Podcasts about choice awards

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Episode Summary: Christmas is often called the most wonderful time of the year, yet for many, it’s also one of the most exhausting. Between the holiday to-do lists, family obligations, and the weight of expectations - both our own and others’- this season can leave us physically weary, emotionally drained, and even spiritually depleted. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, you are not alone. Today, we’re talking about how to release those expectations, embrace true rest in Christ, and find renewal in Him. If your soul feels weary, this conversation is especially for you. Today we’ll be talking about Hope for the Weary Soul. Quotables from the episode: It’s no surprise that Christmas can leave us feeling depleted. We put pressure on ourselves to create the perfect holiday - perfect gifts, perfect décor, perfect meals and table settings, and perfect gatherings. Social media only adds to this burden, making it seem like everyone else has it all together. But the truth is, exhaustion isn’t just about being physically tired. It’s about the weight we carry in our hearts - disappointment, grief, unmet expectations, and the struggle to meet everyone’s needs, often while neglecting our own. Jesus knew we would experience this. That’s why in Matthew 11:28, He says, Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. He invites us to exchange our striving for His peace. But that requires us to let go of what we were never meant to carry in the first place. If you’re feeling weary, I encourage you to take a moment and ask yourself: What am I holding onto that God never asked me to carry? Maybe it’s the expectation of making everyone happy. Maybe it’s guilt over what you can’t do. Maybe it’s the grief of a loved one who isn’t here this Christmas. Whatever it is, the first step toward rest is recognizing what is making us weary and laying it at Jesus’ feet. Christmas is a busy time with many annual traditions and expectations. Others have expectations of us, we have expectations of others, and we have expectations of ourselves. As a result, sadly, it’s a recipe for failure. Part of the problem with expectations is that it’s impossible to meet unvoiced expectations. Everyone’s picture of the holiday varies. Some celebrate with family on Christmas Eve, others celebrate on Christmas. Some families draw names for gifts and possibly set a monetary limit, while other families give gifts to everyone. Some families get up early while others sleep in late. There is as much variability to the who, what, when, and where of the celebration as there are people celebrating. So how do we actually release those expectations? It starts with shifting our perspective. The world tells us Christmas is about performance, about how much we do, how beautiful we make it, how much we give. But God’s Word tells us something different. Christmas is about receiving. Receiving the greatest gift of all, Jesus Christ. Martha was distracted by all the preparations, while Mary sat at Jesus’ feet, simply being with Him. And what did Jesus say? Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, but one thing is necessary. Does that ever sound like you? I’ve certainly been guilty. This season, instead of being like Martha - running from one thing to the next, trying to make everything perfect, and meet a list of unspoken expectations - what if we chose to be like Mary? What if we sat at His feet, even in the middle of the chaos, and let His presence be enough? One practical way to do this is by setting boundaries. Say no to the things that drain you. Say yes to the things that nourish your soul. You don’t have to attend every event, bake every cookie, or create a Pinterest-worthy Christmas. Choose rest. Choose Jesus. Releasing expectations is only part of the equation. True renewal comes when we replace striving with abiding. John 15:4 says, Abide in me, and I in you. When we stay connected to Jesus, He renews our strength. One way to abide in Him this Christmas is by spending time in His Word. Even if it’s just a few minutes a day, let Scripture be your source of renewal. Isaiah 40:31 reminds us, Those who wait on the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not faint. When we take time to be with God, He refreshes our weary souls. Christmas isn’t about what we do. It’s about what’s already been done for us through Christ. No matter how much is on your plate, you don’t have to carry it alone. Jesus came to bring us peace, not pressure. So this Christmas, let’s step out of striving and into His rest. Prayer for the Weary Soul Heavenly Father, we come before You weary, but we know that You are our source of strength. Help us release the burdens we were never meant to carry and rest in Your perfect peace. Teach us to abide in You, to embrace Your presence above all else, and to find renewal in Your love. Thank You for the gift of Jesus, the Prince of Peace. In His name, we pray. Amen. Scripture References: Matthew 11:28 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” Luke 10:38-42 tells the story of Mary and Martha. “Now as they were traveling along, He entered a village; and a woman named Martha welcomed Him into her home. She had a sister called Mary, who was seated at the Lord’s feet, listening to His word. But Martha was distracted with all her preparations; and she came up to Him and said, “Lord, do You not care that my sister has left me to do all the serving alone? Then tell her to help me.” But the Lord answered and said to her, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and bothered about so many things; but only one thing is necessary, for Mary has chosen the good part, which shall not be taken away from her.” John 15:4 says, Abide in me, and I in you. Isaiah 40:31 reminds us, Those who wait on the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not faint. Recommended Resources: Sacred Scars: Resting in God’s Promise That Your Past Is Not Wasted by Dr. Michelle Bengtson The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner AWSA 2024 Golden Scroll Christian Living Book of the Year and the 2024 Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in the Christian Living and Non-Fiction categories YouVersion 5-Day Devotional Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises from God to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, AWSA Member of the Year, winner of the AWSA 2023 Inspirational Gift Book of the Year Award, the 2024 Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in the Devotional category, the 2023 Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in four categories, and the Christian Literary Awards Henri Award for Devotionals YouVersion Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day version 1 YouVersion Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day version 2 Revive & Thrive Women’s Online Conference Revive & Thrive Summit 2 Trusting God through Cancer Summit 1 Trusting God through Cancer Summit 2 Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the AWSA 2020 Best Christian Living Book First Place, the first place winner for the Best Christian Living Book, the 2020 Carolina Christian Writer’s Conference Contest winner for nonfiction, and winner of the 2021 Christian Literary Award’s Reader’s Choice Award in all four categories for which it was nominated (Non-Fiction Victorious Living, Christian Living Day By Day, Inspirational Breaking Free and Testimonial Justified by Grace categories.) YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free PDF Resource: How to Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Henri and Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Free Webinar: Help for When You’re Feeling Blue Social Media Links for Host: For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at: Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails / Website / Blog / Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson) / LinkedIn / Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This week: I guess we're re-buying Studio Series 86 Hot Rod. Also: The Beast Wars digital master tapes have been found--hopefully we'll see restorations soon! Plus: You've got one more week to participate in the 2025 RFC Fans' Choice Awards!

This week: I guess we're re-buying Studio Series 86 Hot Rod. Also: The Beast Wars digital master tapes have been found--hopefully we'll see restorations soon! Plus: You've got one more week to participate in the 2025 RFC Fans' Choice Awards!

Vote for Jimmy's Jobs People's Choice Award: https://politicalpodcastawards.co.uk/the-peoples-choice-award/ And sign up to our NEW community here! https://app.heartbeat.chat/jimmysjobsbackstage/invitation?code=DF4BEJ Reflecting on 2025: The Best Moments, Guests, and More | Jimmy's Jobs In the final episode of Jimmy's Jobs of the Future for 2025, Jimmy and producer Sunny recap the year's highlights, discuss key observations from their podcast run, and share insights on what makes an ideal guest. They reflect on noteworthy events, major achievements, and future aspirations for their show. Tune in for a reflective and exciting retrospective on a milestone year for Jimmy's Jobs. 00:00 Welcome to the Final Episode of 2025 00:16 Meet the Producer: Sunny's Role Explained 00:52 What Makes an Ideal Guest? 02:37 Reflecting on the Year: Christmas Parties and Events 04:11 Innovative Formats and Future Plans 14:06 Internal Awards and Reflections 16:14 Trends and Goals for the Future 19:43 Building Community and Audience Engagement 22:11 Upgrading the Studio and Guest Experience 27:32 Vote for us at Political Podcasts Awards 2026! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

From blowing off press to prioritize pleasure, to redefining success, aging, and freedom on her own terms, Chelsea Handler proves why she remains the blueprint for living boldly. We dive into sex without shame, why getting older means caring less (and loving it more), how Chelsea approaches dating, power moves, and personal boundaries, and why protecting your joy is the real flex. She opens up about her High and Mighty Tour, solo travel, career longevity, hosting the Critics' Choice Awards, and the mindset shift that comes with truly knowing yourself. Plus, Chelsea hands out her own “Chelsea's Choice” awards — covering pop culture, celebrity obsessions, skincare she swears by, talent crushes, wellness habits, and unsolicited life advice every woman needs heading into 2026.LadyGang is sponsored by BetterHelp! Get 10% off at BetterHelp.com/ladygangSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dan Broadbent is back for round two.| Blood Work | Enclomiphene | Testosterone | Tadalafil | MK-677In this follow-up conversation, I sit down again with my friend and good human Dan Broadbent—owner of Broadbent Photography and a three-time Manistee News Advocate Reader's Choice Award winner for local photography—to revisit his ongoing health and lifestyle transformation.This time, we go deeper. ( Dan also produced this entire episode using all of his equipment )We revisit many of the same topics from our first conversation, but with more clarity, reflection, and real-world experience behind them. Dan shares why consistent blood work has become a non-negotiable part of his health journey, what he's learned since our first conversation, and how that information led him to simplify and adjust his approach.We talk about:The importance of understanding your numbers before making changesHow blood work shaped Dan's decision-makingWhy he moved away from a larger peptide stackHis current, more focused approach utilizing MK-677, Enclomiphene, and TadalafilSustainability, responsibility, and long-term thinking when it comes to health optimizationThis episode isn't about chasing extremes—it's about awareness, education, and taking ownership of your health with intention.Please note: Neither the host nor the guest are medical professionals. This conversation is for informational and educational purposes only. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health, supplements, or medical regimen.

සාගර විද්‍යාඥ මහාචාර්ය චරිත පට්ටිආරච්චි 2025 බටහිර ඕස්ට්‍රේලියා අග්‍රාමාත්‍ය විද්‍යා සම්මාන උළෙලේ වසරේ විද්‍යාඥයා සම්මානය (Western Australia Premier's Science Awards 2025: Scientist of the Year) සඳහා නිර්දේශ වී තිබුණා. එහි දී ඔහු මහජන මනාප සම්මානය (People's Choice Award) දිනා ගත්තා. ශ්‍රී ලංකාවේ සුනාමි අනතුරු ඇඟවීමේ පද්ධතිය නිර්මාණය කිරීමෙහි ලා ප්‍රමුඛ කර්තව්‍යයක් ඉටු කළ මහාචාර්ය පට්ටිආරච්චි මහතා සමඟ SBS සිංහල සේවය පැවැත්වූ සාකච්ඡාව.

Subscribe to Throwing Fits on Substack. You already know what time it is: The most wonderful of the year. This week, the Fab 5 (sadly minus Chef who is holed up with the flu, but we do FaceTime him in) are reconvening to debate, discuss, and crown their personal favorite jawnz, timeline takeovers, brands, collabs, trends, movies, TV shows, musical artists, best-dressed celebs, bozos, and GOATs of the year that was. We are truly the gift that keeps on giving.

The art of doing and the art of becoming are one in the same. You need to embrace the growth, the pain, the discovery, and the realization of what it takes to become your successful self.https://bit.ly/StudyMotivation_Podcast

Can you name all the Labour frontbenchers who resigned or were sacked during the past year? Why was Peter Mandelson delayed from returning to the UK after being sacked as US ambassador? And who will be crowned Political Fix's Wonk-in-Chief? Find out as host George Parker puts the entire podcast panel - Miranda Green, Stephen Bush, Robert Shrimsley, Jim Pickard and Anna Gross - through their paces in this big, fat, fiendishly difficult end-of-year quiz. The panellists also highlight their most memorable moment of 2025 and unveil their wildest predictions for the year ahead. Plus, discover who scooped all the chocolate coins in the studio to win the annual Political Fix stockpicks portfolio prize.Political Fix has been nominated for a People's Choice Award at the Political Podcast Awards. Vote for us here. Follow the panel on Bluesky - George @georgewparker.bsky.social; Miranda @greenmirandahere.bsky.social; Jim @pickardje.bsky.social; Robert @robertshrimsley.bsky.social and Stephen @stephenkb.bsky.social Political Fix is presented by George Parker, and produced by Lulu Smyth. The executive producer is Flo Phillips. Original music and mix by Breen Turner. The FT's acting co-head of audio is Manuela Saragosa. Our video engineers are Bianca Wakeman and Andrew Georgiades.What did you think of this episode and Political Fix this year? Let us know at politicalfix@ft.com Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

"Avatar: Fire & Ash" is the third entry in the phenomenally successful sci-fi franchise, and delivers exactly what you'd expect, 3 hours and 12 minutes of spectacular visuals and zippy action. The story, however, is very repetitive and has little to offer that's new. Plus, there's no real sense of peril. The attraction is the remarkable eye candy, so if you opt to see it, go ahead and splurge on the Imax version. The very busy actresses Sydney Sweeney and Amanda Seyfried star in the goofy psychological thriller "The Housemaid." Sydney plays the maid who uncovers some dark secrets in the household of wealthy Amanda. Seyfried is excellent but Sweeney is merely adequate in this trashy flick. "The Housemaid" doesn't clean up because the filmmakers didn't have the nerve to go full camp...which would have been the better route to take. The strange political thriller "The Secret Agent" is a nominee for this year's Critics' Choice Award for Best Foreign Language Film. Set during Brazil's political strife of 1977, Wagner Moura plays a tech pro who is being pursued by secret foes. The structure of “The Secret Agent” is disjointed for sure, but only that adds to its offbeat appeal. The animated musical “David” is the latest from faith-based distributor Angel Studios. This well made and involving movie tells the story of the King of Israel from his early days as a lowly shepherd to his heroic defeat of Goliath and his ascension as leader of his people. The story's violence has been toned down, but it's still faithful to the Biblical themes and is a painless introduction for the kiddies.

