light in thedarkness, to bear witness about His light because you have none of your own.And I know what some of you were thinking at this point.Okay, Taylor, I know I need to buckle down and share the gospel.I need to make disciples.I need to shine His light everywhere.I'll do that as soon as the holidays are over.Whatever Christmas is in the rear view mirror, I'll get right on that.No, you won't.And you're thinking, where is your Christmas cheer, Pastor Taylor?What do you mean, no, I won't.I mean, you won't.If you will not bear witness the light of Christ today, what makes you think you'lldo it tomorrow?If you were unwilling to bear witness the light of Christ at the end of 2025, what makesyou think you'll be willing to do it at the start of 2026?Do you understand that Christmas is the perfect time to bear witness to the light of Christ?This is the time when you're around people, you're not usually around.This time of season is all about joy, but most people are miserable.Most people are looking for something that they cannot find because they're looking inthe wrong place.Right now is the perfect time to bear witness to the light.Grab a bunch of the Christmas Eve invite cards at the back table and hand them out as ifyou were given $100 for each one you handed out.I'm not going to give you $100, but the rewards you get in heaven for that will be infinitelygreater.Grab one of those invites, put it in an envelope, put money in that envelope, put a personalnote in that envelope and give it to your mailman tomorrow.Take it upon yourself to read scripture, your family get together this week and talk aboutwhy you're even celebrating Christmas, why Jesus came in the first place.Stop putting off that gospel conversation with that unsafe family member at Christmas.Finally do it.Invite that unbeliever who has no family in the area to your Christmas dinner.Buy them a Bible.Write a note in that Bible and give it to them.I keep going and going and going.There are so many ways to bear witness to the light of Christ this week.Don't make excuses for why you can't.Don't point to your calendar and say you're too busy.This is the reason why you're here, isn't it?To bear witness to the light.If anything, there's other things getting the way of the most important thing on your calendar.Don't justify your fear and laziness by saying you don't want to stir the pot this Christmas.You just want to have a calm Christmas.Shouldn't you care more about sharing the peace of Christ with your family and friends?When you belong to Christ, you recognize that you've been given a meaningful mission.When you belong to Christ, you value your calling way more than your comfort.When you belong to Christ, you make disciples, you don't make excuses.When you belong to Christ, you bear witness to his light because the darkness is everywherethat you go.I want to belong to Jesus because he gives me an unbeatable hope.I want to belong to Jesus because he gives me a meaningful mission.I want to belong to Jesus, final reason, because he gives me a spot in his family that I cannotearn.Because he gives me a spot in his family that I cannot earn.We talked about the message of the light and the messenger of the light.Now we're going to wrap up by talking about the two responses to the message of the light.The first response is in verses 9 through 11.The true light which gives light to everyone was coming into the world.He was in the world and the world was made through him, yet the world did not know him.He came to his own and his own people did not receive him.As I said earlier, the light of the Son of God is offered to everyone.Anyone is welcome to step into the light.Anyone is welcome to receive the life of Christ and be forever changed.But most choose to step out of the light rather than do it.Most choose to reject the life of Christ that is offered.And this is proven by verse 11.He came to his own people and his own people did not receive him.And this verse has two different focuses.When you zoom out, John is talking about mankind.Statistically and biblically, there are way more non-Christians than Christians.There are way more people who reject Christ than receive him.We all agree on that basic fact of life.But if you zoom in, John is talking about Israel.Many of Jesus' fellow Jews rejected him, hated him, called for his crucifixion.Many of the Jews rejected the message of Christ when it was shared by the apostles.Even to this day, many Jewish people refuse to accept that Jesus is the light.That's not always going to be the case.All does say in Romans that one day all Israel will be saved.Do you have time to talk about that right now?As Pastor Jeff often says, "Buy me some Pantera bread or Chick-fil-A."We'll talk about it across the street sometime.Here's an important question.Why do most people reject Jesus?Why do most people not receive the light of Christ?John gives us a very simple yet sad answer.Later on in this Gospel in chapter 3 verses 19 through 20, he writes, "And this is thejudgment.The light is coming to the world, and people love the darkness rather than the light, becausetheir works were evil.For everyone who does wicked things hates the light and does not come to the light,lest his works should be exposed."Have you ever been sleeping or laying in a dark room and suddenly someone turns thelights on?Are you overjoyed by this?Are you really excited by this?What's your natural human response?What do you do?You close your eyes, you cover your face with your hands and your blanket, you yell, "Turnthat light out!"That is the natural human response, physically and spiritually.It is far more comfortable to lay in the darkness than be in the light.It's simpler to be oblivious and not see yourself for who you really are.It's effortless to do nothing about your greatest problem, which is your sinful nature.It's easy to lash out at those who try to pull you into the light.That is why most people do not receive Jesus.They'd rather lay in the darkness.They love their sin more than Him.That's the first response to the message of the light.John says there's only one other response, and that's in verses 12 to 13, the best partof this entire passage.But to all who did receive Him, who believed in His name, He gave the right to become childrenof God, who were born not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will ofman, but of God.The first and wrong way to respond to Jesus is rejection.The second and right way to respond to Jesus is receiving and believing.You reach out to receive the gift of eternal life by believing in the name of Jesus Christ.We say that all the time, but what does it mean to believe in the name of Jesus?Well a name represents all of who a person is and all that a person does.When you believe in the name of Jesus Christ, you are believing that He is who the Biblesays that He is.That He has done all the Bible says He has done.You wholeheartedly believe that He is the Word of God who created all things.You have faith that He is the light of the world.He is your only source of hope.You trust that He is the Savior who died on the cross for your sins, who took the punishmentthat you deserve.You submit to the reality that He is the Lord of your life, who has the divine right totell you what to think, say, and do.When you receive Jesus and believe in His name, John says that you are given the rightto become a child of God.There are only two children in this entire world who have the right to claim that theyare my kids.I love all the kids in this church, but I love two of those kids the most.Only two of those kids have a legal right to say that I am their father.Only Samuel and Emmy Brown have that legal right.What's the evidence of this?Well, Kate and I have their birth certificates at home as proof that those kids belong tous.When you belong to Christ, your spiritual birth certificate is signed and sealed by His ownblood.You are given the right to claim God as your father and Jesus as your big brother.You have given the right to declare that you belong to the greatest family imaginable.Can you earn this right?Can you work your way into the family of God?Not according to John at the end of verse 13, he says, "Who were born not of blood northe will of flesh, nor the will of man, but of God."You are not given the right to become a child of God because you're a good person who doesnice things for other people.You are not given the right to become a child of God because your parents are great Christiansand raised you in the church.You are not given the right to become a child of God because you come to church every oncein a while.You pray regularly and do community service projects.You are not given the right to become a child of God because of your track record and yourgood works.You are given the right to become a child of God because of the gracious work of God inChrist.That's it.That's the only source.How do you respond to Jesus?Do you reject Him or do you receive Him?Do you believe in His name, His work, and His reputation, or do you believe in your name,your works, and your reputation?One response leads to eternal destruction while the other leads to eternal life.One response leads to everything being taken away from you and the other leads to everythingbeing given to you.Please don't leave this room without considering who Jesus is and what He is offering you.Everything hinges on your response to Him.What do you want for Christmas?Do you want to belong to the world or do you want to belong to Jesus?Do you want to settle for the flickering hopes of this sinful culture or do you want theunbeatable hope of an unbeatable Savior?Do you want to lead a meaningless existence or do you want to carry out the meaningfulmission of pointing others to the point of life?Do you want to be a child of the devil who absolutely hates you or do you want to bea child of God who unconditionally loves you?If you have not yet believed and received Jesus, now is your chance.Now is your opportunity.You don't know if you're getting another opportunity past this one, so don't waste it.The life of Christ is being offered to you right now.Don't slap the gift away.The light of Christ is shining in this moment.Do not step back into the darkness once again.Now is your time.Now is your chance.You're alive right now.You're not guaranteed tomorrow.Life is hard.Discouragements and disappointments are all around us.It's so easy to lose track of what's important in the darkness.And we need the light of biblical reminders to let us know what is true, what is real,and what is right.This ring I wear on my left hand is a symbol that I belong to my wife.I'm taken.I'm out looking for anybody else to give me that feeling right to belong to.The Lord's Supper is a powerful symbol that you belong to Christ and no one else.You're spoken for by the Son of God and you're not looking for anyone else to give your life meaning.You're not looking to anything else to give your life meaning.

Chick talks with Tim McGee about the Bengals, Joe Lind Jr. about an upcoming Elder High School fundraiser, and Rick Broering about Xavier and NKU Norse basketball.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chick talks with Tim McGee about the Bengals, Joe Lind Jr. about an upcoming Elder High School fundraiser, and Rick Broering about Xavier and NKU Norse basketball.

The Financial Chick 12-19-25 by JVC Broadcasting

It's Friday, December 19th, A.D. 2025. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 140 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Adam McManus Christian prisoners released in Eritrea but many more remain without charges Several Christians in Eritrea, Africa were among a group of prisoners recently released, possibly because of poor health. However, seven church leaders remain in detention after two decades without a charge or a trial, reports the Christian Post. Open Doors noted this week that the release appeared to include believers, businesspeople, and politicians. The names of those freed have not been made public, but the group confirmed that none of the seven church leaders it has advocated for, over the years, were among them. The leaders have each been detained for more than 20 years without legal proceedings. In addition, Open Doors said they have not been permitted to see family members, have access to a lawyer, or appear before a court. Hebrews 13:3 says, “Continue to remember those in prison as if you were together with them in prison, and those who are mistreated as if you yourselves were suffering.” In national address, Trump says prices coming down In an 18-minute speech from the White House on Wednesday night, President Donald Trump discussed the economy. (Read the transcript here) TRUMP: “Eleven months ago, I inherited a mess, and I'm fixing it. When I took office, inflation was the worst in 48 years, and some would say, in the history of our country, which caused prices to be higher than ever before, making life unaffordable for millions and millions of Americans. This happened during a Democrat administration, and it's when we first began hearing the word affordability.” He addressed the falling cost of goods and services since he took office in January of this year. TRUMP: “I am bringing those high prices down and bringing them down very fast. Let's look at the facts. Under the Biden administration, car prices rose 22% and in many states 30% or more. Gasoline rose 30 to 50%. Hotel rates rose 37%. Airfares rose 31%. “Now, under our leadership, they are all coming down and coming down fast. Democrat politicians also sent the cost of grocery soaring, but we are solving that too. The price of a Thanksgiving turkey was down 33% compared to the Biden last year. The price of eggs is down 82% since March, and everything else is falling rapidly.” Arrest warrant issued for Brown University shooter Authorities have reportedly issued an arrest warrant for a suspect in the Brown University mass shooting that occurred last week in Providence, Rhode Island, and are investigating a potential link between the school massacre and the murder of an MIT professor, reports The Western Journal. Just two days after the Brown shooting occurred, Nuno Loureiro, who taught plasma physics at MIT, was shot at his home Monday in Brookline, Massachusetts. He later died of his injuries. During the shooting at Brown, two students were killed and nine others were wounded after the gunman opened fire Saturday afternoon inside a campus classroom during final exams. The male suspect, who is 5'8” with a stocky build, escaped from the building. Army officer once ousted by COVID shot mandate now leads reintegration efforts On October 2, 2025, U.S. Army Colonel Kevin Bouren was administered the oath of office by Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, formally returning Bouren to active duty. The event concluded his three-year separation from the Army, a period initiated by the Department of Defense's 2021 COVID-19 shot mandate, reports the U.S. Army's Communication Office. Bouren, a graduate of the U.S. Military Academy at West Point and an officer with multiple advanced degrees, had a promising career trajectory that included an assignment to the Joint Staff. In 2021, his military service was interrupted after his request for a medical exemption from the COVID shot mandate was denied. During his time away from the Army, Bouren made an unlikely career move. He began working in Christian filmmaking as a co-producer and co-founder of Set Shepherds, managing logistics for films he worked on, while also mentoring the cast and crew as a chaplain. It allowed him to apply his leadership experience in a non-military context while integrating his Christian faith. Bouren said, “As the set chaplain, getting to lead morning devotionals and minister to the cast and crew was wonderful.” In early 2025, when the call for COVID reinstatements came, he said, "God called me to military service, and there was nothing that was going to get between me and going back in the Army. I felt like I had a lot left to offer." After his formal return, Bouren was designated the Army's COVID Reinstatement Task Force Lead. He said, “Our warriors of conscience shouldn't have to navigate this alone. We're here to … support them through every step … after they were “unlawfully separated.” Chick-fil-A embraces and celebrates homosexual marriage And finally, Christian leaders say Chick-fil-A has waffled on homosexual faux marriage and diversity, equity and inclusion policies, reports Christian talk show host Todd Starnes. More than a decade ago, Christians across the nation rallied to defend the beloved fast-food restaurant chain after homosexual faux marriage activists declared war. They tried to put Chick-fil-A out of business after Dan Cathy, the son of founder Truett Cathy said in 2012 that marriage is between one man and one woman. Sadly, there's been a cultural shift at Chick-fil-A. An Orem, Utah Chick-fil-A franchise recently posted photos on its Facebook page celebrating the faux homosexual marriage of two men complete with photos of the gushing grooms. Leviticus 18:22 says, “Do not have sexual relations with a man as one does with a woman; that is detestable.” Family Research Council called out Chick-fil-A accusing the company of duplicity. In a column in The Washington Stand, they wrote, “More than anything, what should frustrate loyal customers is that — unlike the secular corporations that promoted this agenda for decades without apology — Chick-fil-A built a business model based almost entirely on faith. And frankly, that means they should be held to a higher standard. Yes, there are local operators with diverse objectives and opinions, but for the sake of the company's broader character, those individual franchises should be held to a moral code that reflects Chick-fil-A's stated beliefs. At the very least, the vice president of DEI should be reassigned to support the Cathys' original mission, and the cancer of diversity, equity, and inclusion should be eradicated from headquarters.” The Family Research Council added, “Unlike Target or Anheuser-Busch, this company intentionally made religion a part of the chain's identity. So, it's a point of legitimate hurt and disappointment that [Chick-fil-A] keeps profiting from its Christian reputation, only to turn around and sell out those same values. Americans expect that from Nike. They expect it from Starbucks. They believed Chick-fil-A was different — and they continue to be wrong.” In recent years, Chick-fil-A stopped donating to the Salvation Army and to the Fellowship of Christian Athletes after pressure from the far-left. They also funneled $230,000 to Covenant House, an organization that hosts Drag Queen Story Hours. Conservatives were in disbelief — so much so that The Federalist felt the need to spell it out in a headline that read: “Yes, Chick-fil-A Really Is Funding a Group that Hosts Drag Queen Story Hours.” And Chick-fil-A ruffled lots of feathers when they hired a vice president of DEI. Christian talk show host Todd Starnes  said, “Traditional values have been taken off the menu at Chick-fil-A – just like the chicken salad sandwich and coleslaw.” Send your letter of objection to Susannah Frost, Chick-fil-A President, 5200 Buffington Road, College Park, GA 30349.  You can reach Chick-fil-A online through a special link in our transcript today at www.TheWorldview.com, and by calling Chick-fil-A between 9:00am and 10:00pm ET, Monday through Saturday, at 866-232-2040.. That's 866-232-2040. Close And that's The Worldview on this Friday, December 19th, in the year of our Lord 2025. Follow us on X or subscribe for free by Spotify, Amazon Music, or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

In the last hour of the show: - Giannis is such a Diva - You're Dead To Mw

Episode Four Is Here! Unlocking VIBRANCY — The Energy Behind Brand Momentum in Burke's Relevance + Momentum® Series In this episode, hosts ⁠⁠⁠Jeremy Cochran, PsyD⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠KelseySchmeckpeper⁠⁠⁠ dive into VIBRANCY — the dimension of Relevance + Momentum® that captures how alive, active, and forward-moving a brand feels.  Vibrancy is the buzz consumers feel when a brand seems innovative, visible, and culturally present. It's not just about growth, it's about momentum you can sense. Jeremy and Kelsey unpack how vibrancy is measured, why it fuels perceptions of success, and how brands stay relevant without chasing empty hype.You'll learn:➡️ What Vibrancy really measures and why perception matters more than intent➡️ The two signals of Vibrancy: innovation and buzz➡️ Why brands like Liquid Death, Delta, Chick-fil-A, Coke, and Duolingo feel energetic and in motion➡️ How low-vibrancy brands fade from conversation even with strong awareness➡️ Practical ways brands can build energy with purpose, not noise Whether you're launching something new or reinvigorating an established brand, this episode shows why Vibrancy is the spark that turns relevance into momentum, and keeps brands moving forward.For more information on how you can leverage the Relevance + Momentum® framework to move your brand forward, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠Burke's ⁠⁠⁠Brand Strategy⁠⁠⁠⁠. Thanks for listening! Please subscribe to be notified of future episodes of ⁠⁠⁠Burke's ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠BeyondMeasure⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ podcast⁠⁠⁠.

This week on G3 Weekly, Scott Aniol covers five major news stories and examines them in light of Scripture:1. Mass Shootings Shake Brown University and Australia (00:21)A mass shooting at Brown University and an anti-Semitic attack at a Hanukkah celebration in Australia left multiple people dead, highlighting ongoing concerns about safety in public spaces and the persistence of ideologically motivated violence.2. Chick-fil-A Faces Conservative Revolt (03:40)A Chick-fil-A location in Utah sparked backlash after congratulating a same-sex couple on their wedding, prompting criticism from conservative customers and a corporate response emphasizing diversity and inclusion.3. Candace Owens Doubles Down on Conspiracy Theories (06:39)Commentator Candace Owens faced scrutiny for promoting unverified theories surrounding a recent assassination, deepening divisions within conservative media.4. Rise of Holocaust Denial Online & In Christian Circles (10:23)An increase in Holocaust denial and historical revisionism was identified online, including among some self-described conservative and Christian voices.5. Christian "AI Artist" Breaks Billboard Record (13:46)An AI-generated “artist” charting with a Christian worship song sparked debate over authenticity, transparency, and the role of artificial intelligence in religious expression.

In this week's edition of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas podcast, we're at Lasang Pinoy, with owner Maria Smith and her brother, executive chef Bill Martfeld – But you start how we start it around here... FOOD NEWS!! Chick'n Headz opened in Bentonville Fuego Tortilla is now open in Fayetteville Crisp & Green opened their second location. We'll hear from owner Tony Airoso. Potbelly's opens in Springdale this week Pizza Lotties will be opening in 2026 – we'll tell you when! Celebrity Chef Marcus Samuelsson will be preparing you a lavish dinner before the New Year if you act fast! Feroz the Afghan Restaurant will open next year. We'll tell you when and where! Hideaway Pizza is coming to NWA!! Downtown Rogers is holding a restaurant weekend. We'll tell you when! HAPPY ANNIVERSARY, Puritan Coffee & Beer! In this week's Flavors Flashback, you'll hear the hilarious way that co-owners and spouses Trae and Weisi Basore met! Lasang Pinoy Owner Maria Smith owns and runs a family restaurant. Her brother Bill Martfeld is the executive chef, her husband will work there sometimes, her mom is always there. It's their home away from home. Maria and Chef Bill talk about being born in the Philippines and their path to Rogers. They've been EVERYWHERE, and you'll hear the stories. Also, though they're just over a year old, they were affected by the Rogers tornado. You won't believe that story. And the food. If you've not had it, you'll be in for a treat when you go. They JUST released their new menu. You'll hear what's brand new on the menu, and what's a staple... and it's all next here on the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas.  