Col. Lawrence Wilkerson talks Russia, Ukraine, China, the collapse of Europe's economy and more. Then Junaid S Ahmad talks Pakistan, Imran Khan and why Zionism will fail. And then filmmakers Tami Gold and JT Takagi talk about Third World Newsreel and revolutionary film. For the full discussion, please join us on Patreon at - https://www.patreon.com/posts/patreon-full-jt-146035006 Lawrence Wilkerson is a retired US army colonel and former chief of staff to United States Secretary of State Colin Powell. He is an anti-war critic of U.S. foreign policy and a member of Veteran Intelligence Professionals for Sanity. Junaid S Ahmad teaches Law, Religion and Global Politics and is the Director of the Centre for the Study of Islam and Decolonization (CSID), Islamabad, Pakistan. He is a member of the International Movement for a Just World (JUST), the Movement for Liberation from Nakba (MLN) and Saving Humanity and Planet Earth (SHAPE). Tami Kashia Gold is a multidisciplinary artist, cultural worker and a professor at Hunter College CUNY. Her teaching focuses on documentary production and LGBTQ non-fiction studies. As a filmmaker, Tami has produced RFK In The Land Of Apartheid; Signed, Sealed and Delivered: Labor Struggle in the Post Office; The Last Hunger Strike: Ireland 1981; Another Brother, among others. Tami is a recipient of a Rockefeller, Guggenheim and Fulbright Fellowships; NY/NJ Video Arts Fellowships; AFI Independent Filmmakers Fellowship and Tribeca Audience Award; GLAAD Media Award; Urban Visionaries Award, Museum of Television and Radio; Excellence in the Arts Award from the Manhattan Borough President; Cine Golden Eagle Award;1st Place Athens International Film and Video Festival; HUGO Award; Gold Plaque Chicago International Film Festival; Director's Choice Award, Black Maria; Video Golden Apple Award; National Media Network Festival among others. JT Takagi (Orinne JT Takagi) is an award-winning independent filmmaker and sound recordist. Her films are primarily on Asian/Asian-American and immigrant issues and include BITTERSWEET SURVIVAL, THE #7 TRAIN, THE WOMEN OUTSIDE, and NORTH KOREA: BEYOND THE DMZ, which all aired on PBS. As a sound engineer, she has recorded for numerous public television and theatrical documentaries with Emmy and Cinema Audio Society nominations including the 2018 Oscar-nominated and Emmy-winning STRONG ISLAND by Yance Ford, BLACK PANTHERS: VANGUARD OF THE REVOLUTION, and TELL THEM WE ARE RISING by Stanley Nelson, and others. She also manages Third World Newsreel, a non-profit alternative media center, and serves on the boards of both community and national organizations working on peace and social justice. ***Please support The Katie Halper Show *** For bonus content, exclusive interviews, to support independent media & to help make this program possible, please join us on Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/thekatiehalpershow Get your Katie Halper Show Merch here! https://katiehalper.myspreadshop.com/all Follow Katie on Twitter: https://x.com/kthalps Follow Katie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kthalps Follow Katie on TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@kthalps_

After a brief hiatus, the Nymphies are BACK!! In this annual ceremony, we honor 2025's greatest achievements in fashion and culture with awards from us at the Nymphet Alumni Academy of Arts and Sciences, including categories such as Best and Worst Rebrand, Outfit of the Year, Best Sillyboy, and Best Brainrot Trend, featuring exclusive access to our careful deliberation process. We lay to rest dearly departed aesthetics of years past, and we end the evening by announcing the winner of the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award, immortalizing one true legend in the Nymphet Alumni canon. For the first time, we've also tallied up your votes for the Reader's Choice Awards! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.nymphetalumni.com/subscribe

Episode Summary: Christians often think theology is only for scholars or the spiritually elite. But this simply isn’t true. While theology is, in one sense, an academic discipline, it can also be understood as the art of knowing our creator. God invites us to know him, as we are fully known by him. Theology goes beyond the study of the character of God, and into the art of knowing the One who already knows and intimately loves His believers. Flash Theology leads readers through thirty-one bite-size truths, highlighting key aspects of who God is and what that means for the reader. Theology is important for everyone, but if it’s too dense, it can be hard to digest. Today we’re going to talk about biblical literacy and why it’s important to learn who God is. Quotables from the episode: We all carry a theological bias. So, we all enter into a variety of conversations and our own circumstances within our life, carrying a bias towards who we think God is. And that is based on a whole bunch of different things, how we are raised, different things you hear over time, the media you consume, the church you attend, all these different facets of how we view God and the way we absorb information can help us view God biblically or not biblically at all. I believe the Westernized church and social media has created a self-help gospel that is void of God’s truth. That word is associated, as you already mentioned, is associated with academics and scholars. So, there is kind of hefty price tag to it, but theology is simply the study of God. So, then if you open up the Bible, you are studying the Christian God. So, everybody that opens up the Bible is a “theologian.” Now of course there are the academic theologians but I like to say we're all theologians and we should take ownership of that because that helps us realize it is a worthy pursuit to understand God and his text. We miss out on so much because we're leaving it to those that are called to lead us, right? We're saying, okay, which is good. We should trust our leaders, but we should also question if something actually biblically accurate? I love if I go to teach the Bible somewhere. I love when people do their digging afterwards and make sure that I actually taught the text properly. We should have a hunger and an understanding to pursue a depth of who God is, and that's not always going to be accurate in the different areas of consumption, like those 20 -second reels on social media that we come across. Through Genesis to Revelation, there's a line of scripture that's happening, and it is revealing Christ all throughout scripture, who Christ is, is being revealed. God knows us already, right? So it's really this question of do we embrace the fact that he fully knows us? Do we understand the depth of his love? And I can only imagine that it's a consistently, we're walking out understanding the depths of his love until we're face to face with Jesus. **So when we can embrace the truth that we are fully known by a God who loves us, by a God that is for us, by a God that knows the beginning from the end, it creates this stabilizing truth in our life that will carry us when our circumstances are out of control, when the world feels like it's mass chaos, when something comes at us, when we're not prepared, like there is a stabilizing truth that God is good, He is sovereign, He is my Savior (for those that declare Christ as their Lord and Savior.) And that stabilizing truth in itself is something that will help you continue to move forward until we are again face to face with Jesus. God has always fully known us. And when we can really start to accept that and receive that, I think that's when we really start to live in the abundant life that Jesus came to give. Who else loves us despite knowing our every fault? Nobody but God. I think that's really the stepping stone to walk into that abundant life that Jesus came to give. One of the biggest wrestling matches I’ve seen in ministry is people understanding God as Father. Sometimes we have to have this wrestling match with the Holy Spirit to be able to fully embrace the fullness of what that means to understand God as Father. So often our view of God as Father is directly impacted by our relationship with the parental figures that we're in our life. And the problem with that is that we're relating to a perfect God using a flawed metric. But the thing that has been most helpful in working with patients is helping them explore the fact that even if they were abandoned by their earthly father or their earthly father was not a kind person, God as father specifically chose us, made the loving choice that he wanted us to be a child. I remember I was driving around one day in Hollywood and it's just, it's such a fun city because almost everyone there is like dreamers. They moved to Hollywood because they have a big dream to pursue. So I'm driving around listening to worship music. Just I'm in love with the city and I felt this deep conviction from God where he was like, “you've been making this calling, you've been making this all about yourself.” And it was that like gut punch of like, oh gosh, I better pay attention. And what I felt him saying in my spirit was, "You've been making this all about you. This really has nothing to do with you. Do you trust that I can fill the spaces between you and this dream that I've called you to pursue?" So of course, I ugly cried, I repented. I said, "I'm so sorry, God." And I've tried to be faithful with what he's asked me to do. The enemy makes it all about us, because he doesn't want it to be all about God. I wonder how many people are listening today, who have felt the unction of God calling them into something and self-doubt has interfered. Friends, if that is you, if God is calling you into something, he's going to equip you. He's going to walk with you. He's going to train you. He's going to bring along mentors. He's going to provide the finances. Listen to Jenny's story. It's not all about you. It's about him. Dig in and also invite the Holy Spirit into your reading process because like I said, we can we can read and or listen to the text, but it's one thing to say, “Holy Spirit make this come alive and show me how to apply this to my life as well.” I love that last recommendation because when Jesus left, he said, “I'm going to send one to remind you of all truth.” He was talking about the Holy Spirit, but the Holy Spirit can't remind us of truth that we haven't already taken in. So, when you're reading the word, do just as Jenny says and invite the Holy Spirit to teach you truth. And those words are going to come alive off the page. When we understand the Gospel and who triune God really is, the end result is knowing and enjoying God more! Theology and getting to know God doesn’t have to be intimating or boring! Start where you are and learn to wrestle with God’s word. Don’t just read it, but make time to study it. It’s life-changing! Scripture References: Numbers 23:19 ESV God is not man, that he should lie, or a son of man, that he should change his mind. Has he said, and will he not do it? Or has he spoken, and will he not fulfill it? Hebrews 4:12 For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Recommended Resources: Flash Theology: A Visual Guide to Knowing and Enjoying God More by Jenny Randle and Brayden Brookshier Courageous Creative by Jenny Randle Getting to Know God’s Voice: Discover the Holy Spirit in Your Everyday Life by Jenny Randle Dream Come True: A Practical Guide to Pursue the Adventures God Has for You by Jenny Randle Promises of God Chart, 8-week Study Guide, Flash Cards, and church presentation slides to supplement the book “Flash Theology” BibleProject.com Women of the Word by Jen Wilkin Seamless by Angie Smith Sacred Scars: Resting in God’s Promise That Your Past Is Not Wasted by Dr. Michelle Bengtson The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner AWSA 2024 Golden Scroll Christian Living Book of the Year and the 2024 Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in the Christian Living and Non-Fiction categories YouVersion 5-Day Devotional Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises from God to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, AWSA Member of the Year, winner of the AWSA 2023 Inspirational Gift Book of the Year Award, the 2024 Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in the Devotional category, the 2023 Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in four categories, and the Christian Literary Awards Henri Award for Devotionals YouVersion Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day version 1 YouVersion Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day version 2 Revive & Thrive Women’s Online Conference Revive & Thrive Summit 2 Trusting God through Cancer Summit 1 Trusting God through Cancer Summit 2 Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the AWSA 2020 Best Christian Living Book First Place, the first place winner for the Best Christian Living Book, the 2020 Carolina Christian Writer’s Conference Contest winner for nonfiction, and winner of the 2021 Christian Literary Award’s Reader’s Choice Award in all four categories for which it was nominated (Non-Fiction Victorious Living, Christian Living Day By Day, Inspirational Breaking Free and Testimonial Justified by Grace categories.) YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free PDF Resource: How to Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Henri and Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Free Webinar: Help for When You’re Feeling Blue Social Media Links for Host and Guest: Connect with Jenny Randle: Website / Holy Spirit Ministry Center Website / Facebook / Instagram For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at: Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails / Website / Blog / Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson) / LinkedIn / Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple About Guest Jenny Randle: Jenny Randle is an Emmy®-award-winning editor who went on a journey to discover what it really means to live on purpose. From a career in the heart of Hollywood to an academic theologian, communicator, and author, her creative ventures over the last twenty years have reached millions. Her search for meaning in life's everyday moments led her to create resources that merge profound gospel-centered truths with practical application. Since 2008, she has been in vocational ministry, creating discipleship tools and content for local churches and international ministries. She is the President of the Holy Spirit Ministry Center, an organization that helps people learn theology and live it out. Jenny is the author of Courageous Creative, Getting to Know God’s Voice, Dream Come True (Harvest House), Promised Presence (Esther Press), and the co-author of Flash Theology (David C Cook). With a Master's from Asbury Theological Seminary and ministry ordination, Jenny combines academic depth and authority to advocate for a deeper understanding of the Holy Spirit in the Church. Jenny teaches the Bible across denominational lines and has witnessed countless testimonies of God ministering personal transformation, healing, and revelation through these engagements. She’s contending for Holy Spirit renewal for the everyday Christ-follower. Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Vote for Jimmy's Jobs People's Choice Award: https://politicalpodcastawards.co.uk/the-peoples-choice-award/ And sign up to our NEW community here! https://app.heartbeat.chat/jimmysjobsbackstage/invitation?code=DF4BEJ Insights into High-Stakes Marketing: A Conversation with Uncensored CMO Join us for an in-depth conversation with Jon, the host of Uncensored CMO, as we explore the nuances of marketing in today's fast-paced world. In this engaging episode, Jon delves into his unique career journey from finance to marketing, the strategic decisions surrounding bold marketing campaigns like Jaguar's rebrand and Sydney Sweeney's campaign for American Eagle, and the distinction between distinctive and different marketing. Additionally, we discuss the challenges and strategies for running a successful podcast, the future of marketing, and the importance of networking and understanding consumer behavior. This episode is packed with valuable insights for anyone interested in the evolving world of marketing and podcasting. ********** Follow us on socials! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jimmysjobs Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jimmysjobsofthefuture Twitter / X: https://www.twitter.com/JimmyM Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimmy-mcloughlin-obe/ Want to come on the show? hello@jobsofthefuture.co Sponsor the show or Partner with us: sunny@jobsofthefuture.co Credits: Host / Exec Producer: Jimmy McLoughlin OBE Producer: Sunny Winter https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunnywinter/ Junior Producer: Thuy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Award Winner of the Mom's Choice Awards, Honoring Excellence, and Chosen for Best Reading by the National Alliance for Children's Grief, Daphne Thompson writes stories that uplift, heal, and illuminate the heart.​After an intense inner transformation changed the course of her life, Daphne became devoted to understanding and deepening that awakening through wide-ranging spiritual studies—work that awakened her inner troubadour and inspired her to write across genres of Children's, Family, Memoir, Poetry, and Spirituality.​She is a Spiritual Teacher and Conscious Coach for aspiring writers, as well as an Instructor of Yoga and Meditation, guiding others to align their creative voice with divine purpose.​Now residing in Inlet Beach, Florida, Daphne has embraced a slower, simpler lifestyle along scenic 30A, where the sound of the Gulf and the stillness of the dunes continue to inspire her writing and teachings. Her stories invite readers to rediscover love, faith, and the quiet joy of being fully alive.Website www.luxelifediscovered.com Youtube Roku Amazon Fire TV