Even more questions remain about the Brown University shooting as law enforcement refuses to admit the shooter shouted Islamic chants before firing. Golden State Warriors Head Coach Steve Kerr Calls for “common sense gun control” after the Brown University shooting. Dana reacts to the criticism of Kash Patel appearing on a podcast with his girlfriend while the Brown shooter is still at-large. A Target Karen HARASSES an employee for wearing a red Charlie Kirk “FREEDOM” shirt at work.The parents of a three-year-old girl caught in the Bondi Beach terror attack have spoken of the heroic stranger who shielded their child as bullets rained around them. Jennifer Welch claims Charlie Kirk justified his death by being pro-Second Amendment. Actress Amanda Seyfried tells Variety that “Socialism is a gorgeous idea” that means “taking care of each other”. Sen. John Fetterman has another based moment, attacking Democrats for being anti-Semitic. Vanity Fair writes a hit piece slamming members of the Trump Administration following several interviews with White House Chief-of-Staff Susie Wiles. Chick-fil-A releases a statement confirming they hired a DEI executive following a controversial post of a same-sex marriage on one of their franchise's Facebook pages. The “Fuzozo”, an AI companion you can carry around like a Labubu, is set to take the world by storm. NBC publishes a racist story explaining how Black adults “embrace sports that defy stereotypes and bring joy”.Thank you for supporting our sponsors that make The Dana Show possible…HumanNhttps://HumanN.comNow's the perfect time to try them—get $5 off Humann's Turmeric Chews at Sam's Club through December 29.Byrnahttps://Byrna.comMake 2026 the year you protect your family with solid options—Get the Byrna today.Patriot Mobilehttps://PatriotMobile.com/Dana  OR CALL 972-PATRIOTWhat are you waiting for? Switch today during the Red, White, and Blue sale and get a free smartphone with code DANA. PreBornhttps://Preborn.com/DANAThis Christmas, for just $28 you can help save a life.. Dial #250 and say “Baby,” or give securely online. Make your gift today.AmmoSquaredhttps://AmmoSquared.comDon't get caught without ammo and be sure to tell them you heard about Ammo Squared on this show. Webroothttps://Webroot.com/DanaMake sure your family stays secure online with WebRoot.  Get 60% off Webroot Total Protection today.Subscribe today and stay in the loop on all things news with The Dana Show. Follow us here for more daily clips, updates, and commentary:YoutubeFacebookInstagramXMore Info

Chick-fil-A has finally responded to the controversy over a franchise celebrating same-sex marriage. The restaurant chain says they now embrace diversity, equity and inclusion. Listen LIVE Weekdays 7AM Central on the KWAM app, or Mighty990.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A Weaver's Journey of Art, Advocacy, and Belonging — from WEAVE: The Social Fabric Project In this edition of our special Weavers series, we sit down with Nikki Harris—fiber artist, mother, advocate, and community connector from Baltimore, Maryland. Through art and action, Nikki embodies what it means to weave the social fabric. She shares her journey from self-taught fiber artist to founding HGE Designs, and from 911 dispatcher to autism advocate with Pathfinders for Autism. This conversation delves into what it truly means to create space—for healing, for connection, and for community. Nikki opens up about raising her son Roman, navigating systems as a caregiver, and the spiritual resilience it takes to serve while healing herself. Calls to Action ✅ TELL A FRIEND ABOUT TP&R!!! Help spread the message of meaningful conversation. ✅ Subscribe to Talkin' Politics & Religion Without Killin' Each Other on your favorite podcast platform. ✅ Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anywhere you listen ✅ Join the community on Substack: coreysnathan.substack.com ✅ Watch & subscribe on YouTube: youtube.com/@politicsandreligion Timestamps & Highlights [00:01:00] –

CTL Script/ Top Stories of December 12th Publish Date: December 12th   Pre-Roll: From the Ingles Studio Welcome to the Award-Winning Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast  Today is Friday, December 12th and Happy Birthday to Frank Sinatra I’m Chris Culwell and here are the stories Cherokee is talking about, presented by Times Journal Canton Lions Club donates $6K to 'Shop with a Cop' program New taco fusion restaurant opens in Woodstock’s Towne Lake Road closure planned for Cherokee Avenue in Nelson Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on milk As well as Shane Delancey the Director of the Christmas Tradition at the Strand Theatre We’ll have all this and more coming up on the Cherokee Tribune-Ledger Podcast, and if you’re looking for Community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe!  Here is Shane Delancey the Director of the Christmas Tradition at the Strand Theatre Commercial: THE STRAND STORY 1: Canton Lions Club donates $6K to 'Shop with a Cop' program The Canton Lions Club stepped up in a big way Tuesday, donating $6,000 to the Canton Police Department’s “Shop with a Cop” program—a holiday tradition that brings smiles to kids and families in need across Cherokee County. Lions Club members Shawn Tolan and Marty Taylor handed over the check, and they weren’t alone in their generosity. The Laurel Canyon Optimist Club chipped in another $1,500 to help make this year’s event even bigger. “This program is everything,” said Canton Police Chief Marty Ferrell. “It’s about connection, joy, and showing kids we’re here for them. We couldn’t do it without these amazing partners.” STORY 2: New taco fusion restaurant opens in Woodstock’s Towne Lake There’s a new taco spot in Towne Lake, and it’s not your typical taco joint. Towne Lake Taco Co., owned by Rick and Julie VanBuren, is throwing a grand opening party this Thursday through Saturday, complete with deals, giveaways, and a special-edition taco. “We’re not a Mexican restaurant,” Rick said. “We’re a fusion spot—tacos are just our canvas to play with flavors.” And play they do. This weekend’s exclusive? A steak au poivre taco with sirloin, greens, and a peppercorn sauce spiked with Grandaddy Mimm’s sorghum rum. Deals include free tacos, $45 taco flights, and $8 sangrias. Oh, and brownie chimichangas for dessert. STORY 3: Road closure planned for Cherokee Avenue in Nelson  Heads up, Nelson residents—storm drainpipe work is coming to Cherokee Avenue, and it’s going to mean a road closure. From Dec. 15 to Dec. 19, the stretch between 61 and 98 Cherokee Avenue will be shut down. Here’s the deal: if you’re at 61, you’ll need to head west to get in or out. If you’re at 98, it’s east for you. Signs will go up at Dogwood Pass and Hillside Lane to mark the closure. Be careful around the crews and equipment, and please follow the work zone signs—it’s for everyone’s safety. Questions? Call 678-493-6077. Thanks for your patience! We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.874.3200 for more info.    We’ll be right back. Break: Ingles Markets 7 STORY 4: Chattahoochee Gold grabs top three finish at senior state championships  The Chattahoochee Gold Swim Club made waves at the Georgia Senior State Championships in Athens last weekend, with both the boys and girls teams landing top-three finishes. The boys snagged second place with 587.5 points, just behind Swim Atlanta (622) and ahead of Dynamo (505). Asher Cooper was the standout, racking up 90 points with wins in the 200 backstroke (1:47.77) and 200 butterfly (1:51.11). Parker Hebert and Jack Lynch also delivered big, with Hebert taking second in the 500 freestyle (4:33.09). On the girls’ side, they finished third overall, led by Ashlyn Loftin’s 55 points and Ariana Lutz’s two first-place swims, including the 500 freestyle (4:58.75). BRAVES: The Atlanta Braves just inked a deal with free-agent outfielder Mike Yastrzemski—yep, Carl Yastrzemski’s grandson—for two years and $23 million, with an option for a third. Yaz (the younger) has had an up-and-down career. He burst onto the scene in 2019, hitting .272 with 21 homers as a rookie, and even snagged some MVP votes in 2020 when he batted .297 during the shortened season. But since 2021? He hasn’t quite found that same spark, hitting .233 with 17 homers last year between the Giants and Royals. At 35, he’s likely looking at left field or a fourth-outfielder role—Acuña’s got right field locked down. I’m Keith Ippolito and this is your tribune ledger sports minute. STORY 5: Cherokee Chick-fil-As donate $155K for local charities  The Operators and Marketing Directors of Cherokee County’s six Chick-fil-A and Truett’s Grill locations handed over a jaw-dropping $155,000 check to the Cherokee County Educational Foundation (CCEF)—all thanks to the 12th Annual Cherokee County Chick-fil-A 5K. This year’s event? Bigger than ever, with over 2,700 runners and walkers showing up. It wasn’t just a race—it was a full-on celebration. Think Chick-fil-A biscuits, a petting zoo, balloon animals, face painting, live dance performances, and giveaways galore. Oh, and nonprofits got free booth space to connect with the community. The best part? That $155,000 will support CCEF and Cherokee County Special Olympics. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on milk Commercial: We’ll have closing comments after this.   COMMERCIAL: VILLA RICA WONDERLAND TRAIN   SIGN OFF –   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.tribuneledgernews.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Episode 592 of the Lawyerist Podcast shows how strengthening your leadership can become the most reliable lever for firm growth. Stephanie Everett and service expert William O'Neal break down the communication habits, value alignment, and client-experience systems that help teams build trust faster, reduce friction, and perform at a higher level.  William shares his Five Essentials of Leadership, unpacking why rapport drives efficiency, how consistent service builds loyalty, and what it takes to design a client journey your team can deliver every single day. They also explore the hidden costs of poor communication, the power of service recovery, and practical ways leaders can create more stability for both clients and staff.    Links from this episode:  https://www.williamoneal.com/    Listen to our previous episodes about Client Experience & Relationships.   #462: Designing an Empathetic Client Experience, with Kirk Simoneau Apple | Spotify | LTN   #347: How a Client Happiness Coordinator Increased My Firm Referrals & Reviews, with Ryan McKeen & Brittany Green Apple | Spotify | LTN   #338: Reframing Your Client Experience, with Spencer Keys Apple | Spotify | LTN   #271: Client‑Centered Law Firms, with Jack Newton Apple | Spotify | LTN     Have thoughts about today's episode? Join the conversation on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and X!   If today's podcast resonates with you and you haven't read The Small Firm Roadmap Revisited yet, get the first chapter right now for free! Looking for help beyond the book? See if our coaching community is right for you.  Access more resources from Lawyerist at lawyerist.com.    Chapters / Timestamps:   00:00 – Intro  05:12 – Meet William O'Neal  06:15 – Leading with Joy  07:51 – Five Essentials of Leadership  09:01 – Heart for Service  12:41 – Knowing Your Value  14:07 – What Clients Want  16:35 – Building Rapport & Trust  18:55 – Culture & Consistency  20:30 – Empathy in Client Experience  22:10 – Lessons from Chick-fil-A  24:09 – Service Recovery  25:31 – Feedback & Improvement  27:36 – Adapting to Change  29:29 – Small Acts, Big Trust  30:18 – Learn More + Closing 

This week on Wellness Junkies, Amy is back with favorite co-host Rachel Johnson of ah.mi to chat with the iconic Kristin McGee – celebrity yoga and pilates teacher, former Peloton coach, mom of three, and founder of the Kristin McGee Movement app.Kristin shares how a random yoga class at Crunch led to MTV Yoga DVDs, a dream role launching Peloton's Yoga & Pilates program, and what really went into her decision to leave a high-profile role and build her own platform while navigating divorce and single motherhood. She breaks down her “Flow • Sculpt • Connect” philosophy, why meditation is the ultimate anti-ager, and how short, stackable workouts can actually change your body (and your mind) over time.We also announce something fun: Super Clean January with ah.mi x Kristin McGee – a four-week, approachable reset with strength, yoga, pilates and meditation to help you feel better after a very “coast and toast” December.In this episode, we talk about:Kristin's wild origin story: from NYU theater major to MTV Yoga DVDsSliding into Peloton's DMs and helping build Peloton Yoga & PilatesThe emotional side of leaving a beloved job – grief, fear and finally, reliefLaunching the Kristin McGee Movement app and working with TonalWhy women need strength training (and how to make it less intimidating)Her “Flow • Sculpt • Connect” method: strength, mobility, + mind-body connectionThe twice-daily meditation practice she swears by – and how it got her through divorceWhat she actually eats in a day (including her nightly dark chocolate square)Mom life with three boys, Chick-fil-A hacks, and lowering the holiday “perfect mom” barThe scoop on Super Clean January with ah.mi and how to joinSuper Clean January with Ami x Kristin McGeeStarts: first Monday after New Year's (Jan. 5th)What you get each week:3 strength workouts2 yoga/Pilates classes2 meditationsBuilt-in accountability via ah.mi's communityBonus: Ami members get 2 months free of the Kristin McGee Movement app

It's Witness Wednesday! Today, Todd ventures on campus at Georgia Tech to have conversations about Christ, truth, and the afterlife. He meets students Ryan and Dallas and encourages them to trust in the reality and truth of the gospel of Christ. Segment 1 • Todd uses Ryan's Chick-fil-A sandwich to argue for intelligent design. • Ryan, an agnostic-leaning student, wrestles with the idea of creation vs. the Big Bang. • Todd gently calls out Ryan's reluctance to accept a Creator, and the possible motive behind it. Segment 2 • Todd probes deeper into Ryan's conscience. • Ryan admits he'd be found guilty if judged by God, but still doubts the justice or existence of such a being. • Ryan doubts Todd's ability to know this truth, but affirms his logic. Segment 3 • Todd meets Dallas, a witty nuclear engineering student who might say he is spiritual but not religious. • Dallas admits to moral failings but assumes God will be “understanding.” • Todd points Dallas towards Christ taking his punishment for him. Segment 4 • Todd outlines the gospel — forgiveness through Jesus, not good works — but Dallas hesitates, hung up on religion and the name “Jesus.” • Dallas responds to the gospel with sarcasm and dismissal. • Todd encourages you: respond to the gospel in faith - don't dismiss it. ___ Thanks for listening! Wretched Radio would not be possible without the financial support of our Gospel Partners. If you would like to support Wretched Radio we would be extremely grateful. VISIT https://fortisinstitute.org/donate/ If you are already a Gospel Partner we couldn't be more thankful for you if we tried!

Quake Rocks Japan, Northern Lights Return, Golden Snubs, Travis Talk, Chilling at Chick-fil-A & Vintage Tech!

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Keanna Sanders.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Keanna Sanders.

Ladies, buckle up—this one shook me!

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Keanna Sanders.