When artist Vincent Fantauzzo was a boy he was a street-fighting petty criminal with dyslexia and a blazing talent for drawing. He escaped jail time, and grew up to become one of Australia's most well-known portrait artists.VIncent Fantauzzo is one of Australia's most successful portrait artists.For his luminous, photo-realistic paintings he's won the People's Choice Award at the annual Archibald Prize more than any other artist.He's also won the Moran National Portrait Prize twice, once with a painting of his friend, filmmaker Baz Luhrmann, and the second time with a painting of his wife, actor Asher Keddie.All the success is a long way from his upbringing in Broadmeadows in Melbourne, when at times it seemed like he was going to end up in jail, or dead.Vincent struggled so badly with dyslexia that he developed elaborate rituals to avoid writing at school, which is partly how he came to drawing. He became a street-fighting petty criminal and he was kicked out of school at 14 and was drawn into a violent world where he had to be extraordinarily streetwise to survive.Vincent still carries the scars of surviving his childhood into the big, beautiful life he's built for himself as one of Australia's most well-known artists.This episode of Conversations explores origin stories, social disadvantage, parenting, father son relationships, boxing, learning disabilities, struggling in school, Hollywood, the art world, Heath Ledger, Kim Ledger, Batman, family, family dynamics, life story, art, portraits, painting, juvenile crime, drug dealing, hot houses, brothers.Unveiled, written with Craig Henderson, is published by Penguin.To binge even more great episodes of the ‘Conversations podcast' with Richard Fidler and Sarah Kanowski go the ABC listen app (Australia) or wherever you get your podcasts. There you'll find hundreds of the best thought-provoking interviews with authors, writers, artists, politicians, singers, psychologists, musicians, and celebrities.

It's been another turbulent year in politics. Prime Minister Keir Starmer has faced down rebellions from within his own party, overseen scandals and sackings, and delivered a constant barrage of bad news from health and housing to small boats and the Budget. He's fared a little better on the world stage – with successful state visits, securing a comparatively competitive trade deal with Trump, as well as a tentative rapprochement with Europe. But with every international success, Starmer's standing domestically seems to diminish: he ends the year, on some measures, as the most unpopular PM ever. In this special live episode of Political Fix, host George Parker is joined by Anna Gross, Stephen Bush and Chris Giles to analyse how the Labour party got here – and where it goes next. Follow George on @georgewparker.bsky.social; Stephen on @stephenkb.bsky.social; and Chris on @chrisgiles.ft.com Political Fix has been nominated for a People's Choice Award at the Political Podcast Awards. Vote for us here.Want more? Free links: Return to EU customs union would ‘unravel' UK trade deals, Starmer warns Inside Politics: Neither Keir Starmer nor Kemi Badenoch wants to reverse BrexitNigel Farage rejects allegations of teenage racist abuse Wes Streeting calls for better ‘storytelling' from Starmer's ‘technocratic' governmentChris Giles: Why UK borrowing costs are so high George and Anna's FT scoop on Labour's tax U-turnSign up to Stephen's morning newsletter Inside Politics here, and to Chris' newsletter on Central Banks here. Presented by George Parker, and produced by Lulu Smyth. The executive producer is Flo Phillips. Original music and mix by Breen Turner. Our broadcast engineers this week were Bianca Wakeman, Petros Gioumpasis and Andrew Georgiades. The FT's acting co-head of audio is Manuela Saragosa. What did you think of this episode? Let us know at politicalfix@ft.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is way more than just our first annual predictions episode. Victoria Bachan is the SVP, Creators at Wasserman. Wasserman operates at the epicenter of sports, music, entertainment and culture, serving talent, brands and properties on a global scale. Headquartered in Los Angeles, Wasserman's presence spans 28 countries and more than 70 cities, including New York, London, Nashville, Chicago, Abu Dhabi, Amsterdam, Hong Kong, Madrid, Mexico City, Toronto, Paris and Sydney.Formerly the Global President of Sixteenth, Victoria oversaw a team of 43 managers and over 300 diverse Creators, while spearheading the company's global expansion efforts.  Victoria and her team collaborated with some of today's brightest Creators, including People's Choice Award winner Doug the Pug, visual artist and best-selling author Adam J. Kurtz, Crypto and Gen Z Finance expert Taylor Price, best-selling author and gamer Kelsey Dangerous and the Nami Matcha Founder and CEO, Ashley Alexander. Previously her team was instrumental in launching two groundbreaking TikTok Creator houses, “The Crib Around the Corner” for Black content creators, and “Familia Fuego” for Latinx talent. In 2023, she also helped Doug the Pug launch Nonipup, a human-grade all-natural pet care brand. Under her leadership, 61% of the Sixteenth roster proudly identified as BIPOC, reflecting her commitment to diversity and inclusion. When Victoria isn't paving the way for prominent creators, she mentors South Asian executives and talent as a member of The Salon and supports fundraising efforts for Play Inspired.

Episode Summary: Have you ever noticed that sometimes the waiting feels almost better than the having? A child counting down the days until Christmas morning… the thrill of planning a vacation… even the little rush when you hear your phone buzz with a new message. That’s anticipation at work. But what if I told you that the very chemical in your brain that makes anticipation so powerful was actually designed by God to teach us something about Advent? Today we’re going to talk about dopamine, anticipation, and the kind of holy hope that not only prepares us for Christmas, but points us to the greater joy of Christ’s return. As we step into this Advent season, I want to share something that’s been on my heart—how anticipation affects our brain chemistry, our spiritual lives, and even the way we approach hope. Specifically, I want us to consider the beautiful connection between anticipation, dopamine, and Advent hope. Quotables from the episode: Did you know your brain starts celebrating before the party even begins? That’s right—long before you open the gift, taste the dessert, or hug the loved one, your brain is already releasing dopamine, the chemical of anticipation. But here’s the deeper truth: God wired us that way on purpose. Advent is the season where science and faith collide, inviting us to see how holy anticipation points our hearts beyond the moment to the eternal. In this episode of Your Hope Filled Perspective, you’ll learn how your brain chemistry mirrors the biblical call to wait with joyful hope. Anticipation is the act of looking forward to something. It’s more than just waiting—it’s waiting with expectancy. It’s that feeling when you know something is coming, and you start to prepare for it in your heart, in your mind, and sometimes even in your body. Think about a child waiting for Christmas morning. They might count down the days, peek under the tree, maybe even have trouble falling asleep on Christmas Eve. That’s anticipation. Anticipation can be both positive and negative. We can anticipate a joyful event—like a wedding, the birth of a child, or a holiday gathering—or we can anticipate something difficult, like a doctor’s appointment or a hard conversation. But here’s the key: anticipation changes the way we think, feel, and behave, even before the actual event takes place. Now let’s bring in a bit of brain science. You’ve probably heard of dopamine. It’s often referred to as the “feel-good chemical,” but that’s not entirely accurate. Dopamine isn’t about pleasure itself—it’s about anticipation of pleasure. When our brains release dopamine, it motivates us to pursue something. It’s tied to the reward system in our brains. For example, when you anticipate a delicious meal, your brain releases dopamine—not when you’re eating the food, but when you think about eating it. Dopamine helps us focus, motivates us to take action, and gives us energy to pursue what we expect will be rewarding. Here’s an example: Have you ever noticed that planning a vacation can be almost as enjoyable as the vacation itself? That’s because anticipation—through dopamine—creates joy, motivation, and excitement. Now here’s where it gets interesting. When we lack healthy anticipation—when we don’t have things to look forward to—dopamine levels can drop, leading to discouragement, low motivation, and even depression. But God, in His wisdom, created us with this system of anticipation for a reason. He designed our brains to look forward, to seek reward, to long for something beyond the present moment. Advent is a season of holy anticipation. For centuries, Christians have marked the four weeks before Christmas as a time of preparation, reflection, and expectation. We look back and remember the long anticipation of Israel waiting for the promised Messiah. And we look forward in anticipation of Christ’s second coming. Advent teaches us not to rush through waiting but to savor it, to sit in it, to let it shape our hearts. In the same way dopamine motivates us to move toward something good, Advent hope motivates us to move toward God’s promises. Think about Simeon and Anna in Luke chapter 2. They spent their lives anticipating the Messiah. The Holy Spirit had revealed to Simeon that he would not die before seeing the Lord’s Christ. Imagine the daily anticipation he must have lived with. And then one day, he held the baby Jesus in his arms and declared, “My eyes have seen your salvation.” That is the fulfillment of holy anticipation. And yet, we too live in anticipation. We celebrate Jesus’ birth, yes—but we also anticipate His return. That’s what Advent reminds us: we live between the “already” and the “not yet.” Jesus has come, and Jesus is coming again. Here’s the challenge. In our culture, anticipation often gets hijacked. We anticipate Amazon packages, text message replies, or the next social media notification. Those things give us little dopamine hits, but they don’t satisfy our souls. If we’re not careful, we can train our brains to anticipate the wrong things—things that don’t last, things that can’t fulfill us. But Advent invites us to retrain our anticipation. Instead of craving fleeting rewards, we can learn to anticipate eternal hope. So, let’s ask ourselves: What am I anticipating most right now? Is it something temporary, or is it something eternal? How can I align my anticipation with God’s promises? Romans 8:24–25 says, “For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what they already have? But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently.” That’s the essence of anticipation: waiting with patience, grounded in hope. Let me suggest a few practical steps: Build rhythms of anticipation. Light an Advent candle each week. Read the Scriptures that point to Christ’s coming. These small practices create anticipation and remind your brain and your spirit of the greater hope to come. Practice gratitude in the waiting. Each time you feel anticipation rising—whether for a holiday gathering or even for your morning coffee—use it as a cue to thank God for something eternal. Gratitude shifts dopamine toward holy anticipation. Anchor your anticipation in God’s promises. Write down verses about Christ’s return. For example, John 14:3, where Jesus says, “I will come back and take you to be with me.” Let those promises fuel your waiting. Fast from empty anticipations. Maybe that means stepping back from constant scrolling or instant gratification. Fasting helps retrain our brains to anticipate what truly matters. Invite others into your anticipation. Just as Israel anticipated the Messiah together, we’re called to wait together. Share your Advent reflections with a friend or family member. Encourage one another with the hope of Christ’s return. When we put all this together, here’s what we see: Neuroscience shows us that anticipation releases dopamine, motivating us to move toward something good. Scripture shows us that God designed us to live in anticipation of His promises. Advent reminds us to direct our anticipation toward Christ—His birth, His presence in our lives today, and His return. When we align our brains’ natural anticipation system with God’s eternal hope, we experience deeper joy, stronger faith, and renewed strength to endure seasons of waiting. Friend, whatever you’re anticipating right now, I encourage you to lift it before the Lord. Maybe you’re anticipating something wonderful, or maybe you’re anticipating something hard. Either way, God meets us in our waiting. As we journey through Advent, let’s allow anticipation to become not a source of stress or distraction, but a holy reminder that our ultimate hope is in Christ. Would you pray with me? “Heavenly Father, thank You for designing our minds and our hearts to anticipate. Thank You for sending Jesus, the fulfillment of centuries of anticipation, and thank You for the promise that He will come again. Help us, Lord, to direct our anticipation toward what is eternal and true. Strengthen us in seasons of waiting and fill us with hope as we remember that You are faithful to every promise. In Jesus’ name, Amen.” As you move through this Advent season, may you live with holy anticipation—not just for the joys of Christmas, but for the greater joy of Christ’s return. Scripture References: Romans 8:24–25 (NIV)“For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what they already have? But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently.” Recommended Resources: Sacred Scars: Resting in God’s Promise That Your Past Is Not Wasted by Dr. Michelle Bengtson The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner AWSA 2024 Golden Scroll Christian Living Book of the Year and the 2024 Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in the Christian Living and Non-Fiction categories YouVersion 5-Day Devotional Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises from God to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, AWSA Member of the Year, winner of the AWSA 2023 Inspirational Gift Book of the Year Award, the 2024 Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in the Devotional category, the 2023 Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in four categories, and the Christian Literary Awards Henri Award for Devotionals YouVersion Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day version 1 YouVersion Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day version 2 Revive & Thrive Women’s Online Conference Revive & Thrive Summit 2 Trusting God through Cancer Summit 1 Trusting God through Cancer Summit 2 Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the AWSA 2020 Best Christian Living Book First Place, the first place winner for the Best Christian Living Book, the 2020 Carolina Christian Writer’s Conference Contest winner for nonfiction, and winner of the 2021 Christian Literary Award’s Reader’s Choice Award in all four categories for which it was nominated (Non-Fiction Victorious Living, Christian Living Day By Day, Inspirational Breaking Free and Testimonial Justified by Grace categories.) YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free PDF Resource: How to Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Henri and Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Free Webinar: Help for When You’re Feeling Blue Social Media Links for Host: For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at: Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails / Website / Blog / Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson) / LinkedIn / Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Check out the new LinkedIn report here: https://economicgraph.linkedin.com/content/dam/me/economicgraph/en-us/PDF/Work-Change-Small-Business-Report-Dec-2025-UK.pdf Vote for Jimmy's Jobs People's Choice Award: https://politicalpodcastawards.co.uk/the-peoples-choice-award/ And sign up to our NEW community here! https://app.heartbeat.chat/jimmysjobsbackstage/invitation?code=DF4BEJ Elfried “Elf” Samba helped turn Gymshark from a small UK fitness brand into a global cultural movement - powered by community, creators, and culture over traditional advertising. In this episode of Jimmy's Jobs of the Future, Elf breaks down the real marketing strategies behind Gymshark's rise, why most brands misunderstand community, and how personal brand, trust, and cultural relevance now drive growth more than spend. We cover:

Want to know the best winery to visit in the US? The Dr. Konstantin Frank winery was named the best winery tour in America for the third year in a row in 2024 by the USA Today 10 Best Reader's Choice Awards. What's the secret sauce? On today's show, we're headed to New York's Finger Lakes region, where winemaking dates back to the 1800s. Meaghan Frank is the great granddaughter of Dr. Konstantin Frank, a Ukrainian immigrant credited with pioneering modern wine making in the Finger Lakes. He is known as the father of vitis vinifera in the East because he taught American vintners how to grow European varietals in the cold climate of the Finger Lakes. Dr Frank developed and mastered cold weatherproofing farming techniques in Ukraine and he brought that innovation to America and his namesake winery, D⁠r. Frank Konstantin.⁠Meaghan Frank inherited quite a legacy, but she's also brought her own experience and knowledge to the family winery, where she is now in charge of the day-to-day operations. Meaghan's family has many milestones to celebrate, including 40 years of making sparkling wine and women playing major roles in the winery's success and evolution. Riesling wines are a big part of the story. In fact, Dr. Frank's Riesling Vineyard, planted in 1958, is the oldest Riesling planting in the Eastern United States. Riesling is one of the most aromatic and versatile white varieties in the world, made in many styles, from bone dry to dessert wine sweet, in both still and sparkling versions. After listening to today's episode, we hope you'll be inspired to seek out Riesling in all its styles.

For this week's main podcast review, Megan Lachinski, Josh Parham, Dan Bayer, and Brendan Hodges join me to discuss the latest film from Academy Award-winner Chloé Zhao, "Hamnet," starring Jessie Buckley, Paul Mescal, Emily Watson, Joe Alwyn, Jacobi Jupe, and Noah Jupe. The historical drama film co-written by Maggie O'Farrell, the author of the title novel this film is based on is a largely fictional story dramatizing the marriage between Anne Hathaway (Agnes Hathaway in the novel and film) and William Shakespeare, and the impact of the tragic death of their 11-year-old son Hamnet on their relationship, which inspired Shakespeare's iconic play "Hamlet." The film had its world premiere at the Telluride Film Festival and has been drawing tears from audiences everywhere it plays, including the Toronto International Film Festival, where it won the People's Choice Award. What did we think of it, though? Please tune in as we discuss the story, performances, cinematography, score, whether it made us as emotional as intended, its awards season chances, and more in our SPOILER-FILLED review. Thank you for listening, and enjoy! Check out more on NextBestPicture.com Please subscribe on... Apple Podcasts - https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/negs-best-film-podcast/id1087678387?mt=2 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/7IMIzpYehTqeUa1d9EC4jT YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWA7KiotcWmHiYYy6wJqwOw And be sure to help support us on Patreon for as little as $1 a month at https://www.patreon.com/NextBestPicture and listen to this podcast ad-free Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Holly and Alexis are back to share the Critics' Choice Award Nominations as well as Miley Cyrus's paper fear.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In the new film Five Nights at Freddy's 2, Josh Hutcherson returns as the protagonist trying to survive in a haunted children's restaurant called Freddy Fazbear's Pizza. The creepy animatronic robots remain, and the sequel adds fresh lore and extends the action beyond the original abandoned restaurant.Follow Pop Culture Happy Hour on Letterboxd at letterboxd.com/nprpopcultureThe first-ever NPR Pod Club Awards are coming up, and YOU get to crown the winner of the People's Choice Award. Vote for Pop Culture Happy Hour here!Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Chelsea Handler joins Jenna for a round of Chelsea's Choice Awards. Also, Michele Morrone is in Studio 1A discussing her new film, “The Housemaid". Plus, sex and relationship expert Shan Boodram gives some tips and tricks for navigating relationships this holiday season. And, a look at some delicious holiday cocktails to wow guests at your next holiday get-together. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

New York Times and USA Today best-selling author Donna VanLiere’s 18 books include The Christmas Shoes and The Christmas Blessing, which were adapted into movies starring Rob Lowe and Neil Patrick Harris. Donna has won a Retailer's Choice Award for Fiction, a Dove Award, a Silver Angel Award, two Audie Awards (seven nominations) for best inspirational fiction, and a Gold Medallion Book of the Year nomination, and she is an inductee in the Ohio Foundation of Independent Colleges Hall of Excellence. She has spoken at the prestigious Patricia Adams Lecture Series at Heidelberg University, Among Friends conferences, Women of Faith events, and Extraordinary Women conferences. Donna’s newest book, Looking for Christmas, is available now for pre-order, and she is currently finishing Looking for God, which will release in the spring of 2026. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this week's episode, we welcome back Dan Gutman! New York Times best-selling and award-winning author Dan Gutman has written more than 190 books for readers from kindergarten through middle school. Dan's My Weird School series includes 100+ titles, and has sold more than 35 million copies globally over the past 20 years. Dan also is the author of the best-selling Genius Files series, the Baseball Card Adventure series, and many more.Dan's books have been named Junior Library Guild Selections and Bank Street College's Best Children's Books of the Year, and have been awarded numerous state book awards, including: The California Young Reader Medal, the Massachusetts Children's Book Award, and the Iowa Children's Choice Award, among others. When he's not writing books, Dan loves to ride his bike, play pickleball, throw Frisbees, and explore New York City where he lives with his wife Nina. To find out more, follow Dan on Facebook, X, and Instagram. You can follow him on IG @dangutmanbooksPurchase his latest book here: https://bookshop.org/a/19191/9780823453856Check out his website here: https://dangutman.com/Support the show