“Therefore see that you walk carefully [living life with honor, purpose, and courage; shunning those who tolerate and enable evil], not as the unwise, but as wise [sensible, intelligent, discerning people], making the very most of your time [on earth, recognizing and taking advantage of each opportunity and using it with wisdom and diligence], because the days are [filled with] evil.” Ephesians 5:15-16 AMP   *Transcription Below*   Questions and Topics We Discuss: How did God meet you in your experience of army life to reveal your choice of hope vs. fear? What have you learned about community, both before and after your experience of launching your husband into space? For all of us, how can we rediscover our fun side when we've been trapped in survival mode for too long?   Stacey Morgan is always ready with a funny or thoughtful story from her own life; whether it be holding down the home front during military deployments, working for the Smithsonian, skydiving, or blasting  her husband into outer space. Stacey is on staff with MOPS International, a nonprofit focused on the unique needs of mothers around the world. She and her husband, Army colonel and NASA astronaut Drew Morgan, have four children.   Connect with Stacey on Instagram or through her website.   Other Savvy Sauce Episodes Related to Friendship: Friendship with Drew Hunter Reflecting Jesus in Our Relationships with Rach Kincaid Nurturing Friendships with Jackie Coleman Art of Friendship with Kim Wier   Thank You to Our Sponsors: Chick-fil-A East Peoria and The Savvy Sauce Charities (and donate online here)   Please help us out by sharing this episode with a friend, leaving a 5-star rating and review, and subscribing to this podcast!   Connect with The Savvy Sauce on Facebook, Instagram or Our Website   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 - 2:54) 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 want to say a huge thank you to today's sponsors for this episode, Chick-fil-A East Peoria and Savvy Sauce Charities.   Are you interested in a free college education for you or someone you know? Stay tuned for details coming later in this episode from today's sponsor, Chick-fil-A East Peoria. You can also visit their website today at https://www.chick-fil-a.com/locations/il/east-peoria.   I'm so excited to share a special Patreon re-release episode. And if you've been with The Savvy Sauce for a while, you know that we used to make some money by having people sign up for Patreon and as a reward, they would get access to special episodes. Now we have done away with that as we've transitioned to becoming a nonprofit, and we want to make all of these episodes available to you, so we re-release a few every year.   What I'd love to ask is, as we're approaching the end of year because we've taken out that revenue stream, would you consider financially supporting Savvy Sauce Charities?   There are two simple ways. First, if you want to mail us a check, that saves us all of the processing fees, and you can make that out to Savvy Sauce Charities and mail it to P.O. Box 101, Roanoke, Illinois 61561. Also, if you want to go online, visit thesavvysauce.com and you can type in different words to the search button. You could type in “donate” or “support” and it should take you to the place where there's a button to click and put in your credit card information and give that way. We would be so grateful for any amount, and we love our partnership with you.   Here's our chat.   Stacey Morgan is my guest today, and you may have heard her name in the news over the past few years. She has documented her story in her debut book, The Astronaut's Wife: How Launching My Husband into Outer Space Changed the Way I Live on Earth. And now she's going to share more about that season and all the lessons God taught her about making the most of her one incredible life, and she's going to inspire each of us to do the same.   Here's our chat. Welcome to The Savvy Sauce, Stacey.   Stacey Morgan: (2:55 - 2:58) I am so excited to be here. Thank you for having me.   Laura Dugger: (2:58 - 3:07) Well, it is truly my pleasure. And will you just start by giving us a little bit more context for our time together and just share a few things about yourself?   Stacey Morgan: (3:08 - 4:49) Sure. Well, hi, my name is Stacey. I currently live in Texas.   I have four kids. I'm married to a guy named Drew who has kind of an unusual job. I grew up in a small town just outside of Boston and was kind of a scholar-athlete growing up interested in a lot of different things but always involved in church and youth group. And that really served me well when I went off to college.   The first college I went to, West Point. And actually, I'll tell you in a minute, but that is where I eventually met my now husband, Drew.   We got married after I graduated from undergrad. He's a little bit older than me and he is an Army officer. And so, we have moved all over the country. We've lived on both coasts and had a number of kinds of unusual situations just, you know, kind of typical for a military family living all over the place.   I've had a lot of crazy jobs. I think mainly I have an unusual story because I'm really quick to say yes to things, which sometimes, you know, it's a double-edged sword. Sometimes you say yes and you realize, “I should have thought through that a little bit more.” But really it's been quite an adventure because we have had the opportunity to live in a lot of different places, experience a lot of different things.   And we ended up here in 2013. We can kind of get into that if you want, but we ended up down here in Texas with my husband, who is still an Army officer, but he became a NASA astronaut. And so, that totally changed the direction of our lives and kind of changing all the plans we had for what we were supposed to be doing in the military and ending up down here at Johnson Space Center. Then, him eventually launching into outer space.   Laura Dugger: (4:49 - 5:01) Wow, there are so many points to unpack, but let's back it up to what you had mentioned about West Point. So, will you just elaborate and tell us more about how you and Drew met and fell in love?   Stacey Morgan: (5:01 - 7:21) Sure. So, we were both cadets at West Point when we met. He was a little bit older than me, but we met through Officers' Christian Fellowship, which is a Christian club that is very popular on military bases, both at the academies but in big Army and other services as well when you get out.   It's a, you know, it's like small groups, typical for what most people would find comfortable in kind of church community. And so, we met there and we just kind of clicked, you know.   I would say it's funny looking back, we were not the type of people I think we would have thought we would marry. He was far more serious than I am. I'm a little bit more, I'm the one to more kind of like walk the fine line, but we work together really well.   We've always been a great team. That's always been a real theme in our marriage, you know, that we are a team. And, you know, when he proposed after I graduated from undergrad, he kind of said, “I promise you a life of adventure,” which at the time sounded wonderful and adorable.   Of course, it has come back to haunt me several times when he has been, you know, come up with some crazy plan and when I hesitate he's like, “I promised you adventure.” And I'm like, “Now that's unfair. I did not know when you said adventure back in 2000 that you meant all these crazy things like going to space or all these different deployments and all this kind of stuff like that.”   So, we now have four kids. We've been married this summer will be 22 years. And, you know, it hasn't been without its challenges like any marriage and certainly any marriage under stress because of stressful situations, whether that's military deployments, whether that's space travel or just kind of life and parenting. And as you kind of grow up together and get to know each other and the world changes around you, we've certainly had ups and downs, but we are a team.   And I think God has really honored that and it's been really helpful for us when we've had those sticky seasons where you just feel like, “Man, we are just not connecting or kind of jiving the way we would want,” to actually say to each other that we are on the same team and that has been really helpful.   Laura Dugger: (7:22 - 7:40) The part of your story that involves space travel is one that most of us will never be able to relate to experientially, but it's still extraordinary. So, can you walk us through the detailed events leading up to 9:28 p.m. on July 20th, 2019?   Stacey Morgan: (7:42 - 15:28) Sure. So, I should back it up one big step behind that just to give everybody a little context. So, in 2012, we were kind of living our lives. We had always been deep into the Army Special Operations community. We love that. In order to live and kind of thrive in that environment you have to be all in, and we were all in.   And one day my husband came home and he was uncharacteristically giddy and he said, “You're not gonna believe this huge news. NASA is opening up the application window for a new class of astronauts.”   And I thought, “Why are you telling me this? This has no bearing whatsoever on our lives. We are on this path and that is a completely different path.”   And he said, “Well, I want to apply.”   And I thought to myself, “Well, I wanted to be a ballerina at one point in life, but that ship sailed. Like who doesn't say they always wanted to be an astronaut? Like this seems like a childhood fantasy.”   But he said, “No, I just want to apply. Like don't worry, all of our plans are gonna stay the same. They've never selected an Army physician before. I just, you know, I want to...” You know, the joke was that you'll always be a NASA applicant, right? And that'll be great. We'll laugh about it at family Christmases and stuff.   Except he kept making it through every gate. And so, in 2013 we got the call that completely took our life off of one set of train tracks and put it on another. At that time, we were currently stationed just outside of Washington DC at Fort Belvoir. We were supposed to be literally the next week moving to Germany. And that's how close these changes kind of came up on themselves. And so, we had to unravel everything for Germany and move to Houston, Texas, because that's where Johnson Space Center is.   And so, he began his training in 2013. I started my journey in learning a whole new culture, a whole new way of doing life. I'd never lived in a place that was at least not near a military base or within a military community. Didn't quite recognize at the time how much that shared sense of community had made things easier in terms of connecting with people before that and when I didn't have it.   So, it was probably our rockiest transition for me personally that I'd ever had in terms of friendships and getting connected. That's a big part of my story because I think friendship struggles are so common for adult women. It's just something that nobody really teaches us how to do and so a lot of women are very lonely.   But fast forward, he trained for several years until it was eventually his turn to fly. And in 2019, the only way to get to the International Space Station was to fly on a Russian Soyuz rocket. So, some people are very confused because they think, “Well, every space movie I've ever watched is taking place in Florida, right? Whether that's Apollo 13 or Armageddon or whatever. Why didn't he launch from Florida?”   Well, between 2011 and 2020, the Space Shuttle program had ended. SpaceX Crew Dragon had not yet started launching from Florida again. So, for about a 10-year period, the only way to get to and from the International Space Station was to ride a Russian rocket.   So, that's what NASA did. They went into partnership with the Russians, which of course makes things very interesting given today's kind of current political climate and all the world events. But that meant when it was Drew's turn to launch, we as a family had to travel to Kazakhstan, which is a country that I could not spell before 2019.   And so, if you don't know where that is, don't feel bad. I didn't either. I had to look it up. It's a former Soviet Republic really kind of in between Russia and Afghanistan. So, it is in the middle of nowhere. And when the Soviets were building their space program in the 1950s and 60s, they built their secret space city there in Kazakhstan. That's where they started their space program and they have kind of kept it unchanged and they continue to launch their rockets from there today.   It was a whole kind of world travel and cultural experience to take my four kids to Kazakhstan, which is a completely different cultural experience for really what came down to a very stressful, very emotional moment really waiting for that launch. So, unlike Florida, which you know when you watch on television, it's colorful, there's a lot of people, a lot of spectators, big people remember from the shuttle days big countdown clock, a loudspeaker kind of telling everybody what's going on... that's not how it is in Kazakhstan.   So, about 30 minutes before the launch, the kids and I were brought to this viewing area. And by viewing area I would say big field. It's not... there was kind of some grandstands area far at the other end of the field, but that's where all the space tourists stand and the press and all that kind of stuff and we didn't want to be near them. So, our escort brought us down to the end, the other end of the field, and it's just dark and it's quiet and there's no announcements. There's no countdown clock. It's just looking at your watch or your phone there just kind of in the dark and you just know that that Russian ground crew is going to launch that rocket at exactly 9:28 p.m. Not a minute earlier, not a minute later.   And so, standing there in the dark holding my kids' hands, and we can see the rocket in the distance only about a mile away, which by rocket launch standards is very close. Knowing that in a minute or 30 seconds or 10 seconds as it gets closer, it's either going to be one of the best days of your life, super exciting, super proud moment, or it's going to be the worst day of your life, and you could become a widow.   And as much as it's easy to kind of get complacent because incidents are so rare, but we all can remember any number of space disasters that have happened. Columbia, Challenger, those are very real. And with my time down here at Johnson Space Center, you come to learn those names and you meet those families and you meet those widows and widowers and you realize that space travel is dangerous. You know, at the end of the day my husband was in a little tiny capsule on top of a rocket full of highly explosive fuel. So, it's very scary.   And in that moment standing there thinking, “In 10 seconds my life is going to change no matter what happens.” Even if this goes perfectly, what happens next? I don't really know. It's kind of like having a baby. You can read all about it and assume things will be the way they're going to be, but until you're in it and then it happens, you don't really know how it's gonna go.   And so, it was a really overwhelmingly emotional moment because you think this could go sideways. And also, by the way, the world is watching live with me. So, if something goes wrong, I'm not able to process this privately. I will be experiencing it in real time with the rest of the world.   But even if it goes perfectly, what happens next? Like what does it look like to live on earth with a spouse in space and single parent for nine plus months while their other parent is in space? And you really don't know and it's scary to think like, “Gosh, what if something happens?” You know, he can't like come home early. Can't just like a business trip jump on a plane or a train and get home early. There's no coming back early. So, whatever happens, I'm on my own for better or worse. I'm on my own and I hope I have the endurance and the support system and everything I'm gonna need in order to be successful in this nine months.   Laura Dugger: (15:28 - 15:47) And my heart is pounding a little bit faster just as I hear you describe this. And I'd love to get back to your story, but first just to pause and wonder with that mixture of this adventure right in front of you and then your experience of army life, how did God meet you in all of that to reveal your choice of you're able to choose hope or fear?   Stacey Morgan: (15:47 - 22:32) Right. So, you know, when you take the time to step back and think, sometimes you don't see these patterns in your life until you kind of start putting them down on paper. And it was interesting for me to see how God had prepared me for that moment with other moments, especially related to military deployments in the past. Because certainly experiencing a rocket launch and all that fear and kind of this moment of where is my hope found in this moment, that was a varsity level moment.   But I'm so thankful that about ten years earlier God really started to prepare me for that moment with some other big moments. Like when my husband deployed for the first time.   I'll never forget, it was the height of the War on Terror. So, we were living in a military community which was amazing and a lot of my friends' husbands were also serving in the same military units or similar military units and they were deploying. The tempo was high so that meant, you know, six months deployed or longer, coming home for short amounts of time and then deploying again. Lots of action specifically in Afghanistan and Iraq at the time.   And so, lots of fatalities, lots of injuries, lots of grief, and for spouses a lot of fear because we knew what they were doing was very dangerous. And so, for me and my friends we kind of had this unspoken rule which I think a lot of people can understand which was, “Let's just not talk about this scariest thing because somehow talking about it makes it seem more possible.”   And as crazy as that is to say, people get that. You know, there's a lot of things we don't talk about because it's just too scary to think about. And so, for us the scariest thing in our life at that time was the fear that our husbands would not come home, that they would be killed in action. And that felt very real because we were going to memorial services, we were visiting people in the hospital, we were turning on the news and seeing what was going on in the world. And there was often communication blackouts because we knew that they were doing things that were very dangerous, very secretive.   And so, at the time I happily did what everybody else was doing which was, “Let's just not talk about it. Let's just kind of live life managing.” We felt like we were managing this fear, I think that's what I would have said at the time.   But then one day my friend Lisa, who's an amazing friend and she's always like two steps ahead of me on the wisdom scale, we were having coffee on her front porch and she turned to me and she said, “I've been thinking a lot about what life would be like if our husbands were killed.”   And this was like a bomb drop. I mean because we just were not supposed to be talking about this. Like here the rest of us had been avoiding all morbid thoughts about what could possibly happen with our husband and instead she had like turned and looked it straight in the eye.   And I was shocked. And so, I kind of sat up straighter and I said, “What do you mean?”   And she said, “Well, I've been thinking about it and it's not that, you know, life would certainly be hard and doesn't mean we wouldn't need counseling or our kids wouldn't need support, but life would still go on even if that happened. Life would still go on. Life would still be full of good things and God would provide and bring people around us to support us and I've just been thinking about that.”   And I was stunned. I was absolutely stunned because while the rest of us were too afraid to face that fear, in looking at it she kind of exposed it for what it was, which was certainly real and an absolute possibility that that could happen. But when she started walking down the path of like, “Okay, if this happened then what would happen?” You have to decide, “Do I believe God would really be with me or not? Do I believe His promises are true that He will be with me on good days and bad days and that He will draw people to me who will love me and support me? And have I plugged myself into friends and a faith community that would be there for me if that happened?”   And it was a game changer. That was probably one of, at the time, the biggest life-changing conversations I'd ever had as an adult because it really did shift how I viewed feeling afraid about things like that. And so, I had several opportunities... Drew deployed several times and then certainly doesn't take combat deployments to feel afraid like that. I know I have felt it before when my daughter was in the NICU, you know, and I had to leave her in the NICU and go home at night. I know I have felt it during this pandemic several times. I know I'm gonna feel it when I drop my oldest off at college this summer. You know, this moment where it just life feels very scary mainly because of the unknowns that come next and the fact that you have no control over those.   And so, that rocket launch moment was, you know, I felt like God was really prompting me in that moment to say, “Hey, if this rocket explodes like what will you do with that? Do you still trust me that I'm here with you and that I will still bring people to you and love you? Like is your support, is your foundation and your hope truly found in me or is it found in this rocket launch going successfully? Because it might not, and then what does that mean for you?”   And so, it really was this choice of am I gonna choose to live a life of fear, which is our default because if you do not choose something else we will always live a life dictated by fear of something. It's exhausting to live like that because once you conquer one fear another one's gonna pop up. Then they come in bunches and they just start layering on top of each other. Honestly it can lead to despair because there's plenty of things in the world to be afraid of and new ones just pop up every day.   So instead, I felt like God was offering me a new way of living and it really felt tangible in that moment of that rocket launch which is, “Hey, I hope that you will choose to find your hope in me. Just me. The one unchanging thing in this world that will be unchanging regardless of what happens with this rocket launch in 10 seconds. But if it goes well or if it goes poorly I am unchanging. You can rely on me. I will be with you in the best and the worst of times. And even if the rocket launch goes successfully and whatever happens in the next nine months, I'm with you there as well. So, you don't need to be afraid because I'm here with you. You can have hope that I will enable you to do what must be done no matter what happens tomorrow.”   Laura Dugger: (22:32 - 22:49) I'm so grateful that you chose hope and you chose faith. And then after all of that excitement and that adrenaline experienced on launch day, what did your life look like in the months to follow?   Stacey Morgan: (22:49 - 26:47) Yeah, it wasn't easy. You know I joke that those nine months really were like it was like a master class in all these little lessons I've learned throughout the years, but I'd never had to put them into practice at this level and all at the same time.   So, things like being honest about that I needed help. That, you know, there are times in the past where I have certainly wanted people to know or think that I had it all together and that I could do it all by myself especially, you know, I think every mom feels that way.   Certainly, military spouses, we take a lot of pride and feel like I'm doing this on my own.   And I realize now that I had certain seasons I have made life a lot harder for myself because I somehow thought that there was like an extra trophy if I finish the race by myself. I said that it was like, spoiler, there's no trophy. And also, I was just making it harder for myself.   And so, this season I could not fake it. Like past seasons I could fake it. This one I could not fake it. I had two teenagers, two tweens, a lot of hormones and then prepubescent and puberty things flying around. Just a lot of scheduling, a lot of driving, like just life. And then just the stress of living with someone who, you know, a spouse who was living in space and the stress of what does that do to your marriage, to parenting and, you know, parent-child relationships. Just every single piece of running a house, of parenting all the things, was solely on my shoulders and that's a big weight. And it was tough. It was tough.   So, I could not fake it. I had to ask for help. I had to be willing to ask for it and receive it, which are two different skill sets I found. It's sometimes you get good at one and not the other. I had to get really willing to be vulnerable as my friends and say things like, “I'm really lonely.” Can you know, it's like being honest. Like everything's not just, “Oh, this is so exciting. Oh, isn't it so great? Aren't we just so proud of them?” Yes, but at the same time sometimes I'm lonely. Sometimes I'm struggling.   Sometimes in my stress I would overly focus on trying to control my home life or what was happening within my own house and become not as pleasant of a person to live with because I was just trying to kind of regain some control in what felt like a little bit of a chaotic world and then you become not your best self and you know that. And so, I had to learn how to kind of get out of that survival mode and still have fun even when life is hard. And really just kind of accept that life isn't one thing or the other. You can be in a hard season and it still have good things in it. Life can be full of opportunities and challenges and one does not negate the other. And when you try to live your life by one narrative or the other, not only are you faking it but you make life harder than it needs to be and you kind of block other people out of it.   So, there was a lot of learning going on in there but we really all came down to that first decision of how am I gonna live my life in this season? Am I gonna live it fearfully, reactionary, hair trigger, you know, just stress all the time because I'm afraid of what comes next. I'm not sure if I'm gonna be able to handle it? Or am I gonna live a life of hope, which is of course like not wishes and dreams but it is anticipation that God will be with me no matter what comes down the pipeline. And sometimes that's divine comfort that is hard to explain but you just feel it. Sometimes it's people he draws to your life who literally will sit on the couch with you and just like hold your hand or give you a hug that moment you need it. Sometimes it's someone offering to carpool or take your kid out driving because they're trying to get their driver's license, you know?   But that's really the biggest thing for me. I talked about it in chapter one of the book because that's the foundation that really all those other lessons were built on.   Laura Dugger: (26:47 - 27:26) And I think also with your book, it was helpful to hear little insights into what it looked like for your marriage. And it was even interesting when you said it's really important for astronauts to have forms of entertainment and that you were so committed to being involved in Drew's life and that you two still found ways to stay connected. I just think that has to be encouraging to any married couples listening right now because you clearly had a big barrier to overcome. But what were some of those ways that the two of you tried as best as you could in that season to stay intimately connected to one another's lives?   Stacey Morgan: (27:26 - 31:19) Yeah, it's not easy. And I think there's kind of this fallacy that is kind of dangerous for especially young married I think to believe which is like in every season of your life you're gonna feel amazingly connected to your spouse and you're gonna constantly be growing in your relationship. And sometimes that's not true. Like sometimes one person has a job that takes them away from home or someone is sick or there are other issues going on in your life where the connection is just not as strong not because you don't want it to be but because the circumstances you find yourself in don't allow for that.   And certainly, while my husband was in space that was a lot of challenges to feeling connected. I mean there's good communication but there's a difference between like quality and quantity, right? So, he could call me on the phone every day but because of the time differences and his schedule the only time he could call me was between 4:00 and 5:00 p.m. my time, which as any person knows and with any kids, is like the worst time of the day. Like everything's happening, the wheels are coming off, homework, pickups, dinner prep, like all that kind of stuff was crazy.   So, needless to say, I was not able to sit down and have like a heartfelt drawn-out conversation. And then kids hate talking on the phone so he wasn't really talking to them during the day. I'm like, you know, my eight-year-old isn't gonna send him an email. So, you know, there wasn't like a lot of quality or quantity conversation with the kids which of course puts a little stress on your marriage too because you worry about that.   And then we have one video chat a month and you want it to be fun. You want it to kind of be good for the kids as well as him but it's a very, you know, it's one hour to share between five people and so that's not a lot of time. And so, the reality is that for that season there was a lot of, I would say, relationship treading water. And you're, you know, the goal is just not to let things go downhill, which you can easily do in life when you and your spouse are experiencing the same event but from different points of view. And that's what we were doing. You know, we were sharing the mission but from two vastly different points of view.   