What's better than holiday hot chocolate? If just thinking about it makes you feel all warm and fuzzy, well – that's by design. Chocolate's big history sweeps across the globe, and today we're going on that journey: from the pre–Columbus Americas, to an early 20th century reporter's hunch about what cocoa production really takes, to a 21st century medical student's story about his childhood on a farm that produces those holiday treats.Guests:Carla Martin, lecturer in African and African American Studies at Harvard University and President of the Board of the Institute for Cacao and Chocolate ResearchCatherine Higgs, professor of history at the University of British Columbia in CanadaShadrack Frimpong, founder of Cocoa360We've got a favor to ask: We know there are a lot of great NPR shows out there.. but we all know who's the best.  NPR is celebrating the best  podcasts of the year, and YOU get to crown the winner of the People's Choice Award. Vote for Throughline at npr.org/peopleschoice. May the best pod win!To access bonus episodes and listen to Throughline sponsor-free, subscribe to Throughline+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org/throughline.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Episode Summary: Christmas is often described as the most wonderful time of the year, but for many, it doesn’t feel that way. Whether because of grief, loneliness, financial strain, or painful memories, the holidays can intensify sadness instead of joy. Today on Your Hope-Filled Perspective, Jessica Van Roekel and I want to talk about what we call a ‘Blue Christmas.’ Together, we’ll explore why it’s important to give ourselves and others permission to grieve during the holiday season, how God meets us in our pain, and ways to navigate December with compassion and hope. Quotables from the episode: For some, Christmas brings laughter, lights, and loved ones. But for others, it’s a season that magnifies loss, heartache, or isolation. If you or someone you know is struggling this Christmas, you’re not alone. On today’s episode of Your Hope-Filled Perspective, Jessica Van Roekel and I will share how to give space for what we call a ‘Blue Christmas’—a time when we acknowledge that the holidays can be hard, while also discovering God’s gentle presence and the hope He offers, even in the midst of sorrow. I wanted to acknowledge that while Christmas is often referred to the most joyous time of year, it isn’t for everyone, and it’s important for us to acknowledge our thoughts and feelings, but simultaneously continue to put our hope in God. Often, Christmas is portrayed as magical, joyous, and full of peace. But for many, that’s simply not the reality. Grief, depression, loneliness, or broken family relationships can make Christmas feel heavy. And pretending everything is fine when it’s not only deepens the ache. God invites us to bring Him our honest emotions. Think about the Psalms—David poured out his sorrows, and yet found hope in God’s presence. Let’s name some reasons people might struggle at Christmas: Grief from losing a loved one. Family estrangement or broken relationships. Loneliness, especially for singles, widows, or those far from family. Financial hardship that makes gift-giving stressful. Mental health battles like depression or anxiety. Unmet expectations. Christmas can amplify those pains. Lights and carols may remind us of what we don’t have. But Jesus came into a world of darkness. Isaiah 9:2 says, “The people walking in darkness have seen a great light.” His presence is especially near to the brokenhearted (Psalm 34:18). Sometimes we pressure ourselves to “put on a happy face.” But it’s okay to grieve at Christmas. Lament is part of worship. Jesus Himself wept (John 11:35). If the Son of God cried at loss, then tears are holy too. Giving yourself permission to be real is not a lack of faith. We can also set boundaries. Maybe we can’t attend every party. Maybe we create new traditions that feel gentler for our souls this year. Sometimes the best gift is presence, not presents. Just sitting with someone, listening, or sending a simple “thinking of you” note can mean the world. And don’t say, “You should be happy, it’s Christmas.” Instead, validate their feelings. Romans 12:15 says, “Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.” Another practical tip—invite them into your traditions in small ways, without pressure. Even a quiet cup of cocoa together can bring comfort. At the heart of Christmas is Emmanuel—God with us. That truth doesn’t change, whether our Christmas is merry or blue. We can both acknowledge sorrow and cling to hope. One way is through Scripture meditation. Even reading Luke 2 slowly and remembering that Christ entered a broken, chaotic world can remind us we’re not alone. Some practical things that help: Create a memory box or light a candle in honor of a loved one. Simplify expectations. You don’t have to do all the traditions. Prioritize rest and self-care. Spend time with safe people who encourage your heart. And when emotions overwhelm, breathe a prayer like: “Lord, hold me in this moment.” God doesn’t require eloquence—He wants our honesty. Friend, if you’re facing a Blue Christmas, know this: You are not broken because you feel sorrow. God sees you, loves you, and promises to draw near. He is “Immanuel—God with us.” That’s the real miracle of Christmas. Whether your Christmas is filled with joy or tears, His presence is your anchor. Scripture References: Psalm 42:11 “Why, my soul, are you downcast? Put your hope in God…” Matthew 1:23 “They will call Him Immanuel, which means ‘God with us.’” Ecclesiastes 3:4 “a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance” Isaiah 9:2 “The people walking in darkness have seen a great light.” Psalm 34:18 His presence is especially near to the brokenhearted. Romans 12:15 “Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.” Recommended Resources: Reframing Rejection: How Looking Through a Different Lens Changes Everything By Jessica Van Roekel Sacred Scars: Resting in God’s Promise That Your Past Is Not Wasted by Dr. Michelle Bengtson The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner AWSA 2024 Golden Scroll Christian Living Book of the Year and the 2024 Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in the Christian Living and Non-Fiction categories YouVersion 5-Day Devotional Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises from God to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, AWSA Member of the Year, winner of the AWSA 2023 Inspirational Gift Book of the Year Award, the 2024 Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in the Devotional category, the 2023 Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in four categories, and the Christian Literary Awards Henri Award for Devotionals YouVersion Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day version 1 YouVersion Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day version 2 Revive & Thrive Women’s Online Conference Revive & Thrive Summit 2 Trusting God through Cancer Summit 1 Trusting God through Cancer Summit 2 Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the AWSA 2020 Best Christian Living Book First Place, the first place winner for the Best Christian Living Book, the 2020 Carolina Christian Writer’s Conference Contest winner for nonfiction, and winner of the 2021 Christian Literary Award’s Reader’s Choice Award in all four categories for which it was nominated (Non-Fiction Victorious Living, Christian Living Day By Day, Inspirational Breaking Free and Testimonial Justified by Grace categories.) YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free PDF Resource: How to Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Henri and Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Free Webinar: Help for When You’re Feeling Blue Social Media Links for Host and Guest: Connect with Jessica Van Roekel: Website / Instagram / Facebook For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at: Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails / Website / Blog / Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson) / LinkedIn / Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple Co-Host: Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others. Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Vote for us in NPR's People's Choice Awards: npr.org/peopleschoice AI is already reshaping how people find work. Fewer entry-level jobs, robot recruiters, and ever-changing new skill requirements all add up to a new, daunting landscape for humans trying to find dignified work.Today on the show: two stories from the edges of a changing labor market. First we'll assess claims that AI is causing a white collar job apocalypse. What does the data actually say? We meet an economist who has found one small but fascinating way to measure the impact of AI on workers. Then, we go face-to-face, or at least voice-to-voice, with AI. We meet a robot recruiter for a job interview and find cause to ask, ‘When might that actually be preferable to a human recruiter?'Pre-order the Planet Money book and get a free gift. /  Subscribe to Planet Money+Listen free: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, the NPR app or anywhere you get podcasts.Facebook / Instagram / TikTok / Our weekly Newsletter.The original Indicator episodes were hosted by Wailin Wong, Darian Woods, and Adrian Ma. They were produced by Cooper Katz McKim and engineered by Robert Rodriguez and Debbie Daughtry. They were fact checked by Sierra Juarez. They were edited by Paddy Hirsch and Kate Concannon. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Stéphanie welcomes friend and author Cynthia Ruchti for a heartfelt conversation about an often-overlooked key Person in the Christmas story!Inspired by Cynthia's book, The Spirit of Christmas: Discovering His Presence throughout the Advent Season, Stephanie and Cynthia weave together the truths of the gospel with the unique work of the Holy Spirit through the Christmas season.Cynthia beautifully outlines how the Holy Spirit is present at every turn in the story of Christmas. From the Spirit's role in Jesus' conception to His comfort and guidance of Mary on her journey to Elizabeth, we see that God's presence is not limited to grand, miraculous moments but extends to the quiet, unseen steps we take in our lives. Cynthia also notes that even in the last moments of silence preceding Jesus' birth (the 400 years between Malachi and the Gospels), the Spirit is waiting and then speaks to unlikely people—Mary, Zechariah, Elizabeth—signaling God's readiness to move.Both Stéphanie and Cynthia share an affinity for observing—paying attention to the details that God reveals. Cynthia describes herself as an “observer” who seeks to notice God at work, longing to discover and dig deeper. She invites us to do the same: to live lives marked by holy expectancy, always searching for evidence of God's presence through His Spirit. The conversation encourages listeners to be lifelong learners of the faith—not settling for what we've always known, but continually growing in our understanding of Him.Cynthia offers to expand our understanding of the gospel: it is not only about Jesus or the Father, but involves the entire Trinity. The Father sends the Son, and the Son sends the Spirit. The Holy Spirit is integral, taking the words of Jesus and illuminating them for us, deepening our comprehension far beyond what we might realize. This broadening view challenges us to recognize the Holy Spirit's involvement not just during Christmas, but throughout all of Jesus' ministry and in every aspect of our faith journey.So, Stephanie and Cynthia invite YOU to make space for the Holy Spirit during this Advent season. Cynthia suggests that we sometimes need to let go of traditions or activities that crowd out our capacity to ponder the real meaning of Christmas. The invitation is to intentionally prepare our hearts, not just our homes, so we don't end Christmas feeling empty or disappointed but deeply satisfied by God's presence.Cynthia also brings attention to the overlooked figures in the Christmas story—the innkeeper, the cloth weavers, and countless unnamed helpers. These reminders inspire us to appreciate every person's role and to look for God among the unnoticed and ordinary.Ultimately, Cynthia and Stéphanie challenge us not just to trace the Holy Spirit through Advent, but through our entire lives. Reflect on how God's Spirit has been working—generations back, in your own childhood, and through every season. The Spirit of Christmas is an invitation to continual discovery, deepened intimacy, and expectation for what God will reveal next.Get ready for Advent: As you move through Advent, intentionally seek and observe the Holy Spirit—both in the Christmas story and your daily life. What will you notice when you look?MORE ABOUT “THE SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS”Discover the Holy Spirit's Presence in the Christmas Story--and Why It Matters Today· A faith-building, eye-opening daily advent devotional· Discover exciting new aspects of the story you thought you knew· Prepare your heart to fully celebrate the birth of JesusWhen we think of the first Christmas, we often focus on the wide-eyed young mother and her faithful fiancé, on tattered shepherds and singing angels and road-weary wise men. But the Holy Spirit was there--and just as He hovered over the waters in the beginning, He hovers over every page of the Christmas story.This Advent, join acclaimed author Cynthia Ruchti for a faith-building, eye-opening walk with the Holy Spirit. Highlighting the power and presence of the Spirit at work in the sacred story, each entry of this 26-day devotional contains· core verses on the Spirit's role in the narrative of Scripture· devotional thoughts perfect for the whole family· often overlooked details that will change the way you see and understand the Christmas story· space for pondering and reflection· practical application with optional projects to help you prepare and celebrate· an Advent prayerBefore the babe was conceived, the Holy Spirit was already at work, setting the stage and preparing the hearts of the biblical characters we know and love. This season, let Him set the stage and prepare your heart too.MORE ABOUT CYNTHIA RUCHTICynthia Ruchti tells stories hemmed in Hope through her novels, novellas, devotions, and nonfiction, and through speaking for women's events/retreats and writers' conferences/workshops. She draws from 33 years of experience writing and producing the 15-minute daily radio broadcast, “The Heartbeat of the Home.” Her books have received recognition from RT Reviewers' Choice Book of the Year, PW Starred Reviews, Selah Awards, Christian Retailing's BEST Awards, Golden Scroll Awards and Novel of the Year, Readers' Choice Awards, The Carol Award, two Christy finalists, and more. For 12 years she served as Professional Relations Liaison for American Christian Fiction Writers, and is part of the worship team at her church. She's also a Senior Literary Agent with Books & Such Literary Management. She and her husband live in the heart of Wisconsin, not far from their three children and seven grandchildren.More at https://cynthiaruchti.com/ THERE ARE SEVERAL WAYS TO PARTNER WITH GOSPEL SPICE TODAY!First, PAY Gospel Spice Forward: Give a tax-deductible gift so others can experience our ministry for free, just like you! You can pay it forward with any debit, credit card, or via PayPal. See below for more details about your impact.Also, PLAY Gospel Spice Forward: SHARE the podcast and the studies with your friends and family. FOLLOW, RATE & REVIEW on your favorite podcast app (leave a comment + a star rating on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Pandora, IHeart, Google Podcast, etc…). It REALLY is the best way to help others find this content-rich podcast. And, last but not least, PRAY Gospel Spice Forward: We pray for you weekly. We covet your prayers for our ministry, the thousands we reach, and our team! Contact us to let us know you are praying for us!NEW!Another way to partner with us is to purchase our workbooks and online Bible studies. We keep them at the lowest possible cost, but they require a lot of work from us! For example, - a complete Bible Study requires an average of 500 man-hours. - a workbook for a series requires almost 100 man-hours.MORE ABOUT PARTNERING WITH US FINANCIALLY:Gospel Spice Ministries is a non-profit organization registered under the tax-exempt 501c3 status.Our goal is to provide in-depth, high-quality, free Bible resources for all. They are free, but expensive to create! We need your financial support to keep producing and distributing them. Please pay Gospel Spice forward today! For example, a podcast episode takes close to 10 hours of work (and we release 2 each week). They come to you completely free, but we would truly love your support.We want the money to go to those who really need it. Once our operating costs are paid, 100% of your donation is redistributed to our partners who fight human trafficking. Each year, we aim to give as much as we can. For example, Stephanie works more than full time for Gospel Spice, entirely for free. All board members and volunteers are donating time. We limit our operational expenses to the bare minimum.Your pay-it-forward donations are tax-deductible under IRS Section 170.We want to be the best possible stewards of your financial support. Thank you!Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blogWhat matters to us here at Gospel Spice is to create a place where people who seek deeper intimacy with Jesus, will find Him. We want a warm, welcoming atmosphere to journey ever deeper into the heart of God. We believe it is the ultimate calling of the Christian life, and I like to summarize it with my motto, God's glory, our delight. That is why we invite you to “taste and see” that the Lord is good. And we have been doing this every day since 2019. We need YOU to keep Gospel Spice alive and growing.  Financially speaking, we rely on people who understand this vision and who understand that we cannot function without a minimum budget. We run an extremely tight budget. For example, I work full time but don't draw a salary. And yet, we have expenses – for example, the equipment and technology we use, and also the wonderfully gifted staff who make it possible to deliver high quality content all around the globe, and then the necessary occasional promotional budget to make it possible to be discovered by those who seek to live a life spiced with the gospel of Jesus Christ. We need your help.  So we would love for you to consider if this ministry is blessing you to pay gospel spice forward. You can partner with us monthly with 10, 25, 50, 100, a month, or you can make one donation, once.And because we are a register nonprofit organization in the United States under the status of a 501c3 charity, it means that the amount that you pay to gospel spice is fully tax deductible. Completely tax deductible. So you're even saving money as you invest in gospel spice ministries. It is an eternal investment, and we are very grateful to you for it.Now it's very important to us that we give back as much as possible from what you give us. And so we commit to giving the majority of what we receive, once all of our administrative costs are paid, to organizations that fight human trafficking on the front line. There are many worthwhile causes in the world, so why this one? Because I have always personally felt deep compassion for victims of human trafficking – maybe because I have never been its victim myself, so I feel a responsibility to help those less fortunate than me. Also, because Jesus tells us to love our neighbor. Human trafficking is modern day slavery, and that is something that revolts the heart of God. We want to play our part in raising awareness and then financially supporting those who fight this great evil.  So, we do some due diligence. We pick organizations who have proven themselves trustworthy of our support. And then we give money to these Christians organizations that fight human trafficking.So would you consider paying us forward at gospelspice.com/payitforward?Your hard-earned money is always well used at Gospel Spice. Ultimately, you are giving back to the Kingdom, a portion of what Jesus has given you. We are well aware of the privilege to steward your partnership. And my prayer is always that you will find your own life spiced with the gospel as you partner with us to flavor the lives of those around us, near and far, with the spice of the gospel. Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

This week's episode of You Are What You Read is all about Rock & Roll. Today, we are joined by Pat Benatar & Neil Giraldo with their adorable new children's picture book.. My Grandma and Grandpa Rock!  You know Pat and Neil's hits, “We Belong,” “Invincible,” “Love Is A Battlefield,” “Promises In The Dark,” “We Live For Love,” “Heartbreaker” and “Hell Is For Children.” Together, Pat and Neil have created two multi-platinum, five platinum, and three gold albums, along with 19 Top 40 hits. They've sold more than 36 million records worldwide and earned four consecutive GRAMMY® Awards. Their honors also include three American Music Awards, a People's Choice Award, induction into the Long Island Music Hall of Fame (2008), and most recently, the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Their latest project, the New York Times and USA Today bestselling children's book, continues their creative legacy in a whole new way. My Grandma & Grandpa Rock! is a labor of love for grandparents and grandchildren everywhere. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Gabrielle Nevaeh's journey to Stranger Things: The First Shadow feels like a real-time coming-of-age story. In our conversation, she opens up about growing up painfully shy in Florida, discovering acting at a performing arts school, and then making the leap to Los Angeles at just twelve years old with nothing but six suitcases and a dream. From navigating the whirlwind of Nickelodeon fame, to essentially attending “Nick High,” to juggling seven different shows while finishing high school, she shares how she slowly learned to trust her instincts, embrace her authentic self, and listen less to the external noise. That confidence is exactly what carried her into one of the wildest audition processes I've ever heard, including a full seven-hour callback in New York where she literally performed the entire play as a one-woman show. Once she stepped into the world of Stranger Things, everything changed. Gabrielle talks about finding her voice onstage eight shows a week, building Patty Newby from the ground up, and experiencing that electric moment when the season five trailer drops in the theater and the audience erupts. We dive into the emotional weight of this role, the physical demands of doing an “action movie” every night, and why she actually loves a rowdy audience member who shouts back at the actors. She also reflects on how surreal it is to walk the line between longtime Nickelodeon kids who know her comedy work and the massive Stranger Things fans who now show up dressed like Patty or get props from the show tattooed on their bodies. Gabrielle Nevaeh is an award-nominated actor known for standout work on Nickelodeon's All That, That Girl Lay Lay, Danger Force, and as the voice of Clawdeen Wolf in Monster High. Her credits also include Gremlins: Secrets of the Mogwai, Curses, and hosting duties for major Nickelodeon events including the Kids' Choice Awards. She earned a Young Artist Award and an Emmy nomination for her on-screen work before making her Broadway debut as Patty Newby in Stranger Things: The First Shadow, where she continues to shape the character in collaboration with the creative team. This episode is powered by WelcomeToTimesSquare.com, the billboard where you can be a star for a day. Connect with Gabrielle: Instagram: @gabriellenevaeh TikTok: @gabriellenevaeh Connect with The Theatre Podcast: Support the podcast on Patreon and watch video versions of the episodes: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Twitter & Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@theatre_podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook.com/OfficialTheatrePodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TheTheatrePodcast.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Alan's personal Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@alanseales⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Email me at feedback@thetheatrepodcast.com. I want to know what you think. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Saturday Mornings Show” host Glenn van Zutphen and co-host Neil Humphreys welcome Michael Goh, President of StarDream Cruises, to discuss how the company achieved a double win at the Travel Weekly Asia 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards—being named Best Cruise Line – Asia and Best Cruise Line – Entertainment. Since 2022, StarDream Cruises has consistently raised the bar in hospitality, earning accolades for cuisine, entertainment, and regional excellence. Michael shares the secrets behind this success: a blend of deep-rooted Asian heritage, world-class service, and innovative entertainment that continues to delight guests across the region. We explore how StarDream stays ahead in a competitive industry, from expanding itineraries across Southeast Asia and Japan to offering unique embarkation options from Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, and Hong Kong. Michael also gives us a glimpse into what’s next for 2026, including new routes, enhanced onboard experiences, and the evolving role of cruising in Asia’s tourism landscape.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this powerful and deeply personal conversation, David Peck speaks with filmmaker Eisha Marjara about her new film Calorie, a story rooted in the emotional aftershocks of the 1985 Air India bombing. Drawing from her own family history and loss, Marjara unpacks the complex layers of grief, identity, and resilience embodied in Monica—a single mother living in the long shadow of tragedy. Together, they explore how personal trauma intersects with political and cultural histories, and how storytelling can reveal universal truths that bridge cultures and foster empathy. Calorie opens in theaters on November 28 and will be available elsewhere soon.Eisha Marjara gained recognition with her NFB docudrama Desperately Seeking Helen, winning the Critic's Choice Award at Locarno and the Jury Prize at München. She later wrote and directed. The Tourist, House for Sale, and the award-winning feature Venus. Her NFB short documentary Am I the Skinniest Person You've Ever Seen? won the Betty Youson Award for Best Canadian Short at the 2024 Hot Docs Festival, as well as Best Documentary at Frontdoc, and at It's All True film festival.Calorie is her most recent feature to date, inspired by real events.David Peck is a writer, speaker, and award-winning podcaster who works at the intersection of storytelling, social change, and meaningful dialogue. As the host of Face2Face and former host of Toronto Threads on 640 AM, he has published over 650 in-depth interviews with some of the world's most compelling thinkers, artists and storytellers, including Viggo Mortensen, Sarah Polley, Raoul Peck, Werner Herzog, Chris Hadfield, David Cronenberg, Gillian Anderson and Wade Davis.With a background in philosophy and international development, David brings a thoughtful, globally aware perspective to every conversation. He's a published author and experienced keynote speaker, known for creating spaces where complexity is welcomed and ideas come alive. Whether moderating panels, hosting live events, or speaking on issues ranging from ethics to media, David's work is grounded in a deep curiosity about people.At heart, he simply loves good conversation and believes it's one of the best ways we grow, connect, and make sense of the world.For more information about David Peck's podcasting, writing and public speaking please visit his site here.F2F Music and Image Copyright: David Peck, ICBL and Face2Face. Used with permission. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On today's show, a Thanksgiving story you might never have heard -- not about Pilgrims or Native people, but instead about a woman who, as civil war loomed, pushed for a shared national holiday she thought would keep the United States together. This episode originally ran in 2024.We've got a favor to ask: We know there are a lot of great NPR shows out there.. but we all know who's the best.  NPR is celebrating the best  podcasts of the year, and YOU get to crown the winner of the People's Choice Award. Vote for Throughline at npr.org/peopleschoice. May the best pod win!To access bonus episodes and listen to Throughline sponsor-free, subscribe to Throughline+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org/throughline.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Episode Summary: While Norman Rockwall paints pictures of the holiday season as times of cheerful family togetherness, many feel unseen, especially during the holidays. Maybe you’re walking through this season feeling like no one really sees you. Maybe you’re single and longing for companionship, grieving the loss of a loved one, or feeling disconnected even in a crowd. The holidays can be a stark reminder of what we feel is missing in our lives. We see others celebrating with their families, opening presents, and engaging in joyful traditions, while we may feel forgotten or left behind. But even when the world seems to overlook you, God never does. Join me as we into a topic that touches so many hearts, especially during the holiday season: Finding Hope and Purpose When You Feel Invisible. Quotables from the episode: Loneliness isn’t just about being physically alone. It’s about feeling unseen, unheard, or unimportant. And during the holidays, this feeling can be magnified. We see families gathering, couples exchanging gifts, and social media flooded with highlight reels of happy moments—but what if you feel left out of that joy? There are many reasons why people feel overlooked during the holidays. Some have lost loved ones and feel their absence more acutely this time of year. Others may be estranged from family or struggling with difficult relationships. Some are facing financial hardship, making it hard to participate in the celebrations around them. Still, others feel overlooked in the workplace, in friendships, or even in ministry, wondering if what they do truly matters. Friend, just like He saw Hagar, He sees you too. No situation is too small or too big to escape His loving gaze. Maybe you feel invisible in your workplace, like your efforts go unnoticed. Maybe you feel unseen in your own family, where your needs seem to take a backseat to everyone else’s. Or maybe you’ve been crying out to God for an answer, and it feels like the heavens are silent. I want to assure you that God is not distant. He is near, and He sees every part of your heart. The enemy wants us to believe we are forgotten, but that’s a lie. The truth? God has always had His eye on you. God sees every detail of your life. He sees your silent tears and hears the prayers you can’t even put into words. He knows the longing in your heart and the dreams you’ve tucked away. You are not invisible to Him. I have to wonder if perhaps Jesus felt the same way when He asked His closest disciples to stay awake with Him in the garden, and yet they slept. Yet in that place He poured out His heart to His Heavenly Father. Throughout Scripture, we see God’s attentive love. Jesus noticed the outcasts—the woman at the well, the lepers, the woman with the issue of blood, the blind man begging on the roadside. He saw the ones society ignored, and He still does today. When you feel unseen, remember this: Jesus stops for the one. He stops for you. Even Jesus experienced feeling forsaken when He cried out on the cross, “My God, my God, why have You forsaken me?”(Matthew 27:46). But God had not abandoned Him, just as He will never abandon you. Even in our darkest moments, God is working behind the scenes. He is near, even when we don’t feel it. Anchor Yourself in God’s Word – Fill your mind with Scriptures that remind you of God’s deep love for you. Shift Your Focus – When we focus on what we lack, we feel emptier. But when we focus on God’s presence and His promises, our hearts find peace. Start by playing uplifting praise and worship music, then consider starting a gratitude journal, writing down ways God has shown up in your life, comforted you, or helped you feel seen. Reach Out – Sometimes, we isolate ourselves when we feel unseen. I encourage you to take a step—send a text, call a friend, or join a community where you can encourage others too. Spend Time in His Presence – God is enough. Sit with Him. Talk to Him. Let Him fill the spaces where you feel unseen. One of the beautiful ways we can reflect God’s love is by helping others feel seen. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 reminds us that God comforts us so we can comfort others. When we encourage others, God blesses us as well. Notice the unnoticed – Look for those who may feel left out and extend kindness to them. Speak life – A simple encouragement can make someone’s day. Be present – Sometimes, the greatest gift is simply being there for someone. God sees us, and He invites us to see others the way He does. My friend, if you feel invisible today, remember this: You are fully known and fully loved by the God who created the universe. God is the God who sees you, and He loves you deeply. Hold onto hope. Scripture References: Genesis 16:13 Hagar called God, El Roi, “The God Who Sees Me.” Psalm 139:1-3 “You have searched me, Lord, and you know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways.” Matthew 27:46 “My God, my God, why have You forsaken me?” Isaiah 49:16 says, “See, I have engraved you on the palms of My hands.” Zephaniah 3:17 tells us, “The LORD your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in his love he will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing.” Proverbs 11:25 “Those who refresh others will be refreshed.” Recommended Resources: Sacred Scars: Resting in God’s Promise That Your Past Is Not Wasted by Dr. Michelle Bengtson The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner AWSA 2024 Golden Scroll Christian Living Book of the Year and the 2024 Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in the Christian Living and Non-Fiction categories YouVersion 5-Day Devotional Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises from God to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, AWSA Member of the Year, winner of the AWSA 2023 Inspirational Gift Book of the Year Award, the 2024 Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in the Devotional category, the 2023 Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in four categories, and the Christian Literary Awards Henri Award for Devotionals YouVersion Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day version 1 YouVersion Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day version 2 Revive & Thrive Women’s Online Conference Revive & Thrive Summit 2 Trusting God through Cancer Summit 1 Trusting God through Cancer Summit 2 Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the AWSA 2020 Best Christian Living Book First Place, the first place winner for the Best Christian Living Book, the 2020 Carolina Christian Writer’s Conference Contest winner for nonfiction, and winner of the 2021 Christian Literary Award’s Reader’s Choice Award in all four categories for which it was nominated (Non-Fiction Victorious Living, Christian Living Day By Day, Inspirational Breaking Free and Testimonial Justified by Grace categories.) YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free PDF Resource: How to Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Henri and Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Free Webinar: Help for When You’re Feeling Blue Social Media Links for Host: For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at: Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails / Website / Blog / Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson) / LinkedIn / Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In the Condé Nast Traveler's 2025 Readers' Choice Awards, the magazine praises Chicago's long-established culinary strength, from fine-dining giants like Alinea and Oriole to standout Italian and Michelin-starred Filipino cuisine. Finishing ahead of Chicago for best food cities in America are Oakland at Number-1, New Orleans at Number-2, and Milwaukee at Number-3.