And so, you do your best. But the difference is I think you have to in order to kind of come out on the other end better, you have to have a kind of a mutual commitment that, “Hey, we're going to... we are eventually going to come back together on this. We can't change the circumstances. I can't make the time difference different. I can't give you more time on the phone. I can't... there's things I just cannot change. But we are committed as a team to doing the best we can right now and when this circumstance changes, in this case when he came home, we're gonna kind of back up again and do some story sharing and reconnect about some things that we just didn't have the opportunity to in the past.”   And so, it's a little bit kind of like two steps forward one step back but eventually you still come out ahead if you are committed to trying to come back together and share those experiences in one way or another. Where you run into kind of danger is if people start experiencing two different things and then they never come back together so the gap just kind of keeps widening and widening. And then you hear when people say like, “Yeah, I woke up and I felt like I was living a different life than the person who was sleeping next to me.”   And so, reminding us to ourselves that we are a team even though we were experiencing the same thing. I didn't know a lot about a lot of the things he was doing. He didn't know a lot of stories about how things were for me. And so, it's okay to tell them later if you don't have the ability to tell them in the moment as long as you both have the goodwill and you prioritize coming back together eventually.   Laura Dugger: (31:19 - 34:26) And now a brief message from our sponsor.   Did you know you can go to college tuition free just by being a team member at Chick-fil-A East Peoria? Yes, you heard that right. Free college education. All Chick-fil-A East Peoria team members in good standing are immediately eligible for a free college education through Point University.   Point University is a fully accredited private Christian college located in West Point, Georgia. This online self-paced program includes 13 associate's degrees, 17 bachelor's degrees, and two master's programs, including an MBA. College courses are fully transferable both in and out of this program. This could even be a great option to complete your general education courses and then transfer to the college of your choice and save money in the process. So, if you're looking for an affordable college option while simultaneously gaining valuable work experience and earning an income, Chick-fil-A East Peoria is the place for you. You don't have to go into debt to get a great education. To apply today, please go to https://www.chick-fil-a.com/locations/il/east-peoria  and click on the careers tab. You can also call the restaurant at 309-694-1044 to find out more. And if you aren't located near Chick-fil-A East Peoria, make sure you check with your local Chick-fil-A restaurant to see if they also participate in the Elevate program with Point University. Thanks for your sponsorship.   Did you know that this podcast is 100% listener supported? We love producing free content that's available to everyone around the world with our monthly newsletters when you sign up for our email list and with our weekly episodes. We pray that this has been a benefit to you. That if any episode has ever impacted you, what we ask is that you will partner with us now and generously and prayerfully give financially before the end of the year. There's multiple ways to do this. Online at thesavvysauce.com, you can donate through Stripe,  PayPal, or Venmo with just a simple click. Or you can send snail mail to us at Savvy Sauce Charities, P.O. Box 101 Roanoke, Illinois, 61561. We hope you choose to support us today and during this season especially.   It sounds like you really leaned into your friendships. So, what would you say you've learned about community both before and after your experience of launching Drew into space?   Stacey Morgan: (34:26 - 38:07) Well, I tell you what, I realized that as an adult often a lot of us don't really know how to do friendship well. And our culture is so, it so values independence that we often convince ourselves that if we tell our friends or our community that we need help or just kind of show our true heart for how important it is to us, that somehow that's gonna be kind of like devalued or we're gonna feel weak. And I realized like, “Man, I wasted a lot of years trying to be tougher than I really am.” And I wish I could go back and change that because in this season, mainly because I had no choice. And so, God really used this opportunity to show me like, “Hey, I'm gonna kind of like force you to open up your heart, be vulnerable with this small group of really trusted friends and like just trust me to see what happens next.”   And I did and it was a game-changer. I mean, I have a lot of deep feelings but I put a little bit of a tough exterior and I forced myself to be super honest and super vulnerable with my friends and say things like, “I'm lonely or I don't even know what I need but I'm just feeling exhausted or angry or this is really frustrating to me or I need help with this and I don't even know where to begin.” And just let those friends step into my life in a really intimate way.   And you know, I think we've all had a friend at some point who has asked for help and we have been so happy to help them and we've never thought less of them for it. But somehow when it comes to our own time we're like, “Oh, I don't want to trouble anybody. Oh, they're gonna think I can't handle it.” Or like, “Well, this is like I made this bed so I better lie in it. You chose to have all these kids, you chose this career, you chose this whatever, like this is your problem.” But we would never say that about another friend. And so, I don't know why we are harder on ourselves than we are on our friends because it's not right. Most of our friends are happy to help us. They love us helping us, being with us, comforting us, supporting us. That's how they show how important you are to them and we need to let them do that.   I've also gotten better about verbalizing the feelings that I had always felt inside but I felt awkward verbalizing. Like, “Thank you for being my friend.” Or like, “Thank you for just spending this time with me,” or, “You are an important person in my life.” Words that we say to our kids, that we often say to our spouses, but sometimes for me at least felt weird saying to friends and I'm really trying to get better about that. That was a great nine months of practice. It doesn't come easy or natural I think to anybody but it's a game changer. Like why not tell your friends how much they mean to you?   So, community is essential. Like don't try to lone wolf this life. I've certainly had some more extreme experiences than probably the average person, but the principles are the same. Get plugged into community and have multiple circles of community. Certainly, your faith community but also you know if you work, if you go to the gym, if you go to school, like your kids' friends, like there's so many circles of community and don't be afraid to just jump right in and get connected. And you've got to do it before you are in crisis. You've got to kind of invest in these friendships so that you know them and can trust these friends so that when those seasons come that are hard you have this small group of people who you can rely on. It will be a complete game changer in your life when you have a small, could be one person, can be two people, trusted people who can journey with you.   Laura Dugger: (38:07 - 38:34) I could not agree more. I really think that friendship is one of the most precious gifts were given in this life. And going back to your marriage we had discussed that time of separation but then there was a whole other season of transition as well. So, what was it like to come back together after being apart for nearly 10 months?   Stacey Morgan: (38:34 - 42:55) Yeah, so it's funny there's always these Hollywood romanticized versions of what reunions must look like whether that's a military deployment reunion or you know when an astronaut comes home. And I think people assume it's some kind of like hot sexy romantic can't keep hands off of you but the reality is far different, right? Because it's... I mean maybe it is, maybe that's how it is for some people. I will just say for us, you know, when you've been living an independent life for however long, whether that was you know a six-month or an eight-month deployment or a nine-month deployment to outer space, you know I was living my own life fully independent for that long where I made all the choices. I didn't have anybody looking over my shoulder or you know there's a little bit of independent freedom there when you're the only one kind of making the big decisions.   And so, when that person comes back into your life, which you want them to come back, you're happy they're home, but there is this awkward transition period. It's definitely an opportunity for some tension because now there's another opinion back in the mix, right?   Like I had to kind of adjust my way of doing life for another person who had a valid opinion, another decision maker. The kids had to adjust to having another parent back in the house. You're kind of getting to know each other so there is a little bit of a sniffing out period where you're like, “Hey, nice to meet you.” Because we all change. You know you could be gone from someone for a month, you know, you're not the same person you were today as you were last year or six months ago or maybe even a month ago. So, anytime someone comes back in your life they're different, you're a little different. You're like my friendships had shifted over those ten months, like my work had shifted, everything in my life had moved on and he had not been there in the house with me to experience that so there was... it was a whole new set of experiences and a new person to get to know again.   Now he came home and what made it a little bit more dramatic was that Drew came home in the startup of the pandemic. He came home in April of 2020 which at the time I think we weren't sure, “Are we going up? Are we coming down?” We know now looking back we realize things were just ramping up; the world was, we were all still very confused about what's the best thing to do can we all the things you know. So, NASA pretty much brought him home and then he came home to our house after just a few days in kind of the quarantine facility there on Johnson Space Center. But then he came back to our house and then it's like he never left because all of the normal stuff that would happen when you come home from space like travel and meetings and all these kind of things were all canceled or postponed.   And so, instead of kind of like getting to know each other slowly it was like zero to sixty. I mean he was home and he didn't go anywhere, none of us could go anywhere. So, we joke that the irony that he was in space with five professional crew mates in a small space and then he came home to live in our small space with five amateur crew mates who are certainly not nearly as gracious or accommodating or helpful as the professional astronaut and cosmonaut crew mates he had. The irony is not lost on us. So, he came home I don't think we've ever spent that amount of time together you know 24/7 in the same house with all four of our kids, no school, nowhere to go because everything's closed. And so yeah we're getting to know each other in this kind of Petri dish of new experiences as the world is also kind of like upside down and everything's unusual.   So, in the end it was okay. I joke like we did a lot of “I was like let me go do this puzzle I just need some alone time” or “I'm going for a walk around the neighborhood please don't text me. I'll be back when I'll be back I just need a few minutes to myself.” I think everybody has had that moment in the during the last two years where you're just like, “I just need a few minutes alone please,” you know in my if you've been trapped in your house with somebody who you're not normally with 24/7.   Laura Dugger: (42:56 - 43:17) Well sure and with your experience, mental health is very important for the family of the astronaut and the astronaut themselves. Wasn't it your psychologist who is saying typically when you come back and enter this time of reentry and reuniting you do little bit by little bit because that tends to be wiser?   Stacey Morgan: (43:17 - 45:22) Yes, that's right. They call it titrating a return. That's a principle they have in the military as well which is they would normally come back from a deployment for at least the first couple weeks back from a long trip away they would go to work every day for several hours because it's you know psychologically difficult for two people who have been living very independent lives to come back together just with like zero transition. The military has learned this over the last 20 years you know that you could go from a combat zone to mowing your lawn in 24 hours. That's stressful especially if you add in you know marriage baggage, kids you know nagging kids or issues like that, financial struggles, that's a kind of what can be a breeding ground for some really difficult situation. So, it's best to let people get to know each other again a little bit at a time.   Like you said the normal return from space was kind of the same thing. It would be come home and then you'd have some physical therapy, you'd have these different meetings and it would be a little bit like going to work for several weeks while they're getting their body and everything back to normal. Then, you kind of could have this kind of extended time at home but it gave both people the ability to kind of like reintroduce themselves to each other in bits and pieces and just kind of ease into it. But we did not have that luxury so we kind of had to create it ourselves. And I am glad again that we had those past experiences to know where the potential minefields were. If you were not prepared you could be very disappointed if you went into it thinking, “Oh, they're gonna come home, it's gonna be like romantic. We're gonna be like together and loving it all the time and just connecting so deeply. It's gonna be amazing.” And then the first time that your spouse is like, “Why are you emptying the dishwasher like that?” It's important to know like, “Yeah, if there is going to be tension it is going to be awkward. That's okay that is part of the normal cycle and it's gonna be okay.” But I'm glad that we had that knowledge beforehand because it could be tough.   Laura Dugger: (45:22 - 46:07) Well and Stacey another reason that I really appreciate you being willing to let us enter your story with you. When we have different careers or we have someone in the military and a civilian who's not involved, there's so much room for assumptions and maybe not always assuming the best. There's opportunity for miscommunication so I'm just wondering about the person who's hearing this and what if they're thinking, “Well that sounds irresponsible or even selfish of Drew to choose this path if he's a husband and father.” So, how would you offer that kind of person another perspective that they might be missing?   Stacey Morgan: (46:07 - 48:20) I mean I would say is when it comes to astronauts for sure, you know, these are not like hot-rodding thrill-seeking people. In fact, I would say I think a lot of people make the assumption that people who do some of these higher like physically higher risky jobs must be like thrill-seeking you know just thrown caution to the wind about everything in their life. Actually, nothing could be farther from the truth. I think you would find that we certainly and I would you know I think a lot of people in the same career field are similar and that we are good risk calculators. And that like policemen, like firemen, like military personnel you know it's an act of service to be in this job. These are not just like you know space tourists or billionaires getting on a rocket for fun. These are professionals who have chosen a career field of service and whether that is as a policeman, a fireman, a service to the nation, service to humanity, service to their community and they all play a part in that.   I think most people recognize that that it is you know there's something to be said for the person who chooses a career that has a level of risk because they feel called to it and because thank God for people who will take on risk and are willing to potentially sacrifice themselves for someone else. I mean I think it's kind of a higher calling which is why in general in our culture we honor them and rightfully so. It is risky, it's very risky. They certainly don't do it for the money. I don't think anybody in any kind of government service would say that they're doing it for the money, that's for sure. You know they're doing it because they feel called to something bigger than themselves and to serve their fellow man in some way. That's certainly I know how we feel as a family that his choosing to transition as an Army physician into being still in the Army but serving in this capacity was just the next level up. The way he could serve our community, our country, our nation and all of humanity and he really is its service first. It's the opposite of selfish; it is selfless service really.   Laura Dugger: (48:20 - 48:55) Mm-hmm thank you for that. I just say amen to everything you just said. Really it's service from your entire family that requires a sacrifice from each of you like you said for the greater good. And I think something else that you pointed out so well in your book was that having this value more so of security or not living into this calling that you said this calling was put upon your lives that could actually be idolatry if you're starting to place a higher value on security or anything else other than God and so I think you model that well.   Stacey Morgan: (48:55 - 51:13) Thank you. Yeah I think a lot of people you know sometimes these idols creep up on us we don't realize that we have put something on a pedestal until it gets threatened to be taken away from us and all of a sudden our reaction is over the top because we're you know you realize, “Gosh, I'm finding my security in this thing I'm finding my identity in this thing whether this thing is a job, another person, a political party, a scientific breakthrough whatever it is.” Right? Like and I think a lot of people, I certainly felt it you know in that launch moment like, “Am I finding my identity in being married to this person or him having this job or this launch being successful? Because if I am in about 10 seconds my world may crumble because if that could all be taken away from me.” And in that yeah I think we all kind of have probably had a moment especially in the last two years where for a lot of people something that they have built their life on has been either taken away from them or has it has been threatened to be taken away because of the pandemic a job a person in their life you know a relationship your kids going off to school every day I mean whatever it is that you've built in your life and you have put on this pedestal and you kind of made without even realizing it have started to place more hope in those things remaining unchanged than you have in God. And all of a sudden when those things are threatened you have this over-the-top emotionally fearful response that's kind of an indicator I think to all of us like when we have that is like, “Whoo my fear and my response should tell me that I seem to be very very afraid that this is going to be taken away from me because I am putting too much hope in it. Instead, I should be taking that and putting it back where it belongs. I should reprioritize where I am finding my hope and the only unchanging thing that we can build our foundation on is God. Everything else, every person, everything, every job, every whatever it is can and could possibly be taken away from you and on your deathbed will be.” So, you know you can't help but have a little bit of self-reflection there.   Laura Dugger: (51:13 - 51:23) Well and then for all of us how do you recommend that we all can rediscover our fun side when we've been trapped in survival mode for too long?   Stacey Morgan: (51:23 - 56:05) This is a great question because I think all of us have felt this definitely in the pandemic. You know this part in your life where everything in the world feels very chaotic and so you try to regain some control in your own life by maybe regimenting your kids a little more, cleaning your house a little more, you know, controlling things at work or whatever your environment is. And without really realizing it you become this just like survival mode like your day just becomes about making things easier for yourself, streamlining things, making things just go go go. And you wake up one day and you were like, “I'm exhausted. Like why am I so tired? Why am I why do I have like no joy? Why do I just feel unhappy?” And you realize that you have not done anything other than just be like surviving and cleaning and doing work or whatever it is like you have just been doing the basics with no fun whatsoever.   So I have been there I hit that a bunch of times in the pandemic, but I certainly hit it when Drew was in space because it's really hard being a single parent and managing all of the emotional burdens and the logistics of it. And I realized that I was cleaning a lot I was kind of getting a little bit more trigger angry with kids or people who you know were making me upset because when you're in survival mode it's all about just like “Get out of my way let me do what I want to do,” it's about getting things done quickly and other people become an annoyance instead of a joy in your life.   So it's all about going back to something that that fills you up and it can be something really frivolous it can be something like it's very it's 100% unique to you and so I can't tell you what that thing is but I would say the first step in kind of getting yourself out of survival mode and kind of getting back to your your whole self is asking yourself the question like, “What do I enjoy?” Not for its educational value, not for its good cardio exercise or and not what your kids enjoy, not what is Instagram worthy, or anything like in your soul what fills you up? Is it reading? Is it watching movies? Is it riding bikes? Is it roller skating? Is it you know eating Mexican food? Like what is it that you enjoy doing that when you do it you just feel like more of yourself?   And then just go do it tomorrow. Like it's gonna take prioritizing time probably some money but that is as much of a part of who you are how God created you. He didn't make you this like worker bot or like just a mom or just a wife or just a daughter or a sister like He made you a whole person and a huge part of who you are are these things that you enjoy. And you cannot continue to pour into other people or work or your community if you are never getting filled up yourself. You will just dry out, you will be burnt out, you'll be unhappy and you'll actually be worse in all these other areas where you were trying to work hard because you're just gonna be like a shell of yourself.   So, for me it was prioritizing time with friends. It was... I got this crazy flyer on my front door for roller skating lessons and I had this fantasy of being a really good roller skater that stemmed from like when I was eight and so I signed my girls and I up for roller skating lessons which was hilarious and very humbling but it was just silly. It took time, we had to prioritize the time on every Saturday it took money, but it was just fun. It had no educational value my kids will look back on it and be like, “What was that all about? I don't even know.” But it was great because even in the midst of a stressful season like that was a very stressful season, undeniable, but as part of that narrative it will not only be like, “Yeah it was really tough when my dad was away and you know my mom had to like single-parent us but that was also the season where my mom took us to roller skating lessons. Isn't that weird? That was so weird.” And we'll laugh about it.   And so, it's just about finding something that you want to do and then just unapologetically spend the money, spend the time, and invite a friend to do it with you again. Doing something with a friend is always more fun than doing something alone. Don't feel like you have to justify it or explain it to everyone you don't need to take pictures to post online you don't need to tell it just just go do it and have a good time. It's amazing how when you do that suddenly like those dust bunnies or that email that had a weird tone that you got don't annoy you as much as they used to because your kind of like finding your whole self again.   Laura Dugger: (56:05 - 56:27) That's helpful to remember to live life to the fullest and be ready for the next adventure that life's gonna throw at us. Yeah. And just as a bonus can we just ask what are some of the most common questions that you and Drew answer about space?   Stacey Morgan: (56:27 - 57:25) That's a good question. A lot of like personal hygiene questions about teeth brushing toilets how do you know take showers or whatever and of course the answer is they don't take showers. But and then of course a lot of people want to know, “Hey I've always been interested in becoming an astronaut how does somebody do that?”   And there are so many resources online people you know I say, “Look go online read all about it. There's amazing videos NASA puts out an incredible amount of resources that you can read up on but at the end of the day do what you are most passionate about because the likelihood that you, or your nephew, or your cousin, or your co-worker, your son, or, whoever it is that you know is convinced they want to be an astronaut the likelihood of them being an astronaut is very low. So you should do what just fills you up do a career and a life that you are passionate about and if God calls you to that path those doors will open but if He doesn't you'll still be living a life fully within God's purpose for you.”   Laura Dugger: (57:25 - 57:39) And Stacey you're such an incredible communicator both in this interview time together but also really enjoyed your book. And so, if people want to follow you to hear what you're up to next, where would you direct them online?   Stacey Morgan: (57:39 - 58:41) Sure well they can go to my website StaceyMorgan2000. That's like Stacey Morgan two zero zero zero dot com. That has my blog that has links to a different podcast like this that I've been on and they can check that out. They can find me on Instagram same handle StaceyMorgan2000.   And you know if people want to reach out, I love when people have been sending me messages lately after they've read the book it's been so awesome. You know I tell people like I certainly didn't write this book for the money I'm actually donating all my book proceeds to charities that support military families. So, I've been joking like, “Hey read the book if you don't like it the worst that happened is you donated to a military charity. If you do like it buy ten copies and give one to all your friends. But if you do like it I love it when people send me messages and just tell me kind of like what resonated and how it spoke to them.” That's just been one of the I would say the coolest aspect of completing this project was kind of putting it out there and then getting to see how God uses it in people's lives.   Laura Dugger: (58:41 - 59:02) There were so many things that resonated but off the top of my head if anybody has a copy of the book they'll have to turn to the part about baloney on sale friends. And Stacey 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?   Stacey Morgan: (59:02 - 1:01:08) Well I'll piggyback off your baloney is on sale friends' reference and that would be: pick up the phone and text your friend. We didn't need a study to show us this because I think most of us have just known this in our soul but there is an endemic of loneliness in the world right now as you know we've got all these ways to connect and yet people feel more disconnected. They feel more lonely especially women and what I learned through my own kind of relationship struggles over the years is that everyone's waiting for someone else to go first. That you in that moment you feel like you're the only person who's feeling lonely and alone and that everybody else is in these friend circles and you're just somehow on the outside. But the reality is that pretty much everybody feels the same way you do and everybody's sitting at home wishing someone would just text them and invite them to coffee.   So that's my practical tip is don't wait, go first be the bold friend or even acquaintance like it doesn't have to be someone that you are super besties with. But those baloney is on sale friends like I said you have to read the book and understand that that is like a special category of friendship that's the kind of friendship that our soul longs for but those things don't appear or like pop out of the ground. That kind of friend doesn't just show up it's developed over time it's invested in and cared for and loved and it starts with literally a text to go get coffee. That's how every great friendship story begins. So, if that's you, if you feel like yeah I don't have this close friend who I can do something with I'm lonely. Okay take that first step be the one who picks up the phone send that text message to the woman from church, or the woman from the gym, or that friend you haven't talked to in a while and just invite them over for coffee. Nothing fancy nothing crazy no agenda just come over for a couple hours for coffee. Every single person I know who does this no one ever regrets inviting a friend over for coffee. That's the first step that we can all take into just feeling more connected and having those kind of friends that we want.   Laura Dugger: (1:01:08 - 1:01:31) Love it. Well Stacy your book definitely changed my perspective on risk and I was so hooked on all the stories that you shared so I believe that your book is truly a gift to anyone who chooses to read it and your faith is very inspiring so thank you for sharing your journey with us and thank you for being my guest.   Stacey Morgan: (1:01:31 – 1:01:33) Well, thank you it's been great.   Laura Dugger: (1:01:33 – 1:05:16) 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's absolutely no chance we can make it