In the Condé Nast Traveler's 2025 Readers' Choice Awards, the magazine praises Chicago's long-established culinary strength, from fine-dining giants like Alinea and Oriole to standout Italian and Michelin-starred Filipino cuisine. Finishing ahead of Chicago for best food cities in America are Oakland at Number-1, New Orleans at Number-2, and Milwaukee at Number-3.

Maria Castellucci Moore is the founder of the boutique winery and real estate business, Castellucci Napa Valley. She's also a multi-award-winning author of the children's book series Traveling Mindfulness, including Vivian in Paris and Sophia in Rome, and winner of the Gold Mom's Choice Award. First-generation American and mother to four children, Maria is also a board member of the San Francisco Opera Guild and Napa Valley's Ambassador to Charitable nonprofit organization, Roots of Peace— an organization that demines war torn lands and plants fruit orchards and vineyards worldwide. Maria also received the 2023 Most Intriguing Award for Napa Valley.

Welcome to MrMaple Podcasts, your go-to destination for all things horticulture. Our playlist is a collection of podcasts that showcase various plants and interview renowned horticulturists. We aim to educate and inspire our listeners about the beauty of plants and the knowledge needed to cultivate them. Our podcasts cover a wide range of topics, from Japanese Maples, Conifers, Ginkgos, and Azaleas to interviews with experts in the field. Tune in every Sunday at 8PM eastern for a new episode and join us on this journey to discover the wonders of horticulture.

How quickly can a government fall? Chile was once one of Latin America's oldest democracies, but that all changed in a matter of hours after a military coup on September 11, 1973. Some supported the coup; many did not. But for the next 17 years, all Chileans lived in the grip of brutal authoritarian rule. Today on the show, the story of a democracy's collapse and rebirth, told through the eyes of four people who lived through it.We've got a favor to ask: We know there are a lot of great NPR shows out there.. but we all know who's the best.  NPR is celebrating the best  podcasts of the year, and YOU get to crown the winner of the People's Choice Award. Vote for Throughline at npr.org/peopleschoice. May the best pod win!To access bonus episodes and listen to Throughline sponsor-free, subscribe to Throughline+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org/throughline.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Diane Gottlieb, Jennifer Fliss, and Nina B. Lichtenstein join Let's Talk Memoir for a conversation about their work as editors and what they look for in submissions, setting your writing apart, knowing where to omit for maximum impact, the magic of prompts, working with supportive editors, how constraints give us freedom, ordering an essay collection, how stories sustain us, disentangling the artist from politics, allyship, the process of becoming ourselves, celebrating our heritage, the ecosystem of Jewish life, submission calls, and our new anthology Manna Songs: Stories of Jewish Culture and Heritage. Also in this episode: -being seen -writing into joy -being a Jew by choice    Purchase Manna Songs here: https://elj-editions.com/mannasongs/ and wherever you get your books www.Dianegottlieb.com www.Jenniferflisscreative.com https://www.ninalichtenstein.com/   Diane Gottlieb, MSW, MEd, MFA, is the editor of Manna Songs: Stories of Jewish Culture & Heritage, the award-winning anthology Awakenings: Stories of Body & Consciousness, and Grieving Hope. Her writing appears in Brevity, Witness, River Teeth, 2023 Best Microfiction, Smokelong Quarterly, Bellevue Review, Colorado Review, JUDITH, and Jewish Book Council among many other lovely places. She is the winner of Tiferet Journal's 2021 Writing Contest in Nonfiction, and a finalist for Hole in the Head Review's 2024 Charles Simic Poetry Prize and Florida Review's 2023 Editor's Choice Award in Nonfiction. Diane is the Prose/CNF Editor at Emerge Literary and the Special Projects Editor at ELJ Editions. Connect with Diane:  https://elj-editions.com/mannasongs/ dianegottlieb.com @dianegotauthor   Jennifer Fliss (she/her) is a Seattle-based author of the collections, As If She Had a Say and The Predatory Animal Ball. Over 200 of her stories and essays have appeared in F(r)iction, PANK, Hobart, The Rumpus, The Washington Post, and elsewhere. She was a Pen Parentis Fellow and recipient of a Grant for Artist Project award from Artist's Trust.  www.jenniferflisscreative.com https://nupress.northwestern.edu/9780810146259/as-if-she-had-a-say/ https://okaydonkeymag.bigcartel.com/product/the-predatory-animal-ball-by-jennifer-fliss   Nina B. Lichtenstein is a native of Oslo, Norway, and holds a PhD in French literature from UCONN and an MFA in creative nonfiction from the University of Southern Maine's Stonecoast program. She is the founder and director of Maine Writers Studio, and the co-founder and co-editor of In a Flash Lit Mag. Her writing has appeared in various journals, magazines, and outlets, as well as in several anthologies. Her book, Sephardic Women's Voices: Out of North Africa, was published by Gaon Books in 2017, and her memoir, Body: My Life in Parts by Vine Leaves Press in May , 2025. She has three adult sons, and lives in Maine with her husband.  https://www.facebook.com/ninalich/ https://www.instagram.com/vikingjewess/ https://ninablichtenstein.substack.com/ https://www.ninalichtenstein.com/ https://www.mainewritersstudio.com/ https://vineleavespress.myshopify.com/products/body-my-life-in-parts-by-nina-b-lichtenstein – Ronit's writing has appeared in The Atlantic, The Rumpus, The New York Times, Poets & Writers, The Iowa Review, Hippocampus, The Washington Post, Writer's Digest, American Literary Review, and elsewhere. Her memoir WHEN SHE COMES BACK about the loss of her mother to the guru Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh and their eventual reconciliation was named Finalist in the 2021 Housatonic Awards Awards, the 2021 Indie Excellence Awards, and was a 2021 Book Riot Best True Crime Book. Her short story collection HOME IS A MADE-UP PLACE won Hidden River Arts' 2020 Eludia Award and the 2023 Page Turner Awards for Short Stories.  She earned an MFA in Nonfiction Writing at Pacific University, is Creative Nonfiction Editor at The Citron Review, and teaches memoir through the University of Washington's Online Continuum Program and also independently. She launched Let's Talk Memoir in 2022, lives in Seattle with her family of people and dogs, and is at work on her next book. More about Ronit: https://ronitplank.com Subscribe to Ronit's Substack: https://substack.com/@ronitplank Follow Ronit: https://www.instagram.com/ronitplank/ https://www.facebook.com/RonitPlank https://bsky.app/profile/ronitplank.bsky.social Background photo credit: Photo by Patrick Tomasso on Unsplash Headshot photo credit: Sarah Anne Photography Theme music: Isaac Joel, Dead Moll's Fingers

Episode Summary: If you have ever been in a place where you just feel like you've hit rock bottom, I’m glad you’re here. Last week we talked to Julie Seals who was born with Spina Bifida, had her leg amputated, lost her father, became addicted to drugs, lost custody of her son, and ended up in Federal Prison for trafficking illegal drugs. But God was not done with Julie! This episode is part 2 of Julie’s story, and I promise you will be encouraged that God can turn your biggest messes into something beautiful! Quotables from the episode: I was sitting in prison sitting on the metal bunk bed and crying and I forgot that the night before I crossed the border I had cried out to God and said, "I'm done. I need you, come into my life and change everything." And all I was looking at were my current circumstances. And in comes this group of women doing prison ministry. And one of them looked at me crying on my bunk and she marched over and sat down on my bunk. And she said, "Did you know that Jesus loves you very much. And I said, "Not me!" And I'm crying. And she kept insisting that no matter what I did, no matter what had happened, that Jesus Christ loved me and that if I would repent of my sin and turn towards him and ask him to be my Lord and Savior, he would make me a brand new person. I felt hope rise in my heart as this woman was speaking. And that evening, as all the other inmates were off eating dinner, I stayed behind at my prison bunk and I got down on my knees on that cold hard cement prison floor and I was weeping and I asked Jesus Christ to become my lord and my savior and forgive me or everything I had done wrong, and I felt freedom. I literally, I felt chains, invisible chains break off my chest and tears of repentance turned into tears of freedom and joy. I thought I was going to do life in prison when I got up from that prayer but all of a sudden, I had this realization that I was a free woman on the inside and I had joy real joy for the first time in my life. All of a sudden, I had the Holy Spirit living in me and the joy of the Lord and the Holy Spirit was now going to take me through the challenging journey of dealing with my past and realizing oops, I made a whole bunch of mistakes that got me here. So now we move forward in strength and in power and in victory with hope. I read the Word every day, and I spoke the Word out loud every day over my life and circumstances. And as I did, my faith in God’s Word became unshakeable. The One who rescued me from addiction and darkness saw my great grief. And He loved me so much that when I was cut off from society, living in a razor-wire-enclosed cage, He gave me what can only be described as a miraculous message. Other inmates began to notice that one-legged lady who passionately loved Jesus was working hard to keep her heart pure. Those inmates came to me and started asking me about this Jesus that I loved so much. They were noticing that I was a new person, and even in federal prison, facing a life sentence, I had crazy, ridiculous joy. I smiled constantly. I laughed often. The joy on the inside of me was so infectious that everyone around me wanted some of it. I was hurting. My mom was gone. She was dead, I was like just desperate, broken, I didn't think anybody, there was nobody for me there. And as I looked at that computer screen, I didn't see a patent because on that computer screen were written different scriptures from the Psalms and encouraging things that talk about how God heals the brokenhearted. He binds up their wounds. He sees us. He saves our tears. I started screaming for the other ladies, the other inmates. I'm like, God's talking to me on my computer! I read this love letter from God, who saw me in this 40 acre cage prison and came to me in my moment of desperation to let me know he saw me. He loved me and he was right there beside me in my most broken place. It was God himself speaking to me, one little one-legged, ex -addict federal inmate inside of a federal prison locked away from society. That God who rescued me, gave me joy and saved my soul came to me in that dark moment to tell me and remind me that he loved me and that there was still hope for my future. At a time where you felt lost and unseen, you no longer had your mother or your father or anyone else around you. Right. God made sure that you knew that he saw you and he was with you. Friends, if that is not an encouragement to you, Julie has been sharing how the seemingly impossible happened time after time after time again, but her heart was surrendered. One of the things that drew me to you and your story is your perspective. You wrote in the book, life is so good. Now friends, what I want you to know is this was her perspective sitting in federal prison. “Life is so good. I had a great job. I had a new leg. I was clean and sober and healthy. For the first time in 17 years, it mattered not to me that I was on the wrong side of the razor wire fence. I was sober, happy, and even in prison, I was free." That's an incredible statement, that you could find freedom within the razor walls of prison. Forgiveness is like a chain around our neck or unforgiveness is and if we are able to let go and especially towards our self. You know, I had so much shame, I had so much guilt and at times it was tormenting and in those moments what I learned is that I needed to stop looking inward at myself and at what I had done. I had to stop looking in the rearview mirror at my past and simply look up to the Savior who forgave it all and washed me clean. I made up my mind I was going to replace my old stinking thinking with God's thinking and I was in my Bible probably up to five hours a day. It was like Jesus boot camp…I would get index cards and I would write the scripture on an index card and I was on the bottom metal bunk of a two, bunk, metal bunk bed. And I taped like wallpaper all the way around my bunk bed on the inner little ledge and every day at lunch I would not eat lunch I would come to my room sit on the bed and I would start at one place and I would go through every single card and read every single scripture out loud speaking it out loud over my life. I've been out of prison for 23 years and I've been married to my prison chaplain husband for 19 years. We are prison ministers, we're ordained ministers and 11 years ago my husband drove me to the Jacksonville, Florida International Airport and my son at the age of 20 years old got off a plane and came running to his mama arms wide, open, and full forgiveness. Not only is he saved, not only is he a Christian, but his moment of giving his life to Jesus happened exactly the way I prayed. When he told me about it, he said, "You're going to think this is weird, mom, but..." And it was exactly what I prayed. This is the favorite part of my story. And the part of my story that gives me probably the most joy. God delivered me from the pit of prison so that I could spend the rest of my life going back in. When I was in prison, I told God, I made him a promise, and I said, "If you let me out of here, I will spend the rest of my life going back in," and telling inmates who are hopeless, who think that they have messed up beyond repair, who think there is no way out of their situation that Jesus died to set the captive free and make them a new creation and that there is hope in him. And God let me do that. Scripture References: Psalm 18:16-19 “He reached down from heaven and rescued me; he drew me out of deep waters…He led me to a place of safety; he rescued me because he delights in me.” Isaiah 61:1 “The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is upon me, for the LORD has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to comfort the brokenhearted and to proclaim that captives will be released and prisoners will be freed.” Recommended Resources: All My Hope: A Prisoner No More by Julie Seals Sacred Scars: Resting in God’s Promise That Your Past Is Not Wasted by Dr. Michelle Bengtson The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner AWSA 2024 Golden Scroll Christian Living Book of the Year and the 2024 Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in the Christian Living and Non-Fiction categories YouVersion 5-Day Devotional Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises from God to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, AWSA Member of the Year, winner of the AWSA 2023 Inspirational Gift Book of the Year Award, the 2024 Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in the Devotional category, the 2023 Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in four categories, and the Christian Literary Awards Henri Award for Devotionals YouVersion Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day version 1 YouVersion Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day version 2 Revive & Thrive Women’s Online Conference Revive & Thrive Summit 2 Trusting God through Cancer Summit 1 Trusting God through Cancer Summit 2 Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the AWSA 2020 Best Christian Living Book First Place, the first place winner for the Best Christian Living Book, the 2020 Carolina Christian Writer’s Conference Contest winner for nonfiction, and winner of the 2021 Christian Literary Award’s Reader’s Choice Award in all four categories for which it was nominated (Non-Fiction Victorious Living, Christian Living Day By Day, Inspirational Breaking Free and Testimonial Justified by Grace categories.) YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free PDF Resource: How to Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Henri and Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Free Webinar: Help for When You’re Feeling Blue Social Media Links for Host: Connect with Julie Seals: Website / Facebook / Instagram / YouTube For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at: Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails / Website / Blog / Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson) / LinkedIn / Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple Guest: Julie Seals is an ordained minister and prison evangelist. Having left her life as a drug addict and dealer behind, Julie Seals is now a Hope Dealer as she inspires and challenges people from all walks of life to encounter, know, and live for Jesus. She co-founded Her Hope Recovery Ministry in 2022. Julie is married to prison chaplain, Mike Seals. Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