This episode opens with pure chaos: a toilet-water cold open, Maxx accidentally handing out sink water, and Russell getting surprised with a massive 60-pack of wooden hangers. The group slides right into their usual rhythm — roasting each other, questioning life choices, and joking about personal style shifts like cowboy hats and Spotify Wrapped embarrassment. From there, they jump into AI music, Drake theories, and the surprising quality of AI-generated songs, even attempting to generate a country track about the podcast on the spot. The middle of the episode takes a sharp turn into heavier territory: Diddy allegations, Tupac and Biggie conspiracy questions, and a surprisingly detailed breakdown of crime, bullet tracing, shoot/don't-shoot scenarios, and the Oscar Pistorius case. That flows into a long, surprisingly thoughtful conversation about money. OBJ's comments about a $100M contract "not being enough" spark discussions on taxes, lifestyle inflation, athlete culture, and the pressures young stars face. Maxx shares a wild story about someone blowing through $20M and ending up with only $25K, leading into a bigger conversation about race, culture, and why certain communities feel more pressure to flaunt or financially support extended family. The episode wraps with lighter sports energy: Maxx's first "real" NBA game experience, the Rockets beating the Suns, Kevin Durant hitting free-Chick-fil-A threes, and thoughts on why NBA arenas feel different now. They finish with Harlem Globetrotter myths, half-court shooters, and the realities of elite athleticism — including Joe's legendary story of getting dunked on by Justise Winslow and taking a freshman's nuts straight to the face. A classic Don't Be Sour episode: unfiltered, chaotic, and weirdly insightful.