 Welcome back!! !n this episode, our hosts review "Yellow Wife", Sadeqa Johnson's powerful historical fiction novel inspired by the real horrors of Richmond Virginia's Devil's Half Acre, and Lumpkin's Jail. They explore the journey of Pheby Delores Brown, a young enslaved girl whose promised freedom is stolen when she's taken to a notorious slave jail and forced into becoming the coerced “yellow wife” of its violent jailer. As they unpack the novel, they discuss themes of survival, motherhood, resilience, and the emotional weight of navigating cruelty while trying to protect your children. Moni and Kat also touch on the real history that shaped this fictional story and why these narratives still matter today. Cheers!

In this episode, I explore Frankenstein (2025) and its portrayal of narcissism. Mental Health is Horrifying is hosted by Candis Green, Registered Psychotherapist and owner of Many Moons Therapy...............................................................Show Notes:I am so honoured to have been nominated for 5 Canadian Podcast Awards — and I need your help!Outstanding Health & Fitness SeriesOutstanding Television & Film SeriesOutstanding Education SeriesOutstanding Artwork for a Series (artwork by Chloe Hurst)People's Choice AwardMembers of the public can vote on the People's Choice Award, and it would mean the world to me to receive your vote!Voting takes 5 seconds —Click on this link: https://canpodawards.ca/vote/Click on "People's Choice"Click "Vote" next to MENTAL HEALTH IS HORRIFYINGVoting is open to the public until November 22.I would be grateful beyond the depths of my bat-filled heart to receive your vote.Thank you!

BEVERLY JENKINS is the recipient of the 2018 Michigan Author Award by the Michigan Library Association, the 2017 Romance Writers of America Lifetime Achievement Award, as well as the 2016 Romantic Times Reviewers' Choice Award for historical romance. She has been nominated for the NAACP Image Award in Literature and was featured in both the documentary Love Between the Covers and on CBS Sunday Morning. Since the publication of Night Song in 1994, she has been leading the charge for inclusive romance and has been a constant darling of reviewers, fans, and her peers alike, garnering accolades for her work from the likes of The Wall Street Journal, People magazine, and NPR. Her latest novel is CALLING ALL BLESSINGS. Learn more at beverlyjenkins.net Special thanks to Net Galley for advance review copies. Intro reel, Writing Table Podcast 2024 Outro RecordingFollow the Writing Table: @writingtablepodcastEmail questions or tell us who you'd like us to invite to the Writing Table: writingtablepodcast@gmail.com.

Episode Summary: If you think your life is too far gone, or if you’ve made too many mistakes for God to redeem, you’re going to want to listen to today’s conversation: a Sacred Scar Story. Julie knew she could spend the rest of her life in prison if she were caught crossing the border with four pounds of methamphetamine duct-taped to her waist. But life had become so overwhelming, so painful, that she no longer cared if she lived or died. So, she crossed over the border. And with her arrest as a drug smuggler that day, her years of running from responsibility -and from God - came to an end. Through one miraculous event after another, God transformed Julie from drug dealer to Hope Dealer. In her book, All My Hope, Julie wrote “It takes courage to live beyond regrets, but the good news is that God wanted to take my mess and turn it into a miracle.” Join us on the podcast as we talk about Finding Hope After Addiction, Loss, and Imprisonment. Quotables from the episode: I want you to know that nothing you face is impossible with God. NOTHING. The blood of Jesus has never lost its power. God takes our mess and turns it into a message for the world. You see, what looked like a loss was really a game, because when my leg was amputated, it was one thing that did actually send me spiraling further into addiction. In that spiraling, I ended up at the foot of the cross in the arms of Jesus. And it was in that place where I was so done with the pain and the suffering and the dumb decisions and the addiction that I was so desperate, I cried out to God to become the center of my life, or I was going to lose everything. I had lost a leg; you would think that was a lot. But I was on the way to losing my very soul and my very self. You don't realize that you're stepping into a trap of the enemy that is going to consume you and steal your identity and your very soul. Sin is enticing because sin feels good for a moment. My first use of drugs took me on a journey straight to hell on earth. Addiction runs rampant in my family on both sides. And so that first line of meth, it just had me hooked. Addiction took me further than I ever wanted to go and made me someone I never wanted to be because I ended up liking the feeling that I got when I snorted that meth so much that I would do anything. I would tell any lie, I would deceive my parents, I would tiptoe into their bedroom at night and steal $50 bills out of my dad's wallet while he slept, I would do anything for that feeling. And then that feeling doesn't last forever. I would mix it with alcohol and try to get this euphoric feeling and it was like chasing my tail. And meanwhile, I'm slowly like becoming more and more depraved. Addiction made me lose all of any sense of morals that I may have had, even as a non -Christian, even as somebody who wasn't living for Jesus. I felt the presence of God there, and in that moment and I believed in God I knew he was real and I even understood that he could see me and I think it's that little seed of faith right the Bible says that we are all born with a measure of faith and so with that measure of faith I believed in God and he was chasing me and in that moment, I felt like God told me you can't have one foot with me and one foot in the world. Well, I didn't even have one foot with him yet. That voice made me stop and really think, “Okay, I'm living this way, But God is calling me to a life with him.” Nobody ever starts off using a substance thinking, “Oh I want to become an addict.” That's the grip that addiction has. It's like an invisible hand around your throat. There's only one thing that can break the grip of addiction, and that is the love and the power and the blood of Jesus. After I lost my leg to amputation, and I just was getting more and more into a world of darkness and desperation. I took my little boy, and I moved across the country because I thought that if I could get away from the things that or hard and start over in a new place, that everything would change. The only problem was I was still there, and I was my biggest problem, but I didn't know it yet. When you're in addiction, there's all those wrong people and you flock together. I went home from that doctor's appointment in Mexico and I fell on my knees in this home that overlooked the ocean. And it was in that moment of desperation that I see all this time I had thought I was a victim of life and circumstances. I felt sorry for myself and poor me, all this stuff happened to me. And in that moment when I was so broken, it was like the Holy Spirit himself descended into my living room and pulled the blinders off my eyes. I understood in this holy moment that I was not a victim. I was a sinner in need of a savior. I realized in this holy moment that I was not a victim of life, but a sad or addiction. I was a sinner in need of a savior. I fell to my knees after that appointment in my home overlooking the ocean and in my strung-out depraved desperation when I felt the Holy Spirit descend in the living room I cried out to God, and I said “I can't meet you halfway. I can't stop drinking. I can't stop doing drugs. I need you to become the center of my life or I'm going to be lost forever.” Other inmates began to notice that the one-legged lady who passionately loved Jesus was working hard to keep her heart pure. Those inmates came to me and started asking me about this Jesus whom I loved so much. The joy on the inside of me was so infectious that everyone around me wanted some of it. Even the correctional officers started asking me about my experience with Jesus! It takes courage to live beyond regrets, but the good news is that God wanted to take my mess and turn it into a miracle. You will also need to be courageous, because life on earth is hard. You will experience loneliness, loss, temptation, rejection, and attacks. But do not fear, for I will be with you! When we’re determined to not allow our faith and our dreams to be crushed by regret, grief, and sorrow, God will be able to use our grief and sorrow to make us strong and increase our faith in Him. I would leave you listener with the perspective that when you think you are at rock bottom that is the place where Jesus if you cry out to him will come sweeping in because it was in that prison that a prison ministry volunteer walked in and told me that Jesus Christ loved me, died for my sin, and would make me a new creation, and it was in that prison that I put my hope in Jesus and became free on the inside for the very first time in my life. Rock Bottom is the place where Jesus will come rushing in and change everything. Scripture References: 2 Corinthians 5:16-17 “So we have stopped evaluating others from a human point of view. At one time we thought of Christ merely from a human point of view. How differently we know him now! This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!” Hebrews 13:8 “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” 1 Corinthians 13:33 “Bad company corrupts good character.” Recommended Resources: All My Hope: A Prisoner No More by Julie Seals Sacred Scars: Resting in God’s Promise That Your Past Is Not Wasted by Dr. Michelle Bengtson The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner AWSA 2024 Golden Scroll Christian Living Book of the Year and the 2024 Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in the Christian Living and Non-Fiction categories YouVersion 5-Day Devotional Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises from God to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, AWSA Member of the Year, winner of the AWSA 2023 Inspirational Gift Book of the Year Award, the 2024 Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in the Devotional category, the 2023 Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in four categories, and the Christian Literary Awards Henri Award for Devotionals YouVersion Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day version 1 YouVersion Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day version 2 Revive & Thrive Women’s Online Conference Revive & Thrive Summit 2 Trusting God through Cancer Summit 1 Trusting God through Cancer Summit 2 Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the AWSA 2020 Best Christian Living Book First Place, the first place winner for the Best Christian Living Book, the 2020 Carolina Christian Writer’s Conference Contest winner for nonfiction, and winner of the 2021 Christian Literary Award’s Reader’s Choice Award in all four categories for which it was nominated (Non-Fiction Victorious Living, Christian Living Day By Day, Inspirational Breaking Free and Testimonial Justified by Grace categories.) YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free PDF Resource: How to Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Henri and Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Free Webinar: Help for When You’re Feeling Blue Social Media Links for Host: Connect with Julie Seals: Website / Facebook / Instagram / YouTube For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at: Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails / Website / Blog / Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson) / LinkedIn / Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.