Try Beducated and use code COCKTALES for 50% off your annual membership https://beducate.me/pd2549-cocktales #BEDUCATED #getbeducatedWe're shaking up the holiday season with a cocktail that tastes like Christmas, cozy vibes, and just a little bit of sin. This week's drink is the Naughty Nog Martini, a frothy eggnog latte moment that somehow led us straight into one of the wildest public emergency stories ever told on CockTales.

Content Warning Timestamps: 42:00:00 - 50:35:00Woolytail is at the top of my list now.Book: Super Edition: Tallstar's Revenge Support us on Ko-fi! WCWITCast Ko-fiFollow us on BlueSky! WCWITCastFollow us on Instagram! WCWITCastWhat We Are Reading (Not Sponsored):It's a Love/Skate Relationship by Carli J. CorsonCat Fact Sources:Demolition Has Been Stopped at NYC Building Because It's Filled With Cats - Atlas ObscuraDemolition Is Halted on a Queens Building Filled With Cats - The New York TimesNeighbors Work To Save Dozens Of Feral Cats Before Building Comes Down - CBS New YorkCats Pulled From Building Slated for Demolition - Bushwick - New York - DNAinfoMusic:Happy Boy End Theme Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/This transformative podcast work constitutes a fair-use of any copyrighted material as provided for in section 107 of the US copyright law. Warrior Cats: What is That? is not endorsed or supported by Harper Collins and/or Working Partners. All views are our own.